The Other Side of Benny Golson cover

The Other Side of Benny Golson

Benny Golson · 1958

37 min · 6 tracks · jazz

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
59 /100
Treeline
Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album showcases solid compositions and skilled performances, though it doesn't significantly stand out in the jazz genre.

What we noticed

  • The album features a consistent use of brass and woodwind instruments, with Golson's saxophone taking the lead in most tracks.
  • Each track maintains a medium tempo, with rhythmic variations that create a sense of movement without abrupt changes.
  • The final two tracks introduce a more subdued mood, contrasting with the upbeat energy of the earlier pieces.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
7/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. 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

  • sophisticated late-night ambiance
  • smooth transitions between tracks
  • thoughtful reflections on relationships
  • uplifting moments of celebration

Maybe skip if you

  • fast-paced, high-energy experiences
  • instant gratification seekers

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Breakthrough — This album helped establish Golson's reputation in the jazz scene.
Stylistic neighbors
Wayne Shorter· Horace Silver· Joe Henderson

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Strut Time 6:03
  • 2 Jubilation 6:18
  • 3 Symptoms 5:58
  • 4 Are You Real? 5:37
  • 5 Cry a Blue Tear 5:20
  • 6 This Night 7:50

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata