What makes The Spirits Up Above by Steve Turre notable?

The album received critical acclaim for its innovative arrangements and cultural significance, showcasing the intersection of jazz and Afro-Cuban music. It solidified Turre's reputation within the jazz community and contributed to the resurgence of interest in Latin rhythms in contemporary jazz. Released in 2004, The Spirits Up Above represents Steve Turre's continued exploration of Afro-Cuban jazz after his acclaimed album, Right on Time. At this point in his career, Turre had already established himself as a prominent trombonist and bandleader, often blending diverse musical influences to create a unique sound.

Who is The Spirits Up Above for?

The Spirits Up Above works well if you're into playful explorations of sound, thoughtful meditative listening sessions and captivating stories through music.

How many songs are on The Spirits Up Above?

The Spirits Up Above has 9 tracks, running approximately 50 minutes.

The Spirits Up Above

Steve Turre · 2004

50 min · 9 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of Afro-Cuban rhythms and jazz harmonies that celebrates cultural traditions through masterful horn arrangements.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Three for the Festival — This opening track sets the tone with its infectious grooves and showcases Turre's skillful trombone work alongside lively percussion.
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Medley: Serenade to a Cuckoo / Bright Moments — The medley highlights Turre's ability to seamlessly blend two distinct compositions, demonstrating both technical prowess and deep emotional resonance.
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Volunteered Slavery — This track is a powerful interpretation of the classic composition by Woody Shaw, featuring intricate solos that reflect social commentary through music.

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 strong instrumental composition and skilled performances but lacks broader recognition.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of brass instruments, with Steve Turre's trombone leading most tracks.
The final track is a reinterpretation of a classic piece, adding a unique twist to its familiar melody.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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

playful explorations of sound
thoughtful meditative listening sessions
captivating stories through music
vibrant energy for celebrations

Maybe skip if you

want constant high-energy tracks
prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Deep Cut — Solid entry in his catalog that showcases his style but isn't widely recognized.
Career context: Released in 2004, The Spirits Up Above represents Steve Turre's continued exploration of Afro-Cuban jazz after his acclaimed album, Right on Time. At this point in his career, Turre had already established himself as a prominent trombonist and bandleader, often blending diverse musical influences to create a unique sound.
Stylistic neighbors: Arturo Sandoval· Chucho Valdés· Paquito D'Rivera