Strange Meadowlark Poster

Strange Meadowlark Poster by S. Christopher James is an art composition that plays off the jazz tune of the same name, composed by Dave Brubeck and featured on his groundbreaking 1959 album “Time Out.” In this composition, the drinking bird, painted in the colors of a meadowlark, sees Brubeck as equally strange, as he was not typical of many jazz musicians at the time. While some of the most talented jazz musicians of the 1950s and 1960s turned to drugs and alcohol to cope with various issues, Brubeck was known for his discipline and focus on innovation.

Strange Meadowlark begins with a lyrical and classically influenced piano solo by Brubeck before transitioning into a swing rhythm as the rest of the quartet joins in. Paul Desmond’s saxophone then takes the lead, carrying the main melody. The tune is known for its blend of classical and jazz elements, which is a hallmark of Brubeck’s distinctive style.

Dave Brubeck (1920–2012) was an American jazz pianist and composer, renowned for his innovative approach to jazz and his contributions to the genre’s popularity in the 1950s and 1960s. He is best known for his work with the Dave Brubeck Quartet, which featured Paul Desmond. Together, they released the groundbreaking album “Time Out” in 1959, which included the hit song “Take Five,” composed by Desmond. “Take Five” became famous for its distinctive 5/4 time signature, which was unusual in jazz at the time and helped push the boundaries of rhythm in the genre.

Brubeck’s music often explored complex rhythms and time signatures, incorporating elements of classical music, making him a pioneer in cool jazz and West Coast jazz. Besides “Strange Meadowlark,” other notable works on the “Time Out” album include “Blue Rondo à la Turk” and “Unsquare Dance.”

Beyond his music, Brubeck was known for his commitment to civil rights. He refused to perform in segregated venues and often led integrated bands, which made a powerful statement against racial discrimination during the civil rights era.