Trio Libero cover

Trio Libero

Andy Sheppard · 2012

51 min · 13 tracks · jazz

A fluid blend of improvisational jazz inflected with world music elements and a sense of free exploration.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Libertino — Opening the album, this track establishes the playful yet intricate interplay between the musicians, setting a vibrant tone that resonates throughout.
  • →
    I’m Always Chasing Rainbows — This rendition highlights Sheppard's lyrical saxophone style, transforming a classic into a fresh exploration of melody and rhythm that showcases his unique approach.
  • →
    The Unconditional Secret — Here, the trio delves into deeper emotional territory, creating a sonorous landscape that captures the essence of vulnerability and connection through sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental
66 /100
Alpine
Higher than 89% of albums we've rated

The album's improvisational depth and unique interplay mark it as a significant entry in contemporary jazz.

What we noticed

  • The album features extended improvisational sections, with several tracks exceeding six minutes, allowing for deep exploration of themes.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
8/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
7/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
8/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
6/10

running order, pacing, length

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

  • vibrant improvisation for exploration
  • short tracks for quick engagement
  • melodic playfulness in every piece
  • suitable for reflective afternoons

Maybe skip if you

  • seeks instant gratification
  • prefers longer cohesive pieces

Where this album fits

Career context
By 2012, Andy Sheppard had established himself as an innovative voice in contemporary jazz, having released several well-received albums since the late 1980s. Trio Libero marked a significant moment as his first album featuring a trio format, showcasing his ability to intertwine various musical influences into cohesive compositions.
Stylistic neighbors
Jan Garbarek· Tord Gustavsen· Nils Frahm

Tracklist

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

  • 1 Libertino 3:40
  • 2 Slip Duty 3:39
  • 3 I’m Always Chasing Rainbows 4:18
  • 4 Spacewalk, Part 1 3:13
  • 5 Dia da Liberdade 4:20
  • 6 Land of Nod 3:46
  • 7 The Unconditional Secret 4:01
  • 8 Ishidatami 3:48
  • 9 Skin / Kaa 6:09
  • 10 Spacewalk, Part 2 3:50
  • 11 Whereveryougoigotoo 3:41
  • 12 Lots of Stairs 3:14
  • 13 When We Live on the Stars… 4:04

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata