What makes The Hill by David Murray notable?

The Hill is significant for its experimental approach within the jazz genre, showcasing Murray's ability to blend various musical styles. It received critical acclaim, appearing on several best-of lists for the year and contributing to Murray's status as an influential modern jazz artist. Released in 1987, The Hill was David Murray's fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed Ming. At this time, Murray was solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in avant-garde jazz, blending traditional forms with innovative sounds and compositions.

The Hill works well if you're into steady mid-tempo exploration, deep engagement with improvisation and rich rhythmic textures throughout.

How many songs are on The Hill?

The Hill has 6 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

The Hill

David Murray · 1987

48 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of jazz improvisation and world music influences, creating a rich tapestry of sound and rhythm.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Hill — This title track exemplifies Murray's fusion of powerful saxophone work with intricate arrangements, serving as a centerpiece that encapsulates the album's adventurous spirit.
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Take the Coltrane — A tribute to John Coltrane, this track showcases Murray's deep respect for jazz heritage while incorporating his unique improvisational style, bridging past and present.
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Chelsea Bridge — Murray's interpretation of this classic standard demonstrates his lyrical playing and emotional depth, highlighting his ability to breathe new life into familiar material.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong improvisation and unique blends of styles, though it may not resonate widely beyond jazz circles.

What we noticed

The album features extended improvisational sections, with each track averaging over six minutes in length, allowing for intricate musical dialogues.
Several tracks incorporate world music elements, such as polyrhythms and unconventional scales, which blend seamlessly with traditional jazz structures.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

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

steady mid-tempo exploration
deep engagement with improvisation
rich rhythmic textures throughout
thoughtful listening in order

Maybe skip if you

prefer fast-paced instant gratification
seek standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Experimental — Showcases a blend of jazz and world music, marking a departure from earlier styles.
Career context: Released in 1987, The Hill was David Murray's fifth studio album, following the critically acclaimed Ming. At this time, Murray was solidifying his reputation as a leading figure in avant-garde jazz, blending traditional forms with innovative sounds and compositions.
Stylistic neighbors: Henry Threadgill· Ornette Coleman· Charles Lloyd