The Magic of 2
Tommy Flanagan · 1982
57 min · 12 tracks · jazz
A vibrant interplay of melodic improvisation and rhythmic precision that showcases Flanagan's mastery of jazz piano.
Top tracks — play these first
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Scrapple From the Apple — This track exemplifies Flanagan's virtuosic ability to balance intricate melodies with lively rhythms, making it a standout piece on the album.
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Satin Doll — Flanagan’s interpretation of this Duke Ellington classic highlights his smooth touch and ability to convey deep emotion within familiar structures.
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Just One of Those Things — This track showcases Flanagan's skill in transforming a well-known standard into a fresh experience through inventive phrasing and dynamic improvisation.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalFlanagan's lyrical improvisation shines through, supported by solid arrangements and varied tempos across tracks.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent interplay between piano and bass, with the piano often taking the lead while the bass provides rhythmic support.
- The final track serves as a thematic conclusion, echoing motifs from earlier pieces while maintaining a reflective tone.
- 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
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
- sophisticated background dinner ambiance
- patient waves of melodic exploration
- intimate moments for quiet reflection
- virtuosic piano showcasing artistry
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification tracks
- prefer upbeat dance floor energy
Where this album fits
- Career context
- By 1982, Tommy Flanagan was a respected figure in the jazz world, having gained prominence as a sideman for legendary artists like Ella Fitzgerald. 'The Magic of 2' marks his first album following a significant period spent performing with prominent ensembles, allowing him to establish his voice as a bandleader. This release is pivotal in solidifying his reputation and showcasing his unique blend of traditional and modern jazz influences.
- Stylistic neighbors
- McCoy Tyner· Bill Evans· Chick Corea
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 [introduction] 0:47
- 2 Scrapple From the Apple 7:19
- 3 Just One of Those Things 9:46
- 4 Satin Doll 5:16
- 5 Something to Live For 4:42
- 6 Send One Your Love 4:49
- 7 Our Delight 5:43
- 8 All Day Long 2:16
- 9 Sunday 3:17
- 10 Chelsea Bridge 2:22
- 11 The Land of Make Believe 3:13
- 12 The Theme 7:32
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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