What makes The Choice by Kamasi Washington notable?

The Choice received widespread critical acclaim, showcasing Washington's unique approach to jazz that bridges generational gaps. It has been noted for its contribution to the resurgence of jazz's relevance in popular music, influencing a new wave of artists seeking to incorporate jazz into their work. The EP is often cited in discussions about the evolution of jazz and its integration into broader musical contexts. When Kamasi Washington released The Choice in January 2018, he was riding the wave of acclaim from his previous works, including the groundbreaking The Epic. This EP followed his prominent role in shaping contemporary jazz and solidified his influence as a genre-defining artist. The Choice showcases Washington's ability to blend traditional jazz elements with modern sensibilities, further establishing his artistic voice.

Who is The Choice for?

The Choice works well if you're into profound emotional resonance throughout, intricate melodies that invite reflection and spiritual uplift with each track.

How many songs are on The Choice?

The Choice has 5 tracks, running approximately 38 minutes.

The Choice

Kamasi Washington · 2018

38 min · 5 tracks · jazz

A sprawling exploration of jazz that intertwines intricate arrangements with soulful melodies and rich harmonies.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Secret of Jinsinson — This opening track sets the tone for the EP, combining complex rhythms with lush instrumentation that exemplifies Washington's expansive vision for jazz.
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Will You Love Me Tomorrow — A poignant reinterpretation that melds classic soul influences with Washington's distinctive jazz style, emphasizing emotional depth and lyrical storytelling.
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Ooh Child — This cover transforms a well-known song into an uplifting anthem, showcasing Washington's ability to infuse hope through intricate melodic lines and harmonies.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

Instrumental

65 /100

Treeline

Higher than 88% of albums we've rated

The EP showcases intricate arrangements and soulful melodies, maintaining a strong identity throughout.

What we noticed

The first track features a slow build with layered instrumentation, gradually introducing new elements over its nearly ten-minute duration.
Each subsequent track varies in tempo and mood, with 'Will You Love Me Tomorrow' incorporating a more soulful, melodic approach.
The final track, 'Ooh Child', closes the EP with a reflective tone, contrasting the more energetic pieces earlier in the sequence.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

profound emotional resonance throughout
intricate melodies that invite reflection
spiritual uplift with each track
engaging narratives in every piece

Maybe skip if you

seekers of instant gratification
prefer short, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: When Kamasi Washington released The Choice in January 2018, he was riding the wave of acclaim from his previous works, including the groundbreaking The Epic. This EP followed his prominent role in shaping contemporary jazz and solidified his influence as a genre-defining artist. The Choice showcases Washington's ability to blend traditional jazz elements with modern sensibilities, further establishing his artistic voice.
Stylistic neighbors: Thundercat· Robert Glasper· Esperanza Spalding