Today and Tomorrow cover

Today and Tomorrow

McCoy Tyner · 1964

51 min · 9 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of intricate piano motifs and dynamic rhythms that embodies the spirit of post-bop jazz.

Top tracks — play these first

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    Contemporary Focus — The opening track sets the tone for the album with its complex harmonies and rhythmic intricacies, showcasing Tyner's innovative approach to jazz composition.
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    A Night in Tunisia — Tyner's interpretation of this classic features a distinctive arrangement that highlights his virtuosic piano skills while paying homage to the original composition.
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    Autumn Leaves — This rendition stands out for its lush harmonization and emotional depth, illustrating Tyner's ability to transform a well-known standard into something uniquely personal.
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    Three Flowers — The extended improvisational sections provide a platform for Tyner to explore rich textures, making it a highlight of the album's adventurous spirit.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
61 /100
Treeline
Higher than 71% of albums we've rated

Tyner's unique harmonic language and dynamic interplay define this post-bop jazz album.

What we noticed

  • Each track varies in tempo and mood, with several pieces incorporating sudden dynamic changes that create tension and release.
  • The interplay between the piano and rhythm section is intricate, often leading to call-and-response patterns that highlight the musicians' improvisational skills.
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
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • wave-like emotional transitions
  • dynamic exploration of themes
  • engaging late-night listening
  • thoughtful background for conversation

Maybe skip if you

  • seek instant gratification
  • prefer straightforward song structures

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in January 1964, Today and Tomorrow was McCoy Tyner's second album as a bandleader, following his debut, The Real McCoy. By this time, he was already gaining recognition for his work with the legendary John Coltrane Quartet, which solidified his innovative approach to jazz piano and composition.
Stylistic neighbors
Chick Corea· Herbie Hancock· Keith Jarrett

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Contemporary Focus 8:28
  • 2 T'n'A Blues 4:05
  • 3 Three Flowers 10:11
  • 4 A Night in Tunisia 5:08
  • 5 Autumn Leaves 6:10
  • 6 When Sunny Gets Blue 4:44
  • 7 You'd Be So Nice to Come Home To 4:31
  • 8 Five Spot After Dark 5:37
  • 9 Flapstick Blues 2:14

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata