Takin' Off
Herbie Hancock · 1962
57 min · 9 tracks · classical · funk · jazz fusion
A vibrant blend of hard bop and rhythmic grooves, showcasing Hancock's inventive piano work and catchy melodies.
Why listen to this
- Best for
- steady groove for focused listening catchy melodies to hum along vibrant rhythms for afternoon energy
- Context
- Released in 1962, 'Takin' Off' was Herbie Hancock's debut album, marking his entry into the jazz scene as a prominent new voice. At this time, he was a young pianist who had already gained recognition for his work with Miles Davis, contributing to the landmark album 'E.S.P.' just prior to this release.
- If you like
- classical, funk, jazz fusion
- What next
- My Point of View — Continues the vibrant energy and inventive piano work with a more complex arrangement.
Takin' Off is an album by Herbie Hancock, released in 1962. A vibrant blend of hard bop and rhythmic grooves, showcasing Hancock's inventive piano work and catchy melodies. The album features the hit single 'Watermelon Man,' which became a jazz standard and helped popularize Hancock's innovative style. Its reception was favorable among critics and audiences alike, establishing Hancock as a key figure in the hard bop movement and influencing subsequent generations of jazz musicians. Here's what makes it worth your time and what to listen to next.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does Takin' Off sound like?
A vibrant blend of hard bop and rhythmic grooves, showcasing Hancock's inventive piano work and catchy melodies. Rooted in classical and funk. Start with "Watermelon Man".
Is Takin' Off a good place to start with Herbie Hancock?
Yes, Takin' Off is recommended as a starting point for new Herbie Hancock listeners. A vibrant blend of hard bop and rhythmic grooves, showcasing Hancock's inventive piano work and catchy melodies. Released in 1962, 'Takin' Off' was Herbie Hancock's debut album, marking his entry into the jazz scene as a prominent new voice. At this time, he was a young pianist who had already gained recognition for his work with Miles Davis, contributing to the landmark album 'E.S.P.' just prior to this release.
Who is Takin' Off for?
Takin' Off works well if you're into steady groove for focused listening, catchy melodies to hum along and vibrant rhythms for afternoon energy.
How many songs are on Takin' Off?
Takin' Off has 9 tracks, running approximately 57 minutes.
Tracklist
New here? Start with Watermelon Man.
- 1 Watermelon Man Start here 7:07
- 2 Three Bags Full Standout 5:25
- 3 Empty Pockets 6:10
- 4 The Maze 6:47
- 5 Driftin’ Standout 6:55
- 6 Alone and I 6:27
- 7 Watermelon Man (alternate take) 6:34
- 8 Three Bags Full (alternate take) 5:32
- 9 Empty Pockets (alternate take) 6:27
Release Date
January 1, 1962
Artist Origin
United States
Runtime
57 min 28 sec
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