Times Like These
Gary Burton · 1988
51 min · 8 tracks · jazz
A vibrant blend of intricate melodies and improvisational flair, showcasing the depth of jazz fusion's emotional range.
Top tracks — play these first
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Times Like These Start here — The title track introduces the album’s thematic exploration of nostalgia and reflection through complex harmonies and dynamic shifts.
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Robert Frost — This piece stands out for its evocative interplay between melody and rhythm, capturing the essence of poetic inspiration that characterizes much of Burton's work.
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Why'd You Do It? — The track showcases a darker, more introspective side with its moody arrangement and compelling narrative, making it a highlight of emotional depth on the album.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases strong instrumental composition and craft, with distinct vibes but limited cultural reach.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent use of vibraphone as the lead instrument, creating a distinct sound throughout.
- Composition 25% of the score
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7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
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8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
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6/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
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8/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
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7/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- reflective evening listening
- patient unfolding of themes
- back-loaded emotional crescendos
- thoughtful exploration of nostalgia
Maybe skip if you
- prefer short, upbeat tracks
- want instant gratification
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Critical Peak — This album is noted for its intricate compositions and received critical acclaim.
- Themes
- poetic inspiration· nostalgic reflection· emotional depth
- Career context
- When 'Times Like These' was released in 1988, Gary Burton was already an established figure in jazz, known for his innovative approach to the vibraphone. This album came after his critically acclaimed works in the 1970s and 1980s, marking a continued evolution in his sound as he explored more contemporary fusion elements.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Chick Corea· Pat Metheny· Herbie Hancock
Tracklist
- 1 Times Like These Start here 6:35
- 2 Or Else 4:47
- 3 Robert Frost 6:25
- 4 Why'd You Do It? 5:19
- 5 P.M. 6:32
- 6 Was It So Long Ago? 7:48
- 7 Bento Box 6:18
- 8 Do Tell 7:24
If this landed
Records by other artists that run on the same instinct.
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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