5 New Jazz Albums You Need to Check Out

Looking for some new music to add to your collection? Check out these five great new jazz albums that are worth a listen. From established artists to up-and-comers, there’s something for everyone.

Introduction

As summer comes to a close, we wanted to make sure you had a fresh crop of jazz albums to keep you company on those long autumn nights. Here are five of our favorites that came out this year.

“Be Still My Soul” by Kamasi Washington
Kamasi Washington’s new album is a spiritual and meditative journey that feels both intimate and expansive. With his signature blend of jazz, R&B, and hip-hop, Washington has created a sound that is all his own, and “Be Still My Soul” is a beautiful example of his artistry.

“The Space Between Us” by Brad Mehldau
On his latest album, pianist Brad Mehldau explores the spaces between notes and chords, creating a sound that is both mellow and powerful. The result is an album that is both introspective and transportive, making it the perfect companion for a quiet night at home.

“Emanon” by Thelonious Monk & John Coltrane
This posthumous release features previously unreleased recordings of Thelonious Monk and John Coltrane playing together in 1957. The result is an intimate musical conversation between two giants of jazz, captured in all its beauty and simplicity.

“All Ashore” by Punch Brothers
On their new album, “All Ashore,” the Punch Brothers explore themes of love, loss, and hope with their characteristic mix of bluegrass, folk, and classical music. The result is an emotionally resonant album that feels both timely and timeless.

“The Emancipation Procrastination” by Miles Okazaki
On his latest album, guitarist Miles Okazaki takes on the daunting task of reinterpreting the music of one of jazz’s most influential figures: pianist Thelonious Monk. The result is an inventive and entertaining album that pays tribute to Monk’s genius while maintaining Okazaki’s own unique voice.

“Be Still My Soul” by Bill Evans

Bill Evans is one of the most celebrated jazz musicians of our time, and his latest album “Be Still My Soul” is a beautiful collection of spiritual jazz tunes that will soothe your soul. This album features Evans on piano, backed by a stellar group of musicians including bassist Christian McBride and drummer Lewis Nash. If you’re a fan of Evans’ previous work, or simply looking for some relaxing and beautiful jazz to add to your collection, this album is definitely worth checking out.

“Boplicity” by Miles Davis

“Boplicity” is a bebop composition by Miles Davis. It was first recorded in 1949 as part of the Birth of the Cool sessions, and released on the 78rpm album Birth of the Cool in 1950. The piece is built on a repeating ii-V-I turnaround motif.

The recording features Miles Davis on trumpet, Lee Konitz on alto saxophone, Gerry Mulligan on baritone saxophone, John Lewis on piano, Joe Shulman on bass, and Max Roach on drums.

“Blue in Green” by Paul Chambers

Paul Chambers was one of the most respected and in-demand bassists of the 1950s and 1960s, playing on seminal albums by Miles Davis, John Coltrane, Wes Montgomery, and many others. “Blue in Green” is a beautiful ballad written by Bill Evans and first recorded by Miles Davis on the 1959 album “Kind of Blue.” Chambers’ version, recorded just a few months later, is more sparse and intimate, with a gorgeous solo by tenor saxophonist Hank Mobley.

“Con Alma” by Dizzy Gillespie

Dizzy Gillespie’s “Con Alma” is one of the most influential jazz albums of all time. Released in 1953, the album features some of Gillespie’s most famous compositions, including “A Night in Tunisia” and “Con Alma”. The album also features Gillespie’s trademark bebop style, which would go on to influence generations of jazz musicians.

“So What” by John Coltrane

Album number one on our list of five new jazz albums you need to check out is “So What” by John Coltrane. One of the most influential jazz musicians of all time, Coltrane’s “So What” is a perfect example of his mastery of the genre. The album features nine tracks, each one a classic in its own right. From the opening title track to the closing “Naima”, “So What” is an essential album for any jazz fan.

Conclusion

In conclusion, these five new jazz albums are definitely worth checking out. Each one offers something unique and exciting, and they all showcase the amazing talent of today’s jazz musicians. So, if you’re a fan of jazz, or simply looking for some new music to explore, be sure to give these albums a listen. You won’t be disappointed!