Jazz pianist Dave Brubeck's 1959 album became one of the genre's biggest commercial successes through innovative use of unusual time signatures. The album features "Take Five" - Paul Desmond's composition in 5/4 time that became jazz's most recognizable piece. Desmond's cool-toned alto saxophone provides melodic counterpoint to Brubeck's piano while Joe Morello's drumming navigates complex rhythms with remarkable ease. The compositions demonstrate how unusual meters can swing and remain accessible. Brubeck's classical training informs his harmonic sophistication. The album proved jazz could achieve mainstream success while maintaining musical sophistication and genuine innovation. Essential jazz bridging accessibility and experimentation perfectly.