The groundbreaking album Time Out by the Dave Brubeck Quartet was an experiment in jazz meter, using different meters in each song. “Some people were insisting that jazz had to be in 4/4, which was a way of saying that I wasn’t playing jazz,” said Brubeck about the album’s effect [from album sleeve].

The importance of “Take Five,” the most popular tune on Time Out, for the jazz world was immense. This piece was a successful jazz tune in 5/4 meter, and helped open the jazz world up to a plethora of new possibilities.

The stunning effect that “Take Five” has is caused by its integration of a catchy, lyrical melody over a complex meter. Alto saxophonist Paul Desmond’s tone is wondrously expressive during the piece’s melody and his short solo. Drummer Joe Morello’s solo is amazing for its use of precise and innovative syncopation against Brubeck’s persistent piano accompaniment.

--Rob Stephens