Is This Is What I Do a good place to start with Sonny Rollins?

Yes, This Is What I Do is recommended as a starting point for new Sonny Rollins listeners. A masterclass in jazz improvisation, blending rhythmic complexity with melodic sophistication across six thoughtfully curated tracks. Released in 2000, This Is What I Do marked Sonny Rollins' first studio album in a decade, following his 1990 album, The Way I Feel. At this point in his career, Rollins was celebrated as one of jazz's living legends, returning to the forefront with a rich blend of original compositions and standards that reflect his deep musical maturity.

Who is This Is What I Do for?

This Is What I Do works well if you're into steady melodic improvisation flow, rich harmonic explorations throughout and inviting for attentive listening.

How many songs are on This Is What I Do?

This Is What I Do has 6 tracks, running approximately 48 minutes.

Released 26 years ago this October

This Is What I Do

Sonny Rollins · 2000

48 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A masterclass in jazz improvisation, blending rhythmic complexity with melodic sophistication across six thoughtfully curated tracks.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Salvador Start here — Opening with intricate melodies and syncopated rhythms, Salvador sets the tone for the album with its vibrant exploration of Latin influences.
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A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square — This track highlights Rollins' lyrical saxophone playing, where he delicately navigates the lush harmonies while infusing personal interpretation into a classic standard.
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Charles M. — An homage to fellow musician Charles Mingus, this piece showcases Rollins' ability to merge storytelling with complex improvisation, making it a standout moment on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

67 /100

Alpine

Higher than 91% of albums we've rated

Rollins showcases his improvisational prowess across varied tempos and moods, making for a compelling jazz album.

What we noticed

Each track features extended improvisation sections, allowing Rollins to explore melodic variations and rhythmic shifts.
The album opens with a brisk tempo on 'Salvador' and gradually transitions to more contemplative pieces like 'A Nightingale Sang in Berkeley Square'.
The instrumentation is consistent throughout, primarily featuring saxophone, piano, bass, and drums, creating a cohesive sound palette.

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: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 3/10

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

steady melodic improvisation flow
rich harmonic explorations throughout
inviting for attentive listening
satisfying evening relaxation sessions

Maybe skip if you

prefer quick, upbeat tracks
seek instant gratification sounds

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Late Career Highlight — Marks Rollins' return after a decade, showcasing his ongoing innovation in jazz.
Themes: jazz improvisation mastery· nostalgic melodies· Berkeley Square tribute
Career context: Released in 2000, This Is What I Do marked Sonny Rollins' first studio album in a decade, following his 1990 album, The Way I Feel. At this point in his career, Rollins was celebrated as one of jazz's living legends, returning to the forefront with a rich blend of original compositions and standards that reflect his deep musical maturity.
Stylistic neighbors: John Coltrane· Ornette Coleman· Wayne Shorter