What makes The Only Constant by Snarky Puppy notable?

The album received critical acclaim for its innovative approach to jazz fusion, contributing to Snarky Puppy's rise within the genre. It helped solidify their reputation as a leading ensemble in modern jazz, influencing subsequent artists with its adventurous style and creative arrangements. Released in 2006, The Only Constant marked Snarky Puppy's second studio album, following their self-titled debut. At this point in their career, they were establishing themselves in the jazz fusion scene, showcasing their signature blend of complex compositions and improvisational prowess.

Who is The Only Constant for?

The Only Constant works well if you're into steady pacing with rich textures, exploratory listening for deep engagement and intricate rhythms for attentive ears.

How many songs are on The Only Constant?

The Only Constant has 5 tracks, running approximately 44 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

The Only Constant

Snarky Puppy · 2006

44 min · 5 tracks · jazz

A vibrant tapestry of intricate rhythms and harmonies, blending jazz fusion with a contemporary edge.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Open Forum — This track opens the album with a bold statement, featuring intricate melodies that set the tone for the entire collection. Its extended format allows the band to fully explore their improvisational strengths.
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Precipice — With its dynamic shifts and tight interplay between musicians, this track exemplifies Snarky Puppy’s ability to fuse technical skill with emotional depth. It captures the essence of their collaborative spirit.
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Oblongata — This piece showcases complex rhythmic patterns and harmonic exploration, highlighting the band's unique sound. Its engaging structure keeps listeners on their toes while inviting deep listening.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

67 /100

Alpine

Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

The album's intricate rhythms and strong solos highlight its innovative approach to jazz fusion.

What we noticed

Each piece showcases multiple instrumental solos, allowing different musicians to take the lead while maintaining a cohesive sound.
The final track, 'Oblongata', incorporates a gradual build-up of layers, culminating in an intricate interplay between instruments.

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

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 pacing with rich textures
exploratory listening for deep engagement
intricate rhythms for attentive ears
soulful melodies that evolve gradually

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek standalone radio hits

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2006, The Only Constant marked Snarky Puppy's second studio album, following their self-titled debut. At this point in their career, they were establishing themselves in the jazz fusion scene, showcasing their signature blend of complex compositions and improvisational prowess.
Stylistic neighbors: GoGo Penguin· Hiatus Kaiyote· The Bad Plus

New to Snarky Puppy? Find your way in →

Tracklist

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

1 Open Forum 10:34
2 Hot & Bothered 8:36
3 Precipice 8:45
4 Revisited 7:51
5 Oblongata 8:20

What to play next

Listen next

The World Is Getting Smaller

2007

Full Snarky Puppy discography Where to start with Snarky Puppy Artists like Snarky Puppy

jazz fusion

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata