Take five - instrumental

Take Five is a landmark of modal jazz. Its harmonic distinction lies in the contrast between the static, repetitive Eb minor vamp and the more functional, active bridge. While the vamp uses the Aeolian v7 chord (Bbm7) to maintain a mellow mood, the bridge reintroduces functional tension with a true dominant (Bb7) to signal the return to the head. The use of the Cbmaj7 (the flat VI) provides a lush, Romantic-era harmonic color that distinguishes it from more aggressive bebop changes.

Dave Brubeck tasked saxophonist Paul Desmond with writing a piece in 5/4 time, a signature Joe Morello had been experimenting with on drums. Desmond initially struggled, but eventually presented two distinct themes. Brubeck suggested combining them into a ternary (A-B-A) structure, with the drum solo serving as the bridge and centerpiece.

Released on the groundbreaking 1959 album 'Time Out', this track became an unlikely pop hit and the first million-selling jazz single. It showcases the Dave Brubeck Quartet's mastery of odd time signatures blended with a sophisticated, laid-back West Coast sound.