What makes Yusef Lateef's Little Symphony by Yusef Lateef notable?

This album is notable for its ambitious orchestral format, which was relatively rare in jazz at the time, and it highlights Lateef's commitment to blending diverse musical traditions. Critical reception recognized it as a pioneering effort, helping to further bridge the gap between jazz and classical music. By 1987, Yusef Lateef was an established figure in jazz, known for his innovative fusion of genres. 'Little Symphony' marked a significant exploration into orchestral arrangements, following his previous acclaimed works in the 1970s that showcased his versatility as both a musician and composer.

How many songs are on Yusef Lateef's Little Symphony?

Yusef Lateef's Little Symphony has 4 tracks, running approximately 32 minutes.

Yusef Lateef's Little Symphony

Yusef Lateef · 1987

32 min · 4 tracks · jazz

A unique blend of jazz and classical elements that crafts an intricate dialogue between instruments across four movements.

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Top tracks — play these first

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First Movement: Larghissimo — This opening movement sets the tone for the entire album, showcasing Lateef's mastery in melding sweeping orchestral sounds with improvisational jazz elements.
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Second Movement: Andante — The second movement introduces a more reflective mood, illustrating the dynamic range of Lateef's composition style and allowing listeners to appreciate the subtleties of each instrument.
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Fourth Movement: Presto — Closing the symphony with energetic vigor, this track encapsulates the album's overall theme of synthesis between speed and complexity, leaving a lasting impression on the listener.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

Instrumental

76 /100

Alpine

Higher than 98% of albums we've rated

The orchestral format and intricate interplay of instruments mark this as a distinctive jazz work.

What we noticed

Instruments engage in intricate dialogues, with woodwinds and brass often exchanging melodic lines rather than following a traditional soloist format.
Each movement transitions smoothly into the next, maintaining thematic continuity while exploring varied dynamics and textures.

Composition 25% of the score: 8/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 8/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 8/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 9/10

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: Experimental — Showcases a unique orchestral format, diverging from typical jazz structures.
Themes: orchestral jazz fusion· instrumental dialogue· dynamic improvisation
Career context: By 1987, Yusef Lateef was an established figure in jazz, known for his innovative fusion of genres. 'Little Symphony' marked a significant exploration into orchestral arrangements, following his previous acclaimed works in the 1970s that showcased his versatility as both a musician and composer.
Stylistic neighbors: Pharoah Sanders· Alice Coltrane· Don Cherry