The Missouri Connection
John Hicks · 1992
63 min · 11 tracks · jazz
A vibrant blend of classic jazz standards and original compositions, showcasing intricate piano work and heartfelt improvisation.
Top tracks — play these first
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The Missouri Connection Start here — establishes the sonic palette early
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I'm Getting Sentimental Over You — This track showcases Hicks' exquisite touch on the piano, transforming a familiar standard into a deeply personal interpretation that highlights his emotional depth.
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Jumpin' the Blues — A lively performance that captures the essence of blues-infused jazz, illustrating Hicks' versatility and ability to engage listeners with infectious rhythm and energy.
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What Am I Here For — This composition features complex harmonies and lyrical improvisation, reflecting Hicks' skill in melding jazz with introspective themes, making it a standout moment on the album.
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All of Me — Hicks' rendition of this classic love song reveals his mastery of dynamics and phrasing, allowing him to bring new life to a well-trodden standard.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalHicks blends standards with originals, showcasing strong improvisation and solid arrangements throughout the album.
What we noticed
- The album opens with a title track that features a complex interplay between piano and bass, establishing a conversational tone.
- Each track showcases Hicks' improvisational skills, often extending beyond the standard song lengths to explore themes and motifs.
- The arrangement of tracks includes both well-known standards and original pieces, creating a balance that highlights Hicks' versatility.
- 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
- steady melodic explorations throughout
- reflective moments for quiet thought
- captivating improvisation with emotional depth
- for late-night relaxation
Maybe skip if you
- seeks fast-paced excitement
- prefers standalone tracks only
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Fan Favorite — Well-received by fans for its intricate piano work and emotive style.
- Career context
- In 1992, John Hicks released The Missouri Connection as his sixth album, following a series of acclaimed jazz records that established him as a prominent pianist. This album marked a significant moment in his career as it highlighted his ability to blend traditional jazz elements with personal expression, solidifying his reputation within the jazz community.
- Stylistic neighbors
- McCoy Tyner· Chick Corea· Ahmad Jamal
Tracklist
- 1 The Missouri Connection Start here 6:07
- 2 I'm Getting Sentimental Over You 7:29
- 3 I'm Just a Lucky So and So 7:49
- 4 Jumpin' the Blues 4:28
- 5 Sweet Lorraine 5:21
- 6 Reflections 4:37
- 7 What Am I Here For 7:51
- 8 Fiddlin' Around 5:20
- 9 All of Me 4:03
- 10 In a Sentimental Mood 4:16
- 11 There Will Never Be Another You 5:48
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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