What makes Two Bones by Curtis Fuller notable?

Two Bones is significant for its exploration of intricate arrangements that highlight improvisation, contributing to the development of modern jazz. The album received positive critical reception and showcased Fuller's continued influence in jazz, particularly for trombone players. Released in 1980, Two Bones marks Curtis Fuller's return to the studio after a hiatus, following his work on notable albums in the 1960s. At this point in his career, Fuller was well-established but seeking to reassert his presence in the jazz scene with fresh compositions and arrangements.

Who is Two Bones for?

Two Bones works well if you're into steady mid-tempo groove, melodic improvisation exploration and for relaxed afternoons.

How many songs are on Two Bones?

Two Bones has 7 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Two Bones

Curtis Fuller · 1980

39 min · 7 tracks · jazz

A vibrant blend of hard bop and playful melodies, showcasing Fuller’s masterful trombone work alongside a tight ensemble.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Fuss Budget — Opening the album with an energetic rhythm, this track sets the tone for Fuller's distinctive style and showcases the band's chemistry.
→
Oatmeal Cookie — This composition features a playful melody and intricate solos that highlight both Fuller's trombone prowess and the ensemble's cohesion.
→
Loquacious Lady — The song stands out with its engaging conversational theme among instruments, creating a lively dialogue that emphasizes Fuller's innovative approach.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

The album features strong compositions and skilled performances but doesn't fully break new ground in jazz.

What we noticed

The album opens with an upbeat tempo and maintains a lively energy through the first four tracks before shifting to more reflective pieces.
Fuller's trombone leads are often complemented by sharp rhythmic accents from the piano and drums, creating a dynamic conversation throughout.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

Influence 4/10

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

steady mid-tempo groove
melodic improvisation exploration
for relaxed afternoons
engaging background for conversations

Maybe skip if you

seekers of fast-paced tracks
prefer standalone singles

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in 1980, Two Bones marks Curtis Fuller's return to the studio after a hiatus, following his work on notable albums in the 1960s. At this point in his career, Fuller was well-established but seeking to reassert his presence in the jazz scene with fresh compositions and arrangements.
Stylistic neighbors: Art Blakey· Horace Silver· Wayne Shorter