What Are the Best Modern Jazz Albums You’ve Discovered?

General Music Discussion
1

Jazz has always had a way of evolving and reflecting the times, and modern jazz is no exception. With a plethora of incredible artists emerging today, it’s an exciting time for both seasoned jazz lovers and newcomers alike. Here’s a look at some of the best modern jazz albums that have made waves in recent years and why they deserve a spot in your music collection.

1. ‘Blackstar’ by David Bowie (2016)

While not a traditional jazz album, Bowie’s collaboration with jazz musicians has been influential in blending genres. Tracks like ‘Lazarus’ feature a jazz-infused sound that pushes boundaries and turns conventional music on its head.

2. ‘The Epic’ by Kamasi Washington (2015)

This monumental triple album showcases Washington’s deep dive into jazz with lush arrangements and powerful compositions. The mix of his saxophone prowess and a large ensemble creates an immersive experience that cannot be missed.

3. ‘A Poodle in a Pekingese’ by The Bad Plus (2019)

The Bad Plus continues to revolutionize jazz by incorporating eclectic influences and vibrant energy in their music. This album is a great representation of their unique style, blending avant-garde, rock, and jazz seamlessly.

4. ‘Ancestral Recall’ by Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah (2019)

Christian Scott pushes modern jazz with his innovative sound and storytelling through music. ‘Ancestral Recall’ is not just a collection of songs, but an exploration of heritage and identity through soft beats and lush melodies.

5. ‘Let Me Be Me’ by Esperanza Spalding (2021)

Spalding is a powerhouse in modern jazz, and this album showcases her versatility and creativity. With elements of R&B, jazz, and soul, it is an excellent example of how modern jazz can bridge various genres.

Exploring Contemporary Jazz

The modern jazz scene is not just about the music itself but also the narratives and cultural influences embedded within it. From collaborations that span the globe to groundbreaking solo projects, there’s a rich tapestry of sounds waiting to be discovered.

Why These Albums Matter

Each of these albums introduces fresh sounds and concepts that expand the boundaries of jazz. They reflect not only the artists’ skills but also historical and cultural contexts that resonate with many listeners today.

Join the Discussion!

What are your favorite modern jazz albums? Are there any tracks that have particularly moved you or artists that have innovated the genre in exciting ways? Let’s share our discoveries and perhaps even inspire each other to explore new music avenues.

Looking forward to your recommendations!

2

For modern jazz, I think Kamasi Washington is a standout. His album ‘The Epic’ is a masterclass in blending genres and has really pushed the boundaries of jazz.

3

Absolutely! Kamasi’s work is so rich with influences from hip-hop to classical, making it accessible and profound at the same time.

4

Don’t forget about Esperanza Spalding! Her album ‘Emily’s D+Evolution’ really challenges the conventional jazz narrative with its fusion of rock and soul elements.

5

Yeah! She’s a genius. Her ability to mix genres while maintaining a jazz core is so impressive and refreshing.

6

I really enjoy the work of Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah. His album ‘Stretch Music’ is a brilliant representation of the changing landscape of jazz today.

7

Absolutely! Scott’s use of avant-garde techniques combined with traditional harmonies is fascinating. He definitely deserves more recognition.

8

Great suggestion! His artistry is quite profound—definitely one to keep an ear on as modern jazz evolves.

5 Likes
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I love how all these artists are unafraid to push boundaries! But can we talk about whether this is still considered ‘jazz’? Some traditionalists might disagree.

10

That’s an interesting point. I think good music transcends genres, but it does spark debate among purists.

11

Jazz has always evolved! Like, do some people forget that rock and pushback were considered rebellious too? Humorously, most true jazz heads still grumble at anything new!

12

So true! It’s almost a rite of passage to debate about music genres. But hey, we need to embrace change too!

13

I’ve been reflecting on how modern jazz captures the struggles of today through its composition. It’s not just about the music; it’s storytelling through sound.

14

One of the best modern jazz albums I’ve discovered is ‘Blackstar’ by David Bowie. It has incredible jazz influences and features some amazing musicians, like Donny McCaslin. The track ‘Lazarus’ is particularly haunting and powerful.

15

I totally agree with you, ‘Blackstar’ was such a groundbreaking album! It blurs the lines between genres and leaves you with a lot to think about.

16

If you haven’t listened to ‘The Epic’ by Kamasi Washington, I highly recommend it! It’s a bold statement in modern jazz with tracks like ‘Truth’ that resonate deeply and show his unique approach to storytelling through music.

5 Likes
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Yes! ‘The Epic’ is a masterpiece! Kamasi’s ability to fuse jazz with spiritual themes really speaks to listeners. Did you have a favorite track?

18

Check out ‘A Love Supreme’ by John Coltrane—an absolute classic that still influences today’s artists. Even though it’s not ‘modern’, its impact on the genre is timeless and continues to inspire new works.

19

While ‘A Love Supreme’ is a classic, I’d argue that albums like ‘You’re Dead!’ by Flying Lotus really bridge the old and new. They also introduce jazz to new generations!

5 Likes
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I think ‘The Mad Liberator’ by Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah deserves a mention. Its fusion of jazz, hip-hop, and more creates a sound to reflect modern societal issues. ‘West of the West’ is a standout track.