Al Jarreau – Breakin' Away

Al Jarreau – Breakin' Away

Widely regarded as Al Jarreau's finest studio album, Breakin' Away is a landmark release that perfectly blends jazz, soul, pop, and R&B into one of the defining crossover albums of the early 1980s. Released in 1981, the record propelled Jarreau to international stardom, earning widespread critical acclaim and becoming one of the best-selling jazz vocal albums of its era.

Renowned for his extraordinary vocal range, improvisational style, and unmistakable scat singing, Al Jarreau was unlike any other vocalist of his generation. Produced by the legendary Jay Graydon, Breakin' Away features immaculate musicianship from some of the finest session players in Los Angeles, resulting in a polished yet deeply soulful sound that appealed to jazz enthusiasts and mainstream audiences alike.

The album is packed with standout performances, beginning with the warm and sophisticated "Closer To Your Love" before moving into the heartfelt "My Old Friend." The Grammy-winning hit "We're In This Love Together" became Jarreau's signature song and remains a timeless favourite, while the infectious title track "Breakin' Away" and the funky "Roof Garden" showcase his effortless ability to fuse jazz with contemporary pop and R&B. His breathtaking interpretation of Dave Brubeck's "Blue Rondo A La Turk" highlights his remarkable vocal dexterity, while "Teach Me Tonight" closes the album with classic jazz elegance.

Winner of the Grammy Award for Best Male Pop Vocal Performance, Breakin' Away remains one of the essential albums of modern jazz and soul. A must-have for fans of George Benson, Bobby McFerrin, Michael Franks, Grover Washington Jr., and Quincy Jones, this timeless classic belongs in every jazz, soul, and audiophile vinyl collection.

Tracklist

Side A

1. Closer To Your Love
2. My Old Friend
3. We're In This Love Together
4. Easy
5. Our Love

Side B

1. Breakin' Away
2. Roof Garden
3. Blue Rondo A La Turk
4. Teach Me Tonight