What makes Under the Jasmin Tree by Modern Jazz Quartet notable?

The album is notable for its ambitious structure, particularly the three-part suite 'Three Little Feelings', which highlights the group's skillful interplay and thematic development. Critics recognized it as a significant contribution to the cool jazz genre, helping to cement the Modern Jazz Quartet's legacy within the jazz canon during a period when jazz was expanding into new forms of expression. Under the Jasmin Tree marked the Modern Jazz Quartet's continued evolution in the late 1960s, following their successful album Third Stream Music released in 1965. At this time, the group was solidifying their reputation for innovative compositions that blended classical music elements with jazz improvisation, showcasing their distinctive sound and artistic growth.

How many songs are on Under the Jasmin Tree?

Under the Jasmin Tree has 4 tracks, running approximately 33 minutes.

Under the Jasmin Tree

Modern Jazz Quartet · 1968

33 min · 4 tracks · cool jazz

A contemplative blend of cool jazz harmonies and intricate rhythms that evoke a serene yet complex emotional landscape.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Three Little Feelings (Parts I, II, III) — This track serves as the centerpiece of the album, demonstrating the quartet's ability to weave intricate themes and rich textures across its extended length. The evolving motifs and dynamic interactions showcase their mastery of both composition and improvisation.
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The Jasmin Tree — The title track encapsulates the album's tranquil yet complex atmosphere, featuring delicate melodies that create an intimate listening experience. Its elegant arrangement highlights the group's signature blend of jazz and classical influences.
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Exposure — This piece showcases the juxtaposition of rhythm and melody, with a reflective mood that captures the essence of cool jazz. The exploratory solos reveal each member's virtuosity while contributing to a cohesive sound.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

64 /100

Treeline

Higher than 79% of albums we've rated

The album's ambitious structure and thematic depth highlight its innovative approach within cool jazz.

What we noticed

The album features a three-part suite that showcases thematic development and intricate interplay between instruments.
Each track maintains a contemplative tempo, with the first and last tracks introducing distinct melodic motifs that are revisited throughout.
The use of space and silence is prominent, allowing for moments of tension and release within the arrangements.

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

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.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Critical Peak — The album showcases ambitious structures and significant artistic development.
Themes: intimate melodies· contemplative jazz landscapes
Career context: Under the Jasmin Tree marked the Modern Jazz Quartet's continued evolution in the late 1960s, following their successful album Third Stream Music released in 1965. At this time, the group was solidifying their reputation for innovative compositions that blended classical music elements with jazz improvisation, showcasing their distinctive sound and artistic growth.
Stylistic neighbors: Bill Evans· Dave Brubeck· Gerry Mulligan