The Main Ingredient cover

The Main Ingredient

Shirley Horn · 1996

53 min · 10 tracks · jazz

A lush tapestry of jazz-infused ballads showcasing Horn's intimate vocal style and emotive piano work.

Why this album works

This album is significant for its critical reception, earning praise from publications like 'The New York Times' for its sophisticated arrangements and emotional depth. It further solidified Horn's position in the jazz world, showcasing her ability to reinterpret classic standards and connect with contemporary audiences.
Best for
intimate late-night listening emotional vocal storytelling smooth, relaxing background ambiance
Context
By the time 'The Main Ingredient' was released in 1996, Shirley Horn had established herself as a prominent jazz vocalist after her breakthrough album 'I Remember Miles' in 1990. This release came during a period of renewed recognition for Horn, who had spent years performing primarily in small clubs before gaining wider acclaim and commercial success.
Stylistic neighbors
Sun Ra· Charles Mingus· Miles Davis

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Blues for Sarge 4:17
  • 2 The Look of Love Standout 5:24
  • 3 Keepin’ Out of Mischief Now 3:50
  • 4 The Meaning of the Blues 7:57
  • 5 Here’s Looking at You! 3:28
  • 6 You Go to My Head Standout 9:11
  • 7 Fever Standout 4:45
  • 8 Come In From the Rain 4:53
  • 9 Peel Me a Grape 2:58
  • 10 All or Nothing at All 7:09

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata