Turn
Roscoe Mitchell · 2005
64 min · 14 tracks · jazz
A meditative exploration of sound, weaving intricate textures with spontaneous improvisation in a jazz-fusion landscape.
Top tracks — play these first
-
→
For Cynthia — This track stands out for its lyrical approach, where melodies intertwine seamlessly with dissonant harmonies, reflecting Mitchell's deep emotional connection to the music.
-
→
Quintet Nine — The intricate interplay among musicians creates a dynamic conversation that exemplifies the essence of collective improvisation, demonstrating Mitchell's leadership in ensemble settings.
-
→
Take One — Spanning over eight minutes, this track showcases an expansive exploration of motifs and rhythms, inviting listeners into a deeper engagement with its evolving structures.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThe album showcases intricate improvisation and unique textures, marking it as a distinctive work in avant-garde jazz.
What we noticed
- The album features extended improvisational sections, with several tracks exceeding ten minutes, allowing for deep exploration of themes.
- Tracks often shift between solo passages and collective ensemble playing, creating a dynamic interplay among musicians.
- Composition 25% of the score
-
7/10
- Craft 20% of the score
-
8/10
- Durability 25% of the score
-
8/10
- Distinctiveness 18% of the score
-
9/10
- Sequencing 12% of the score
-
6/10
the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics
production, performance, arrangement
whether it rewards returning to it
whether it sounds like itself
running order, pacing, length
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
- meditative sound explorations
- intricate textures inviting attention
- spontaneous improvisation moments
- dynamic variations in pacing
Maybe skip if you
- seeking instant gratification
- prefer structured song formats
Where this album fits
- Career context
- In 2005, Roscoe Mitchell was well-established as a pioneering figure in avant-garde jazz, having gained recognition since the 1960s. 'Turn' marked his continued evolution as an artist, showcasing his innovative approach to composition and improvisational interplay with a new ensemble. This album followed his critically acclaimed works and emphasized his commitment to pushing musical boundaries.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Henry Threadgill· Ornette Coleman· Anthony Braxton
Tracklist
Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.
- 1 Quintet One 3:24
- 2 For Cynthia 5:23
- 3 Quintet Nine 5:21
- 4 For Now 3:58
- 5 Horner Mac 1:34
- 6 Rhine Ridge 1:24
- 7 Page Two A 6:19
- 8 March 2004 4:44
- 9 In Six 4:44
- 10 Turn 3:39
- 11 Take One 8:42
- 12 Page One 3:47
- 13 That’s Finished 3:58
- 14 After 7:10
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
Sync your library
Everything you track here works immediately — no account needed. Create one when you want to sync across devices.