Gary Burton

United States

"A complex tapestry of shimmering notes unfolds with rhythmic precision, creating a rich dialogue between melody and harmony that invites exploration."

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Begin with Gary Burton…

The New Quartet

1973

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Career Arc

Gary Burton's discography from 1961 to 2013

1961 1987 2013

New Vibe Man in Town (1961) Who is Gary Burton? (1962) Something's Coming! (1964) 3 in Jazz (1965) The Groovy Sound of Music (1965) The Time Machine (1966) Lofty Fake Anagram (1967) Duster (1967) Tennessee Firebird (1967) A Genuine Tong Funeral (1968) Gary Burton Quartet in Co... (1968) Country Roads & Other Pla... (1969) Throb (1969) Good Vibes (1970) Live in Tokyo (1970) Live in Tokyo (1971) Alone at Last (1971) The New Quartet (1973) Seven Songs for Quartet a... (1974) Ring (1974)

Gary Burton is a pivotal figure in the evolution of jazz, particularly in how he has shaped the vibraphone's role within both traditional and modern contexts.

Gary Burton is a pivotal figure in the evolution of jazz, particularly in how he has shaped the vibraphone's role within both traditional and modern contexts. His innovative approach transformed this instrument from a background texture to a commanding voice in ensemble settings, allowing for fresh expressions that resonate with audiences seeking depth in improvisation and melodic clarity. Burton's process involves an intricate interplay of technique and emotion, often utilizing two mallets in each hand for a more nuanced performance. This method not only enhances his playing but also introduces unique harmonies and textures that push the boundaries of rhythm and melody. He excels at creating conversational dynamics between musicians, fostering an environment where spontaneity thrives and each note feels like a deliberate choice rather than mere chance. Lyrically, while Burton's music may lack direct words, it embodies storytelling through intricate melodies that evoke a range of emotions—from joy to introspection. His tone tends toward sincerity, weaving impressions that invite listeners to immerse themselves in the narrative woven through sound. The result is an evocative experience that resonates deeply, even without lyrics to guide interpretation.

Full discography

Gary Burton's albums in order, from earliest releases to latest.

54 releases • 54 albums • 1961–2013

Type:

Albums ()

Guided Tour

2013

Time Thread

2013

Common Ground

2011

Quartet Live

2009

Next Generation

2005

Generations

2004

Music stories

2003

Virtuosi

2002

For Hamp, Red, Bags, and Cal

2001

Libertango

2000

Like Minds

1998

Astor Piazzolla reunion

1998

Native Sense – The New Duets

1997

Departure

1997

Face to face

1994

It's another day

1994

Benny rides again

1992

Six Pack

1992

Cool Nights

1991

Right Time, Right Place

1990

Reunion

1989

Times Like These

1988

Whiz Kids

1987

The New Tango

1987

Real Life Hits

1985

Gary Burton and the Berklee all-stars

1985

Picture This

1982

Easy as Pie

1981

Live at the Midem

1981

Duet

1979

Times Square

1978

Passengers

1977

Dreams So Real

1976

Hotel Hello

1975

Seven Songs for Quartet and Chamber Orchestra

1974

Ring

1974

The New Quartet

1973

Live in Tokyo

1971

Alone at Last

1971

Good Vibes

1970

Live in Tokyo

1970

Country Roads & Other Places

1969

Throb

1969

A Genuine Tong Funeral

1968

Gary Burton Quartet in Concert

1968

Lofty Fake Anagram

1967

Duster

1967

Tennessee Firebird

1967

The Time Machine

1966

3 in Jazz

1965

The Groovy Sound of Music

1965

Something's Coming!

1964

Who is Gary Burton?

1962

New Vibe Man in Town

1961

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Timeline

How their sound evolved over time

New Vibe Man in Town (1961)

Who is Gary Burton? (1962)

Something's Coming! (1964)

3 in Jazz (1965)

The Groovy Sound of... (1965)

The Time Machine (1966)

Lofty Fake Anagram (1967)

Duster (1967)

Tennessee Firebird (1967)

A Genuine Tong Funer... (1968)

Gary Burton Quartet... (1968)

Country Roads & Othe... (1969)

The New Quartet (1973)

Seven Songs for Quartet and Chamber Orchestra

Seven Songs for Quar... (1974)

Ring (1974)

Hotel Hello (1975)

Dreams So Real (1976)

Live at the Midem (1981)

Picture This (1982)

Real Life Hits (1985)

Gary Burton and the... (1985)

Whiz Kids (1987)

The New Tango (1987)

Times Like These (1988)

Reunion (1989)

Right Time, Right Pl... (1990)

Cool Nights (1991)

Benny rides again (1992)

Six Pack (1992)

Face to face (1994)

It's another day (1994)

Native Sense – The N... (1997)

Departure (1997)

Like Minds (1998)

Astor Piazzolla reun... (1998)

Libertango (2000)

For Hamp, Red, Bags,... (2001)

Virtuosi (2002)

Music stories (2003)

Generations (2004)

Next Generation (2005)

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Gary Burton sound like?

A complex tapestry of shimmering notes unfolds with rhythmic precision, creating a rich dialogue between melody and harmony that invites exploration. Rooted in jazz fusion. Start with The New Tango.

What is the best Gary Burton album to start with?

The best album to start with is "The New Tango" (1987). It's the most representative of what makes Gary Burton worth hearing.

Who is Gary Burton for?

If you're into jazz fusion, Gary Burton is worth your time. A complex tapestry of shimmering notes unfolds with rhythmic precision, creating a rich dialogue between melody and harmony that invites exploration.

How many albums does Gary Burton have?

Gary Burton has 54 releases in their discography, including 54 albums.

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