Kenton's West Side Story cover

Kenton's West Side Story

Stan Kenton · 1961

39 min · 10 tracks · jazz · swing · progressive jazz

Orchestral jazz harmonies intertwine with vibrant rhythms, breathing new life into Leonard Bernstein's classic arrangements.

Kenton's West Side Story is an album by Stan Kenton, released in 1961. Orchestral jazz harmonies intertwine with vibrant rhythms, breathing new life into Leonard Bernstein's classic arrangements. The album received critical acclaim for its innovative orchestration and arrangement, which redefined how jazz could interpret theatrical scores. It further solidified Kenton's position as a leading figure in the orchestral jazz movement, influencing future musicians who sought to blend genres. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Kenton's West Side Story sound like?

Orchestral jazz harmonies intertwine with vibrant rhythms, breathing new life into Leonard Bernstein's classic arrangements. Rooted in jazz and swing.

What makes Kenton's West Side Story by Stan Kenton notable?

The album received critical acclaim for its innovative orchestration and arrangement, which redefined how jazz could interpret theatrical scores. It further solidified Kenton's position as a leading figure in the orchestral jazz movement, influencing future musicians who sought to blend genres. Released in 1961, 'Kenton's West Side Story' marked a pivotal moment in Stan Kenton's career as he pushed the boundaries of orchestral jazz. This album came after his acclaimed works in the late 1950s and showcased his ambitious adaptation of Broadway music to a big band format.

How many songs are on Kenton's West Side Story?

Kenton's West Side Story has 10 tracks, running approximately 39 minutes.

Tracklist

10 tracks·39:16

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

  • 1 Prologue 4:05
  • 2 Something’s Coming Standout 3:39
  • 3 Maria Standout 4:29
  • 4 America Standout 4:41
  • 5 Tonight 3:46
  • 6 Cool 4:28
  • 7 I Feel Pretty 3:53
  • 8 Officer Krupke 3:02
  • 9 Taunting Scene (The Rumble) 3:56
  • 10 Somewhere (Finale) 3:14

Release Date

January 1, 1961

Genre

jazz, progressive jazz, swing

More albums in progressive jazz

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

39 min 16 sec