Now Is the Hour cover

Now Is the Hour

Charlie Haden · 1996

59 min · 12 tracks · free jazz · avant-garde jazz

A heartfelt blend of jazz standards and original compositions, woven with emotional depth and intricate arrangements.

Now Is the Hour is an album by Charlie Haden, released in 1996. A heartfelt blend of jazz standards and original compositions, woven with emotional depth and intricate arrangements. This album is significant for its unique fusion of jazz with traditional melodies, particularly the inclusion of the Māori farewell song, which highlights cultural dialogue within music. It received positive critical reception, reinforcing Haden's legacy as an artist who bridges genres and traditions. 'Now Is the Hour' has been influential in introducing wider audiences to the emotional resonance of jazz standards reimagined through Haden's interpretative lens. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Now Is the Hour sound like?

A heartfelt blend of jazz standards and original compositions, woven with emotional depth and intricate arrangements. Rooted in free jazz and avant-garde jazz.

What makes Now Is the Hour by Charlie Haden notable?

This album is significant for its unique fusion of jazz with traditional melodies, particularly the inclusion of the Māori farewell song, which highlights cultural dialogue within music. It received positive critical reception, reinforcing Haden's legacy as an artist who bridges genres and traditions. 'Now Is the Hour' has been influential in introducing wider audiences to the emotional resonance of jazz standards reimagined through Haden's interpretative lens. By the time 'Now Is the Hour' was released in 1996, Charlie Haden had established himself as a prominent figure in jazz, known for his innovative work in free jazz. This album came after his acclaimed project 'Closeness' (1997), showcasing his commitment to interpreting traditional music through a contemporary lens. Haden's collaboration with various artists throughout the 90s further solidified his role as a vital contributor to both avant-garde and mainstream jazz.

How many songs are on Now Is the Hour?

Now Is the Hour has 12 tracks, running approximately 59 minutes.

Tracklist

12 tracks·59:37

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

  • 1 Here’s Looking at You 6:11
  • 2 The Left Hand of God Standout 7:48
  • 3 Requiem 1:31
  • 4 Back Home Blues 4:04
  • 5 There in a Dream 7:05
  • 6 All Through the Night 4:13
  • 7 Detour Ahead 6:06
  • 8 Blue Pearl Standout 4:32
  • 9 When Tomorrow Comes 4:38
  • 10 Palo Alto 4:56
  • 11 Marable’s Parable 3:31
  • 12 Now Is the Hour (Haere Ra – Māori farewell song) 4:58

Release Date

January 1, 1996

Artist Origin

United States

Runtime

59 min 37 sec