Released 8 years ago this November
The Iron Man: Live at Smoke
Harold Mabern · 2018
103 min · 14 tracks · jazz
A dynamic live performance blending intricate post-bop arrangements with soulful improvisations and vibrant energy.
Top tracks — play these first
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I Get a Kick Out of You — This track showcases Mabern's intricate piano work alongside rich harmonic explorations, making it a highlight of the album's improvisational spirit.
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I Remember Clifford — A poignant tribute, this piece reflects the emotional depth of Mabern's playing, enhancing the album's narrative through its lyrical melodies.
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T-Bone Steak — This track features energetic solos that exemplify the synergy between Mabern and his bandmates, embodying the live performance atmosphere.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album captures live spontaneity with strong performances, though it doesn't significantly reshape the jazz landscape.
What we noticed
- The album features extended improvisational sections, with several tracks exceeding eight minutes, allowing for deep exploration of themes.
- Mabern's piano work is complemented by a tight rhythm section that shifts dynamics fluidly, responding to his lead in real-time.
- 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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8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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7/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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6/10
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.
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
Disc 1
- 1 A Few Miles From Memphis 7:32
- 2 I Get a Kick Out of You 8:08
- 3 I Know That You Know 4:48
- 4 I Remember Clifford 4:44
- 5 T-Bone Steak 9:27
- 6 Almost Like Being in Love 8:49
- 7 Dear Lord 5:49
Disc 2
- 1 Nightlife in Tokyo 9:45
- 2 She’s Out of My Life 9:03
- 3 How Insensitive 10:29
- 4 Mr. P.C. 5:07
- 5 On a Clear Day (You Can See Forever) 6:34
- 6 You Are Too Beautiful 7:14
- 7 Rakin’ and Scrapin’ 5:43
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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