The Tommy Flanagan Trio cover

The Tommy Flanagan Trio

Tommy Flanagan · 1960

34 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A sophisticated blend of intricate melodies and smooth improvisations that define the essence of jazz trio performance.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    In the Blue of the Evening — This track opens the album with a lush, romantic melody that highlights Flanagan's expressive touch and sets the tone for the entire record.
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    You Go to My Head — Flanagan infuses this ballad with a unique rhythmic interpretation, showcasing his ability to blend classical influences with traditional jazz elements.
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    Come Sunday — This piece stands out due to its spiritual depth and complex harmonies, revealing Flanagan's skillful arrangement and emotional sensitivity.
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    In a Sentimental Mood — Flanagan’s interpretation transforms this classic into a deeply personal experience, demonstrating his mastery over dynamics and phrasing that captures the listener's heart.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
64 /100
Treeline
Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong compositions and skilled improvisation, making it a notable entry in jazz history.

What we noticed

  • Each track features extended improvisation sections, allowing the trio to explore themes and motifs in depth.
  • The album opens with a slow ballad, gradually introducing more upbeat tempos by the third track.
  • Flanagan's piano leads throughout, with bass and drums providing subtle but intricate support, creating a conversational dynamic.
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
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
7/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
8/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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

  • heartfelt improvisation for reflection
  • steady pacing for focused listening
  • gradual build to emotional closure
  • intimate setting for quiet moments

Maybe skip if you

  • seeking fast-paced energy
  • prefer standalone hit tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 1960, The Tommy Flanagan Trio marked a pivotal moment in Flanagan's career, showcasing his artistry after establishing himself as a sought-after pianist with artists like Ella Fitzgerald. This album followed his tenure with renowned jazz figures and set the stage for his future work as a bandleader and composer.
Stylistic neighbors
McCoy Tyner· Bill Evans· Chick Corea

Tracklist

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

  • 1 In the Blue of the Evening 3:47
  • 2 You Go to My Head 4:32
  • 3 Velvet Moon 5:24
  • 4 Come Sunday 3:40
  • 5 Born to Be Blue 4:26
  • 6 Jes' Fine 5:36
  • 7 In a Sentimental Mood 6:40

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata