The Art of Criticism 2

An occasional series which highlights customer reviews of classic jazz albums on Amazon.com. Consider all material (sic'd).

Dave Brubeck Quartet: Time Out

Five stars (out of five), Unexpected hyperbole: If Jesus liked jazz...

...he would have had Take Five playing at the Last Supper. This recording has such depth, such intensity, it's hard to believe that it's been captured on a CD. As I sit here now, I am waiting to get home, decompress and play the album in the background of my mind. I won't get into the technicalities with you, but take my word for it, this is a CD that will never end up as a coaster.

Two stars, The rebuttal: Re: If Jesus Liked Jazz

A fine jazz album for people who are not sure if they like jazz. The music is pleasing without being offensive, or particularly moving. Sure it is a fine place to start, but one would hope that a person's tastes would deepen quickly. I always had a suspicion that this album was rediculously over-rated, and seeing the reviews here confirm my feelings. It's a good pop jazz album, not as swinging or interesting as anything else back then, and a bit dated now. One reviewer said "take out your Kenny G and put this in," I am sure it was meant as some kind of slam on Kenny G, but it seems like a fair estimation on the impact this record has had on jazz. I am sure that Jesus likes Mingus more.

Five stars, I think I just threw up in my mouth a little: It *still* tickles.

The 5/4 on "Take Five" baffles, soothes, and delights on a level usually reserved for watching puppies and the springtime. It makes me happy in a primal kind of way.