What makes Third Set by Cedar Walton notable?

'Third Set' is notable for its critical acclaim, garnering attention in the jazz community for its innovative compositions and arrangement. The album features original pieces alongside classic standards, reflecting Walton's ability to bridge traditional and modern jazz elements, contributing to the ongoing evolution of the genre. In 1983, when 'Third Set' was released, Cedar Walton was already an established figure in jazz, known for his tenure with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers. This album arrived after his successful projects in the late 1970s and early 1980s, marking a period where he solidified his reputation as a bandleader and composer.

Who is Third Set for?

Third Set works well if you're into extended improvisations that invite exploration, intricate melodies for attentive listening and late-night contemplative sessions.

How many songs are on Third Set?

Third Set has 5 tracks, running approximately 51 minutes.

Third Set

Cedar Walton · 1983

51 min · 5 tracks · jazz

A sophisticated blend of intricate melodies and dynamic rhythms that showcases Walton's virtuosic piano work within a jazz ensemble.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Angel in the Night — This track exemplifies Walton's lyrical piano style, weaving complex harmonies into an evocative narrative that sets the tone for the album.
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Bolivia — Walton's interpretation of this classic showcases his intricate understanding of rhythm and melody, offering a fresh take on this beloved standard.
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Rhythm-A-Ning — This lively piece highlights the ensemble’s interplay, featuring lively rhythms and spontaneous improvisation that captures the essence of jazz performance.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

60 /100

Treeline

Higher than 66% of albums we've rated

Walton's intricate melodies and improvisational depth create a compelling jazz experience.

What we noticed

The album opens with a complex interplay between piano and bass, establishing a sophisticated melodic theme that recurs throughout.
Each track features extended improvisation sections, allowing the musicians to explore variations on the main themes.
The final two tracks shift in tempo and mood, creating a contrast that emphasizes the dynamic range of the ensemble.

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

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

extended improvisations that invite exploration
intricate melodies for attentive listening
late-night contemplative sessions
dynamic rhythms for focused engagement

Maybe skip if you

prefer short, upbeat tracks
seek immediate gratification

Where this album fits

Career context: In 1983, when 'Third Set' was released, Cedar Walton was already an established figure in jazz, known for his tenure with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers. This album arrived after his successful projects in the late 1970s and early 1980s, marking a period where he solidified his reputation as a bandleader and composer.
Stylistic neighbors: McCoy Tyner· Chick Corea· Bill Evans

Tracklist

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

1 Angel in the Night 12:38
2 Bolivia 12:39
3 Fantasy in D 9:55
4 Blue Monk 6:12
5 Rhythm-A-Ning 9:46

What to play next

Listen next

Eastern Rebellion 4

1984

Go back to

Piano Solos

1981

Full Cedar Walton discography Artists like Cedar Walton

jazz swing

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata