Together
Tommy Flanagan · 1979
37 min · 6 tracks · jazz
A vibrant blend of intricate piano melodies and smooth, lyrical improvisations that breathe new life into jazz standards.
Top tracks — play these first
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If I Should Lose You — The interplay between the two pianos creates a hauntingly beautiful atmosphere, highlighting both musicians' ability to build tension and release within a classic ballad framework.
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Stella by Starlight — This track showcases Flanagan’s lyrical touch and inventive improvisation, making it a standout interpretation of this beloved standard.
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I Can't Get Started — The duo's playful yet introspective treatment of this piece reveals their deep emotional connection to the music, resonating with listeners through its delicate phrasing.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases strong compositions and skilled performances, though it remains within familiar jazz territory.
What we noticed
- The album features a consistent interplay between the two pianists, with each taking turns to lead and respond in real-time.
- Each track is built around a jazz standard, allowing for intricate improvisation while maintaining recognizable melodies.
- The tempo varies across tracks, with some maintaining a brisk pace while others slow down to allow for more lyrical exploration.
- 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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6/10
- 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
- steady melodic progression throughout
- ideal for intimate gatherings
- warm atmosphere for relaxation
- thoughtful listening during dinner
Maybe skip if you
- seeking high-energy tracks
- prefer standalone hits over cohesion
Where this album fits
- Career context
- When 'Together' was released in January 1979, Tommy Flanagan was an established pianist known for his work with legends like Ella Fitzgerald and John Coltrane. This album marks a significant collaboration with fellow pianist Kenny Barron, showcasing their musical chemistry and deep understanding of jazz tradition during a period when Flanagan was transitioning from sideman to bandleader.
- Stylistic neighbors
- McCoy Tyner· Bill Evans· Chick Corea
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Dig 4:30
- 2 If I Should Lose You 7:59
- 3 Stella by Starlight 5:51
- 4 I Can't Get Started 6:17
- 5 Darn That Dream 5:26
- 6 The Way You Look Tonight 7:10
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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