The Sixth Sense cover

The Sixth Sense

Lee Morgan · 1970

56 min · 9 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of hard bop and avant-garde jazz, rich with intricate melodies and dynamic improvisation.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    The Sixth Sense Start here — The title track opens the album with a captivating interplay between the trumpet and saxophone, setting the tone for the exploration of sound and rhythm throughout the record.
  • →
    Psychedelic — This track stands out for its experimental use of space and tempo shifts, reflecting the influence of contemporary culture on Morgan's work during this period.
  • →
    The Cry of My People — A poignant piece that combines soulful melodies with rhythmic complexity, it serves as a reflection of Morgan's deep connection to cultural themes and personal expression.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
68 /100
Alpine
Higher than 93% of albums we've rated

The album's complex arrangements and improvisational depth mark it as a significant work in jazz.

What we noticed

  • Each track includes extended improvisational sections, allowing the musicians to explore themes in depth and create dynamic contrasts.
Composition 25% of the score
8/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
7/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
8/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

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.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo improvisational flow
  • engaging background for social gatherings
  • subtle complexity for attentive listening
  • dynamic interplay among musicians
  • vibrant soundscapes that inspire thought

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer fast-paced immediate gratification
  • enjoy standalone tracks over cohesion

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Critical Peak — Innovative and ambitious, it showcases Morgan's artistic evolution in jazz.
Career context
Released in 1970, The Sixth Sense was Lee Morgan's final studio album before his tragic passing in 1972. At this time, Morgan was a seasoned trumpeter with a significant legacy, following acclaimed works such as The Sidewinder. This album marked a creative peak for him, showcasing his ability to blend traditional jazz with experimental elements.
Stylistic neighbors
Donald Byrd· Freddie Hubbard· Art Farmer

Tracklist

  • 1 The Sixth Sense Start here 6:45
  • 2 Short Count 6:02
  • 3 Psychedelic 6:32
  • 4 Afreaka 8:03
  • 5 Anti Climax 6:19
  • 6 The Cry of My People 5:23
  • 7 Extemporaneous 5:08
  • 8 Mickey's Tune 6:35
  • 9 Leebop 5:38

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata