Art Zoyd – Phase IV
Style: Avant-Prog Chamber Music, Rock in Opposition
Vibes: Menacing, Ominous, Bleak, Epic, Intense, Gloomy, Angular, Cold, Cinematic, Complex, Determined, Dystopian, Rainy, Sombre
Art Zoyd – Phase IV Read More »
1980s
Pat Metheny – 80/81
Style: ECM-Jazz, Jazz Fusion, Folk-Jazz
Vibe: Pastoral, Sentimental, Open, Airy, Energetic, Tender, Complex, Smooth, Ethereal, Uplifting
Pat Metheny – 80/81 Read More »
Shankar – Who’s To Know
with Zakir Hussain (Tabla), Umayalpuram K. Sivaram (Mridangam)
Style: Raga, Carnatic Classical Music
Vibes: Transcendent, Devotional, Uplifting, Ecstatic, Flowing, Elegant, Passionate, Intricate, Meditative, Responsive
Shankar – Who’s To Know Read More »
Embryo – Zack Glück
Style: Psychedelic Fusion, Abstract Groove, Jazz-Rock, Krautrock, influenced by Funk and Arabic & African folk music
Vibes: Journeying, Surreal, Passionate, Communal, Intertwined, Groovy, Colorful, Playful, Epic, Mysterious, Confident
Embryo – Zack Glück Read More »
Jah Wobble, The Edge & Holger Czukay – Snake Charmer
Style: Abstract Funk, Post-Punk, Mutant Disco
Vibes: Dancing, Surreal, Sleazy, Playful, Energetic, Groovy, Urban, Serpentine, Sleek, Futuristic
Jah Wobble, The Edge & Holger Czukay – Snake Charmer Read More »
Alanis Obomsawin – Bush Lady
Styles: Chamber Music, Abenaki Folk
Moods: Sombre, Elegant, Ritualistic, Reflective, Sentimental, Poetic, Flowing
Themes: , Colonial History, Waban-Aki Folklore, Storytelling, Political
Alanis Obomsawin – Bush Lady Read More »
Meredith Monk – Dolmen Music
featuring Julius Eastman, Collin Walcott, and others
Style: Abstract Choral Music, Sound Poetry, Modern Chamber Music, Post-Minimalism
Vibes: Mysterious, Ritualistic, Mystical, Somatic, Impressionistic, Nocturnal, Spiritual
Instrumentation: Experimental Vocals, Percussion, Cello, Piano, Vocal Harmonies, Violin
Meredith Monk – Dolmen Music Read More »
Kahil El’Zabar’s Ritual Trio – Another Kind of Groove
with Malachi Favors & Billy Bang
Style: Spiritual Jazz
Vibes: Ritualistic, Intertwined, Flowing, Uplifting, Earthy, Exploratory, Groovy, Hypnotic, Intertwined, Meditative, Soothing, Spiritual, Warm
Musical Qualities: Polyrhythmic, Ostinato, Improvisation, Acoustic, Percussive, Instrumental, Sparse, Repetitive
Kahil El’Zabar’s Ritual Trio – Another Kind of Groove Read More »
Art Bears – The World as it is Today
Art Bears are Fred Frith, Chris Cutler, Dagmar Krause
Style: Rock in Opposition, Avant-Prog, Chamber Rock
Vibes: Dystopian, Visceral, Angsty, Eerie, Political, Marxist, Anti-Capitalist, Urban, Complex, Angular, Eccentric, Philosophical, Cathartic, Dark, Dramatic, Disturbing, Rebellious, Liberation
Art Bears – The World as it is Today Read More »
Ut – In gut’s House
Style: No Wave, Post-Punk, Experimental Rock, Noise Rock
Vibes: Angsty, Visceral, Hypnotic, Urban, Intertwined, Aggressive, Dystopian, Brooding, Cathartic, Cryptic, Dark, Moody, Ominous, Passionate, Raw
Musical Qualities: Noisy, Dissonant, Vocal Harmonies, Heavy, Lo-Fi
Ut – In gut’s House Read More »
Pat Metheny / Ornette Coleman – Song X
with Charlie Haden, Jack DeJohnette, Denardo Coleman
Style: Jazz Fission, Free Jazz
Vibes: Entropic, Bombastic, Triumphant, Futuristic, Abstract, Chaotic, Climactic, Complex, Manic
Pat Metheny / Ornette Coleman – Song X Read More »
Arthur Russell – Another Thought
Style: Art Pop, Experimental Songwriter
Vibes: Warm, Meditative, Spiritual, Compassionate, Tender, Introspective, Romantic, Hypnotic, Contemplative, Light, Lonely, Longing, Poetic, Buddhist
Musical Qualities: Soft, Home Recording, Melodic, Sparse, Percussive, Rhythmic
Arthur Russell – Another Thought Read More »
Michael Hurley – Blue Navigator
Style: Outsider Folk, Singer/Songwriter, Weird Americana
Vibes: Loner, Pastoral, Playful, Reflective, Rootsy, Warm, Aquatic, Peaceful, Mellow, Morning, Rural, Surreal, Relaxed
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Sparse, Lyrical, Melodic, Simple
Michael Hurley – Blue Navigator Read More »
Talk Talk – The Colour of Spring
Style: Sophisti-Pop, New Wave, Progressive Pop
Vibes: Spring, Uplifting, Bittersweet, Sentimental, Anthemic, Passionate, Introspective, Spiritual, Peaceful
Musical Qualities: Sleek, Catchy, Melodic, Lush, Rhythmic, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Chora
Talk Talk – The Colour of Spring Read More »
Robert Wyatt – The Animals Film
Style: Progressive Electronic, Film Score, Experimental
Vibes: Dystopian, Hallucinatory, Mysterious, Suspenseful, Gloomy, Hypnotic, Futuristic, Exploratory, Ominous, Cinematic, Haunting, Imaginative
Musical Qualities: Suite, Vignettes, Atmospheric, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Progressive
Instrumentation: Synthesizers, Piano, Experimental Vocals, Drums
Robert Wyatt – The Animals Film Read More »
Last Exit – Last Exit
Sonny Sharrock, Peter Brötzmann, Ronald Shannon Jackson, Bill Laswell
Style: Free Jazz, Noise Rock, Jazz Fission
Vibes: Aggressive, Dystopian, Chaotic, Bombastic, Urban, Powerful, Deconstructed, Angular, Cold, Dark, Intense
Last Exit – Last Exit Read More »
Neil Young – Landing on Water
Style: Synth-Pop, Singer/Songwriter
Vibes: Dramatic, Rebellious, Sleek, Angry, Eccentric, Mechanical, Anthemic, Bright, Cold, Sentimental, Conscious, Driving
Neil Young – Landing on Water Read More »
Bola Sete – Jungle Suite
Style: Guitar Soli, Brazilian Classical, Samba-Jazz
Vibes: Forest, Passionate, Nature, Mystical, Warm, Healing, Morning, Soothing
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Instrumental, Sparse, Technical, Suite, Improvisation, Solo
Bola Sete – Jungle Suite Read More »
Deux Filles – Silence & Wisdom
Style: Ethereal Wave, Ambient Pop, Ambient
Vibes: Mysterious, Dreamy, Whimsical, Ethereal, Reflective, Meditative, Nocturnal, Eclectic, Intimate, Soothing, Exploratory, Haunting, Bittersweet, Healing, Hypnotic
Musical Qualities: Soft, Minimalistic, Atmospheric, Sparse
Deux Filles – Silence & Wisdom Read More »
Arthur Russell – Iowa Dream
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Folk Pop, Americana
Vibe: Warm, Tender, Romantic, Reflective, Playful, Love, Compassionate, Rustic, Bittersweet, Intimate, Mellow
Musical Qualities: Catchy, Lyrical, Lush, Home Recording, Acoustic, Melodic
Instrumentation: Vocals, Cello, Acoustic Guitar, Piano, Drums, Keyboards, Organ, Vibraphone, Tabla, Violin, Bongos, Horns, Flute, Bass
Arthur Russell – Iowa Dream Read More »
Arthur Russell – Pictures of Bunny Rabbit
Style: Ambient Pop, Electro-Acoustic, Post-Minimalism, Avant-Folk
Vibe: Introspective, Deconstructed, Intimate, Surreal, Exploratory, Mysterious, Aquatic, Ethereal, Hypnotic, Mystical, Warm
Instrumentation: Vocals, Cello, Keyboards, Guitar, Harmonica, Echoes
Arthur Russell – Pictures of Bunny Rabbit Read More »
Tim Berne – 7X
featuring Alex Cline, Nels Cline, Vinny Golia, Roberto Miranda, & John Rapson
Style: Post-Bop, Avant-Garde Jazz
Vibe: Busy, Urban, Knotty, Energetic, Driving, Bombastic, Complex, Powerful
Musical Qualities: Polyphonic, Collective Improvisation, Dynamic, Shredding, Technical, Thematic, Rhythmic
Fumio Miyashita – Live on the Boffumundo Show
Style: Kosmische, Progressive Electronic, Space Rock
Vibe: Nocturnal, Hypnotic, Introspective, Exploratory, Cosmic, Stoned, Meditative, Psychedelic
Instrumentation: Synthesizers, Flute, Tapes, Percussion, Electric Guitar, Electric Bass, Dulcimer, Voice
Fumio Miyashita – Live on the Boffumundo Show Read More »
Amina Claudine Myers Trio – Jumping in the Sugar Bowl
Amina Claudine Myers – Piano, Organ, Voice
Reggie Nicholson – Drums, Percussion, Voice
Thomas Palmer – Upright Bass, Electric Bass
Style: Post-Bop, Vocal Jazz, Gospel-Influenced
Vibe: Sunny, Groovy, Playful, Energetic, Passionate, Warm, Bluesy
Amina Claudine Myers Trio – Jumping in the Sugar Bowl Read More »
Steve Tibbetts – Yr
Style: Progressive Folk, Jazz Fusion, ECM Jazz
Vibes: Mystical, Pastoral, Ethereal, Ancient, Pagan, Earthy, Exploratory, Smooth, Spiritual
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Atmospheric, Complex, Instrumental, Uncommon Time Signatures, Percussive, Polyrhythmic, Progressive, Shred, Technical
Instrumentation: Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Congas, Drums, Kalimba, Synthesizer, Tabla, Electric Bass, Bongos
Steve Tibbetts – Yr Read More »
Bill Fay Group – Tomorrow Tomorrow and Tomorrow
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Dream Folk, Chamber Pop
Moods: Ethereal, Tender, Apocalyptic, Spiritual, Contemplative, Cosmic, Christian, Raw, Existential, Melancholy, Soothing
Musical Qualities: Lyrical, Loose, Atmospheric, Sparse, Improvisation
Bill Fay Group – Tomorrow Tomorrow and Tomorrow Read More »
Michael O’Shea
Style: Avant-Folk, Post-Minimalism
Moods: Hypnotic, Mysterious, Meditative, Ritualistic, Nocturnal, Haunting, Ethereal
Musical Qualities: Pulse, Homemade Instrument, Minimalistic, Solo, Improvisation, Repetitive, Electro-Acoustic, Extended Technique, Sparse
Arthur Blythe – Blythe Spirit
featuring Abdul Wadud, Fred Hopkins, Amina Claudine Myers, Steve McCall
Style: Avant-Garde Jazz
Moods: Colorful, Triumphant, Energetic, Spiritual,
Instrumentation: Alto Saxophone, Tuba, Cello, Drums, Upright Bass, Organ, Electric Guitar, Piano
Arthur Blythe – Blythe Spirit Read More »
The Cure – A Head on the Door
Style: Gothic-Pop, Post-Punk
Moods: Moody, Bittersweet, Romantic, Depressive, Ethereal, Dramatic, Playful, Nocturnal, Longing, Psychedelic
Musical Qualities: Catchy, Chorus & Reverb Heavy, Atmospheric
The Cure – A Head on the Door Read More »
Jon Hassell – Dream Theory in Malaya (Fourth World Volume Two)
Style: Fourth World, Tribal Ambient, Psychedelic Tape Music, Senoi Folk Music
Moods: Aquatic, Dreamy, Spiritual, Tribal, Hypnotic, Surreal, Exploratory
Musical Qualities: Electro-Acoustic, Atmospheric, Percussive, Dub, Field Recordings, Instrumental, Repetition
Jon Hassell – Dream Theory in Malaya (Fourth World Volume Two) Read More »
James ‘Blood’ Ulmer – Live at the Caravan of Dreams
Style: Free Funk, Jazz Fission, Abstract Groove
Moods: Confident, Triumphant, Passionate, Angular, Cathartic, Groovy, Kinetic, Knotty, Energetic
Musical Qualities: Rhythmic, Harmolodic, Improvisation, Thematic, Riffs, Live, Bluesy
James ‘Blood’ Ulmer – Live at the Caravan of Dreams Read More »
Egberto Gismonti / Nana Vasconcelos – Duas Vozes
Styles: Samba-Jazz, Progressive Folk, Tribal Ambient
Moods: Ethereal, Tropical, Spacious, Ritualistic, Hypnotic, Pastoral, Open, Suspenseful, Soothing, Airy
Musical Qualities: Percussive, Sparse, Dynamic, Acoustic, Heavy Reverb, Electro-Acoustic Processing
Instrumentation: Berimbau, Acoustic Guitar, Flute, Dilruba, Piano, Percussion, Voices
Egberto Gismonti / Nana Vasconcelos – Duas Vozes Read More »
Pererin – Haul ar yr eira
Style: Progressive Folk-Rock, Welsh Folk
Moods: Medieval, Mystical, Sentimental, Epic, Passionate, Earthy, Communal, Intricate
Instrumentation: Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Vocal Harmonies, Celtic Harp, Flute, Bodhran, Congas, Bongos, Keyboard, Electric Bass, Recorder, Drums, 12-String Guitar, Mandolin, Mellotron
Pererin – Haul ar yr eira Read More »
World Saxophone Quartet – Live at Brooklyn Academy of Music
Style: Post-Bop, Modern Creative
Moods: Elegant, Intertwined, Warm, Reflective, Airy, Colorful
Musical Qualities: Polyphonic, Thematic, Improvisation, Acoustic, Live
Instrumentation: Saxophones (Baritone, Alto, Soprano, Tenor), Clarinet, Bass Clarinet
World Saxophone Quartet – Live at Brooklyn Academy of Music Read More »
Tim Berne – Fulton Street Maul
featuring Bill Frisell, Alex Cline, Hank Roberts
Style: Jazz Fission, Avant-Garde Jazz
Moods: Gritty, Angular, Apocalyptic, Aggressive, Bombastic, Chaotic, Dark, Disorienting, Driving, Dystopian, Futuristic, Heavy, Intense, Urban
Musical Qualities: Dissonant, Improvisation, Uncommon Time Signatures, Progressive, Rhythmic
Tim Berne – Fulton Street Maul Read More »
Arthur Blythe – Illusions
Style: Free Jazz, Abstract Groove, Avant Jazz-Funk
Moods: Funky, Playful, Angular, Driving, Passionate, Intertwined, Eccentric, Triumphant, Uplifting, Knotty, Exploratory, Kinetic, Spiritual, Energetic
Musical Qualities: Thematic, Rhythmic, Uncommon Time Signatures, Progressive, Dense, Collective Improvisation, Technical
Arthur Blythe – Illusions Read More »
Van Morrison – Beautiful Vision
Style: & Influences Singer/Songwriter, Soft Rock, Celtic Folk, New Age, Gospel
Moods: Triumphant, Mystical, Passionate, Religious, Ethereal, Grandiose, Poetic, Existential, Uplifting
Musial Qualities: Anthemic, Lush, Sleek, Catchy, Groovy, Tight
Van Morrison – Beautiful Vision Read More »
Fred Frith – Gravity
Style: Zolo, Experimental Rock, Avant-Prog, Rock in Opposition, European-Folk Influenced
Vibe: Angular, Playful, Eccentric, Surreal, Disorienting
Musical Qualities: Dissonant, Uncommon Time Signatures, Progressive, Rhythmic, Technical
Fred Frith – Gravity Read More »
Van Morrison – Common One
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5NiIEJ4UB1A&ab_channel=VanMorrison-Topic
Van Morrison – Common One Read More »
Osamu Kitajima – Masterless Samurai
Styles: Jazz-Funk, Japanese Folk, Prog
Moods: Triumphant, Spring, Smooth, Mysterious, Epic, Adventure
Musical Qualities: Lush, Groovy, Progressive, Uncommon Time Signatures, Orchestral, Improvisation, Instrumental, Technical
Instrumentation: Shakuhachi, Koto, Shamisen, Synthesizers, Biwa, Acoustic Guitar, Strings, Electric Bass, Drums, Percussion, Rhodes, Saxophone, Piano, Ehru, Gong, Organ
Osamu Kitajima – Masterless Samurai Read More »
African Head Charge – My Life in a Hole in the Ground
LP, On-U Sound Records (1981/2016 RE) Styles: Industrial Dub, African Folk Music, Psychedelic Electronic Moods: Mysterious, Nocturnal, Earthy, Spiritual, Surreal, Tribal, Mechanical, Dark, Hypnotic, Groovy, Exploratory, Psychedelic, Woozy Musical Qualities: Percussive, Polyrhythmic, Studio-as-an-instrument, Repetitive, Loops My Life In A Hole In The Ground by African Head Charge
African Head Charge – My Life in a Hole in the Ground Read More »
Popol Vuh – Agape-Agape, Love-Love
Style: Mystical Chamber Music, Neoclassical New Age, Kosmische
Feeling: Devotional, Flowing, Meditative, Ethereal, Hypnotic, Solemn, Elegant, Exploratory
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Atmospheric, Choral, Chamber
Popol Vuh – Agape-Agape, Love-Love Read More »
Osjan – Roots
Style: Free Folk, Organic Music, Progressive Folk, Psychedelic Chamber Music
Moods: Ritualistic, Ancient, Flowing, Tribal, Earthy, Communal, Hypnotic, Intertwined, Medieval, Mysterious, Mystical, Nocturnal
Musical Qualities: Percussive, Collective Improvisation, ?Acoustic, Suite, Thematic, Progressive, Atmospheric, Repetitive
A.R. Kane – 69
Style: Dream Pop, Neo-Psychedelia
Vibe: Ethereal, Sensual, Moody, Nocturnal, Messy, Abstract, Dreamy, Eclectic, Hedonistic, Psychedelic, Surreal
Musical Qualities: Washy, Catchy, Raw, Dub FX, Noisy
Dave Holland – Life Cycle
Style: Chamber Jazz, Solo Cello
Vibe: Longing, Contemplative, Elegant, Focused, Introspective, Driving, Passionate, Searching
Musical Qualties: Virtuosic, Acoustic, Sparse, Instrumental, Improvisation, Dynamic, Rhythmic, Melodic
Dave Holland – Life Cycle Read More »
David Sylvian – Brilliant Trees
featuring Ryuichi Sakamoto, Holger Czukay, Jon Hassell, Danny Thompson, & Mark Isham
Style: Sophisti-Pop, Art Pop, Ambient Pop
Vibe: Longing, Introspective, Elegant, Ethereal, Sentimental, Sleek, Melancholy, Contemplative, Autumnal, Mellow, Sombre, Nocturnal
Musical Qualities: Polished Production, Melodic, Rhythmic
David Sylvian – Brilliant Trees Read More »
Brother Ah and the Sounds of Awareness – Key to Nowhere
Style: Spiritual Jazz, World Fusion, Soul Jazz
Vibe: Devotional, Communal, Flowing, Peaceful, Warm, Mysterious, Longing, Conscious, Uplifting, Cosmic, Airy, Groovy, Lush, Eclectic
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Percussive, Improvisation, Thematic, Instrumental (Except A1, B3)
Instrumentation: Flute, Harp, Electric Guitar, Mbiri, Upright Bass, Drums, Gong, French Horn, Harmonica, Berimbau, Electric Bass, Percussion
Brother Ah and the Sounds of Awareness – Key to Nowhere Read More »
James ‘Blood’ Ulmer – Black Rock
Style: Free-Funk, Jazz Funk, Abstract Groove, Funk Rock
Vibe: Bombastic, Manic, Angular, Knotty, Confident, Energetic, Communal, Groovy
Musical Qualities: Improvisation, Dissonant, Complex, Rhythmic, Dense, Technical, Group Vocals
James ‘Blood’ Ulmer – Black Rock Read More »
Material – Temporary Music
Style: Industrial Jazz-Funk, Abstract Fusion, No Wave
Vibe: Futuristic, Menacing, Cold, Groovy, Mechanical, Hypnotic, Industrial, Dystopian
Musical Qualities: Rhythmic, Repetitive, Dub Production, Instrumental, Percussive, Sampling
Instrumentation: Saxophone, Electric Bass, Drums, Percussion, Electric Guitar, Rhythm Box, Prepared Piano, Clarinet
Material – Temporary Music Read More »
John Carter – Fields
Style: Avant-Garde Jazz, Country-Jazz, Jazz Theater
Vibe: Rural, Historical, Sombre, Resolute, Intertwined, Passionate, Storytelling, Determined, Resolute, Heartfelt, Complex, Theatric, Conceptual
Musical Qualities: Suite, Acoustic, Progressive, Collective Improvisation, Polyphonic, Dynamic, Technical
John Carter – Fields Read More »
David Bowie – Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps)
Style: Glam Rock, Art Pop, Funk Rock
Vibe: Sleek, Eccentric, Energetic, Anxious, Grandiose, Urban, Dystopian, Theatric, Playful, Passionate, Futuristic, Manic, Sleazy, Surreal
Musical Qualities: Groovy, Polished, Dense, Catchy, Riffs, Anthemic, Rhythmic
David Bowie – Scary Monsters (and Super Creeps) Read More »
Peter Kardas – I Saw You
Style: Inner Space Music, Ambient Pop, Tape Music, Minimal Wave
Vibe: Ethereal, Suspenseful, Introspective, Soothing, Nocturnal, Hypnotic, Meditative, Cinematic, Dreamy, Ominous (A2, B2, B3)
Musical Qualities: Pulse, Home Recording, Minimalistic, Atmospheric, Vignettes
Instrumentation: Keyboards, Drum Machine, Vocals, Tape Loops, Electric Guitar, Marimba, Echo
Peter Kardas – I Saw You Read More »
Yusef Lateef – In Nigeria
Style: Afro-Jazz, Post-Bop
Vibe: Warm, Communal, Groovy, Spiritual, Sunny, Dance
Musical Qualities: Percussive, Polyrhythmic, Improvisation, Melodic
Yusef Lateef – In Nigeria Read More »
Steve Tibbets – Northern Song
Style: Ambient Folk, ECM-Jazz, New Age
Vibe: Soothing, Airy, Meditative, Pastoral, Winter, Open, Hypnotic, Nature
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Percussive, Sparse, Progressive
Instrumentation: 6 & 12-String Acoustic Guitars, Percussion (Kalimba, Shaker, Bongos, Congas, etc), Tape Loops
Steve Tibbets – Northern Song Read More »
Dennis Wise – Wize Music
Style: Innervisionary, Psychedelic Tape Music, Ambient Dub, Future Folk, Experimental, New Age
Vibe: Alien, Mystical, Woozy, Nocturnal, Exploratory
Musical Qualities: Collage, Loops, Electro-acoustic, Percussive, Dub Fx, Dissonance
Dennis Wise – Wize Music Read More »
David Sylvian – Gone To Earth
Style: Ambient Pop, Progressive Pop (LP1), Ambient (LP2)
Vibe: Ethereal, Introspective, Sombre, Sentimental, Spiritual, Winter, Lush, Meditative, Longing, Soothing
Musical Qualities: Atmospheric, Progressive, Polyphonic, Polyrhythmic, Polished, Ballads
David Sylvian – Gone To Earth Read More »
Gratien Midonet – A Cosmic Poet from Martinique 1979-1989?
Style: Cosmic Folk, Caribbean Folk
Vibe: Mystical, Tropical, Poetic, Cosmic, Earthy, Ecletic, Intertwined, Groovy, Spiritual
Musical Qualities: Percussive, Polyrhythmic, Repetitive, Dense, Technical, Polished
Instrumentation: Keyboards, Acoustic Guitar, Percussion, Vocals, Electric Bass
Gratien Midonet – A Cosmic Poet from Martinique 1979-1989? Read More »
Bitter Funeral Beer Band – Live in Frankfurt 1982
Style: Avant-Garde Jazz, Afro-Jazz, Experimental Big Band
Influences: Ghanaian Music & other West African Music, Hindustani & Carnatic Music, Spiritual Jazz
Vibe: Ritualistic, Communal, Hypnotic, Intertwined, Spiritual
Musical Qualities: Polyrhythmic, Improvisation, Repetitive, Percussive, Polyphonic, Acoustic
Bitter Funeral Beer Band – Live in Frankfurt 1982 Read More »
Charlie Haden / Liberation Music Orchestra – Ballad of the Fallen
Style: Experimental Big Band, Avant-Garde Jazz, Flamenco
Vibe: Mournful, Communal, Political, Anthemic, Conceptual, Conscious, Liberation, Sombre, Traditional
Musical Qualities: Polyphonic, Suite, Acoustic, Complex, Dynamic, Thematic Improvisation, Instrumental, Orchestral, political, Technical
Charlie Haden / Liberation Music Orchestra – Ballad of the Fallen Read More »
Public Enemy – It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back
Style: Hip-Hop (East Coast, Political, Hardcore)
Vibe: Rebellious, Gritty, Political, Dystopian, Angry, Energetic, Confident, Anxious, Conscious, Urban, Heavy, Passionate
Musical Qualities: Dense, Sampling, Noisy, Rhythmic
Public Enemy – It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back Read More »
Ry Cooder – Paris, Texas (Soundtrack)
Ry Cooder’s beautifully spacious ambient-western compositions are a transcendent pairing with this meditative, expansive film.
Ry Cooder – Paris, Texas (Soundtrack) Read More »
The Same – The Same
LP, Originally released in 1981 by Unlikely Records Freedom to Spend Reissue (2021) Style: Ambient Pop, Experimental Home Recording, Minimal Wave Vibe/Mood: Aquatic, Nocturnal, Hypnotic, Impressionistic, Moody, Intertwined, Dreamy, Headphone album Musical Qualities: Loops, Home Recording, Atmospheric, Percussive, Polyphonic, Pulse, Electro-Acoustic Instrumentation: electric guitar, casio vl-tone, vocals, marimba, electric bass, acoustic guitar, digital organ
The Same – The Same Read More »
King Crimson – Beat
Style: Art Rock, Progressive Pop
Vibe: Anxious, Eccentric, Romantic, Cerebral, Complex, Catchy, Bombastic, Dramatic, Surreal, Slick, Intertwined
Musical Qualities: Polyphonic, Uncommon Time Signatures, Polished, Progressive, Technical, Rhythmic
King Crimson – Beat Read More »
Terry Riley – Shri Camel
Style: Ecstatic Minimalism, New Age, Drone
Vibe: Spiritual, Meditative, Heavenly, Cosmic, Hypnotic, Mystical, Longing, Intertwined
Musial Attributes: Just Intonation, Instrumental, Minimalistic, Repetitive, Suite, Improvisation, Drone
Instrumentation: Yamaha YC-45D Organ with multiple digital delay channels for live layering & interactions
Terry Riley – Shri Camel Read More »
King Crimson – Three of a Perfect Pair
Style: Art Rock, Prog, Experimental Rock, Progressive Pop
Vibe: Anxious, Angular, Cerebral, Mechanical, Catchy, Ominous, Philosophical, Suspenseful, Dystopian, Urban, Confident
Musical Attributes: Complex, Uncommon Time Signatures, Polyrhythmic, Polished, Progressive, Technical
King Crimson – Three of a Perfect Pair Read More »
Gunter Christman, Torsten Muller, LaDonna Smith, Davey Williams – White Earth Streak
Style: Free Improvisation
Vibe: Abstract, Frenetic, Responsive, Primal, Active Listening, Surreal
Musical Qualities: Atonal, Collective Improvisation, Percussive, Acoustic
Instrumentation: Trombone, Upright Bass, Viola, Violin, Banjo, Experimental Vocals, Electric Guitar
Gunter Christman, Torsten Muller, LaDonna Smith, Davey Williams – White Earth Streak Read More »
Muhal Richard Abrams – Colors in Thirty-Third
Style: Creative Music, Chamber Jazz, Free Jazz, Post-Bop
Vibe: Colorful, Sentimental, Impressionistic, Eclectic, Energetic, Introspective
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Dynamic, Poly-free Improvisation, Complex, Spacious
Muhal Richard Abrams – Colors in Thirty-Third Read More »
James Blood Ulmer – America – Do You Remember the Love?
Style: Free Funk, Electric Blues, Jazz Fusion
Vibe: Energetic, Triumphant, Angular
Musical Attributes: Improvisation, Complex
James Blood Ulmer – America – Do You Remember the Love? Read More »
King Sunny Ade and His African Beats – Aura
Style: Jùjú, Afro-Pop
Vibe: Warm, Catchy, Sunny, Groovy, Intricate
Musical Qualities: Polyrhythmic, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Percussive, Group Vocals
King Sunny Ade and His African Beats – Aura Read More »
The Durutti Column – LC
Style: Dream Pop, Art Rock
Vibe: Warm, Hypnotic, Peaceful, Bright, Ethereal, Dreamy, Lush, Intertwined, Soft
Musical Qualities: Loops, Atmospheric, Pulse, Melodic, Sparse
The Durutti Column – LC Read More »
Cocteau Twins – Victorialand
Style: Dream Pop, Ethereal Wave, Neofolk
Vibe: Ethereal, Cryptic, Dreamy, Lush, Mysterious, Soft, Soothing, Lethargic, Longing, Witchy, Winter
Cocteau Twins – Victorialand Read More »
Bobb Trimble – Iron Curtain Innocence [Review]
Bobb Trimble’s 1980 debut (originally released on his own label) contains nightmarish folk-pop that fits on the fringe of the loner-psych lineage of Syd Barrett and modern bedroom-psych artists like Alex G or Holy Sons.?
Bobb Trimble – Iron Curtain Innocence [Review] Read More »
Robert Wyatt – Old Rottenhat
Style: Experimental Singer-Songwriter, Art Pop, Canterbury Scene, Jazz-Rock
Vibe: Political (Anti-Capitalist, Anti-Imperialist), Satirical, Conscious, Melancholy, Hypnotic
Musical Attributes/Instrumentation: Sparse, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Layered Vocals, Digital Keyboards, Drum Machines, Percussion, Synthesizers, Piano
Robert Wyatt – Old Rottenhat Read More »
Kath Bloom & Loren Connors – Restless Faithful Desperate
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Free Folk
Vibe: Airy, Bittersweet, Intimate, Love, Poetic, Romantic, Heartfelt
Musical Attributes: Acoustic, Sparse, Loose
Kath Bloom & Loren Connors – Restless Faithful Desperate Read More »
The Cure – Pornography
Style: Psychedelic Goth, Post-Punk
Vibe: Cold, Dark, Moody, Psychedelic, Nihilistic, Nocturnal, Depressive
The Cure – Pornography Read More »
Sonny Sharrock – Guitar
Style: Free Blues, Free Jazz
Vibe: Bluesy, Triumphant, Anthemic, Cathartic, Passionate
Musical Attributes: Solo Improvisation, Loops (Overdubs), Improvisation, Thematic, Instrumental, Melodic, Distorted
Sonny Sharrock – Guitar Read More »
Gil Scott-Heron & Brian Jackson – 1980
Style: Synth-Funk, Soul
Vibe: Conscious, Groovy, Political, Poetic, Spacey
Gil Scott-Heron & Brian Jackson – 1980 Read More »
Billy Higgins – Mr. Billy Higgins
Style: Post-Bop, Jazz, Spiritual Jazz
Vibe: Uplifting, Straight Ahead
Musical Attributes: Melodic, Technical, Modal, Improvisation
Billy Higgins – Mr. Billy Higgins Read More »
Art Ensemble of Chicago – Full Force
Style: Avant-Garde Jazz, Free Jazz
Vibe: Abstract, Communal, Exploratory, Rootsy
Musical Attributes: Collective Improvisation, Poly-Free Improvisation, Dynamic
Art Ensemble of Chicago – Full Force Read More »
Steve Reich with Kronos Quartet & Pat Metheny – Different Trains; Electric Counterpoint
Style: Minimalism, Tape Music, Chamber Music
Vibe/Themes: Pulsing, Hypnotic, History, Meditative
Musical Attributes: Repetitive, Sampling, Electro-Acoustic, Spoken Word
Steve Reich with Kronos Quartet & Pat Metheny – Different Trains; Electric Counterpoint Read More »
Black Sabbath – Heaven and Hell
Released in 1980 on Warner Bros. Format: LP
Black Sabbath – Heaven and Hell Read More »
Prince – Sign ?? the Times
Released in 1987 on Paisley Park Records Format: LPx2 Style: Funk-Rock, R&B, Pop Vibe: Eclectic, Sensual, Playful, Eccentric, Groovy
Prince – Sign ?? the Times Read More »
Anthony Davis – Epist?m?
Style: Poly-Free Improvisation, Modern Classical, Avant-Garde Big Band
Vibe: Complex, Hypnotic, Intense, Suspenseful, Cerebral
Musical Attributes: Polyrhythmic, Polyphonic, Odd Time Signatures, Acoustic, Poly-Free Improvisation, Repetitive
Instrumentation: Orchestral, Mallet Percussion (Marimba, Vibraphone, etc) Violin, Cello, Piano, Trombone, Drums, Flute, Bass Clarinet
Anthony Davis – Epist?m? Read More »
Skeleton Crew – Learn to Talk
Released in 1984 on Rift Records Format: LP
Skeleton Crew – Learn to Talk Read More »
This Heat – Deceit
Originally released in 1981 on Rough Trade Modern Classics Reissue (2016) Format: LP
This Heat – Deceit Read More »
James Blood Ulmer – Odyssey
Released in 1983 on Columbia Records Format: LP
James Blood Ulmer – Odyssey Read More »
David Sylvian – Secrets of the Beehive
Released in 1987 on Virgin Records Format: LP
David Sylvian – Secrets of the Beehive Read More »
Fred Frith – Speechless
Released in 1981 on Ralph records Format: LP?
Fred Frith – Speechless Read More »
Brian Eno – Ambient 4: On Land
Style: Ambient, Progressive Electronic
Vibe: Suspenseful, Desert, Desolate, Earthy, Mysterious, Eerie, Ethereal, Contemplative, Lonely, Impressionistic
Musical Qualities: Atmospheric, Instrumental, Analogue, Abstract
Brian Eno – Ambient 4: On Land Read More »
King Sunny Adé and His African Bears – Juju Music
Released in 1982 on Mango Records Format: LP
King Sunny Adé and His African Bears – Juju Music Read More »
David Sylvian & Holger Czukay – Plight & Premonition | Flux & Mutability
Originally released as 2 separate releases in 1988 and 1989 on Venture Records 2019 Grönland compilation Format: LPx2
David Sylvian & Holger Czukay – Plight & Premonition | Flux & Mutability Read More »
Holger Czukay – Rome Remains Rome
Released in 1986 on Virgin Records Format: LP
Holger Czukay – Rome Remains Rome Read More »
This Heat – Health and Efficiency
Originally released in 1980 on Piano Records 2016 Light in the Attic Repress Format: LP, 45rpm on side A, any speed for side B
This Heat – Health and Efficiency Read More »
Jan Garbarek Group – Wayfarer
Released in 1983 on ECM Format: LP
Jan Garbarek Group – Wayfarer Read More »
John Fahey – Railroad
Releases in 1983 on Takoma Records Format: LP
John Fahey – Railroad Read More »
Strunz & Farah – Mosaico
“World Music” is often a cheap umbrella term for non-Eurocentric music, but when acoustic guitar shredders Jorge Strunz and Ardeshir Farah, from Costa Rica and Iran respectively, bring together a Cuban rhythm section, South Indian violinist, and Kuwaiti guitarist, the music they create truly does have a sense of cultural unity deserving of the term.
For fans of flamenco, Arabic folk, and acoustic guitar virtuosity
Strunz & Farah – Mosaico Read More »
King Crimson – Discipline
Discpline marks the first in a trilogy of complex prog-meets-new-wave masterpieces that have been relished by anxious overthinkers for decades…featuring polyrhythmic riffs, innovative guitar textures, overwrought sing-talking, and a strong inter-band chemistry.
King Crimson – Discipline Read More »
Massacre – Killing Time
Anxious and dissonant proto-math rock composed and improvised by a trio of innovative, idiosyncratic, and influential musicians. Guitarist Fred Frith pulls new dimensions of sound out of his instrument, blending bizarrely textured riffs with dark, noisy atmospheres. Bassist Bill Laswell is one of the great musical collaborators in all of music, often bringing together innumerable amazing musicians from all genres to create unique sonic fusions. Here, Bill and drummer Fred Maher lay down some nasty, disjointed grooves that lock you in despite their angular, asymmetrical time signatures
Massacre – Killing Time Read More »
The Cure – Disintegration
Originally released in 1989 on Fiction Records 2010 pressing, Digitally Remastered by Robert Smith Format: LPx2
The Cure – Disintegration Read More »