What makes The Soothsayer by Wayne Shorter notable?

'The Soothsayer' received critical acclaim for its innovative approach within the jazz genre, reflecting Shorter's dexterity as a composer and improviser. The album has since influenced many contemporary jazz musicians, reaffirming Shorter's status as a pivotal figure in the jazz landscape. By the time 'The Soothsayer' was released in 1979, Wayne Shorter was already an established figure in jazz, known for his work with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers and Miles Davis. This album marked his return to a more personal style after a series of collaborative projects, representing both a continuation and evolution of his post-bop sound.

Who is The Soothsayer for?

The Soothsayer works well if you're into dynamic exploration of themes, wave-like pacing throughout and immersive journey through melodies.

How many songs are on The Soothsayer?

The Soothsayer has 7 tracks, running approximately 50 minutes.

The Soothsayer

Wayne Shorter · 1979

50 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A vivid blend of intricate melodies and free improvisation, showcasing Shorter's rich harmonic language and exploratory spirit.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Soothsayer — The title track encapsulates the album's thematic depth, featuring complex structures and a hauntingly beautiful melody that showcases Shorter's unique compositional voice.
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Angola — This piece highlights Shorter's ability to weave intricate harmonies with emotional depth, offering a compelling narrative through its shifting tempos and dynamic interplay.
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Lost — Opening the album, 'Lost' sets the tone with its extensive improvisational sections that invite listeners into Shorter's introspective world, balancing tension and release.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

70 /100

Alpine

Higher than 94% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate melodies and free improvisation, reflecting Shorter's unique compositional voice.

What we noticed

The first track features a slow build with layered instrumentation, gradually introducing the main theme before transitioning into improvisation.
Each piece varies in tempo and mood, with some tracks maintaining a consistent groove while others explore more abstract structures.
The album includes several moments of collective improvisation where the musicians interact dynamically, creating a fluid conversation throughout.

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: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

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

dynamic exploration of themes
wave-like pacing throughout
immersive journey through melodies
reflective moments of beauty

Maybe skip if you

prefer straightforward song structures
seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'The Soothsayer' was released in 1979, Wayne Shorter was already an established figure in jazz, known for his work with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers and Miles Davis. This album marked his return to a more personal style after a series of collaborative projects, representing both a continuation and evolution of his post-bop sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Herbie Hancock· Miles Davis· Chick Corea