The Orchestral Album cover

The Orchestral Album

Dave Grusin · 1994

66 min · 18 tracks · jazz

A lush blend of orchestral arrangements and jazz-infused melodies evokes a cinematic landscape across its varied compositions.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Cuba Libre ('Se Fue') Start here — accessible entry with immediate hook
  • →
    Medley: Bess You Is My Woman / I Love You Porgy — This medley exemplifies Grusin's skill in seamlessly blending classical and jazz elements, creating an emotionally rich tapestry that pays homage to George Gershwin's legacy.
  • →
    Summer Sketches — Spanning over twelve minutes, this track showcases Grusin's improvisational prowess and ability to create evocative soundscapes, making it a highlight of the album.
  • →
    Condor (From Three Days of the Condor) — Reimagining his own iconic score, this piece embodies the tension and atmosphere of the original while expanding its emotional depth through orchestration.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • dynamic orchestral storytelling experience
  • evocative cinematic soundscapes
  • lush arrangements for reflection
  • wave-like pacing for immersion
  • joyful moments with playful melodies

Maybe skip if you

  • seekers of instant gratification
  • prefer straightforward single tracks

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Showcases Grusin's unique orchestral reinterpretations, highlighting his artistic evolution.
Themes
cinematic landscapes· Gershwin homage· orchestral jazz fusion
Career context
By the time 'The Orchestral Album' was released in 1994, Dave Grusin had already established himself as a prominent composer and arranger, known for his work in film scores and jazz. This album followed his successful career, which included winning an Academy Award for Best Original Score for 'The Milagro Beanfield War', further solidifying his reputation as a versatile musician blending genres.
Stylistic neighbors
Chick Corea· Herbie Hancock· Brad Mehldau

Tracklist

  • 1 Cuba Libre ('Se Fue') Start here 3:30
  • 2 Santa Clara Suite: Vayase 1:26
  • 3 Santa Clara Suite: Milicia Y Refugios 1:45
  • 4 Santa Clara Suite: Fuego Peligroso 0:59
  • 5 Santa Clara Suite: Epilogue 0:53
  • 6 Three Cowboy Songs: Git Along Little Dogies 4:37
  • 7 Three Cowboy Songs: The Colorado Trail 5:02
  • 8 Three Cowboy Songs: Cripple Creek Breakdown 5:00
  • 9 Medley: Bess You Is My Woman / I Love You Porgy 5:50
  • 10 Suite From the Milagro Beanfield War: Lupita 1:08
  • 11 Suite From the Milagro Beanfield War: Coyote Angel 3:29
  • 12 Suite From the Milagro Beanfield War: Pistolero 1:47
  • 13 Suite From the Milagro Beanfield War: Milagro 2:35
  • 14 Suite From the Milagro Beanfield War: Fiesta 2:26
  • 15 The Heart Is a Lonely Hunter 4:44
  • 16 Summer Sketches 12:34
  • 17 Condor (From Three Days of the Condor) 4:45
  • 18 On Golden Pond 3:35

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata