Round Midnight is more than a soundtrack, it’s a love letter to jazz… Herbie Hancock’s masterful touch and the all-star lineup create an album that resonates still
This LP is a combination of emotional depth, technical brilliance, and historical significance makes it a must-listen for any jazz aficionado. From a brillant movie, as well as the soundtrack directed by Herbie Hancock. Bobby McFerrin’s performances are so relevant. I would always remember me asking some friends : « Do you know who’s playing the trumpet on this parts ? » ; guys would always give great musician names but McFerrin’s talent… This masterpiece must have a place in a record collection…
Few words about the record
Released in 1986, ‘Round Midnight serves as both a soundtrack and a tribute to the golden age of jazz. Composed and performed by Herbie Hancock, this LP accompanies Bertrand Tavernier’s film of the same name, which tells the story of a fictional jazz saxophonist, Dale Turner (played by real-life jazz legend Dexter Gordon). The album not only captures the film’s atmosphere but also highlights Hancock’s deep connection to jazz history, blending a reverence for tradition with his own modern sensibilities.
The album is beautifully recorded, with a warm, organic sound that captures the intimacy of a live jazz performance. Hancock’s arrangements stay true to the spirit of bebop and post-bop while subtly incorporating modern elements, reflecting his unique position as both a traditionalist and innovator. The soundtrack mirrors the emotional arcs of the film, oscillating between moments of introspection, sorrow, and occasional bursts of hope. Hancock’s piano serves as both a narrative guide and a musical anchor, providing cohesion across the album’s mix of standards and originals.
‘Round Midnight earned Hancock an Academy Award for Best Original Score, a testament to its success as both a film score and a standalone jazz record. The collaboration between Hancock, Gordon, and other jazz luminaries such as Freddie Hubbard and Ron Carter captures a moment of jazz’s past while reinvigorating its relevance in the 1980s. For Dexter Gordon, who received an Academy Award nomination for his acting, the album and film marked a late-career renaissance, introducing his artistry to a new generation.
