What makes The Eminent Jay Jay Johnson Volume 2 by J. J. Johnson notable?

This album is significant for its intricate arrangements and contributions to both the bebop and hard bop movements. It received critical acclaim upon release, further elevating Johnson's profile in the jazz community and influencing subsequent generations of musicians, particularly those exploring the trombone's possibilities in jazz. Released in 1954, The Eminent Jay Jay Johnson Volume 2 is J.J. Johnson's second album, following his debut which established him as a leading voice in bebop and hard bop. At this point, Johnson was solidifying his reputation not just as a trombonist but also as a composer and arranger, contributing to the evolution of jazz during a transformative period.

How many songs are on The Eminent Jay Jay Johnson Volume 2?

The Eminent Jay Jay Johnson Volume 2 has 15 tracks, running approximately 61 minutes.

The Eminent Jay Jay Johnson Volume 2

J. J. Johnson · 1954

61 min · 15 tracks · jazz

A melodic interplay of brass and rhythm that showcases J.J. Johnson's virtuosic trombone against lush jazz arrangements.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Too Marvelous for Words — This track features captivating phrasing and rich harmonies, setting the tone for the album while showcasing Johnson's lyrical approach to improvisation.
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Old Devil Moon — The arrangement allows Johnson's trombone to shine, blending traditional jazz elements with an innovative flair that exemplifies his style.
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Pennies From Heaven — Both takes of this track present different interpretations, demonstrating Johnson’s versatility and providing insight into his creative process.
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Viscosity — This composition highlights complex rhythms and harmonies, showcasing Johnson's ability to blend technical skill with emotional depth.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong compositions and intricate arrangements, solidifying J.J. Johnson's place in jazz history.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of brass instrumentation, with J.J. Johnson's trombone often leading melodic lines while other instruments provide harmonic support.

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: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Too Marvelous for Words 3:36
2 Jay 3:42
3 Old Devil Moon 3:54
4 It's You or No One 4:06
5 Time After Time 4:13
6 Coffee Pot 4:10
7 Pennies From Heaven (alternate take) 4:27
8 Pennies From Heaven 4:19
9 Viscosity 4:22
10 Viscosity (alternate take) 4:21
11 You're Mine You 3:08
12 "Daylie" Double 4:28
13 Groovin' 4:41
14 Portrait of Jennie 2:57
15 "Daylie" Double (alternate take) 4:36

What to play next

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Go back to

The Eminent Jay Jay Johnson

1954

Full J. J. Johnson discography Artists like J. J. Johnson

bebop hard bop third stream

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata