Here’s a list of great releases in Jazz Music last year. The list is compiled by a great supporter of Jazz Music and Radio / Podcast host, published here
http://kensbraindrain.blogspot.de/2014/01/great-jazz-albums-of-2013.html?spref=fb
Wayne Shorter – Without a Net; Shorter’s great quartet redefines free jazz. Great empathy between these long time collaborators is apparent throughout.
Chick Corea – The Vigil; Chick reaches back to the fusion sounds of the electric Return to Forever days, with new compositions and young virtuoso musicians.
Dave Douglas – Time Travel; Douglas pushes this fine quintet of new and established jazz cats to new heights of creativity and freedom.
Kenny Garrett – Pushing the World Away; KG continues the vibe of this quintet’s prior album with new compositions that exude passion and intensity.
Gregory Porter – Liquid Spirit; Porter’s much anticipated 2nd LP exemplifies his soulfulness and gospel roots combined with real jazz sensibilities
Gary Burton – Guided Tour; Burton assembled this fine quartet for his latest album. Together they bring to life his compositions and arrangements.
Noah Preminger – Haymaker; Noah’s third album is a great one. A wide range of sounds and influences, from ethereal to rocking out to gorgeous ballads.
Earl MacDonald – Mirror of the Mind; Earl’s use of cello instead of bass creates a colorful palette for his wonderful arrangements for this fine quartet.
Antonio Sanchez – New Life; This outstanding drummer shows his skills as a bandleader keeping all these strong soloists focused on his thoughtful arrangements.
Terance Blanchard – Magnetic; Terance knows how to tastefully use electronics to create a modern sound and stay true to his traditional jazz roots.
Chris Potter – Sirens; A quality album in its writing, arranging and playing from perhaps the best tenor player on the scene today.
Russ Kaplan+7 – The Ulysses Cycle; Kaplan has created a concept piece based on Homer’s Odyssey. The listening experience is enhanced when combined with the liner notes and illustrations provided.
Dave Holland – Prism; This great bassist and bandleader released an electric, fusion oriented album with a talented and powerful quartet or Holland, Taborn, Harland and K. Eubanks.
Greg Abate Quintet – Featuring Phil Woods; Two greats on alto sax combine for a hard hitting bop session that swings with the best of them.
Anoushka Shankar – Traces of You; Not a jazz album, but I love this release that fuses East and West musical forms that doesn’t seem to compromise the quality or originality of the music.
