Here are some of our favorite albums from this year,
Mark Turner – Return from the Star (ECM)
Tenor saxophonist Mark Turner does not waste his talent. Listeners have waited eight years for this new quartet release. It has been worth it.
Terri Lyne Carrington – The New Standard Vol 1 (Candid)
Of course it is a feminist statement when drummer Terri Lyne Carrington releases an album with compositions by only women played by a star ensemble of both women and men, but above all it is good music.
Immanuel Wilkins – The 7th Hand (Blue Note)
Alto saxophonist Immanuel Wilkins second album has him moving forward with the same quartet as on his successful debut album, and with some added guests.
Mary Halvorson – Belladonna (Nonesuch)
It is all strings when electric guitarist performs new music with a string quartet. The music is characteristically angular and personal.
Melissa Aldana – 12 Stars (Blue Note)
Melissa Aldana is without a doubt one of the most original and gifted saxophonists who has come along in a long time.
Connie Han – Secrets of Innana (Mack Avenue)
Romantic free bop from a young piano lioness with a little help from seasoned professionals like bassist John Patitucci.
Lyrical and interactive acoustic piano trio music of a high caliber by a British-Swedish band.
Domi and J D Beck – Not Tight (Blue Note)
This album is fun! It sounds like the smurfs are visiting Disneyland. Music by two young virtuosos on their instruments with several guests including Herbie Hancock who gets a good laugh.
Allison Miller and Carmen Staaf – Nearness (Sunnyside)
Piano and drums are seldom heard as a duo. This album asks the question why.
Miguel Zenón – Musica De Las Americas (Miel)
One of the veteran quartets in jazz finds new energy and inspiration when they focus on the south part of the continent.
Jazz Desk 