What makes Windward Passages by Dave Burrell notable?

The album is recognized for its unique interpretations of classic jazz pieces, particularly the two versions of Naima, which highlight Burrell's distinct pianistic style. Critics have noted 'Windward Passages' as a significant contribution to the jazz canon of the early '90s, earning positive reviews in notable publications like DownBeat and JazzTimes. By the time 'Windward Passages' was released in December 1993, Dave Burrell was already an established figure in jazz, known for his innovative approaches since the 1960s. This album emerged after a period of exploration in his career, showcasing a mature sound that reflects both his roots and artistic evolution.

Who is Windward Passages for?

Windward Passages works well if you're into deep emotional landscapes unfold slowly, rich melodies for reflective moments and extended tracks invite patient listening.

How many songs are on Windward Passages?

Windward Passages has 8 tracks, running approximately 69 minutes.

Windward Passages

Dave Burrell · 1993

69 min · 8 tracks · jazz

A meditative blend of post-bop improvisation and deep emotional resonance woven through intricate melodies and rich harmonies.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Sorrow Song (for W.E.B. Dubois) — This opening track sets a reflective tone with its poignant piano lines, capturing Burrell's ability to blend sorrow and beauty, honoring Dubois's legacy.
→
Naima (take 2) — Burrell's interpretation of Coltrane's classic infuses it with a fresh perspective, showcasing his lyrical touch and improvisational skills that elevate the original composition.
→
Conversation With Our Mothers — This track stands out with its conversational dynamics between instruments, creating an intimate atmosphere that invites listeners into Burrell's creative dialogue.

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 melodies and distinct interpretations, making it a notable entry in Burrell's discography.

What we noticed

The album features a consistent use of intricate piano melodies that are often layered with subtle harmonic shifts.
Each track varies in tempo and mood, with some pieces maintaining a meditative pace while others introduce more dynamic improvisation.

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

deep emotional landscapes unfold slowly
rich melodies for reflective moments
extended tracks invite patient listening
contemplative atmosphere for solitude

Maybe skip if you

seeking fast-paced instant gratification
prefer short, standalone tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time 'Windward Passages' was released in December 1993, Dave Burrell was already an established figure in jazz, known for his innovative approaches since the 1960s. This album emerged after a period of exploration in his career, showcasing a mature sound that reflects both his roots and artistic evolution.
Stylistic neighbors: Cecil Taylor· Andrew Hill· Sun Ra

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Sorrow Song (for W.E.B. Dubois) 8:29
2 It Hurts So Much to See 8:00
3 Naima (take 2) 11:33
4 Cela Me Va 5:26
5 The Crave 6:04
6 Zanzibar Blue 9:22
7 Conversation With Our Mothers 6:09
8 Naima (take 1) 13:59

What to play next

Listen next

Live at Caramoor

1999

Go back to

Brother to Brother

1993

Full Dave Burrell discography Artists like Dave Burrell

post-bop

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata