Dark Keys (1996)

About this title: Dark Keys is Branford Marsalis' first major solo album since taking a leave from recording to be the musical director of The Tonight Show in 1993. Instead of following through with the hip-hop inclinations of Buckshot LeFonque, Marsalis has returned to traditional jazz, yet this is far from standard bop. Marsalis pushes at the borders of post-bop, adding elements of hip-hop and rock & roll, making for an adventurous and exciting listen. Occasionally, his experiments are unsuccessful, yet they are never less than intriguing. Leo Stanley, All Music Guide

Tracks:

1. The Dark Keys [Marsalis]
2. Hesitation [Marsalis]
3. A Thousand Autumns [Marsalis]
4. Sentinel [Marsalis]
5. Lykeif
6. Judas Iscariot [Marsalis]
7. Blu Tain [Watts]
8. Schott Happens [Marsalis]

Note: This is a general synopsis. Each listing is further described below.