New Jazz Music 2018: What to Listen to This Year
Looking for the best new jazz music to listen to this year? Check out our top picks for 2018!
Introduction
As the popularity of jazz music has grown in recent years, so has the number of artists creating new and innovative sounds within the genre. If you’re looking for some fresh tunes to add to your playlist this year, here are a few of the best new jazz releases to check out.
From established artists like Kamasi Washington and Norah Jones to exciting up-and-comers like Zoé Chew and Melissa Aldana, there’s something for everyone on this list. So sit back, relax, and enjoy some of the best new jazz music of 2018.
Best Albums
Jazz music is constantly evolving and 2018 has brought us some great new albums. If you’re looking for something new to listen to, check out these albums. You’re sure to find something you’ll enjoy.
Kamasi Washington – Heaven and Earth
Kamasi Washington’s expansive, ambitious double album Heaven and Earth is one of the year’s most exhilarating and rewarding listen. This is an artist with a rare ability to combine genuine virtuosity with emotional depth and a true sense of swing, and on Heaven and Earth he’s at the height of his powers. From the opener “Fists of Fury” – a funk-fuelled update of the classic martial arts movie theme – to the closing suite “The Endless Planets”, Washington takes the listener on a journey that covers a vast emotional and musical landscape. In between, there are moments of quiet beauty (“The Space Travellers Lullaby”), joyous exuberance (“Street Fighter Mas”) and searing political power (“Fate”). It all adds up to a album that is both immensely entertaining and deeply moving – a must-hear for any jazz fan.
Cory Henry and The Funk Apostles – Art of Love
The energy and feel-good vibes of Cory Henry and The Funk Apostles’ new album Art of Love are palpable from the first note. This is an album that is fun, soulful, and engaging, with plenty of groove to keep you hooked throughout.
The Funk Apostles are a tight-knit unit, and it shows in their playing. They have a great sense of cohesion and understanding of one another, which is evident in the way they interact with each other on the album. Art of Love is full of highlights, but some standouts include the title track “Art of Love”, “I Believe”, “Praise His Name”, and “Gratitude”.
Throughout Art of Love, Cory Henry demonstrates why he is one of the most respected organists in jazz today. His playing is masterful, and he effortlessly weaves his way through complex harmonic progressions with ease. He also takes some chances on the album, venturing outside of his comfort zone on tracks like “Praise His Name” and “Gratitude”. These risks pay off, as CoryHenry sounds fresh and innovative on these tracks.
If you’re looking for a fun and soulful album to add to your collection, Cory Henry and The Funk Apostles’ Art of Love should be at the top of your list.
Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah – Ancestral Recall
On his latest album, trumpeter Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah pays tribute to his African and Native American ancestry through the music of New Orleans. He draws inspiration from traditional jazz and Mardi Gras Indian music, infusing it with modern hip-hop and R&B elements. The result is a sound that is both timeless and unique.
Best Songs
It’s a new year, which means there’s a whole slew of new music to get into. And what better genre to start with than jazz? Jazz is the perfect genre to relax and unwind to, and there’s plenty of great new music to choose from. In this article, we’ll be counting down the best new jazz songs of 2018.
“Black Lion” by Kamasi Washington
Black Lion is a song by Kamasi Washington from his album Heaven and Earth. The song has a retro feel to it, with different layers of sound that come together to create a unique and addicting jam. This is one of those songs that you can’t help but bob your head along to, and it’s sure to get stuck in your head after just a few listens.
“Get It How You Live” by Cory Henry and The Funk Apostles
This song is the perfect example of what happens when New Jazz meets Funk. It’s catchy, it’s fun, and it’ll make you want to get up and dance. Cory Henry is one of the best jazz musicians out there right now, and this song is a great example of his talent.
“The Call” by Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah
Jazz is a genre of music that is always evolving, and there are always new artists bringing fresh sounds to the table. If you’re looking for some new jazz music to check out this year, here are some of the best songs from 2018 so far.
“The Call” by Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah is a soulful track that features some amazing horn work. The melody is beautiful and will stay with you long after the song is over.
“Blood” by Kamasi Washington is a powerful tune that has a dark, atmospheric feel to it. The lyrics are provocative and will make you think about the state of the world today.
“Noctuary” by Pharoah Sanders is a hypnotic piece that will transport you to another place. The swirling saxophone playing will captivate you and the rhythms will keep you hooked.
Whether you’re a seasoned jazz fan or just getting started, these songs are sure to please. So sit back, relax, and enjoy some of the best jazz music of 2018.
Conclusion
In conclusion, there is a lot of great new jazz music to discover in 2018. Whether you are a fan of the more traditional sounds or the experimental side of the genre, there is sure to be something for everyone. So get out there and start exploring!
