What makes The Only One by Kenny Barron notable?

'The Only One' received critical acclaim for its rich compositions and Barron's virtuosic piano work, earning him recognition as one of the leading voices in contemporary jazz. The album features a blend of original pieces and classic standards, showcasing Barron’s ability to reinterpret familiar tunes with fresh perspectives. It contributed to his growing influence in the jazz world during a time when the genre was evolving rapidly. In 1990, Kenny Barron was establishing himself as a prominent figure in the jazz scene following the success of his earlier albums. 'The Only One' marked a significant continuation of his artistic exploration after his acclaimed work 'Spirit Song' in 1989. This release further solidified Barron's reputation as a masterful pianist and composer within the post-bop genre.

Who is The Only One for?

The Only One works well if you're into steady mid-tempo flow throughout, vibrant textures for focus and for afternoon relaxation.

How many songs are on The Only One?

The Only One has 11 tracks, running approximately 66 minutes.

The Only One

Kenny Barron · 1990

66 min · 11 tracks · post-bop · hard bop

A vibrant tapestry of jazz textures interwoven with lyrical melodies and rhythmic sophistication.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo flow throughout
vibrant textures for focus
for afternoon relaxation
lyrical melodies invite reflection
rich soundscapes for deep listening

Maybe skip if you want

seekers of fast-paced music
prefer standalone tracks only

Where this album fits

Career context: In 1990, Kenny Barron was establishing himself as a prominent figure in the jazz scene following the success of his earlier albums. 'The Only One' marked a significant continuation of his artistic exploration after his acclaimed work 'Spirit Song' in 1989. This release further solidified Barron's reputation as a masterful pianist and composer within the post-bop genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· McCoy Tyner· Herbie Hancock

Tracklist

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

1 The Only One 7:12
2 Surrey With the Fringe on Top 6:57
3 The Courtship 6:08
4 Blueswatch 5:11
5 On the Sunny Side of the Street 5:22
6 Warm Valley 6:27
7 Manilla 5:09
8 Tone for Joan's Bones 5:16
9 Love for Sale 7:15
10 Dolores St., S.F. 5:54
11 All God's Children 5:10

What to play next

Listen next

Worth Waiting for Import

1990

Go back to

The Red Barron Duo

1988

Full Kenny Barron discography Artists like Kenny Barron

hard bop post-bop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata