1- Kind of Blue - Miles Davis (1959):
Kind of Blue by Miles Davis is considered one of the most influential jazz albums of all time. Released in 1959, this iconic recording showcases Davis' exceptional talents as well as his collaborations with legendary musicians such as John Coltrane and Bill Evans.
This album marks a major transition in the history of jazz, introducing a new musical approach known as modal jazz. Davis and his group departed from the traditional harmonic structures of jazz to explore modal scales, providing musicians with greater freedom of expression and improvisation.
The musical lineup of Kind of Blue is a true gathering of talents. Alongside Davis, renowned musicians such as saxophonist John Coltrane, pianist Bill Evans, bassist Paul Chambers, drummer Jimmy Cobb, and pianist Wynton Kelly can be found.
The album features timeless compositions such as So What, All Blues, and Freddie Freeloader. Each piece is a masterpiece of elegance and subtlety, showcasing the musicians' expressiveness and virtuosity.
The magic of Kind of Blue also lies in its calming and contemplative atmosphere. The album creates an intimate and relaxed ambiance, inviting the listener to dive into a deep and introspective sonic universe.
This groundbreaking recording received critical acclaim and achieved immense commercial success. Over the decades, Kind of Blue has continued to inspire generations of musicians, significantly influencing jazz and other musical genres.
With its fusion of elegant melodies, masterful improvisations, and exceptional collaborations, Kind of Blue remains an essential reference for any jazz enthusiast, bearing witness to the artistic genius of Miles Davis and his collaborators.
2- The Epic - Kamasi Washington (2015)
Kamasi Washington is undeniably one of the most promising and innovative artists in contemporary jazz. His album The Epic is a true musical feat that pushes the boundaries of the genre. Released in 2015, this masterful recording offers a bold sonic exploration that skillfully combines elements of jazz, funk, and orchestral music.
With its nearly three-hour duration spread across three discs, The Epic is a true musical odyssey. Each track is a journey in itself, featuring epic compositions and sumptuous arrangements.
The collaborations featured on the album are essential in creating this unique musical experience. Washington surrounds himself with exceptional musicians such as bassist Thundercat and saxophonist Terrace Martin, who bring their own artistic sensibility to the recording. Together, they merge their talents and create a new dimension in Washington's music.
Washington's innovative approach, which combines elements from the past and the present, is one of the reasons why his work continues to captivate listeners. He draws from the deep roots of jazz while adding a contemporary touch, allowing him to reach a wide audience and appeal to both traditional jazz enthusiasts and younger listeners.
Thanks to The Epic, Kamasi Washington has gained international recognition and has been praised by critics. His expressive saxophone playing and impressive technical mastery combine with rich and complex compositions to create an immersive and captivating musical experience.
This ambitious album is a celebration of the diversity and creativity of contemporary jazz. It showcases Kamasi Washington's ability to push the boundaries of the genre while honoring its roots. The Epic is a true work of sonic art that continues to influence and inspire many musicians and listeners around the world.
3- Black Radio - Robert Glasper Experiment (2012)
The pianist Robert Glasper and his group Experiment have truly revolutionized the contemporary jazz scene with their bold album, Black Radio. Released in 2012, this recording transcends musical boundaries by merging jazz with hip-hop, soul, and R&B influences.
Black Radio stands out for its exceptional collaborations with numerous renowned guest artists. Iconic voices such as Erykah Badu, Bilal, Lupe Fiasco, Lalah Hathaway, and many others blend harmoniously with the compositions of Robert Glasper. This diversity of artists brings incredible richness and variety to the album, creating a captivating musical experience.
The innovative arrangements by Robert Glasper and his band bring freshness and modernity to the jazz scene. They seamlessly incorporate elements of hip-hop and electronic music while preserving the integrity of jazz. The organic sounds of the acoustic piano blend with catchy rhythmic grooves, creating a rich and evocative sonic landscape.
The compositions of Black Radio reflect the musical eclecticism of Robert Glasper. They oscillate between intimate and introspective atmospheres and moments of sheer power and energy. The lyrics of the songs address social and personal themes, adding an additional dimension to the album.
Black Radio was widely acclaimed by critics and won numerous awards, including the Grammy Award for Best Instrumental Jazz Album in 2013. This recording also attracted a broader audience, appealing to jazz enthusiasts as well as listeners from other musical genres.
By skillfully blending jazz, hip-hop, soul, and R&B, Black Radio paved new paths for contemporary music. It helped expand the jazz audience by taking it into new territories and introducing modern sounds to the genre.
With Black Radio, Robert Glasper and his Experiment group made an indelible mark on the jazz scene. Their innovative approach and inspired collaborations breathed new life into contemporary music, demonstrating that jazz continues to evolve and reinvent itself for future generations.
4- The Köln Concert - Keith Jarrett (1975)
Keith Jarrett is a virtuoso pianist who has left an indelible mark on the history of jazz, particularly through his iconic album, The Köln Concert. Recorded live on January 24, 1975, at the Cologne Philharmonic in Germany, this improvised recording has become one of the most acclaimed and influential live albums of all time.
What makes The Köln Concert so remarkable is Keith Jarrett's entirely improvised approach. He took the stage without any preconceived ideas of what he would play and began exploring the piano from a few initial notes. What followed was a true musical tour de force, a spontaneous exploration of unique sonic textures, poetic melodies, and captivating rhythms.
The performance by Keith Jarrett during this concert is breathtaking. You can hear his fingers racing across the keys, expressing an infinite range of emotions and musical ideas. He explores complex harmonies, creates hypnotic repetitive patterns, and improvises virtuosic variations, captivating the audience with every note.
Another special dimension of The Köln Concert is the intimate collaboration between Keith Jarrett and the audience. During the concert, a deteriorating piano was provided to Jarrett, and he had to adapt to the instrument's limitations. Despite these challenges, he managed to transcend the technical constraints and delivered a masterful performance.
La magie du jazz en direct est palpable tout au long de l'album. On peut entendre les réactions enthousiastes du public, les applaudissements entre les morceaux et l'énergie palpable qui se dégage de la salle. Cette interaction dynamique entre l'artiste et le public crée une atmosphère intime et vivante qui ajoute une dimension supplémentaire à l'enregistrement.
The Köln Concert has enjoyed phenomenal success since its release. It has been hailed by critics as an unrivaled masterpiece and has captivated listeners worldwide, even beyond traditional jazz circles. It has become the best-selling solo album in the history of jazz and established Keith Jarrett as one of the most influential and respected pianists of his generation.
In essence, The Köln Concert is an extraordinary musical experience that showcases the virtuosity, creativity, and spontaneity of live jazz. This album continues to inspire musicians and listeners alike and remains a timeless testament to the immense talent of Keith Jarrett.
5- In Movement - Jack DeJohnette, Ravi Coltrane & Matthew Garrison (2016)
The album In Movement is an exceptional collaborative work bringing together drummer Jack DeJohnette, saxophonist Ravi Coltrane, and bassist Matthew Garrison. Released in 2016, this recording embodies the bold exploration of new musical paths by these three talented artists.
At the heart of In Movement are original compositions that reflect the ever-evolving nature of contemporary jazz. The musicians push boundaries and explore new sounds, blending elements of traditional jazz with modern influences. The tracks are both captivating and intricate, offering a rich musical palette.
The dynamic created by the collaborations between Jack DeJohnette, Ravi Coltrane, and Matthew Garrison is remarkable. Each brings their own musical sensibility, virtuosity, and artistic vision to the recording. Their interactions as a trio are organic and responsive, creating a remarkable musical synergy.
Improvisation also plays a crucial role in In Movement. The musicians explore unknown territories, guided by the present moment and giving free rein to their creativity. This leads to moments of spontaneous musical magic, where emotion and exploration intersect.
This album represents a constant evolution of contemporary jazz, reflecting the diverse influences and expanded horizons of the artists involved. It transcends stylistic boundaries and offers a captivating musical experience that blends innovation and tradition.
In Movement was enthusiastically received by critics and praised for its artistic boldness and musical depth. It demonstrates the evolution of jazz as a living and ever-transforming genre while paying homage to the traditions that came before.
In essence, In Movement is a collaborative album that represents an exciting and inspired musical exploration by talented artists. It embodies the ongoing evolution of contemporary jazz and showcases the boundless creativity of Jack DeJohnette, Ravi Coltrane, and Matthew Garrison.
6- Ella and Louis - Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong (1956)
The album Ella and Louis is a true gem of jazz, featuring two of the greatest names in music history: Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong. Released in 1956, this iconic recording is a treasure trove of vocal jazz.
Ella and Louis captures the magic of the collaboration between Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong, two legendary artists who complement each other perfectly. Their musical chemistry and camaraderie are palpable with every note on the album.
The album features a selection of timeless standards such as Summertime, Cheek to Cheek, and They Can't Take That Away from Me. These iconic jazz repertoire pieces are revisited with exceptional grace and virtuosity by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Armstrong.
The smooth and expressive voice of Ella Fitzgerald blends perfectly with the warm and playful timbre of Louis Armstrong. Their vocal duets are magical moments where their voices intertwine harmoniously, creating a unique chemistry.
The elegant orchestral arrangements, conducted by Russell Garcia and performed by the musicians of that era, add a sumptuous touch to the album. They contribute to the enchanting atmosphere of the recording.
The album Ella and Louis received enthusiastic acclaim from critics and the public, becoming a commercial success. It is still regarded as one of the most remarkable and influential vocal jazz albums of all time.
The enduring impact of Ella and Louis lies in its ability to capture the very essence of jazz through the masterful interpretation of two legends. This album remains a timeless celebration of the beauty, passion, and mastery of vocal jazz and continues to be an essential reference for music lovers everywhere.
7- Esperanza - Esperanza Spalding (2008)
Esperanza Spalding is a talented artist, both a jazz bassist and singer, who achieved great success with her self-titled album, Esperanza. Released in 2008, this recording captivated listeners and made a lasting impression with Spalding's captivating vocals and exceptional technical mastery.
Esperanza is a true musical tour de force that skillfully blends jazz, Latin, and soul sounds. The diverse influences come together harmoniously to create a unique and refreshing sound. Esperanza Spalding explores new musical territories by incorporating elements from different cultures and merging them with jazz traditions.
Spalding's original compositions are one of the album's major strengths. They showcase her artistic creativity and ability to tell captivating stories through her music. The lyrics and melodies reveal emotional depth and intellectual reflection that characterize Spalding's work.
In addition to her own compositions, Esperanza features inspiring collaborations with other talented artists such as Gretchen Parlato, Lionel Loueke, Milton Nascimento, and Algebra Blessett. These collaborations bring additional richness to the album and showcase Spalding's artistic vision. Her unique interpretation of jazz standards and popular songs is a true demonstration of her talent and ability to personalize musical works in her own way.
Thanks to her enchanting voice, bass virtuosity, and charismatic stage presence, Esperanza Spalding quickly established herself as one of the most promising figures in modern jazz. Esperanza brought her critical acclaim and won the Grammy Award for Best New Artist in 2011, paving the way for a remarkable career.
In essence, Esperanza is a jewel of modern jazz that showcases the talent and artistic vision of Esperanza Spalding. This album reveals her ability to explore new sounds while remaining deeply rooted in the jazz tradition. With her captivating voice, original compositions, and inspiring collaborations, Esperanza is a must-listen for any fan of contemporary jazz.
8- Time Out - The Dave Brubeck Quartet (1959)
When it comes to traditional jazz, the album Time Out by the Dave Brubeck Quartet is an absolute classic. This groundbreaking recording helped popularize jazz among the general public and remains one of the best-selling albums of all time in the genre.
Time Out is famous for its innovative exploration of odd time signatures and unusual time signatures. The album's iconic track, Take Five, written by saxophonist Paul Desmond, has become a true jazz anthem. Its 5/4 rhythmic signature gives it a unique and captivating feel.
In addition to Take Five, the album features other remarkable original compositions such as Blue Rondo à la Turk and Three to Get Ready. Each piece is performed with technical precision and inventiveness that characterized the style of the Dave Brubeck Quartet.
The members of the quartet, including Dave Brubeck on piano, Paul Desmond on alto saxophone, Eugene Wright on bass, and Joe Morello on drums, demonstrate incredible musical chemistry throughout the album.
Time Out was acclaimed by critics and achieved considerable commercial success. It was praised for its successful combination of catchy melodies, rhythmic experimentation, and brilliant solos.
This iconic album by the Dave Brubeck Quartet embodies the spirit of traditional jazz with its sophisticated improvisations and sense of musical adventure. Time Out remains an essential reference for jazz enthusiasts and testifies to the timeless power of the genre.
9- The Source - Tony Allen (2017)
The Source is the final masterpiece of the legendary drummer Tony Allen, often regarded as the father of Afrobeat. Released in 2017, this album is a vibrant tribute to Allen's musical legacy, skillfully blending jazz with African influences to create an irresistible sound.
One of the notable features of The Source is the collaboration with several talented artists. These collaborations add an extra dimension to the album, paying homage to Allen's influence while pushing the boundaries of contemporary jazz.
One notable collaboration on the album is with Damon Albarn, the leader of Blur and Gorillaz. Their musical connection is evident on the tracks where Albarn contributes, bringing a touch of modernity to classic Afrobeat.
Another artist who collaborates with Tony Allen on The Source is Mulatu Astatke, a renowned Ethiopian musician considered the father of Ethio-jazz. Their musical encounter fuses African rhythms and sounds, creating a unique synergy between the two groove masters.
In addition, Tony Allen teamed up with the legendary DJ and producer Jeff Mills on some tracks of the album. This collaboration between Allen's drums and Mills' futuristic electronic sounds creates a bold fusion of jazz and electronic music, pushing the boundaries of the genre.
These inspiring collaborations with artists such as Damon Albarn, Mulatu Astatke, and Jeff Mills testify to the lasting influence of Tony Allen and his willingness to push musical boundaries. They contribute to creating an album that celebrates Afrobeat while exploring new sounds and injecting fresh energy into contemporary jazz.
The Source is a powerful final work from a musical genius, offering a glimpse into Tony Allen's lasting legacy and influence on the global music scene.
10- Blackstar - David Bowie (2016)
Blackstar is an iconic album that marked the final work of the late David Bowie. While Bowie was not exclusively a jazz artist, this album was heavily influenced by experimental jazz and caught the attention of many jazz listeners and critics.
The album, released shortly before David Bowie's passing, is a bold blend of jazz, rock, pop, and electronic elements. Collaborations with renowned jazz musicians such as saxophonist Donny McCaslin, keyboardist Jason Lindner, and drummer Mark Guiliana helped shape the unique sound of the album.
Blackstar is praised for its intricate composition, innovative arrangements, and dark and introspective themes. Epic tracks like the title track and Lazarus are imbued with a mysterious and captivating atmosphere, where jazz influences blend with avant-garde and experimentation.
The album was critically acclaimed and received numerous awards and accolades, including Grammy Awards. Blackstar also had a significant influence on the contemporary jazz scene, drawing attention to the potential for exploration and hybridization within the genre.
While David Bowie is primarily known for his career in pop and rock, Blackstar is a testament to his constant desire for reinvention and exploration of new musical horizons. This bold and poignant album remains a lasting testament to the impact and influence of jazz in today's musical landscape.
The Jazz, while rooted in the 1950s and 1960s, continues to evolve and reinvent itself through inspired and talented artists. The ten vinyl albums featured in this article showcase jazz legends, past and present, and highlight the importance of collaborations and influences in the jazz world. Whether you are a fan of traditional jazz or open to exploring contemporary sounds, these albums invite you to dive into the rich and diverse universe of this timeless musical genre.
A universal language that transcends borders and eras, jazz is constantly in motion, drawing from new influences and transforming over time. We encourage you to discover these albums and delve deeper into the vast world of jazz. Whether you are a passionate listener or an aspiring musician, there is so much to discover and appreciate in the legends of jazz and their collaborations with other artists.
Feel free to share your own jazz discoveries and impressions. Jazz is an ongoing conversation, and we would be delighted to engage with you. Together, let's celebrate the great names of jazz and continue to honor the history and future of this iconic musical genre.
