Style: Spiritual Jazz, Avant-Garde Jazz
Moods: Ecstatic, Intense, Energetic, Kinetic, Passionate, Mysterious, Triumphant, Chaotic, Spiritual
Musical Qualities: Dynamic, Dissonant, Complex, Acoustic, Collective Improvisation, Instrumental
Personnel:
Dewey Redman – Tenor Saxophone, Clarinet, Zither; Sirone – Upright Bass; Eddie Moore – Drums, Tympani, Idiophone (Bowed & Struck); Leroy Jenkins – Violin; Ted Daniel – Trumpet
Dewey Redman – Coincide 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 »
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 »
Style: Ritual Folk, Experimental Songwriter
Mood: Nocturnal, Ritualistic, Shadowy, Occult, Dark, Alchemical, Mystical, Sombre, Funereal
Musical Qualities: Slow, Microtonal, Droney, Lyrical, Dissonant, Acoustic
Jaköb Battick & Tongue Depressor – Raise the Dead Read More »
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 »
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 »
Styles: Chamber Drone, Electro-Acoustic, Free Improvisation, Post-Rock
Moods: Apocalyptic, Sombre, Cathartic, Nature, Exploratory, Spiritual, Angsty, Anthemic, Aquatic, Brooding, cathartic, Heartfelt, Mournful, Spiritual
Musical Qualities: Improvisation, Droney, Electro-Acoustic, Thematic, Repetitive, Loops, Fuzzy
Jessica Moss – Galaxy Heart Read More »
Style: Cyber-Jazz, Progressive Electronic, Jazz Fission
Vibe: Futuristic, Colorful, Abstract, Playful
Musical Qualities: Polyphonic, Complex, Improvisation, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Progressive, Sampling
Joyfultalk – Familiar Science Read More »
Style: Post-Bop
Moods: Elegant, Intertwined, Airy, Longing, Responsive, Tender, Peaceful, Communal
Musical Qualities: Ballads, Improvisation, Thematic, Acoustic, Melodic, Complex
Instrumentation: Upright Bass, Tenor Saxophone, Electric Guitar, Drums
Joshua Abrams’ Cloud Script Read More »
Style: Art Pop, Spiritual Jazz, Dub Poetry, Collage Pop
Moods: Triumphant, Conversational, Uplifting, Conscious, Communal, Heartfelt, Passionate, Hypnotic, Intertwined, Intimate, Intricate, Playful, Rebellious, Love, Poetic, Reflective, Soothing, Spiritual, Warm,
Musical Qualities: Suite, Improvisation, Analogue Recording, Tape Edits, Dub Production, Sound Collage, Thematic, Polished, Catchy
Instrumentation: Saxophone, Spoken Word, Upright Bass, Drums, Group Vocals, Tabla, Synthesizers, Percussion, Guitar, Cello
Alabaster DePlume – GOLD Read More »
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 »
Style: Avant-Garde Jazz, Post-Bop, Chamber Jazz, Prog
Moods: Adventurous, Enigmatic, Triumphant, Knotty, Ambitious, Intertwined, Cerebral, Angular, Surreal, Off-Kilter
Musical Qualities: Polyphonic, Thematic Improvisation, Progressive Structures, Uncommon Time Signature, Instrumental, Intertwined, Lush. Technical
Mary Halvorson – Amaryllis & Belladonna Read More »
Style: Atmospheric Jazz, Post-Minimalism
Moods: Nocturnal, Suspenseful, Motorik, Western, Desert, Cinematic, Hypnotic
Musical Qualities: Repetitive, Electroacoustic, Rhythmic, Instrumental
Instrumentation: Upright Bass, Electric Guitar, Drums
Oren Ambarchi / Johan Berthling / Andres Werliin – Ghosted Read More »
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 »
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 »
Featuring Collin Walcott – Sitar, Tabla; Jack DeJohnette – Drums; Dave Holland – Upright Bass; John Abercrombie – Guitars
Collin Walcott – Cloud Dance Read More »
Style: Kosmische Jazz, Progressive Electronic, New Age
Vibe: Healing, Cosmic, Warm, Ethereal, Colorful, Uplifting, Spiritual, Exploratory, Heartfelt, Soothing
Musical Qualities: Improvisation, Repetitive, Studio-as-an-Instrument, Atmospheric, Instrumental
Instrumentation: Keyboards, Synthesizers, Upright Bass, Saxophone, Electric Guitar, Drums, Flute, Harp
Rich Ruth – I Survived, It’s Over 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: Cosmic Jazz, Avant-Garde Big Band
Vibe: Mysterious, Nocturnal, Serpentine, Cosmic, Chaotic, Intertwined, Apocalyptic, Sci-Fi
Musical Qualities: Dynamic, Collective Improvisation, Atmospheric
Sun Ra and His Astro Infinity Arkestra – Pathways to Unknown Worlds Read More »
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 »
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 »
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: Progressive Chamber-Folk
Vibe: Rustic, Intertwined, Warm, Passionate, Hypnotic, Celebratory, Exploratory, Morning, Eclectic
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Vocal Harmonies, Polyrhythmic, Percussive, Technical
Instrumentation: Accordion, Saxophone, Panpipe, Acoustic Guitar, Upright Bass, Electric Bass, Drums, Mandolin, Violin, Piano
Carnascialia – Carnascialia Read More »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
Featuring Jerome Cooper, Julius Hemphill, Dave Holland, Leroy Jenkins, Kenny Wheeler…
Style: Avant-Garde Jazz, Modern Creative, Post-Bop
Vibe: Knotty, Angular, Complex, Cerebral, Exploratory, Serious, Bustling (Side A), Mysterious (Side B)
Musical Qualities: Polyphonic, Extended Technique, Improvisation, Thematic, Instrumental
Anthony Braxton – New York, Fall 1974 Read More »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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: 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 »
Style: Modern Creative, Chamber Jazz, Experimental Big Band, Great Black Music, Avant-Garde Classical
Vibe: Communal, Triumphant, Suspenseful, History, Eclectic, Colorful, Intricate, Ritualistic, Patient, Open, Complex, Theatric
Musical Qualities: Poly-Free Improvisation, Dynamic, Collective, Progressive Structures, Technical, Orchestral, Percussive, Reductionism, Suite, Polyphonic
Instrumentation: Trumpets, Upright Bass, Spoken Word, Operatic Vocals, Drums, Percussion, Saxophone, Cello, Violin, Viola
The Art Ensemble of Chicago – We Are On the Edge 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: 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 »
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 »
Style: Brit-Folk, Chamber Folk, Jazz-Folk
Vibe: Flowing, Morning, Breezy, Warm, Medieval, Sentimental, Rootsy, Mellow, Pastoral, Uplifting
Musical Qualities: Vocal Harmonies, Acoustic, Traditional, Melodic, Improvisation
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitars (Fingerstyle), Vocals, Upright Bass, Sitar, Dulcimer, Banjo, Recorder, Harmonica, Electric Guitar, Drums
Pentangle – Solomon’s Seal Read More »
Style: Cosmic Jazz Fusion, Avant-Garde Big Band
Vibe: Mysterious, Elegant, Hypnotic, Nocturnal, Cosmic, Futuristic, Spacey, Ethereal, Groovy, Mellow, Flowing
Musical Qualities: Rhythmic, Atmospheric, Collective Improvisation, Thematic, Polyphonic, Odd Time Signatures, Melodic, Progressive
Instrumentation: Fender Rhodes, Synthesizers (Arp, Minimoog, Crumar Electronic Keyboard), Organ, Piano, Bells, electric Guitar, Drums, Percussion, Group Vocals, Trumpet, Saxophone, Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, Congo, Baritone Sax, Bass Clarinet, Upright Bass
Sun Ra – Lanquidity [Definitive Edition] Read More »
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 »
Style: Cosmic Jazz
Vibe: Cosmic, Mysterious, Chaotic, Epic, Futuristic, Imaginative, Suspenseful, Ominous, Spacey, Surreal, Spiritual
Musical Qualities: Instrumental, Dynamic, Collective Improvisation, Dissonant, Atonal, Progressive, Free
Sun Ra – The Magic City Read More »
Style: Chamber Folk, British Folk, Acoustic Blues, Jazz-Folk
Vibe: Breezy, Mellow, Contemplative, Autumnal, Uplifting, Melancholy, Warm, Joyful, Love, Intertwined, Reflective, Poetic
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Melodic, Lush, Rootsy, Bluesy, Chamber Arrangements
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitar, Upright Bass, Flute, Saxophone, Harmonica
Bert Jansch – Birthday Blues Read More »
Session musicians include Brian Blade, Eyvind Kang, Sam Amidon, Nico Muhly, Marc Ribot, Rob Burger, etc.
Style: Chamber Folk, British Folk-Rock, Singer-Songwriter, Folk-Pop
Vibe: Autumnal, Bittersweet, Melancholy, Moody, Rootsy, Warm, Mellow
Musical Qualities: Lyrical, Lush, Melodic, Soft
Beth Orton – Sugar Season Read More »
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 »
Style: Americana, Folk
Vibe: Pastoral, Breezy, Sunny, Morning, Rustic, Warm, Rootsy
Instrumentation: Fingerstyle Acoustic Guitar, Pedal Steel, Upright Bass, Drums, Harmonica
Moon Bros – These Stars Read More »
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 »
Style: Folk, Singer/Songwriter
Vibe: Warm, Spring, Rootsy, Peaceful, Tender, Morning, Rustic, Lethargic, Nature
Musical Qualities: Acoustic, Vocal Harmonies, Melodic
Michael Hurley – The Time of the Foxgloves Read More »
Style: Free Folk, Mystical Americana, Post-Rock
Vibe: Ragged, Deconstructed, Rustic, Warm, Communal, Ritualistic, Messy, Raw, Triumphant, Mystical, Eerie
Musical Qualities: Group Vocals, Collective Improvisation, Acoustic, Loose, Lo-fi
Instrumentation: Acoustic Guitar, Harmonica, Vibraphone, Slide Guitar, Fiddle, Saxophone, Drums, Upright Bass
Jackie O Motherfucker – Change [Tour Edition] Read More »
Style: Free Jazz, Future Jazz, Jazz Poetry, Liberation Music
Vibe: Ritualistic, Triumphant, Aquatic, Communal, Futuristic, Philosophical, Poetic, Anthemic, Cerebral, Confident, Conscious, Determined, Epic, Existential, Groovy, Healing, Heavy, Liberation, Political, Powerful, Rebellious, Evocative, Mystical, Intertwined
Musical Qualities: Thematic, Collective Improvisation, Acoustic Instrumentation, Spoken Word, Progressive Structures, Rhythmic, Polyphonic, Dynamic, Complex, Dub Fx
Irreversible Entanglements – Open the Gates Read More »
Style: Free Jazz
Vibe: Powerful, Energetic, Cosmic, Kinetic, Driving
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Dynamic, Acoustic, Instrumental
Instrumentation: Upright Bass, Sitar (w/ Electronics), Drums, Saxophone
Luke Stewart & Jarvis Earnshaw Quartet Read More »
Style: Modal Jazz, Hard Bop
Vibe: Elegant, Nocturnal, Mellow, Soothing, Straight Ahead
Musical Qualities: Instrumental, Improvisation, Technical, Modal
Grant Green – Idle Moments Read More »
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 »
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: 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: 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 »
Style: Social Music, Abstract Groove, Psych-Jazz, Free Fusion
Vibe: Adventure, Driving, Groovy, Menacing, Confident, Energetic, Complex, Climactic, Exploratory
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Dense, Percussive, Polyrhythmic, Thematic, Instrumental, Polyphonic
Miles Davis – Live Evil Read More »
Style: Avant-Chamber Jazz, Poly-Free Improvisation
Vibe: Abstract, Open, Suspenseful
Musical Attributes: Thematic Collective Improvisation, Instrumental
Instrumentation: Slide Guitar, Violin, Electric Guitar, Drums, Upright Bass
Susan Alcorn Quintet – Pedernal Read More »
Style: Cosmic Blues, Jazz Fusion, Spiritual Jazz, Abstract Groove
Vibe: Cathartic, Kinetic, Energized, Exploratory, Cosmic, Spiritual, Propulsive
Musical Qualities: Power Trio, Collective Improvisation, Rhythmic, Dynamic, Loose, Instrumental, Ostinato
William Parker – Mayan Space Station Read More »
Style: Avant-Garde Jazz, Chamber Jazz, Modern Creative Music
Vibe: Intertwined, Open, Patient, Flowing, Noir, Suspenseful, Spiritual, Communal, Abstract
Musical Qualities: Poly-Free Improvisation, Polyphonic, Acoustic, Complex, Instrumental, Dynamic
Instrumentation: Trumpet (muted), Harp, Vibraphone, Upright Bass, Clarinet, Trombone, Wooden Flute, Drums, Saxophone, Flugelhorn
Wadada Leo Smith – Spirit Catcher Read More »
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 »
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: Free Jazz, Spiritual Jazz, Post-Bop
Vibe: Mysterious, Nocturnal, Adventure, Spiritual, Communal, Eclectic, Epic, Meditative
Musical Attributes: Acoustic, Improvisation, Progressive, Thematic
Cecil McBee – Mutima Read More »
Style: Post-Bop
Vibe: Joyful, Energized, Driving, Rootsy
Musical Qualities: Melodic, Improvisation, Acoustic, Technical
Anthony Braxton – In the Tradition Read More »
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 »
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 »
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: Jazz-Rock, Abstract Groove, Free Fusion
Vibe: Menacing, Driving, Fuzzy, Complex, Adventurous, Energetic
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Modal, Rhythmic
Instrumentation: Drums, Electric Guitar w/ Fuzz & Fx, Upright Bass
João Lobo – Simorgh Read More »
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 »
Style: Avant-Garde Big Band, Arabic/Egyptian Folk, Psychedelic Jazz
Vibe: Intense, Sombre, Cathartic, Psychedelic, Complex, Ritualistic, Communal
Musical Qualities: Dense, Progressive, Dissonant, Acoustic, Percussive
Instrumentation: Santur, Upright Bass, Piano, Saxophones, Vocals, Percussion, Drums, Clarinet, Flute, Strings (Violin, Viola, Cello), Keyboards, Synthesizer, lap Steel Guitar, Electronics, Harp
Land of Kush – Sand Enigma Read More »
Style: Atmospheric Jazz, Jazz Fusion
Vibe: Airy, Ethereal, Open, Adventurous, Triumphant
Musical Qualities: Collective Improvisation, Instrumental, Technical, Atmospheric
John Abercrombie, Dave Holland, Jack DeJohnette – Gateway 2 Read More »
Style: Psychedelic Samba-Jazz
Vibe: Warm, Earthy, Breezy, Psychedelic, Romantic
Musical Qualities: Groovy, Percussive, Polyrhythmic, Collective Improvisation, Technical
Airto – Seeds on the Ground Read More »
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 »
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 »
Personnel: Bill Connors – Acoustic Guitar, Jack DeJohnette – Drums, Gary Peacock – Upright Bass, Jan Garabek – Saxophone
Style: ECM Jazz, Jazz Fusion, Atmospheric Jazz
Vibe: Airy, Suspenseful, Smooth, Open
Musical Attributes: Acoustic, Improvisation, Atmospheric, Technical, Instrumental
Bill Connors – Of Mist and Melting Read More »
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 »
Style: Avant Chamber-Jazz, Vocal Spiritual Jazz
Vibe: Ritualistic, Poetic, Complex, Hypnotic, Nocturnal, Passionate, Mellow
Musical Attributes: Progressive, Thematic Improvisation, Rhythmic, Chamber, Percussive
Sélène Saint-Aimé – Mare Undarum Read More »
Style: Free Jazz, Creative Music
Vibe: Ritualistic, Loose, Cathartic, Complex
Musical Attributes: Collective Improvisation, Acoustic, Polyphonic, Active Listening, Instrumental, Dynamic, Live
Instrumentation: Violin, Upright Bass, Drums
Revolutionary Ensemble Read More »
Style: Spiritual Jazz??
Vibe: Joyful, Passionate, Spiritual, Uplifting, Warm, Love, Colorful, Communal, Cosmic, Earthy, Energetic, Groovy
??Musical Attributes: Acoustic, Chants, Africa-Influenced, India-Influenced, Improvisation, Polyrhythmic, Percussive
Pharoah Sanders – Wisdom Through Music Read More »
Style: Ritual Folk, Dhrupad, Free Folk
Vibe: Meditative, Mysterious, Psychedelic, Spiritual, Earthy, Hypnotic
Musical Attributes: Acoustic, Drone, Improvisation, Instrumental, Repetitive, Raga
Pelt – Pearls from the River Read More »
Style: British-Folk, Jazz-Folk
Vibe: Rootsy, Warm, Mellow, Morning, Rural, Carefree, Breezy
Musical Attributes: Acoustic, Vocal Harmonies, Progressive, Melodic
Pentangle – Reflection Read More »
Style: Free Jazz
Vibe: Mysterious, Moody, Complex
Musical Attributes: Collective Improvisation, Polyphonic, Instrumental, Acoustic, Dynamic
Personnel: Henry Grimes (Upright Bass), Perry Robinson (Clarinet), Tom Price (Drums)
Henry Grimes Trio – The Call Read More »
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 »
Style: Spiritual Jazz
Vibe: Cosmic, Passionate, Spiritual, Uplifting
Musical Attributes: Acoustic, Improvisation (Thematic & Collective), Loose, Percussive
Michael White – Spirit Dance Read More »
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 »
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 »
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 »
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 »
Style: Abstract Groove, Jazz Fusion, Raga Jazz, Avant-Garde Jazz, Ambient Jazz
Vibe: Exploratory, Abstract, Mysterious, Chaotic, Hypnotic, Psychedelic, Suspenseful
Musical Attributes: Collective Improvisation, Polyrhythmic, Rhythmic, Dense, Complex, Polyphonic
Featuring Dave Holland, Ron Carter, Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter, Bennie Maupin, Jack DeJohnette, Chick Corea, Joe Zawinul, Airto Moreira and others
Miles Davis – Double Image Read More »
Composer and upright bassist Spencer Zahn crafts a peaceful album of impressionistic and pastoral jazz that recalls Talk Talk, ECM Records, In a Silent Way, and Bill Frisell. The atmospheres are open and washy thanks to sweeping piano gestures and Dave Harrington’s guitar loopery, while the slow, rolling rhythms of drummer Kenny Wollesen and percussionist Mauro Refosco keep the results grounded.
Spencer Zahn – Sunday Painter Read More »
Style: Jazz Fusion, Future Jazz, Post-Rock
Vibe: Forest, Knotty, Intricate, Nature, Impressionistic, Mysterious
Musical Attributes: Improvisation, Modal
[Click for album overview, listening links, and more information]
David Lord – Forest Standards, Vol. 2 Read More »
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 »
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
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 »
Style: Raga-Jazz, Hindustani Classical Music
Vibe: Passionate, Spiritual, Energetic, Focused, Meditative, Peaceful
Musical Attributes: Improvisation, Acoustic, Instrumental, Technical
Ravi Shankar – Improvisations Read More »
Style: Post-Bop, Jazz, Spiritual Jazz
Vibe: Uplifting, Straight Ahead
Musical Attributes: Melodic, Technical, Modal, Improvisation
Billy Higgins – Mr. Billy Higgins Read More »
Style: Spiritual Jazz, Free Jazz
Vibe: Passionate, Spiritual, Exploratory, Triumphant,
Musical Attributes: Complex, Modal, Thematic, Acoustic, Live, Improvisation, Dynamic, Instrumental
John Coltrane – Live at the Village Vanguard Again! Read More »
Style: Chamber Pop, Art Pop
Vibe: Lush, Ethereal, Imaginative, Sensual, Storytelling, Surreal, Intricate, Airy, Dreamy
Instrumentation: Vocals, Keyboards (Piano, Harpsichord, etc), Upright Bass, Strings, Drums, Saxophone
Julia Holter – Have You in My Wilderness Read More »
“There is a heightened and sustained sense of intuition running through this recording whose sonic palette is so wide it captures – through soundscaping, invocation, lament, impressionistic vocal weaving – not only the transient and hybridised nature of life in Johannesburg, but also the heaviness of the air at the time of its recording. More ambient, controlled swirl of rhythm and experimental mixing than incessant groove, the album is an outpouring of a range of expressions that exist between the supposed binaries of indigenous forms of music and the electronic experimentation Johannesburg is known globally for.” (from Bandcamp)
