Book of Ways cover

Book of Ways

Keith Jarrett · 1987

101 min · 19 tracks · jazz

A meditative exploration of improvisational piano, weaving minimalist motifs with complex emotional undercurrents.

Why listen to this

Best for
meditative exploration of sound dynamic peaks and valleys long-form improvisational journey
Context
By the time 'Book of Ways' was released in 1987, Keith Jarrett had established himself as a leading figure in jazz, known for his innovative solo performances and improvisations. This album followed his critically acclaimed 'The Koln Concert' (1975) and marked a pivot towards more structured compositions, showcasing his ability to blend free-form jazz with classical influences.
If you like
jazz

Book of Ways is an album by Keith Jarrett, released in 1987. A meditative exploration of improvisational piano, weaving minimalist motifs with complex emotional undercurrents. 'Book of Ways' is notable for its unique structure, consisting of short pieces that reflect Jarrett's deep connection to spontaneous creation while still maintaining compositional integrity. The album has been influential in shifting perceptions within the jazz community about the possibilities of solo piano performance, demonstrating that minimalism can evoke profound emotional responses. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Book of Ways sound like?

A meditative exploration of improvisational piano, weaving minimalist motifs with complex emotional undercurrents. Rooted in jazz.

What makes Book of Ways by Keith Jarrett notable?

'Book of Ways' is notable for its unique structure, consisting of short pieces that reflect Jarrett's deep connection to spontaneous creation while still maintaining compositional integrity. The album has been influential in shifting perceptions within the jazz community about the possibilities of solo piano performance, demonstrating that minimalism can evoke profound emotional responses. By the time 'Book of Ways' was released in 1987, Keith Jarrett had established himself as a leading figure in jazz, known for his innovative solo performances and improvisations. This album followed his critically acclaimed 'The Koln Concert' (1975) and marked a pivot towards more structured compositions, showcasing his ability to blend free-form jazz with classical influences.

Who is Book of Ways for?

Book of Ways works well if you're into meditative exploration of sound, dynamic peaks and valleys and long-form improvisational journey.

How many songs are on Book of Ways?

Book of Ways has 19 tracks, running approximately 101 minutes.

Tracklist

19 tracks·101:01

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

Disc 1

  • 1 Book of Ways, Vol. 1: Book of Ways 1 9:17
  • 2 Book of Ways, Vol. 1: Book of Ways 2 3:46
  • 3 Book of Ways, Vol. 1: Book of Ways 3 4:12
  • 4 Book of Ways, Vol. 1: Book of Ways 4 5:01
  • 5 Book of Ways, Vol. 1: Book of Ways 5 3:07
  • 6 Book of Ways, Vol. 1: Book of Ways 6 4:16
  • 7 Book of Ways, Vol. 1: Book of Ways 7 3:34
  • 8 Book of Ways, Vol. 1: Book of Ways 8 5:43
  • 9 Book of Ways, Vol. 1: Book of Ways 9 5:11
  • 10 Book of Ways, Vol. 1: Book of Ways 10 3:36

Disc 2

  • 1 Book of Ways, Vol. 2: Book of Ways 1 6:23
  • 2 Book of Ways, Vol. 2: Book of Ways 2 4:16
  • 3 Book of Ways, Vol. 2: Book of Ways 3 4:45
  • 4 Book of Ways, Vol. 2: Book of Ways 4 7:18
  • 5 Book of Ways, Vol. 2: Book of Ways 5 5:56
  • 6 Book of Ways, Vol. 2: Book of Ways 6 7:34
  • 7 Book of Ways, Vol. 2: Book of Ways 7 4:03
  • 8 Book of Ways, Vol. 2: Book of Ways 8 7:24
  • 9 Book of Ways, Vol. 2: Book of Ways 9 5:39

Release Date

January 1, 1987

Genre

jazz

More albums in jazz

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

101 min 1 sec