Herbie Hancock - Inventions & Dimensions

While Hancock had already recorded 'Takin' Off' and 'My Point Of View', he had quickly developed his own innovative style, and was about to become a member of the Miles Davis Quintet. Inventions and Dimensions is unlike anything he had previously created. Hancock manages the impossible feat of performing music that is both free form and very accessible.

In teaming up with bassist Paul Chambers, drummer Willie Bobo and percussionist Osvaldo 'Chihuahua' Martinez, Hancock might have been expected to play Latin jazz, but in reality this innovative album has Hancock freely improvising all of the pieces. He creates music that has melodies, drama, development, exciting moments and logical if unexpected conclusions. His performances may sound arranged and worked out in advance but Hancock made it all up on the spot, quite an accomplishment. Very few other pianists in the history of jazz could do this, but Herbie Hancock made it all seem effortless, creating a timeless gem as easily as most people breathe.