What is the best Larry Carlton album to start with?

The best album to start with is "Larry Carlton" (1978). It's the most representative of what makes Larry Carlton worth hearing.

What are the best Larry Carlton albums?

The essential Larry Carlton albums include "Larry Carlton" (1978), "Strikes Twice" (1981), "Alone / But Never Alone" (1986), "Last Nite" (1986) and "Discovery" (1987).

How many albums does Larry Carlton have?

Larry Carlton has 28 releases in their discography, including 26 albums and 1 EP.

Photo: sähkö · CC BY-SA 3.0

Larry Carlton

Q: Who is Larry Carlton for?

If you're into blues and jazz fusion, Larry Carlton is worth your time. The music pulses with a fluidity marked by intricate melodic lines and subtle grooves, inviting immersion through its layered textures and rhythmic interplay.

The music pulses with a fluidity marked by intricate melodic lines and subtle grooves, inviting immersion through its layered textures and rhythmic interplay.

blues · crossover jazz · jazz fusion · post-bop

United States

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Start here

The album

Larry Carlton (1978)

Captures Carlton's signature blend of jazz and blues with a cohesive set that showcases his melodic guitar work and intricate arrangements.

The song

“Room 335”

Immediate hook with engaging melodies that introduces Carlton's style and fluid guitar playing, making it a strong standalone track.

See the full guide

Songs to start with

If you'd rather pick a song than an album.

1

"Room 335" — from Larry Carlton (1978)

establishes the sonic palette early
2

"Strikes Twice" — from Strikes Twice (1981)

accessible entry with immediate hook
3

"Inkblot 11" — from Fire Wire (2005)

establishes the sonic palette early
4

"Smiles and Smiles to Go" — from Alone / But Never Alone (1986)

accessible entry with immediate hook
5

"Put it Where You Want It" — from Deep Into It (2001)

accessible entry with immediate hook
6

"So What" — from Last Nite (1986)

establishes the sonic palette early

About Larry Carlton

Larry Carlton reshaped the landscape of contemporary jazz and blues, infusing both genres with a meticulous artistry that resonates deeply with listeners.

His distinctive guitar work has not only defined his own solo career but also left an indelible mark on countless tracks throughout popular music, elevating the role of the guitar in these genres and inspiring a new generation of musicians to explore subtler nuances in improvisation and melody. Carlton's approach to music emphasizes a remarkable blend of technical precision and emotional depth, often characterized by his signature smooth phrasing and ability to convey complex feelings through simple motifs. By seamlessly merging elements of jazz with blues roots, he creates sonic textures that feel both familiar and innovative, allowing listeners to find solace in the intricacies of his compositions while also experiencing moments of spontaneous expression. His songwriting often reflects themes of introspection, personal growth, and the human experience, conveyed through an inviting voice that balances sincerity with reflective storytelling. Carlton tends to craft narratives that resonate on a personal level, inviting listeners into his world with an open-hearted tone that feels both relatable and profound.

26 studio albums· 28 total releases· 4 decades· United States