The Door
Mathias Eick · 2008
49 min · 8 tracks · jazz
Ethereal jazz melodies intertwine with pop sensibilities, creating a reflective soundscape that invites introspection and emotional depth.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Door — As the title track, it encapsulates the album's thematic exploration of new beginnings and emotional thresholds through its expansive structure and melodic development.
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Stavanger — This track showcases Eick's ability to blend intricate rhythms with haunting melodies, reflecting the serene yet complex nature of his Norwegian roots.
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Cologne Blues — A standout for its bluesy undertones and improvisational flair, this piece exemplifies Eick's skill in melding genres while maintaining an emotive core.
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October — Its introspective mood highlights Eick's lyrical trumpet lines against a lush backdrop, making it a poignant reflection on change and nostalgia.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases strong compositions and skilled arrangements, creating a cohesive yet introspective jazz experience.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of layered instrumentation, with trumpet melodies often accompanied by piano and subtle percussion.
- The arrangements frequently utilize space and silence, allowing for moments of tension and release throughout the tracks.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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6/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
Little footprint beyond its audience. 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
- cinematic landscapes for daydreaming
- patient unfolding with rich textures
- evocative soundscapes for reflection
- melodic journeys through changing seasons
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer upbeat party vibes
Where this album fits
- Career context
- In 2008, Mathias Eick was transitioning from his early career as a sideman in the Norwegian jazz scene to establishing himself as a bandleader. 'The Door' is his debut album under his own name, following contributions to various ensembles, which marked a significant step in showcasing his compositional style and artistic vision.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Nils Frahm· Tord Gustavsen· GoGo Penguin
Moments worth listening for
Where the writing does something specific.
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Fly
The bridge shifts from a contemplative melody to an uplifting crescendo, invoking a sense of liberation and hopefulness.
This structural choice elevates the emotional stakes of the song, contrasting previous introspection with an expansive release that symbolizes freedom.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 The Door 7:56
- 2 Stavanger 6:59
- 3 Cologne Blues 8:46
- 4 October 4:40
- 5 December 4:44
- 6 Williamsburg 7:23
- 7 Fly 4:35
- 8 Porvoo 4:13
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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