Style: Psychedelic Soul, Jazz-Funk, Singer/Songwriter
Vibes: Conscious, Rebellious, Satirical, Groovy, Confident, Apocalyptic, Urban, Storytelling, Fire
Themes: Political, History, Race, Colonization
Eugene McDaniels – Headless Heroes of the Apocalypse Read More »
featuring Milford Graves, Linda Sharrock, Sirone & Dave Burrell
Style: Free Jazz, Jazz Fission
Vibe: Ecstatic, Cathartic, Anthemic, Spiritual, Ritualistic, Kinetic, Communal
Musical Qualities: Thematic, Loose, Collective Improvisation, Dynamic
Sonny Sharrock – Black Woman Read More »
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 »
Style: Appalachian Folk Music, American Primitivism
Vibes: Rootsy, Spiritual, Warm, Passionate, Meditative, Religious, Storytelling, Sentimental, spiritual, storytelling
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Traditional, Lyrical, Droney, Open Tunings, Solo, Sparse
Instrumentation: Vocals, Harmonium, Acoustic Guitars (6- & 12-String), Autoharp, Piano, Banjo
Joseph Allred – Hoddmímis Holt Read More »
Style: American Primitivism, Mystical Folk, North American Raga
Vibe: Devotional, Fantasy, Passionate, Airy, Mountains, Pastoral, Meditative, Mystical, Nature, Spiritual, Warm, Uplifting, Mythic
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitar, Tablas, Vocals
Robbie Basho – Song of the Stallion Read More »
Style: Spiritual Jazz
Vibes: Ecstatic, Mysterious, Exploratory, Communal, Adventure, Complex, dense, Passionate, Spiritual
Musical Qualities: Improvisation, Thematic, Suite, Acoustic, Progressive, Dense
Instrumentation: Alto Saxophone, Upright Bass, Piano, Drums, Percussion, Flute, Dulcimer, Pipe Horn, Spoken Word
Alan Braufman – Valley of Search Read More »
featuring Eric Dolphy, Joe Henderson, Tony Williams, Richard Davis, Kenny Dorham
Style: Avante-Garde Jazz, Post-Bop
Vibes: acoustic, Knotty, Searching, Complex, Woozy, Serpentine, Exploratory, Elegant improvisation, innovative, knotty, nocturnal, passionate, playful, polyphonic, progressive, reflective, rhythmic, thematic, woozy,
Musical Qualities: Polyphonic, Acoustic, Thematic Improvisation, Progressive
Andrew Hill – Point of Departure Read More »
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 »
1964 Demos
Personnel: Roswell Rudd, Denis Charles, Arthur Harper, Steve Lacy
Style: Avant-Garde Jazz, Post-Bop
Vibes: Ecstatic, Knotted, Bluesy, Angular, Passionate, Rootsy, Energetic, Romantic, Uplifting, Abstracted
Archie Shepp – Derailleur Read More »
Style: Free-Improvisation, Chamber-Jazz, Spiritual Jazz
Vibes: Contemplative, Searching, Autumnal, Intimate, Elegant, Free, Spiritual, Meditative, Bittersweet, Mysterious, Hypnotic, Passionate, Pastoral
Instrumentation: Cello
Musical Qualities: Improvisation, Solo, Instrumental, Sparse
Abdul Wadud – By Myself Read More »
with Danny Thompson & John Stevens
Style: Jazz-Folk, Singer/Songwriter, Progressive Folk
Vibes: Ethereal, Passionate, Cryptic, Exploratory, Wistful, Exuberant, Meditative, Pastoral, Reflective
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitar, Echoplex, Upright Bass, Drums, Vocals
John Martyn – Live at Leeds Read More »
Styles: Free Improvisation, Free Jazz
Vibes: Kinetic, Ritualistic, Free, Ecstatic, Earthy, Passionate, Forest, Tribal, Spiritual, Adventure, Intense, Intertwined, Responsive
Musical Qualities: Polyrhythmic, Percussive, Improvisation, Acoustic, Atonal, Complex, Dissonant, Extended Technique, Home Recording, Instrumental, Polyphonic
Milford Graves with Arthur Doyle & Hugh Glover – Children of the Forest Read More »
Style: Free Jazz, Creative Music, Liberation Music, Jazz Poetry, Spiritual Jazz
Vibe: Passionate, Rootsy, Poetic, Storytelling, Rebellious, Compassionate, Intertwined, Haunting, Spiritual, Driving, Communal, Triumphant, Sad, Powerful
Themes: Ancestry, History, Feminism, Trauma, Memory, Black Liberation, Identity, Death
Musical Qualities: Suite, Thematic, Graphic Score, Improvisation, Spoken Word, Complex, Group Vocals
Matana Roberts – Coin Coin Chapter Five: In the Garden Read More »
featuring Pauline Lay, Patrick Shiroishi, Nick Levine
Style: Ecstatic Black Metal, Blackgaze
Vibe: Triumphant, Cathartic, Passionate, Uplifting, Intense, Spiritual, Oceanic, Epic, Ecstatic, Nature, Raw, Uplifting
Agriculture – Agriculture Read More »
featuring Chad Taylor, Lester St. Louis, Jason Ajemian, Rob Fry, Daniel Villarreal, Akenya Seymour
Style: Liberation Music, Progressive Folk-Jazz, Avant-Garde Jazz
Vibe: Triumphant, Rebellious, Communal, Colorful, Warm, Uplifting, Energetic, Passionate
jaimie branch – Fly or Die Fly or Die Fly or Die ((world war)) Read More »
Jimmy Lyons – Alto Saxophone; Lester Bowie – Trumpet; Alan Silva – Upright Bass; Andrew Cyrille – Drums
Style: Free-Bop, Avant-Garde Jazz
Vibe: Warm, Spontaneous, Sunny, Driving, Playful, Intertwined, Autumnal, Passionate, Energetic, Kinetic, Responsive, Exploratory
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Swing, Polyphonic, Acoustic, Technical
Jimmy Lyons – Other Afternoons Read More »
Style: Klezmer, Chamber-Folk, Balkan Folk Music
Moods: Sombre, Passionate, Mournful, Intertwined, Cathartic, Reflective, Rootsy, Dark, Spiritual
Instrumentation: Clarinet, Violin, Acoustic Guitar, Upright Bass, Mandolin, Saz, Cymbalom, Percussion
Black Ox Orkestar – Nisht Azoy Read More »
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 »
Style: Lebanese Folk
Moods: Communal, Passionate, Spiritual, Rootsy, Devotional, Ecstatic, Desert, Nocturnal, Intertwined
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Modal, Microtonal, Percussive
Instrumentation: Oud, Group Vocals, Naye, Rabab, Derbake
Folk Music & Songs from the Middle East Read More »
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Progressive Country, Folk-Rock
Vibe: Angsty, Rebellious, Storytelling, Passionate, Energetic, Ragged, Bittersweet
Bob Dylan – Desire Read More »
Styles: Singer/Songwriter, Folk-Pop, Jazz-Rock
Moods: Reflective, Poetic, Bittersweet, Romantic, Warm, Playful, Sentimental, Energetic, Groovy, Passionate, Melancholy, Sunny
Musical Qualities: Lyrical, Live, Melodic, Soft
Joni Mitchell & the L.A. Express – Miles of Aisles Read More »
Style: Jazz-Funk, Spiritual Jazz, Abstract Groove
Moods: Communal, Ceremonial, Celebratory, Triumphant, Afrocentric, Ritualistic, Groovy, Spiritual, Passionate
Musical Qualities: Ostinato, Thematic Improvisation, Suite, Rhythmic, Spoken Word
Black Renaissance – Body, Mind & Spirit Read More »
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 »
Style: Drone Pop, Shoegaze, Noise Pop, Dream Pop, Tape Music
Moods: Ethereal, Hypnotic, Warm, Sedated, Blissful, Deconstructed, Tender, Summer, Romantic, Peaceful, Passionate, Dreamy, Meditative, Surreal
Musical Qualities: Loops, Washy, Lush, Melodic, Noisy, Sampling, Dense, Studio-as-an-Instrument
Jefre Cantu-Ledesma – On the Echoing Green Read More »
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 »
Styles: Griot Music, Mande Music, Afro-Jazz
Moods: Uplifting, Earthy, Sunny, Communal, Dance, Joyful, Passionate, Peaceful, Playful, Ritualistic, Spiritual, Warm, Tribal, Utopian
Musical Qualities: Percussive, Polyrhythmic, Acoustic, Melodic, Technical
Mandingo Griot Society Read More »
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Art-Rock
Moods: Longing, Bittersweet, Passionate, Heartbreak, Angsty, Sentimental, Romantic, Introspective, Sensual, Existential, Poetic, Sad, Sombre
Musical Qualities: Dynamic, Lush, Melodic, Polished Production, Orchestral Arrangements, Gospel Background Vocals
Jeff Buckley – Grace Read More »
Style: Progressive Rock, Shoegaze-Influenced
Moods: Passionate, Epic, Melancholy, Cryptic, Sentimental, Moody, Longing, Cathartic, Dark, Triumphant, Monolithic
Musical Qualities: Complex, Progressive, Melodic, Uncommon Time Signatures, Polished, Atmospheric, Dynamic, Dense
Oceansize – Frames Read More »
Styles: Stoner Metal, Heavy Psych, Drone Metal
Moods: Passionate, Heavy, Melancholy, Cathartic, Manic, Energetic, Stoned, Raw
Musical Qualities: Fuzzy, Riffs, Noisy, Dense, Dynamic, Droney
Style: Spiritual Jazz, Free Jazz
Moods: Ecstatic, Uplifting, Anthemic, Passionate, Energetic, Bittersweet, Cathartic, Chaotic, Cosmic, Flowing, Free, Heartfelt, Joyful, Kinetic, Love, Spiritual, Tender
Musical Qualities: Thematic, Collective Improvisation, Acoustic, Extended Technique, Live Performance
Albert Ayler – Revelations Read More »
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Jazz-Folk, Soul, Folk-Pop
Moods: Heartfelt, Sunny, Romantic, Uplifting, Warm, Spring, Groovy, Sensual, Passionate
Musical Qualities: Lush, Melodic, Polished
Joan Armatrading – Show Some Emotion Read More »
Style: Folk-Rock, Singer-Songwriter
Moods: Sentimental, Break-Up, Bittersweet, Rebellious, Introspective, Messy, Passionate, Ragged, Melancholy
Musical Qualities: Lyrical, Loose, Raw, Simple
Neil Young with Crazy Horse – Zuma Read More »
Blue Afternoon continues the flowing jazz-folk of Happy Sad while occasionally detouring into the avant-garde atmospheres that manifest more fully on Lorca and Starsailor. The arrangements are characterized by fluid vibraphones, lobbing upright bass, and the virtuosic jazz guitar of Lee Underwood, but what really ties everything together are the vocals and songwriting. Buckley’s voice is so versatile that he is able to express a wide range of emotions, sometimes blurring them from one moment to the next.
Tim Buckley – Blue Afternoon Read More »
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 »
Style: Free Improvisation, Free Jazz
Moods: Passionate, Kinetic, Complex, Ecstatic, Dramatic, Energetic, Angular, Exploratory, Meditative, Focused
Musical Qualities: Solo Improvisation, Dense, Acoustic, Progressive, Dynamic, Percussive, Atonal, Active Listening, Instrumental, Technical, Rhythmic, Live
Cecil Taylor – Indent Read More »
Style: Spiritual Jazz, Modern Creative
Moods: Ritualistic, Spiritual, Devotional, Passionate, Mysterious
Musical Qualities: Solo Improvisation, Percussive, Acoustic, Sparse, Live, Lo-Fi
Instrumentation: Upright Bass, Percussion, Spoken Word
Brother Malachi Favors Magoustous – Natural & Spiritual Read More »
Style: Avant-Garde Jazz, Modern Creative, Spiritual Jazz, Free Jazz
Moods: Ritualistic, Passionate, Cathartic, Open, Colorful, Visceral, Warm, Communal, Free, Abstract, Chaotic, Exploratory, Responsive, Tribal, Spiritual
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Percussive, Suite, Live, Dynamic, Polyphonic, Group Vocals
Instrumentation: Trumpet, Flugelhorn, Kelphorn, Bass Drum, Percussion, Saxophones (Alto, Soprano, Sopranino, Tenor, & Bass), Clarinet, Drums, Alto Flute, Conga, Vibraphone, Upright Bass, Electric Bass, Log Drum, Gong, Whistle, Bass Marimba
The Art Ensemble of Chicago – Bap-Tizum Read More »
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 »
Style: Electropop, Synth Pop
Moods: Brooding, Angsty, Mechanical, Rebellious, Communist, Aggressive, Cryptic, Conscious, Dance, Dark, Dystopian, Feminist, Futuristic, Nocturnal, Ominous, Passionate, Sombre
The Knife – Silent Shout Read More »
Style: Spiritual Jazz, Free Jazz
Vibe: Passionate, Kinetic, Transcendent, Flowing, Free, Responsive, Uplifting
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Thematic, Acoustic, Dynamic, Instrumental
Albert Ayler – Witches & Devils Read More »
Personnel:
Don Cherry – Cornet, Pharaoh Sanders – Tenor Sax, Piccolo; Henry Grimes – Upright Bass; Ed Blackwell – Drums
Style: Free Jazz
Moods: Driving, Energetic, Urban, Communal, Passionate, Playful, Chaotic
Musical Qualities: Polyphonic, Improvisation, Complex, Acoustic, Rhythmic, Dissonant, Extended Technique
Don Cherry – Where is Brooklyn Read More »
Style: Appalachian Folk, Piedmont Blues
Vibe: Pastoral, Rootsy, Morning, Rustic, Bright, Spiritual, Warm, Passionate, Contemplative
Musical Qualities: Solo Instrumentals, Acoustic, Melodic, Sparse, Fingerstyle
Instruments: Fiddle, Banjo, Acoustic Guitar, Dulcimer, Harmonica
Instrumental Music of the Southern Appalachians Read More »
Style: Chamber Pop, Ambient Pop
Moods: Sentimental, Bittersweet, Mellow, Reflective, Ethereal, Flowing, Dreamy, Passionate, Sad
Musical Qualities: Soft, Slow, Lush, Lyrical, Polished, Dynamic
Instrumentation: Synthesizers, Electric Guitar, Drums, Trumpet, Upright Bass, Fender Rhodes, Organ, Cello, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba, Baritone Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone
The Antlers – Familiars Read More »
Style: Organic Beat Music, Bedroom Gospel, Spiritual Jazz
Moods: Heartfelt, Raw, Sombre, Spiritual, Flowing, Passionate, Mournful, Mysterious, Haunting, Cathartic, Eclectic
Musical Qualities: Home Recording, Collage, Beats, Improvisation, Solo, Loose, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Lo-fi
Instrumentation: Clarinet, Vocals, Keyboards, Percussion, Drums
Angel Bat David – The Oracle Read More »
Produced by Carlos Niño & Dexter Story; featuring production from Ras G, Sa-ra, Madlib, J Dilla, Daedelus, Georgia Anne Muldrow, etc…
Styles: Acid Jazz, Organic Beat Music, Jazz-Funk, Spiritual Jazz, Trip-Hop, Vocal Jazz
Moods: Devotional, Uplifting, Spiritual, Communal, Sunny, Warm, Passionate, Groovy, Triumphant, Conscious
Musical Qualities: Beats, Collage, Rhythmic, Eclectic
Dwight Trible & The Life Force Trio – Love is the Answer Read More »
Style: Folk Baroque, English & Scottish Folk Music
Moods: Medieval, Romantic, Storytelling, Rural, Intimate, Morning, Rootsy, Melancholy, Passionate, Mellow
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Sparse, Fingerstyle, Technical
Bert Jansch – Jack Orion Read More »
Style: Smooth Soul
Moods: Sexual, Passionate, Nocturnal, Sensual, Mellow, Smooth, Romantic, Warm, Sentimental
Musical Qualities: Lush, Groovy, Vocal Harmonies, Polished Production
Marvin Gaye – Let’s Get It On Read More »
Style: Post-Industrial Powwow Music, Experimental Electronic
Mood: Communal, Ritualistic, Cathartic, Spiritual, Passionate, Mournful, Epic
Musical Qualities: Chants, Manipulated Vocals, Distorted, Electroacoustic, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Percussive, Noisy
Joe Rainey – Niineta Read More »
Style: Folk-Pop, British Folk, Singer-Songwriter
Moods: Romantic, Sunny, Uplifting, Passionate, Joyful, Flowing, Warm
Musical Qualities: Vocal Harmonies, Lush, Groovy, Polished, Melodic, Chamber Arrangements
Richard & Linda Thompson – First Light Read More »
Styles: Progressive Pop, Post-Industrial Chamber Music, IDM, Gabber, Deconstructed Club
Moods: Earthy, Knotty, Sensual, Futuristic, Surreal, Romantic, Mystical, Passionate, Messy, Hallucinogenic, Intense, Forest, Eccentric, Epic, Tribal
Musical Qualities: Polyphonic, Dense, Dynamic, Complex, Glitchy, Progressive, Uncommon Time Signatures, Electro-Acoustic
Instrumentation: Digital Programming, Woodwinds (Bass Clarinet, Oboe, Clarinet), Strings, Choral Vocals
Style: Vocal Jazz
Moods: Uplifting, Sentimental, Elegant, Sunny, Passionate, Heartfelt, Playful, Romantic, Retro
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Technical, Melodic, Lush, Ballads
Instrumentation: Piano, Vocals, Upright Bass, Drums
Shirley Horn Trio – A Lazy Afternoon Read More »
ft. jaimie branch, Tyler Damon, Sam Wagster, Cameron Knowler, David Grubbs, Ryley Walker, & Yasmin Williams
FFO: Jim O’Rourke (Bad Timing / The Visitor), William Tyler, Ry Cooder Instrumentals, Gastr Del Sol, Elkhorn, Moon Bros, Appalachian Folk, Leo Kottke, Jack Rose
Eli Winter – Eli Winter Read More »
Style: Free Jazz, Spiritual Jazz
Vibe: Apocalyptic, Intense, Transcendent, Epic, Cosmic, Bombastic, Chaotic, Complex, Exploratory, Energetic, Serpentine, Powerful, Passionate, Triumphant, Spiritual, Heavy
Musical Qualities: Dense, Dissonant, Polyphonic, Collective Improvisation, Acoustic, Live Recording, Extended Technique, Progressive, Technical
John Coltrane & Pharoah Sanders – Live in Seattle Read More »
Style: Post-Bop, Progressive Big Band
Vibe: Elegant, Romantic, Nocturnal, Bustling, Passionate, Warm, Complex, Energetic
Musical Qualities: Polyphonic, Progressive, Dense, Technical, Acoustic, Improvisation, Lush, Melodic
Charles Mingus – Mingus Mingus Mingus Mingus Mingus Read More »
Style: Soul (A-Side), Jazz-Funk, Spiritual Jazz (B-Side)
Vibe: Sunny, Uplifting, Communal, Joyful, Anthemic, Passionate
Musical Qualities: Groovy, Lush, Percussive, Rhythmic
Instrumentation: Horns, Vocals, Electric Keyboard, Electric Guitar (played by Sonny Sharrock!), Congas, Drums, Electric Bass
Style: Singer/Songwriter
HGM Side: Americana, Warm, Contemplative, Sunny, Rural, Passionate, Spiritual, Introspective
Chapman Side: Chamber Folk, Melancholy, Morning, Mellow, Autumnal, Reflective, Storytelling
Hiss Golden Messenger / Michael Chapman – Parallelogram Read More »
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 »
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 »
Style: Spiritual Jazz, Free Jazz
Vibe: Transcendent, Intense, Passionate, Cosmic, Visceral, Powerful, Complex, Bombastic, Energetic, Chaotic
Musical Qualities: Dense, Instrumental, Acoustic, Collective Improvisation, Polyphonic, Free, Technical, Virtuosic
John Coltrane – Concert in Japan Read More »
Style: Free Jazz
Vibe: Sentimental, Heartfelt, Rebellious, Rootsy, Passionate
Musical Qualities: Improvisation, Acoustic, Thematic, Spoken Word, Live Recording
Archie Shepp – Live in San Francisco Read More »
Albert Ayler – Tenor & Alto Saxophones, Vocals
Alan Silva – Upright Bass
Milford Graves – Drums & Percussion
Call Cobbs Jr. – Harpsichord
Donald Ayler – Trumpet
Vibe: Ecstatic, Passionate, Anthemic, Energetic, Spiritual, Joyful, Deconstructed, Uplifting
Musical Qualities: Thematic, Collective Improvisation, Acoustic, Loose, Melodic
Style: Spiritual Jazz, Free Jazz
Albert Ayler – Love Cry Read More »
Style: Future Jazz, Free Jazz Theater, Jazz Poetry
Vibe: cathartic, cerebral, dystopian, energetic, futuristic, bombastic, intense, noisy, passionate, poetic, political, powerful, rebellious, urban, heavy, AfroFuturist
Musical Attributes: Complex, Conceptual, Dense, Dissonant, Spoken Word, Theatric, Progressive, Polyphonic, Improvisation
Moor Mother – Circuit City Read More »
Style: Spiritual Jazz, Avant-Garde Jazz
Vibe: Cathartic, Transcendent, Triumphant, Passionate, Intense, Chaotic, Powerful, Adventure, Searching, Spiritual
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Dense, Dynamic, Complex, Acoustic, Thematic, Dissonant, Technical
John Coltrane – Sun Ship Read More »
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 »
Cecil Taylor – Piano; Jimmy Lyons – Alto Sax; Sam Rivers – Tenor & Soprano Sax; Andrew Cyrille – Drums
Style: Free Jazz
Vibe: Transcendent, Dramatic, Kinetic, Intense, Passionate, Driving, Knotty, Complex, Forceful, Cathartic
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Dense, Atonal, Polyphonic, Polyrhythmic, Free Swing, Dynamic, Acoustic, Live, Fast
The Great Concert of Cecil Taylor Read More »
Style: Progressive Folk, Avant-Folk
Vibe: Brooding, Visceral, Witchy, Sombre, Forest, Intense, Driving, Passionate, Rebellious
Musical Qualities: Dynamic, Progressive, Experimental Vocals
Instrumentation: Organ, Electric Guitar, Percussion, Vocals
Catherine Ribeiro + Alpes – Ame debout Read More »
Style: American Primitivism, Singer/Songwriter, Folk, Raga?Vibe: Mystical, Nature, Open, Passionate, Pastoral, Peaceful, Airy, Contemplative, Earthy, Impressionistic, Meditative, Morning, Spring, Spiritual,
Musical Attributes: Acoustic, Indian-Influenced, Sparse, Technical
Robbie Basho – Visions of the Country Read More »
Style: Trip-Hop
Vibe: Noir, Brooding, Sensual, Passionate, Melancholy, Angsty, Sombre, Mysterious, Cinematic, Anxious, Sad, Dark
Musical Qualities: Orchestral, Live, Lush, Dense, Rhythmic, Sampling
Portishead – Roseland NYC Live Read More »
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 »
LP, Anti- Records, 2002 (2016, RE) Style: Gothic Americana, Alt-Country, Singer/Songwriter Vibe: Bittersweet, Rebellious, Haunting, Western, Passionate, Energetic, Longing, Anthemic, Breakup, Depressive, Heartfelt, Introspective, Twangy, Rustic, Sentimental
Neko Case – Blacklisted Read More »
Style: Jazz Fusion, Avant-Garde Jazz, Baião
Vibe: Warm, Passionate, Spiritual, Eclectic, Groovy, Energetic, Tropical, Psychedelic
Musical Qualities: Improvisation, Percussive, Polyrhythmic, Complex
Hermeto Pascoal – Slaves Mass Read More »
Style: Free Improvisation, Noise Rock, Free Rock
Vibe: Cathartic, Intense, Suspenseful, Hallucinogenic, Ritualistic, Heavy, Chaotic, Hypnotic, Primal, Energetic
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Noisy, Dynamic, Atonal, Dissonant, Fuzzy, Repetition
Style: Alt-Country, Americana, Singer/Songwriter
Vibe: Bittersweet, Warm, Angsty, Rustic, Heartfelt, Confident, Passionate, Twangy, Love, Breakup, Reflective, Sentimental, Lush, Rootsy
Instrumentation: Electric & Acoustic Guitar, Lap Steel & Pedal Steel Slide Guitars, Fiddle, Electric & Upright Basses, Drums, Vocal Harmonies, Banjo, Mandolin, Organ, Accordion
Neko Case – Furnace Room Lullaby Read More »
Style: Post-Hardcore, Art Rock, Folk-Influenced
Vibe: Spiritual, Poetic, Angsty, Introspective, Psychedelic, Energetic, Autumnal, Passionate, Sombre
Themes: Existential, Religious (Christian), Personal, Allegory, Symbolic, Philosophical
Musical Qualities: Spoken Word, Shouting, Groovy, Lush, Dense, Dynamic, Progressive
mewithoutYou – Brother, Sister Read More »
Style: Folk-Blues
Vibe: Spiritual, Brooding, Angsty, Longing, Passionate, Religious, Rustic, Depressive
Musical Attributes: Acoustic, Bluesy, Lo-fi, Solo
American Epic: The Best of Blind Willie Johnson Read More »
Style: Acid Rock, Electric Blues, Psychedelic Funk, Fuzz-Soul
Vibe: Bluesy, Passionate, Confident, Fuzzy, Nocturnal, Sensual, Stoned, Powerful, Groovy
Musical Qualities: Live Performance, Jams, Raw, Feedback, Technical, Improvisation, Rhythmic
Hendrix – Band of Gypsys Read More »
Style: Jazz-Folk, Singer/Songwriter
Vibe: Haunting, Passionate, Forest, Ethereal, Melancholy, Contemplative, Love, Lush
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Progressive, Improvisation
Beverly Glenn-Copeland Read More »
These guys are my favorite American Rock band. Every album they’ve released explores different sides of rock, folk, experimental and psychedelic music in such a natural, unforced way that my mind usually envisions them jamming by a campfire in the woods. What’s even better is I imagine I’m there with them singing along and worshipping the great creative spirit that inspires their music. There’s such an unpretentious, inclusive sense of community and spirituality in their music that I can’t help but feel welcomed and embraced into the family.
Akron/Family – Set Em Wild, Set Em Free Read More »
Style: Funk
Vibe: Gritty, Sexual, Raw, Powerful, Groovy, Passionate, Aggressive, Heavy, Energetic
Instrumentation: Vocals, Piano, Organ, Backup Singers, Electric Bass, Electric Guitar, Drums, Clavinet, Trumpet, Saxophones (A2)
Betty Davis – Betty Davis Read More »
Style: Free Folk, Psychedelic Electroacoustic Music, Post-Minimalism
Vibe: Forest, Ritualistic, Visceral, Hypnotic, Mystical
Musical Qualities: Loops, Electro-acoustic, Extended Techniques, Suite, Electro-Acoustic, Repetitive
Instrumentation: Flute, Cello, Saxophone, Keyboards, Vocals
Spires that in the Sunset Rise – Beasts in the Garden Read More »
Style: Progressive Pop, Baroque Pop
Vibe: Epic, Surreal, Haunting, Ethereal, Passionate, Dramatic, Dreamy, Romantic (LP1), Triumphant, Fantasy, Uplifting (LP1), Grandiose, Theatric, Brooding (LP2), Spacey (LP2)
Musical Qualities: Dense, Orchestral, Progressive, Polyphonic, Polished, Melodic, Rhythmic
Spellling – The Turning Wheel Read More »
Style: Post-Punk, Math Rock, Art Rock
Vibes/Moods: Alienation, Overstimulated, Anxious, Urban, Eccentric, Anthemic, Satirical, Dystopian, Angular, Chaotic, Colorful, Urban, Philosophical, Playful
Musical Qualities: Catchy, Dissonant, Riffs, Dynamic, Dense, Melodic, Rhythmic
Media Jeweler – The Sublime Sculpture of Being Alive Read More »
On this mournful offering, Cave’s poetic reflections on loss, longing, and loneliness slowly float down a river of gloomy synth drones, somber strings, and sparse piano. While not exactly uplifting, the album has a sense of peace and beauty that continues up through the repeating final refrain, “and it’s alright now”.
Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds – Skeleton Tree Read More »
Style: Progressive Rock, Jazz Rock, Symphonic Prog
Vibe: Alienation, Longing, Sentimental, Dramatic, Heartfelt, Cathartic, Introspective, Existential, Theatric, Lonely, Sad, Passionate, Epic
Musical Qualities: Technical, Progressive, Complex, Dynamic, Ballads
Instrumentation: Piano, Organ, Acoustic Guitar, Saxophones (Alto, Tenor, Baritone), Flute, Drums, Tympani, Electric Bass
Van Der Graaf Generator – H to He Who Am the Only One Read More »
Style: Afro-Caribbean Jazz, Spiritual Jazz
Vibe: Protest, Political, Intense, Propulsive, Conscious, Energetic, Groovy, Hypnotic, Passionate, Rebellious, Spiritual, Powerful, Tropical, Conceptual
Musical Qualities: Dense, Polyphonic, Rhythmic, Improvisation, Spoken Word, Percussive
Sons of Kemet – Your Queen Is a Reptile Read More »
Style: Avant-Garde Big Band, Spiritual Jazz, Vocal Jazz (A2)
Vibe: Spiritual, Communal, Epic, Passionate, Active Listening, Energetic, Religious, Triumphant
Musical Qualities: Polyphonic, Complex, Dense, Acoustic, Thematic, Improvisation, Melodic, Technical, Orchestral
Horace Tapscott & the Pan-Afrikan Peoples Arkestra – The Call Read More »
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 »
Style: Psychedelic Folk, Drone Rock
Vibe: Passionate, Hypnotic, Weary, Cathartic, Rootsy, Sorrowful
Musical Qualities: Repetitive, Driving, Droney, Dynamic
The Body & Big | Brave – Leaving None but Small Birds Read More »
Style: Soul-Jazz, Avant-Garde Big Band, Vocal Jazz
Vibe: Conscious, Communal, Political, Passionate, Poetic, Groovy, Lush
Musical Qualities: Suite, Orchestral, Improvisation, Rhythmic, Spoken Word
Archie Shepp – Attica Blues Read More »
Style: Art Pop, Experimental Electronic, Trip-Hop
Vibe: Somatic, Primal, Sensual, Passionate, Winter, Ancestral, Complex, Imaginative, Surreal, Heartfelt
Musical Qualities: A’Cappella, Choral Vocals, Experimental Vocals (Throat Singing, Beat Boxing, Manipulated Vocal Production), Studio-as-an-Instrument
Style: Roots Reggae, Dub
Vibe: Spiritual, Warm, Apocalyptic, Hypnotic, Groovy, Summer, Tropical, Religious, Passionate, Psychedelic, Peaceful, Soothing, Laid Back, Aquatic
Musical Qualities: Studio-as-an-Instrument, Rhythmic, Melodic, Lo-fi, Slow
The Congos – Heart of the Congos Read More »
Style: Progressive Bluegrass, Americana, Singer/Songwriter
Vibe: Energetic, Heartfelt, Rootsy, Communal, Passionate, Sunny, Warm
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Lyrical, Fast, Technical
Instrumentation: Mandolin, Fiddle, Acoustic Guitar, Percussion, Banjo, Upright Bass
Sturgill Simpson – Cuttin Grass – Vol. 2 (Cowboy Arms Sessions) Read More »
Style: English Folk, Celtic Folk
Vibe: Flowing, Pastoral, Melancholy, Heartfelt, Intimate, Rootsy, Storytelling
Musical Qualities: Sparse, Acoustic, A Cappella (A2, A5, B1-3, B5)
Anne Briggs – Anne Briggs Read More »
Style: Psychedelic Neo-Soul, Dream Funk, West Coast Hip-Hop
Vibe: Romantic, Summer, Playful, Warm, Catchy, Groovy, Sensual, Uplifting, Urban, Warm, Carefree, Dreamy, Joyful
Musical Qualities: Lush, Rhythmic, Polished, Sampling, Melodic
Anderson .Paak – Malibu Read More »
Style: American Primitvism, Ambient Blues, Solo Electric Guitar
Vibe: Meditative, Longing, Spiritual, Pastoral, Loose, Kinetic
Musical Qualities: Improvisation, Dissonance, Instrumental, Sparse
Bill Orcutt – Odds Against Tomorrow Read More »
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 »
Style: Jazz-Funk, Soul Jazz
Vibe: Conscious, Empathetic, Passionate, Groovy, Liberation, Political, Energetic, Warm, Bittersweet, Sunny
Musical Qualities: Percussive, Lush, Polished, Rhythmic, Lyrical, Improvised Sections
Gil Scott-Heron & Brian Jackson Read More »
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Southern Gothic, Chamber Punk, Slowcore, Folk Rock
Vibe: Depressive, Angsty, Triumphant, Moody, Introspective, Somber, Passionate, Sad, Cathartic
Musical Attributes: Dynamic, Raw
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitar, Electric Guitars, Upright Bass, Violin, Drums
Vic Chesnutt – At the Cut Read More »
Style: Wassoulou, Afro-Pop
Vibe: Groovy, Dance, Sunny, Upbeat, Passionate, Catchy, Hypnotic
Musical Qualities: Polyrhythmic, Percussive, Group Vocals, Technical
Nahawa Doumbia – Kanawa Read More »
