Very Cool
Lee Konitz · 1957
41 min · 6 tracks · jazz
A breezy exploration of cool jazz that intertwines intricate melodies with effortless improvisation.
Top tracks — play these first
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Sunflower Start here — This track features an engaging interplay between Konitz's saxophone and the rhythm section, exemplifying the relaxed yet intricate nature of cool jazz.
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Movin' Around — With its fluid melody and complex harmonic structure, this track showcases Konitz's ability to navigate through challenging changes while maintaining a laid-back vibe.
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Crazy She Calls Me — This rendition highlights Konitz's lyrical phrasing, allowing him to explore emotional depth within a seemingly simple ballad format.
Elevation
Our rating, out of 100 — and why.
AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.
InstrumentalThis album features strong improvisation and distinct melodies, making it a notable entry in Konitz's catalog.
What we noticed
- The first three tracks feature a consistent mid-tempo swing, while the last three introduce a slower, more contemplative pace.
- Konitz's alto saxophone leads throughout, often engaging in intricate call-and-response patterns with the piano and rhythm section.
- 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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8/10
- 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
- long, immersive melodic explorations
- patient unfolding of musical ideas
- intimate late-night listening sessions
- thoughtful improvisation and interplay
Maybe skip if you
- prefer fast-paced, energetic tracks
- want immediate gratification from music
Where this album fits
- In the catalog
- Breakthrough — This album helped establish Konitz's reputation in the jazz scene.
- Themes
- 1950s jazz scene· breezy improvisation· lyrical saxophone exploration
- Career context
- By the time of its release in 1957, Lee Konitz was already an established figure in the jazz scene, known for his unique alto saxophone style. 'Very Cool' came shortly after his notable work on 'Subconscious-Lee' and showcased his growth as an artist, expanding into a more relaxed yet sophisticated sound.
- Stylistic neighbors
- Paul Desmond· Stan Getz· Ornette Coleman
Tracklist
- 1 Sunflower Start here 8:06
- 2 Stairway to the Stars 5:18
- 3 Movin' Around 7:45
- 4 Kary's Trance 7:08
- 5 Crazy She Calls Me 7:20
- 6 Billie's Bounce 6:07
Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata
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