Is Whiz Kids a good place to start with Gary Burton?

Yes, Whiz Kids is recommended as a starting point for new Gary Burton listeners. A vibrant exploration of jazz fusion, blending intricate melodies with rhythmic complexity and spirited improvisation. By 1987, Gary Burton was an established figure in the jazz world, known for his innovative work with vibraphones. 'Whiz Kids' marked his return to the studio after a brief hiatus, showcasing a mature sound that continued to push the boundaries of jazz fusion. This album followed his successful collaborations and solidified his status as a leading voice in contemporary jazz.

Who is Whiz Kids for?

Whiz Kids works well if you're into steady mid-tempo explorations, intricate melodies to dissect and vibrant rhythmic complexity.

How many songs are on Whiz Kids?

Whiz Kids has 6 tracks, running approximately 47 minutes.

Whiz Kids

Gary Burton · 1987

47 min · 6 tracks · jazz

A vibrant exploration of jazz fusion, blending intricate melodies with rhythmic complexity and spirited improvisation.

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Top tracks — play these first

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The Last Clown Start here — This opening track features a captivating blend of complex rhythms and haunting melodies that set the stage for the album's exploratory nature.
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Soulful Bill — With its engaging improvisational sections, this track showcases Burton's mastery of the vibraphone while paying homage to jazz traditions.
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Cool Train — This piece stands out for its infectious groove and interplay between instruments, highlighting the collaborative spirit of the ensemble.

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 showcases intricate compositions and skilled improvisation, making it a notable entry in Burton's discography.

What we noticed

The first track features a complex interplay between the vibraphone and bass, establishing a dynamic rhythm that persists throughout.
Each piece incorporates extended improvisation sections, allowing musicians to explore themes in real-time rather than adhering strictly to written melodies.
The album's final track introduces a slower tempo, creating a contrast with the preceding energetic pieces and providing a sense of closure.

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: 8/10
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 explorations
intricate melodies to dissect
vibrant rhythmic complexity
immersive in-order listening

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefers standalone tracks

Where this album fits

Themes: intricate melodies· contemporary jazz fusion
Career context: By 1987, Gary Burton was an established figure in the jazz world, known for his innovative work with vibraphones. 'Whiz Kids' marked his return to the studio after a brief hiatus, showcasing a mature sound that continued to push the boundaries of jazz fusion. This album followed his successful collaborations and solidified his status as a leading voice in contemporary jazz.
Stylistic neighbors: Chick Corea· Pat Metheny· Herbie Hancock