What makes The Once and Future by Jazzyfatnastees notable?

This album is notable for its role in shaping the neo-soul genre, receiving critical acclaim for its innovative blend of genres. It was highlighted by music critics for its authentic approach to songwriting and arrangement, placing Jazzyfatnastees at the forefront of an evolving musical landscape. The Once and Future marked Jazzyfatnastees' debut album, emerging from their work in the Philadelphia music scene. By 1999, they were gaining recognition for their unique sound, influenced by the burgeoning neo-soul movement alongside contemporaries like Erykah Badu and D'Angelo.

How many songs are on The Once and Future?

The Once and Future has 10 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

The Once and Future

Jazzyfatnastees · 1999

44 min · 10 tracks · neo soul

A rich tapestry of smooth vocals and intricate rhythms, blending jazz and soul into a mesmerizing neo-soul experience.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Breakthrough — This track stands out as a defining moment on the album, showcasing the duo's vocal harmonies and lyrical depth, reflecting themes of personal growth.
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How Sad — With its poignant lyrics and emotive delivery, this song captures the essence of longing that permeates the album, resonating deeply with listeners.
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Let It Go — Offering a soothing blend of melody and message, this track encapsulates the album's overall theme of release and acceptance, inviting introspection.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong songwriting and production, blending genres while maintaining a unique identity.

What we noticed

The album opens with a slow, atmospheric track that gradually introduces layered harmonies and intricate rhythms.
Vocals frequently overlap in call-and-response patterns, creating a conversational dynamic between singers.
Several tracks feature extended instrumental sections that allow for improvisation and exploration of themes.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 6/10

Significant within its genre. 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.

1 The Wound 4:49
2 How Sad 4:20
3 Breakthrough 5:46
4 Unconventional Ways 5:10
5 Hear Me 4:29
6 Sail the Seas 4:32
7 Related to Me 3:22
8 The Lie 3:30
9 Why 3:57
10 Let It Go 4:10

What to play next

Listen next

The Tortoise & The Hare

2002

Full Jazzyfatnastees discography Artists like Jazzyfatnastees

neo soul

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata