What makes The Third Decade by Art Ensemble of Chicago notable?

The Third Decade is notable for its innovative blend of traditional jazz elements with African rhythms and avant-garde techniques, contributing to the evolution of free jazz. The album received positive reviews from critics and helped solidify the ensemble's position as a leading force in experimental music during the 1980s. Released in 1984, The Third Decade came during a period of prolific output for the Art Ensemble of Chicago, following their acclaimed album Urban Bushmen. This record marks a continuation of their experimental sound while also reflecting the band's adaptation to changing musical landscapes and influences over the years.

Who is The Third Decade for?

The Third Decade works well if you're into steady pacing with rich textures, meditative grooves for deep focus and immersive listening with gradual evolution.

How many songs are on The Third Decade?

The Third Decade has 6 tracks, running approximately 42 minutes.

The Third Decade

Art Ensemble of Chicago · 1984

42 min · 6 tracks · free jazz

A vibrant fusion of avant-garde improvisation and rhythmic grooves, showcasing the Art Ensemble's eclectic approach to free jazz.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Prayer for Jimbo Kwesi — This opening track sets the tone for the album with its meditative atmosphere and intricate interplay between instruments, embodying the band's commitment to improvisation.
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Funky AECO — With its infectious groove and playful energy, this track showcases the ensemble's ability to blend funk elements into their signature free jazz style.
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Third Decade — The title track encapsulates the album's themes through complex rhythms and rich textures, illustrating the band's artistic evolution over their first three decades.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

73 /100

Alpine

Higher than 96% of albums we've rated

The album showcases innovative structures and techniques that define its unique sound within free jazz.

What we noticed

The first track features a call-and-response structure between brass and percussion, establishing a rhythmic foundation.
Several tracks utilize extended techniques on instruments, such as multiphonics on the saxophone and unconventional drumming patterns.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 9/10
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

steady pacing with rich textures
meditative grooves for deep focus
immersive listening with gradual evolution
reflective moments for quiet contemplation

Maybe skip if you

prefer instant gratification tracks
seek straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1984, The Third Decade came during a period of prolific output for the Art Ensemble of Chicago, following their acclaimed album Urban Bushmen. This record marks a continuation of their experimental sound while also reflecting the band's adaptation to changing musical landscapes and influences over the years.
Stylistic neighbors: Ornette Coleman· Henry Threadgill· Anthony Braxton