What makes Time Lines by Andrew Hill notable?

Time Lines received critical acclaim for its bold exploration of form and structure, reflecting Hill's unique approach to jazz composition. It was recognized for its influence on the avant-garde jazz scene and contributed to Hill's resurgence in popularity, earning him renewed respect among both critics and peers. Released in 2006, Time Lines marked Andrew Hill's return to the studio after a long hiatus, showcasing his enduring creativity as he navigated the contemporary jazz landscape. This album followed his last studio release from the late 1990s, positioning him as a seasoned voice bridging traditional jazz with innovative experimentation.

Who is Time Lines for?

Time Lines works well if you're into dynamic improvisation with intricate melodies, patient exploration of musical ideas and thoughtful moments for deep listening.

How many songs are on Time Lines?

Time Lines has 8 tracks, running approximately 65 minutes.

Released 20 years ago

Time Lines

Andrew Hill · 2006

65 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A rich tapestry of avant-garde jazz intertwines intricate melodies with dynamic improvisation across expansive compositions.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Malachi — This opening track features complex harmonic structures that set the tone for the entire album, showcasing Hill's mastery of rhythm and melody.
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Time Lines — The title track intricately weaves together various musical motifs, embodying the album's thematic exploration of time and memory through improvisation.
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For Emilio — Dedicated to a close friend, this track highlights Hill's emotional depth as a composer, blending lyrical passages with adventurous solos.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

71 /100

Alpine

Higher than 95% of albums we've rated

The album showcases intricate compositions and dynamic improvisation, marking a strong return for Hill in avant-garde jazz.

What we noticed

The album features extended compositions, with several tracks exceeding seven minutes, allowing for deep improvisational exploration.
Each piece often shifts between structured melodies and free-form sections, creating a dynamic interplay between order and spontaneity.
The use of varied instrumentation throughout the tracks adds layers of texture, enhancing the complexity of the sound.

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

dynamic improvisation with intricate melodies
patient exploration of musical ideas
thoughtful moments for deep listening
vibrant tapestry that invites engagement

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer straightforward, catchy tunes

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 2006, Time Lines marked Andrew Hill's return to the studio after a long hiatus, showcasing his enduring creativity as he navigated the contemporary jazz landscape. This album followed his last studio release from the late 1990s, positioning him as a seasoned voice bridging traditional jazz with innovative experimentation.
Stylistic neighbors: Eric Dolphy· Cecil Taylor· Ornette Coleman

Tracklist

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

1 Malachi 7:03
2 Time Lines 9:02
3 Ry Round 1 9:00
4 For Emilio 9:40
5 Whitsuntide 8:59
6 Smooth 8:14
7 Ry Round 2 7:55
8 Malachi (solo piano version) 5:31

What to play next

Listen next

Change

2007

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Pax

2006

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Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata