The Best Jazz Music of 2018
We’re taking a look at the best jazz music of 2018. From new releases to classic albums, these are the records that have been making waves in the jazz world this year.
Best Jazz Albums of 2018
1. “The Poet” – Freddie Hubbard
2. “Jazz Composers Orchestra” – Carla Bley
3. “A Love Supreme” – John Coltrane
4. “Miles Davis Quintet” – Miles Davis
5. “Elvin Jones Interplay” – Elvin Jones
Best Jazz Songs of 2018
The year 2018 has been a great one for jazz music, with many fantastic new releases. Here are some of the best jazz songs of the year, chosen by the editors of JazzTimes magazine.
“All Blues” by Miles Davis
This classic tune from Miles Davis’ 1959 album “Kind of Blue” has been reimagined by many artists over the years, but this version by saxophonist Joshua Redman is particularly fresh and exciting. Redman’s solo is full of energy and invention, making this one of the best tracks of the year.
“Straight, No Chaser” by Thelonious Monk
One of Thelonious Monk’s most iconic compositions, “Straight, No Chaser” is a brilliant example of his unique and innovative approach to harmony. This version by trumpeter Terence Blanchard is taken from his new album “The E-Collective 2.0,” which also features some other great tracks.
“Singularity” by Vijay Iyer & Prasanna
Vijay Iyer is one of the most creative and refreshing pianists in jazz today, and on this track he teams up with Indian Carnatic musician Prasanna for a truly unique sound. The combination of Iyer’s piano playing and Prasanna’s Carnatic violin playing is simply mesmerizing, making this one of the best tracks of the year.
Best Jazz Musicians of 2018
The past year has been an excellent one for jazz music, with a wealth of great albums being released by both established artists and exciting new talents. Here are ten of the best jazz albums of 2018.
1. Wayne Shorter – Emanon
Wayne Shorter is one of the most respected figures in jazz, and his new album Emanon is a masterpiece. A three-disc set, it features Shorter leading an excellent band through a series of complex and beautiful compositions.
2. Kamasi Washington – Heaven and Earth
Saxophonist Kamasi Washington followed up his excellent debut album The Epic with the equally impressive Heaven and Earth. A double album, it explores both the spiritual and earthly sides of Washington’s music, with stunning results.
3. Cory Henry – Revival
Organist Cory Henry was a member of Snarky Puppy before striking out on his own, and his new album Revival is a tour de force. Henry is a phenomenal player, and he’s backed by an outstanding band on this record, resulting in some truly exhilarating jazz.
4. Ambrose Akinmusire – Origami Harvest
Trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire’s Origami Harvest is one of the most ambitious records on this list, melding jazz with elements of hip hop, rock, and classical music. It’s an arresting listen from start to finish, and proof that Akinmusire is one of the most creative forces in jazz today.
5. Charles Lloyd & The Marvels – Vanished Gardens
At 82 years old, Charles Lloyd is still making some of the best music of his career with The Marvels, as proven by their excellent new album Vanished Gardens. Lloyd’s playing is as vibrant as ever on this record, which spotlights both his virtuosity and his keen melodic sensibility.
6. Vijay Iyer Sextet – Far From Over
Pianist Vijay Iyer has always been adept at blending different musical styles together, and he does so again on his new album Far From Over with his excellent sextet. The result is an intoxicating mix of jazz, hip hop, rock, and more that never fails to engage the listener.
7) Makaya McCraven – Universal Beings
Drummer Makaya McCraven released one of the most innovative jazz albums of recent years with Universal Beings. Recorded live in four different cities around the world, it features McCraven improvising with some of the best musicians from each locale to create a truly global soundscape.
