Recorded on January 30, 1963 at Van Gelder Studio in Englewood Cliffs, New Jersey, Inventions & Dimensions is Herbie Hancock's fourth album as a leader and his second for Blue Note. The album features an unusual lineup without a drummer, replaced by Willie Bobo's congas and Osvaldo Martínez's bongos, along with bassist Paul Chambers and percussionist Chihuahua Martínez.
The album explores Latin rhythms and modal jazz, with original compositions by Hancock such as 'Succotash' and 'Mimosa'. The absence of a conventional drum kit creates a freer, more textured sound, highlighting the interplay between Hancock's piano and the percussion. It was produced by Duke Pearson, who also supervised several Blue Note sessions at the time.
Although not one of Hancock's most commercial albums, Inventions & Dimensions is regarded by critics as an early experiment that foreshadows his interest in fusing jazz with world music. The original LP cover features abstract artwork by Reid Miles.