Coltrane live at Birdland
Style: Post-Bop
Moods: Passionate, Sentimental, Tender, Cathartic, Mournful, Energetic, Spiritual
Musical Qualities: Improvisation, Acoustic, Virtuosic, Instrumental
Coltrane live at Birdland Read More »
Piano
Helena Espvall & Masaki Batoh – Overloaded Ark
Style: Progressive Folk, Acid Folk, Psychedelic Chamber Music
Moods: Mysterious, Exploratory, Medieval, Mystical, Ancient, Brooding, Forest, Haunting, Serpentine, Ritualistic, Cinematic
Musical Qualities: Complex, Dense, Acoustic, Progressive, Percussive, Noisy, Improvisation
Instrumentation: Cello, Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Organ, Sho, Banjo, Renaissance Harp, Rauschpfeife, Crumhorn, Cornamuse, Hurdy Gurdy, Electronics, Darbuka, Riq, Frame Drum, Percussion, Recorder, Piano, Vocal Harmonies
Helena Espvall & Masaki Batoh – Overloaded Ark Read More »
Steve Gunn – Ancient Jules
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Folk-Rock, Heartland Rock
Moods: Breezy, Warm, Road Trip, Carefree, Sunny, Uplifting, Peaceful, Anthemic
Personnel:
Steve Gunn – Guitar, Vocals; Jim Elkington – Guitar, Dobro; John Truscinksi – Drums; Nathan Bowles – Percussion, Pian; Justin Tripp – Electric Bass; Jason Meagher – Electric Bass; Hans Chew – Wurlitzer
Steve Gunn – Ancient Jules Read More »
Joshua Burkett – Gold Cosmos
featuring PG Six, Chris Corsano, Ben Chasny, Dredd Foole, Matt Moran, Matt Valentine, etc
Style: Loner Folk, Free Folk, Lo-Fi Psych
Moods: Introspective, Surreal, Shadowy, Nocturnal, Intimate, Haunting, Whispery, Eerie, Imaginative, Loner, Psychedelic
Musical Qualities: Suite, Home Recording, Lo-Fi, Raw, Droney, Electro-Acoustic, Atmospheric, Dissonant
Joshua Burkett – Gold Cosmos Read More »
Mickey Newbury – Heaven Help the Child
Style: SInger-Songwriter, Progressive Country, Chamber Folk
Moods: Reflective, Longing, Heartbreak, Autumnal, Contemplative, Melancholy, Bittersweet, Sentimental, Heartfelt, Lonely, Rainy
Musical Qualities: Lush, Suite, Lyrical, Orchestral, Melodic
Mickey Newbury – Heaven Help the Child Read More »
Jackie-O Motherfucker – Bloom
“I am not me” the chorus sings repeatedly, a spell to dissolve the ego and deconstruct the myth of American individualism, leaving fertile ground for a collective vision of abundance to bloom. The open-door band of multi-instrumentalists shakily weave through a suite of haunting drone seances, raggedly tender folk sing-a-longs, liberated group improvisations and triumphant post-rock discord. Once again Jackie-O Motherfucker continues their forward march to a beautiful anarchic world without losing touch with its roots in the weird American underground.
Jackie-O Motherfucker – Bloom Read More »
Robert Wyatt – Ruth is Stranger Than Richard
Style: Canterbury Scene, Jazz-Rock, Progressive Pop
Moods: Surreal, Playful, Warm, Cryptic, Bittersweet, Eccentric, Imaginative, Meandering, Bright
Musical Qualities: Suite, Melodic, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Progressive, Experimental Vocals
Instrumentation: Piano, Trumpet, Vocals, Electric Bass, Saxophone, Bass Clarinet, Drums
Robert Wyatt – Ruth is Stranger Than Richard Read More »
Califone – Quicksand/Cradlesnakes
Style: Weird Americana, Country-Psych
Moods: Back-porch, Rustic, Cryptic, Surreal, Lethargic, Pastoral, Impressionistic, Autumnal, Eclectic, Hypnotic, Meandering, Rootsy, Twangy, Sunny
Musical Qualities: Electro-acoustic, Repetitive, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Loops, Percussive, Improvisation
Califone – Quicksand/Cradlesnakes Read More »
Emmylou Harris – Pieces of the Sky
Style: Country, Singer/Songwriter
Moods: Autumnal, Heartbreak, Longing, Sentimental, Tender, Rustic, Bittersweet, Introspective, Warm
Musical Qualities: Lush, Vocal Harmonies, Soft, Melodic
Emmylou Harris – Pieces of the Sky Read More »
Bill Callahan – YTILAER
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Americana
Moods: Contemplative, Existential, Nature, Poetic Lush, Pastoral, Warm, Peaceful, Romantic
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitar, Vocals, Piano, Drums, Electric Bass, Contra Alto Clarinet, Trumpet, Synthesizers
Bill Callahan – YTILAER Read More »
Seven Rivers of Fire – Way of the Pilgrim
“Way of the Pilgrim” unfolds as a 4-movement suite of dark acoustic summoning rituals, spiritually connected to a mystical lineage of wyrd-folk practitioners through the ages. That strangely familiar feeling of being lost in the woods, of venturing into the archetypal unknown, pervades the atmosphere right from the opening… [Click for full review]
Recommended if you dig Six Organs of Admittance, Fursaxa, Robbie Basho, Third Ear Band
Seven Rivers of Fire – Way of the Pilgrim Read More »
J.J. Cale – Troubadour
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Roots Rock, Americana
Moods: Confident, Sunny, Smooth, Warm, Carefree, Romantic, Sexual, Relaxed, Bluesy, Rootsy
Musical Qualities: Melodic, Groovy, Polished, Tight
J.J. Cale – Troubadour Read More »
Harold Land – A New Shade of Blue
Personnel & Instrumentation:
Harold Land, Tenor Saxophone; Bobby Hutcherson, Vibes; Buster Williams, Upright Bass; Bill Henderson, Piano & Electric Piano; Billy Hart, Drums; Mtume, Conga
Harold Land – A New Shade of Blue Read More »
P.G. Six – Parlor Tricks and Porch Favorites
Style: Loner Folk, Chamber Folk, heavily influenced by Celtic Folk & British Folk-Rock
Moods: Reflective, Intimate, Autumnal, Pastoral, Soothing, Melancholy, Medieval, Peaceful, Tender, Mournful, Meditative
Instrumentation: Celtic Harp, Acoustic & Electric Guitar, Piano, Frame Drum, Shakuhachi Flute, Farfisa Organ, Djembe, Dumbek, Tabla, Synthesizers
P.G. Six – Parlor Tricks and Porch Favorites 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 »
Makaya McCraven – In These Times
Featured Musicians: Jeff Parker, Junius Paul, Brandee Younger, Joel Ross, Marta Sofia Honer, etc
Styles: Orchestral Beat Music, Jazz Fusion, Spiritual Jazz
Mood: Spring, Cinematic, Warm, Uplifting, Spiritual, Groovy, Peaceful
Musical Qualities: Lush, Suite, Sampling, Rhythmic, Orchestral, Instrumental, Beats, Studio-as-an-Instrument
Makaya McCraven – In These Times Read More »
New Balance – More Love Hours Than Can Ever Be Repaid
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Folk Rock, Chamber Pop
Moods: Contemplative, Sunny, Poetic, Warm, Mellow, Soothing
Musical Qualities: Lush, Melodic, Lyrical
New Balance – More Love Hours Than Can Ever Be Repaid Read More »
Jeremiah Chiu & Marta Sofia Honer – Recordings from the Åland Islands
Style: Ambient, Electroacoustic, Impressionism, Nature Recordings, Ambient Jazz, Sound Collage
Moods: Ethereal, Soothing, Aquatic, Flowing, Peaceful, Exploratory, Airy, Intimate, Nature
Musical Qualities: Field Recordings, Vignettes, Loops, Collage, Electro-Acoustic, Atmospheric, Improvisation
Jeremiah Chiu & Marta Sofia Honer – Recordings from the Åland Islands 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 »
Daniel Rossen – You Belong There
Style: Progressive Chamber-Folk
Moods: Imaginative, Reflective, Cryptic, Evocative, Cathartic, Sombre, Introspective, Haunting, Dreamy, Poetic, Surreal, Ethereal
Musical Qualities: Lush, Progressive, Acoustic, Dense, Technical, Polished
Instrumentation: Nylon Guitar, Piano, Drums, Bassoon, Upright Bass, Cello, Synthesizer
Daniel Rossen – You Belong There Read More »
Beth Orton – Weather Alive
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Chamber-Jazz, Ambient Pop
Moods: Reflective, Existential, Autumnal, Languid, Pensive, Soothing, Peaceful, Nature, Tender, Mellow, Contemplative
Musical Qualities: Lush, Slow, Polished, Atmospheric
Featuring Shahzad Ismaily, Tom Skinner, Alabaster dePlume, and more
Beth Orton – Weather Alive Read More »
Sun Ra – Nothing Is…
Style: Cosmic Jazz, Free Space Music
Feelings: Exploratory, Cosmic, Forest, Mysterious, Abstract, Intense, Energetic, Spacey, Surreal, Warm
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Acoustic, Polyphonic, Dense, Live Performance, Dissonant, Complex, Dynamic
Sun Ra – Nothing Is… Read More »
John Coltrane & Pharoah Sanders – Live in Seattle
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 »
Joan Shelley – Over and Even
Style: Folk, Singer/Songwriter
Vibe: Morning, Reflective, Soothing, Gentle, Bittersweet, Warm, Mellow, Contemplative
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Lush, Soft, Vocal Harmonies, Melodic, Sparse, Polished Production
Instrumentation: Fingerstyle Acoustic Guitar, Banjo, Piano, Harmonium, Glockenspiel, Keyboards
Joan Shelley – Over and Even Read More »
George Duke – The Inner Source
Style: Jazz Fusion, Cosmic Jazz-Funk
Vibe: Spacey, Sunny, Warm, Spiritual, Uplifting
Musical Qualities: Improvisation, Groovy, Instrumental, Melodic
George Duke – The Inner Source Read More »
Alan Braufman – Live in New York City, February 8, 1975
Style: Spiritual Jazz
Vibe: Communal, Ritualistic, Triumphant, Adventure, Searching, Devotional, Spiritual, Hypnotic, Epic
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Acoustic Instrumentation, Progressive Structures, Thematic, Polyrhythmic, Percussive, Dense, Complex, Suite, Live Recording, Chant
Alan Braufman – Live in New York City, February 8, 1975 Read More »
Charles Mingus – Mingus Mingus Mingus Mingus Mingus
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 »
Hiss Golden Messenger / Michael Chapman – Parallelogram
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 »
Dirty Three – Ocean Songs
Style: Chamber Rock, Slowcore, Post-Rock
Vibe: Aquatic, Melancholy, Flowing, Patient, Soothing, Meditative, Longing, Lonely, Dreamy, Mellow, Lethargic
Musical Qualities: Atmospheric, Loose, Soft, Instrumental, Loops, Improvisation
Instrumentation: Violin, Drums, Electric Guitar, Loops, Melodica, Piano, Harmonica
Dirty Three – Ocean Songs Read More »
Matana Roberts / Pat Thomas – The Truth
Style: Free Jazz
Vibe: Spiritual, Conversational, Searching, Abstract, Intertwined
Musical Qualities: Duo Improvisation, Dynamic, Instrumental, Acoustic, Loose, Live Recording, Repetition, Dissonant, Improvised Minimalism
Matana Roberts / Pat Thomas – The Truth Read More »
Kahil El’Zabar’s Ethnic Heritage Ensemble – America the Beautiful
Vibe: Anthemic, Communal, Uplifting, Colorful, Celebratory, Spiritual, Mournful, Healing, Bittersweet
Musical Qualities: Improvisation, Thematic, Percussive, Acoustic, Lush, Instrumental
Instrumentation: Percussion, Drums, Trumpet, Keyboard, Piano, Cello, Upright Bass, Violin, Baritone Saxophone, Alto Saxophone, Flute, String Quartet
Style: Spiritual Jazz
Kahil El’Zabar’s Ethnic Heritage Ensemble – America the Beautiful Read More »
Marion Brown – Afternoon of a Georgia Faun
featuring Chick Corea, Anthony Braxton, Bennie Maupin, Andrew Cyrille, etc…
Style: Modern Creative, Avant-Garde Jazz
Vibe: Mysterious, Suspenseful, Nature, Abstract, Surreal, Kinetic, Visceral, Earthy, Swirling, Pastoral (Side A)
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Dynamic, Sparse, Acoustic, Atonal, Experimental Vocals, Extended Techniques, Dissonant, Percussive, Homemade Instrument
Marion Brown – Afternoon of a Georgia Faun Read More »
Coltrane “LIVE” at the Village Vanguard
Style: Spiritual Jazz, Modal Jazz, Post-Bop
Vibe: Searching, Communicative, Passionate, Bustling, Driving
Musical Qualities: Modal, Improvisation, Acoustic, Live Recording, Technical, Thematic, Dense
Coltrane “LIVE” at the Village Vanguard Read More »
Sathima Bea Benjamin – Windsong
Personnel: Sathima Bea Benjamin – Vocals; Kenny Barron – Piano; Buster Williams – Upright Bass; Billy Higgins – Drums
Style: Vocal Jazz, Spiritual Jazz, Ballads, Traditional
Vibe: Healing, Flowing, Warm, Airy, Spiritual, Soothing, Sombre, Heartfelt, Elegant, Uplifting, Bittersweet, Intimate, Morning, Peaceful, Reflective, Rootsy, Sentimental,
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Soft, Improvisation, Slow, Polished, Lyrical, Lush
Sathima Bea Benjamin – Windsong Read More »
Modern Nature – Island of Noise
Style: Chamber Pop, Post-Rock, Chamber Jazz, Singer/Songwriter
Vibe: Reflective, Warm, Intertwined, Nature, Breezy, Spiritual, Morning, Apocalyptic, Uplifting
Musical Qualities: Lush, Soft, Suite, Melodic
Instrumentation: Vocals, Soprano Saxophone, Piano, Trumpet, Upright Bass, Electric Guitar, Drums, Cello, Reed Organ, Viola, Alto Saxophone, Bass Clarinet
Modern Nature – Island of Noise Read More »
John Coltrane – Concert in Japan
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 »
Kuumba-Toudie Heath – Kawaida
Style: Spiritual Jazz, Modal Jazz, Post-Bop
Vibe: Self-Determination, Communal, Triumphant, Spiritual, Devotional, Uplifting, Conscious, Warm
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Lush, Rhythmic, Acoustic, Thematic, Modal, Spoken Word, Percussive
Kuumba-Toudie Heath – Kawaida Read More »
Magnolia Electric Co. – Josephine
While Magnolia Electric Co’s final record is still tinged with the weariness & melancholy that pervades all of Jason Molina’s previous work, Josephine also feels imbued with vital life force, bittersweet romance, and hopefulness that make it uplifting despite the odds.
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Recommended if you dig dobro & lap steel, ditch-trilogy Neil young, and autumnal contemplation
Magnolia Electric Co. – Josephine Read More »
John Coltrane – Sun Ship
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 »
Sam Amidon – Sam Amidon
Style: Dream Folk, Jazz-Folk, Warped Americana
Vibes: Warm Melancholy, Springtime Reflection, Rootsy, Early Afternoons in the Garden, Dreamy, Intertwined, Heartfelt
Musical Qualities: Lush; Improvised Arrangements; Studio-as-an-Instrument, Melodic, Vocal Fx
Instrumentation: Banjo, Saxophone, Acoustic Guitar, Percussion, Flute, Acoustic Bass, Synthesizers, Piano
Sam Amidon – Sam Amidon Read More »
Smog – Red Apple Falls
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Americana, Slowcore, Alt-Country, Loner Folk
Vibe: Existential, Warm, Morning, Spiritual, Deadpan, Peaceful, Poetic, Introspective, Lonely, Melancholy, Mellow, Contemplative, Intimate
Musical Qualities: Slow, Lo-fi, Lush, Soft, Sparse, Lyrical
Instrumentation: Pedal Steel, Piano, Hammond Organ, Guitar, Trumpet, Drums, Drum Machine, Hurdy Gurdy, French Horn
Smog – Red Apple Falls Read More »
Hardin & Russell – Ring of Bone
Style: Country, Folk
Vibes: Melancholy, Desert, Western, Sombre, Lonely, Sad, Breezy, Peaceful, Dreamy
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Vocal Harmonies, Lush
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitar, Vocals, Harmonica, Dobro, Piano, Fiddle, Trombone, Saxophone, Sousaphone, Trumpet, Flute, Congas, Electric Bass
Hardin & Russell – Ring of Bone Read More »
Miles Davis – Sorcerer
Style: Post-Bop, Modal Jazz
Vibe: Mysterious, Driving, Nocturnal, Complex, Anxious, Intertwined, Sensual, Energetic
Musical Qualities: Improvisation, Modal, Acoustic, Instrumental (except B3)
Personnel:
Miles Davis – Trumpet; Herbie Hancock – Piano; Ron Carter; Upright Bass; Tony Williams – Drums; Wayne Shorter – Saxophone
Miles Davis – Sorcerer Read More »
Eli Keszler – Stadium
Style: EAI (electroacoustic improvisation), Future Jazz
Vibe: Futuristic, Kinetic, Urban, Abstract, Impressionistic, Meditative, Suspenseful, Mysterious, Complex
Musical Qualities: Percussive, Electroacoustic, Polyrhythmic, Field Recordings, Instrumental, Improvisation (Solo), Odd Time Signatures, Studio-as-an-Instrument
Eli Keszler – Stadium Read More »
Leonard Cohen – New Skin for the Old Ceremony
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Chamber Folk
Vibe: Poetic, Bittersweet, Conversational, Sexual, Dry Humor, Brooding, Melancholy, Longing, Tender, Introspective, Breakup
Musical Qualities: Lush, Lyrical, Groovy, Dynamic
Instrumentation: Electric Bass, Piano, Acoustic Guitar, Backup Vocalists, Trombone, Jaw Harp, Woodwinds, Strings, Banjo, Mandolin, Trumpet, Drums, Percussion, Keyboards
Leonard Cohen – New Skin for the Old Ceremony 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 »
Hermeto Pascoal – Slaves Mass
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 »
Angel Bad Dawid – Transition East
Style: Organic Beat Music, Spiritual Jazz, Cosmic Folk
Vibe: Intertwined, Hypnotic, Earthy, Warm, Spiritual, Cosmic
Musical Qualities: Polyrhythmic, Percussive, Acoustic, Improvisation, Electro-Acoustic, Beats
Instrumentation: Clarinet, Keyboards, Piano, Drum Machine, Percussion, Cornet, Upright Bass, Pocket Trumpet
Angel Bad Dawid – Transition East Read More »
Hiss Golden Messenger – Terms of Surrender
Vibe: Contemplative, Tender, Soothing, Warm, Bittersweet, Rustic, Open, Pastoral, Light
Themes: Family, Existential, Spirituality, Love
Musical Qualities: Soft, Melodic, Vocal Harmonies, Atmospheric Production, Lyrical
Instrumentation: Vocals, Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Banjo, Piano, Organ, Harmonica, Mandolin Synthesizer, Electric Bass, Lap Steel Slide Guitar, Omnichord, Drums, Percussion
Hiss Golden Messenger – Terms of Surrender Read More »
Jack DeJohnette – Have You Heard?
Recorded in Tokyo with regular collaborators Gary Peacock and Benny Maupin, plus amazing local pianist Hideo Ichikawa, “Have You Heard?” is an interesting & exploratory record from master drummer Jack DeJohnette. Two shorter cuts of nocturnal modal-jazz bookend a pair of longer, abstract pieces that recall the “modern creative” improvisations coming out of Chicago.
Recommended for fans of Miles Davis’ Nefertiti as well as the works of Art Ensemble of Chicago
Jack DeJohnette – Have You Heard? Read More »
Eiko Ishibashi – Imitation of Life
Style: Chamber Pop, Prog-Pop, Jazz Pop, Singer-Songwriter
Vibe: Lush, Warm, Sunny, Sci-Fi, Playful, Philosophical, Surreal, Energetic, Imaginative
Musical Qualities: Progressive, Dense, Catchy, Complex, Melodic, Dense, Technical, Rhythmic
Instrumentation: Piano, Vibraphone, Drums, Flute, Rhodes, Electric & Acoustic Bass, Saxophone, Clarinet, Violin, Cello , Synthesizers, Steel Drum, French Horn
Eiko Ishibashi – Imitation of Life Read More »
Betty Davis – Betty Davis
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 »
Don Cherry – Organic Music Society
Style: World Fusion, Spiritual Jazz, Avant-Folk
Influences: Raga, Brazilian Folk, Minimalism, Turkish Folk, African Music
Vibe: Utopian, Communal, Spiritual, Warm, Hindu, Hypnotic, Colorful, Meditative, Sunny, Uplifting, Peaceful
Musical Qualities: Repetitive, Percussive, Acoustic, Polyrhythmic
Don Cherry – Organic Music Society Read More »
Pelt – Reticence / Resistance
Style: Psychedelic Drone, Free Folk
Vibe: Ritualistic, Hypnotic, Cathartic, Earthy, Psychedelic, Communal
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Drone, Improvisation, Live, Dissonant, Instrumental, Dynamic
Instrumentation: Piano, Fiddle, Harmonium, Gong, Bells, Singing Bowl, Percussion, Banjo
Pelt – Reticence / Resistance Read More »
Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds – Skeleton Tree
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 »
Van Der Graaf Generator – H to He Who Am the Only One
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 »
Carlos Niño & Friends – More Energy Fields, Current
Featuring Laraaji, Shabaka Hutching, Sam Gendel, Jamire Williams, Aaron Shaw, Sharada, Jamael Dean, Nate Mercereau, Jira ><, Adam Rudolph, Devin Daniels
Style: Ambient Jazz, Ambient Beats, New Age
Vibe: Healing, Airy, Soothing, Woozy, Peaceful, Hypnotic, Aquatic, Communal, Spiritual
Musical Qualities: Atmospheric, Improvisation, Beats, Sampling, Sound Sculpture, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Field Recordings
Carlos Niño & Friends – More Energy Fields, Current Read More »
Grant Green – Idle Moments
Style: Modal Jazz, Hard Bop
Vibe: Elegant, Nocturnal, Mellow, Soothing, Straight Ahead
Musical Qualities: Instrumental, Improvisation, Technical, Modal
Grant Green – Idle Moments Read More »
Popol Vuh – Hosianna Mantra
Style: Ecstatic Chamber Music, Kosmische, Neoclassical New Age
Vibe: Spiritual, Ethereal, Mystical, Meditative, Mysterious, Soothing, Peaceful, Mellow, Ritualistic, Sentimental, Religious (Christian), Pastoral
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Lush, Chamber Arrangements, Atmospheric, Melodic, Suite
Instrumentation: Harpsichord, Piano, Electric Guitar, Oboe, Tanpura, Hymnal Vocals, Violin
Popol Vuh – Hosianna Mantra Read More »
Horace Tapscott & the Pan-Afrikan Peoples Arkestra – The Call
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 »
Archie Shepp – Attica Blues
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 »
John Martyn – Inside Out
Style: Jazz-Folk, Singer-Songwriter, Psychedelic Folk-Rock
Vibe: Romantic, Warm, Cryptic, Reflective, Passionate, Heartfelt, Lethargic, Stoned, Sunny
Musical Qualities: Lyrical, Melodic, Improvisation
John Martyn – Inside Out Read More »
Jerry David Decicca – Understanding Land
Style: Americana, Singer/Songwriter, Folk
Vibe: Peaceful, Rustic, Deadpan, Mellow, Lethargic, Nature, Warm, Morning
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Slow, Vocal Harmonies, Lush, Simple
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitar, Piano, Lap Steel & Pedal Steel Guitars, Strings, Upright Bass, Vibraphone, Tabla, Bongos
Jerry David Decicca – Understanding Land Read More »
Fletcher Tucker – Unlit Trail
Style: Ritual Folk, Drone
Vibe: Ancient, Forest, Meditative, Ritualistic, Intimate, Devotional, Earthy, Nature, Autumnal, Contemplative
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Field Recordings, Drone, Atmospheric, Sparse, Suite
Fletcher Tucker – Unlit Trail Read More »
Aquiles Navarro & Tcheser Holmes
Style: Future Jazz, Avant-Garde Jazz
Vibe: History, Collage, Futuristic, Eclectic, Complex
Musical Qualities: Improvisation, Percussive, Electro-Acoustic, Spoken Word, Suite
Aquiles Navarro & Tcheser Holmes Read More »
David Grubbs – Rickets & Scurvy
Styles: Singer/Songwriter, Folk Rock, Post-Rock
Vibe: Deadpan, Ambiguous, Warm, Contemplative, Philosophical, Cryptic, Autumnal
David Grubbs – Rickets & Scurvy Read More »
King Crimson – Islands
Style: Progressive Rock, Jazz-Rock, Chamber Music
Vibe: Pastoral, Mythical, Mysterious, Epic, Bombastic, Mellow, Aquatic, Dreamy
Musical Qualities: Dynamic, Progressive, Complex, Improvisation, Uncommon Time Signatures
Instrumentation: Electric Guitar, Mellotron, Saxophones, Flute, Piano, Drums, Electric Bass, Upright Bass, Cornet, Oboe
King Crimson – Islands Read More »
Embryo – We Keep On
Style: Jazz-Rock, Prog, Kosmische, Psychedelic Jazz, Space Rock
Vibe: Exploratory, Triumphant, Adventurous, Cosmic, Epic, Groovy, Spacey, Playful, Psychedelic
Musical Qualities: Polyphonic, Complex, Improvisation, Percussive, Polyrhythmic, Progressive, Raga, Technical
Instrumentation: Saxophones (Soprano & Alto), Flutes, Nadaswaram, Mallet Percussion (Vibraphone, Marimba, Hammered Dulcimer), Electric Guitar, Electric Bass, Drums, Percussion, Saz, Keyboards (Piano, Fender Rhodes, Clavinet)
Embryo – We Keep On Read More »
Ilyas Ahmed & Jefre Cantu-Ledesma – You Can See Your Own Way Out
Style: Drone, Tape Music, Ambient, Drone-Folk
Vibe: Nocturnal, Haunting, Hypnotic, Ethereal, Meditative, Warm, Nature, Nostalgia
Musical Qualities: Sound Collage, Instrumental, Field Recordings, Collage, Electro-Acoustic, Noisy, Home Recording, Vignettes
Instrumentation: Tapes, Acoustic & Electric Guitars, Piano, Drum Machine, Synthesizers, Bass, Keyboard, Percussion, Bass Clarinet (B2)
Ilyas Ahmed & Jefre Cantu-Ledesma – You Can See Your Own Way Out Read More »
Meg Baird – Don’t Weight Down the Light
Style: Psychedelic Folk, Singer/Songwriter
Vibe: Flowing, Dreamy, Nocturnal, Mellow, Soothing, Introspective, Haunting, Pastoral, Airy, Ethereal, Intimate Bittersweet, Melancholy, Contemplative, Loner, Peaceful, Soft
Musical Qualities: Vocal Harmonies, Acoustic, Lush, Melodic, Sparse, Reverb
Meg Baird – Don’t Weight Down the Light Read More »
Anthony Braxton – In the Tradition
Style: Post-Bop
Vibe: Joyful, Energized, Driving, Rootsy
Musical Qualities: Melodic, Improvisation, Acoustic, Technical
Anthony Braxton – In the Tradition 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 »
Cecil Taylor / Buell Neidlinger – New York City R&B
Style: Free-Bop, Avant-Jazz
Vibe: Jubilant, Kinetic, Energetic, Abstract, Chaotic, Rootsy
Musical Attributes: Improvisation, Acoustic, Polyphonic, Complex, Live
Cecil Taylor / Buell Neidlinger – New York City R&B Read More »
Peter Hammill – The Silent Corner and the Empty Stage
Style: Progressive Songwriter, Art Rock
Vibe: Dramatic, Intimate, Longing, Existential, Theatric, Lonely, Alienation, Ambitious
Musical Qualities: Dynamic, Complex, Progressive, Studio-as-an-Instrument
Instrumentation: Piano, Vocals, Guitars (Acoustic & Electric), Organ, Horns, Flute, Keyboards, Saxophone, Flute, Drums, Mellotron
Peter Hammill – The Silent Corner and the Empty Stage Read More »
Califone – Heron King Blues [Deluxe]
Style: New Weird Americana, Warped Folk Rock, Psych Folk
Vibe: Twangy, Cryptic, Mythic, Surreal, Mysterious, Rustic, Mellow, Warm, Rootsy
Musical Qualities: Percussive, Loops, Electro-Acoustic, Rhythmic, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Improvisation
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitar, Banjo, Percussion, Organ, Piano, Vocals, Electronics, Cello, Electric Guitar, Pump Organ, Bass
Califone – Heron King Blues [Deluxe] Read More »
Neil Young – Tonight’s the Night
Style: Country-Rock, Singer/Songwriter
Vibe: Raw, Heartfelt, Sentimental, Mourning, Drunk, Reflective
Musical Qualities: Loose, Vocal Harmonies
Neil Young – Tonight’s the Night Read More »
Mark Hollis – Mark Hollis
Style: Singer/Songwriter, Ambient Chamber Jazz, Post-Rock
Vibe: Peaceful, Intimate, Introspective, Spiritual, Reflective, Meditative, Melancholy, Mellow, Sentimental, Ethereal, Autumnal
Musical Qualities: Soft, Sparse, Acoustic, Atmospheric
Instrumentation: Voice, Bassoon, Clarinet, Piano, Upright Bass, Flute, Trumpet, Guitar
Mark Hollis – Mark Hollis Read More »
Christian Scott Atunde Adjuah – Ancestral Recall
Style: Organic Beat Music, Spiritual Jazz, Cybernetic Jazz, Progressive Jazz
Vibe: Ritualistic, Triumphant, Poetic, Tribal, Afro-Futurism, Epic, Moody, Earthy
Musical Qualities: Beats, Structured Improvisation, Polyrhythmic, Progressive, Percussive
Christian Scott Atunde Adjuah – Ancestral Recall Read More »
Gil Scott-Heron – Pieces of a Man
Style: Soul Jazz, Singer/Songwriter, Jazz-Funk
Vibe: Conscious, Bittersweet, Political, Uplifting, Sunny, Warm, Urban, Sombre, Poetic, Contemplative, Observant, Passionate, Determined, Confident
Musical Qualities: Groovy, Lush, Spoken Word, Technical
Gil Scott-Heron – Pieces of a Man Read More »
Eberhard Weber’s Colours – Silent Feet
Style: Chamber Jazz, ECM Jazz
Vibe: Impressionistic, Peaceful, Lush, Triumphant, Climactic, Open, Airy, Bright
Musical Attributes: Progressive, Acoustic, Instrumental, Melodic, Improvisation (Structured, Chordal), Dynamic, Technical
Instrumentation: Upright Bass, Soprano Sax, Piano, Drums
Eberhard Weber’s Colours – Silent Feet Read More »
Mulatu Astatke – Timeless
Style: Ethio-Jazz, Afro-Cuban Jazz, Jazz Funk
Vibe: Serpentine, Groovy, Warm, Mysterious, Lush
Musical Attributes: Live, Rhythmic, Improvisation, Live, Percussive, Technical
Mulatu Astatke – Timeless Read More »
Gastr Del Sol – Camofleur
Style: Post-Rock, Avant-Rock, Experimental Singer/Songwriter, Chamber-Folk
Vibe: Cryptic, Warm, Cerebral, Spring, Exploratory, Eclectic, Melancholy
Musical Attributes: Odd Time Signatures, Progressive Structures, Melodic
Gastr Del Sol – Camofleur Read More »
Robert Wyatt – Shleep
Style: Surreal Pop, Imaginative Singer/Songwriter, Prog-Pop, Canterbury Scene
Vibe: Dreamy, Ethereal, Airy, Floating, Surreal, Eclectic, Introspective, Complex, Mellow, Imaginative, Atmospheric
Musical Attributes: Progressive, Melodic, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Active listening, Jazz-Influenced
Robert Wyatt – Shleep Read More »
Califone – Roomsound
Style: New Weird Americana??Vibe: Bluesy, Contemplative, Earthy, Morning, Pastoral, Rootsy, Rustic, Psychedelic, Warm??Musical Attributes: Acoustic, Percussive, Rhythmic, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Electronics
Califone – Roomsound 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 »
Yves Jarvis – The Same but by Different Means
Style: Psychedelic Gospel Folk, Bedroom Soul, Experimental Singer/Songwriter
Vibe: Woozy, Imaginative, Cryptic, Warm, Ethereal, Stoned
Musical Attributes: Lo-fi, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Vocal Harmonies, Vocal Manipulation, Eclectic, Collage
Yves Jarvis – The Same but by Different Means Read More »
The Awakening – Hear, Sense and Feel
Style: Soul Jazz, Spiritual Jazz
Vibe: Uplifting, Joyful, Anthemic, Communal, Groovy, Spiritual, Spring
Musical Attributes: Complex, Improvisation (Chordal), Rhythmic, Technical, Thematic
Instrumentation: Piano, Upright Bass, Trumpet, Saxophone (Tenor), Flute, Drums, Trombone
The Awakening – Hear, Sense and Feel Read More »
Michael White – Spirit Dance
Style: Spiritual Jazz
Vibe: Cosmic, Passionate, Spiritual, Uplifting
Musical Attributes: Acoustic, Improvisation (Thematic & Collective), Loose, Percussive
Michael White – Spirit Dance Read More »
Califone – All My Friends Are Funeral Singers
Style: New Weird America, Alt-Country, Psychedelic Americana, Chamber Folk
Vibe: Rustic, Rootsy, Bittersweet, Psychedelic
Musical Attributes: Chamber, Percussive, Studio-as-an-instrument, Rhythmic, Electro-Acoustic, Loops
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitar, Banjo, Vocals, Keyboards, Synthesizer, Fiddle, Mallet Percussion, Horns, Electronic Percussion, Upright Bass, Electric Bass, Piano
Califone – All My Friends Are Funeral Singers Read More »
Pharoah Sanders – Live at the East
Style: Spiritual Jazz, Free Jazz
Vibe: Ritualistic, Spiritual, Triumphant, Uplifting, Warm, Cathartic, Communal, Cosmic, Energetic, Intense, Passionate
Musical Attributes: Collective Improvisation, Acoustic, Live, Polyphonic, Percussive, Multiple Drummers
Pharoah Sanders – Live at the East Read More »
Rob Mazurek’s Exploding Star Orchestra – Dimensional Stardust
Style: Avant-Garde Jazz, Experimental Big Band
Vibe: Cosmic, Energetic, Passionate, Colorful
Musical Attributes: Complex, Dynamic, Progressive, Suite, Polyrhythmic, Spoken Word
Rob Mazurek’s Exploding Star Orchestra – Dimensional Stardust Read More »
Luke Stewart – Exposure Quintet
with Ken Vandermark, Jim Baker, Avreeayl Ra & Edward L. Wilkerson, Jr.
Style: Free Jazz
Vibes: Powerful, Ritualistic, Abstract, Communal, Responsive, Mysterious, Spiritual, Suspenseful, Adventurous
Musical Attributes: Acoustic, Complex, Collective Improvisation, Thematic, Live, Ostinato
Luke Stewart – Exposure Quintet Read More »
Charles Mingus – The Great Concert of Charles Mingus
Format: LPx3
Style: Post-Bop, Avant-Garde Jazz
Vibe: Bombastic, Passionate, Energetic, Intense, Manic, Playful
Musical Attributes: Complex, Dynamic, Live, Improvisation, Acoustic, Instrumental, Polyphonic, Progressive, Rhythmic
Charles Mingus – The Great Concert of Charles Mingus Read More »
John Surman, John McLaughlin, Dave Holland, Karl Berger, Stu Martin – Where Fortune Smiles
Style: Free Jazz, Avant-Garde Jazz
Vibe: Triumphant, Energetic, Epic, Exploratory, Loose, Spiritual, Suspenseful, Angular, Chaotic
Musical Attributes: Polyphonic, Progressive, Complex, Dissonant, Dynamic, Technical, Acoustic, Improvisation (Collective, Thematic), Instrumental
Doug Carn – Spirit of the New Land
Style: Spiritual Jazz, Black Liberation Music, Vocal Jazz
Vibe: Triumphant, Uplifting, Conscious, Groovy, Passionate, Poetic, Cathartic, Spiritual
Musical Attributes: Improvisation, Dynamic, Acoustic, Progressive, Rhythmic, Technical, Melodic, Complex
Doug Carn – Spirit of the New Land Read More »
Sixteen Horsepower – Folklore
Style: Gothic Country, Americana, Chamber Folk?Vibe: Rustic, Sombre, Murky, Rootsy, Ominous, Loner, Western, Melancholy, Moody, Dark?Musical Attributes: Acoustic Instrumentation (Banjo, Upright Bass, Cello, Acoustic Guitar, Accordion, Piano), Atmospheric, Droney, Slow, Lyrical?Lyrical Themes: Alienation, Religious, Christian, Storytelling
Sixteen Horsepower – Folklore Read More »
Lonnie Holley – Mith
Style: Experimental Singer-Songwriter, Soul Blues, Psychedelic Soul
Vibe: Imaginative, Bluesy, Cathartic, Conscious, Cosmic, Spiritual, Heartfelt, Passionate, Psychedelic, Rootsy, Bittersweet, Poetic
Lyrical Themes: Existential, Afro-Futurism, History, Racism, Reflective
Musical Attributes: Atmospheric, Lyrical, Improvisation, Raw, Studio-as-an-Instrument
Instrumentation: Vocals, Piano, Synthesizers, Keyboards, Saxophone, Trombone, Percussion
Lonnie Holley – Mith Read More »
Sunburned Hand of the Man – Fire Escape
The free-form psychedelia and tribal “group therapy” of Sunburned Hand of the Man are in great hands with producer Kieran Hebden (Four Tet)—his dubs and cuts transform their usually lo-fi, meandering jams into something much more immediate, without losing any of their exploratory and spontaneous energy. Recommended for fans of polyrhythmic Afro-inspired percussion, dubbed out production, communal sound rituals, and dense psychedelia.
Sunburned Hand of the Man – Fire Escape Read More »
Cecil Taylor – Silent Tongues
Style: Free Jazz, Solo Piano, Free Improvisation
Vibe: Abstract, Complex, Energetic, Intense, Expressive, Exploratory
Musical Attributes: Piano, Solo, Live, Improvisation, Acoustic, Suite, Percussive, Dynamic
Cecil Taylor – Silent Tongues Read More »