What makes The Kicker by Bobby Hutcherson notable?

The album is notable for its critical acclaim, being praised for its innovative arrangements and Hutcherson's virtuosic vibraphone performance. It has cemented its place in the jazz canon, influencing later generations of musicians and contributing to Hutcherson's legacy as a master of jazz fusion. By the time 'The Kicker' was released in 1999, Bobby Hutcherson had already established himself as a pioneering figure in jazz. This album came more than two decades after his breakout record 'Dialogue' in 1965, representing his continued evolution as an artist and his exploration of new musical landscapes in the late 90s.

Who is The Kicker for?

The Kicker works well if you're into steady mid-tempo rhythmic exploration, intricate harmonies for attentive listening and ideal for evening relaxation.

How many songs are on The Kicker?

The Kicker has 6 tracks, running approximately 53 minutes.

The Kicker

Bobby Hutcherson · 1999

53 min · 6 tracks · jazz fusion

A vibrant tapestry of intricate melodies and harmonious improvisation, blending jazz fusion with Hutcherson's signature vibraphone style.

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Top tracks — play these first

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If Ever I Would Leave You — This track showcases Hutcherson's lyrical mastery on the vibraphone, weaving emotive lines that elevate the classic composition to new heights.
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Mirrors — A standout piece featuring complex rhythms and rich harmonic textures, this track exemplifies Hutcherson's innovative approach to jazz fusion.
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The Kicker — Serving as the title track, it encapsulates the album’s exploratory spirit with dynamic interplay between instruments and a lively groove.

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 album blends intricate melodies with improvisation, showcasing Hutcherson's vibraphone in a distinctive jazz fusion context.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of vibraphone as the lead instrument, with intricate melodic lines that weave in and out of the harmonic structure.
Each track showcases extended improvisation sections, allowing for dynamic interplay between musicians rather than strict adherence to written arrangements.
The first three tracks maintain a moderate tempo, while the last three gradually introduce more complex rhythms and textures.

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

steady mid-tempo rhythmic exploration
intricate harmonies for attentive listening
ideal for evening relaxation
satisfying long-form compositions

Maybe skip if you

prefer short, upbeat tracks
seek instantly engaging hooks

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'The Kicker' was released in 1999, Bobby Hutcherson had already established himself as a pioneering figure in jazz. This album came more than two decades after his breakout record 'Dialogue' in 1965, representing his continued evolution as an artist and his exploration of new musical landscapes in the late 90s.
Stylistic neighbors: McCoy Tyner· Joe Chambers· Gary Burton