Cool jazz piano: from classic favorites to hidden gems.
Even within what we broadly call jazz, there are countless subgenres, and it’s fascinating how the sound itself changes depending on which instrument takes center stage.
As the name suggests, “jazz piano,” where the piano is the main focus, is an especially popular style of jazz in Japan.
There are many classic tunes that everyone has heard at least once, and I imagine quite a few jazz beginners start out by listening to a piano trio album.
In this article, we’ve gathered timeless tracks from across eras—including recent jazz—that feature up-tempo, cool, and stylish piano within the realm of jazz piano.
If you usually gravitate toward lyrical, slow jazz piano, this is a great chance to check out something different!
Cool jazz piano: from classic favorites to hidden gems (1–10)
Dusty McNuggetBrad Mehldau
Brad Mehldau, an American jazz musician who began his career in 1993.
His track “Dusty McNugget,” included on the 2002 release Largo, is irresistible for its beautiful piano melody darting over intricate drumming.
The ad-lib section in the latter half is especially cool—his flowing performance, skillfully playing with the rhythm, is absolutely captivating.
It’s an easy listen overall, so I highly recommend it even for jazz beginners!
Cleopatra’s DreamBud Powell
Cleopatra’s Dream, released in 1959 by jazz pianist Bud Powell.
In Japan, it’s known by the title “Kureopatora no Yume,” and its mysterious atmosphere and sheer intensity are irresistible! It’s performed in C-flat major, a key with seven flats, and the main phrase enters on the off-beat of the eighth note, giving it a distinctive rhythm.
The melody unfolds with a sensibility most people would never think of, and it becomes addictively compelling as you listen! This piece is especially popular in Japan.
Next time you step into a jazz café, why not perk up your ears to see if it’s playing?
Splittin’Ray Bryant
Ray Bryant is an American jazz pianist who is also known as a composer.
His “Splittin’” is included on the 1957 album Ray Bryant Trio, and it’s a captivating track with a buoyant touch.
Midway through, the piece offers a thrilling performance whose atmosphere reflects the influence of fellow pianist Bud Powell.
The way he plays with clear dynamics and soulful expression is utterly absorbing to watch.
PatternsAhmad Jamal Trio
Ahmad Jamal Trio’s “Patterns.” A hidden gem from the 1970 album The Awakening.
Ahmad Jamal’s use of rests is exquisite; throughout this piece, subtle pauses are sprinkled in, making the phrases remarkably striking.
Given how profoundly his playing influenced the development of jazz, it might be nice to listen while leafing through a jazz history book or similar reading.
Rise And ShineRobert Glasper
American jazz pianist Robert Glasper is known for his wide-ranging musicality that incorporates R&B and hip-hop.
Among his works, “Rise And Shine” stands out for its highly original rhythm.
In particular, the left-hand phrases are distinctive: they skillfully use dotted quarter notes and syncopation to deliver a musical experience like nothing you’ve heard before.
The passages where the bass line moves eerily through irregular meters are also extremely striking!
BoogabluesGerald Clayton
Gerald Clayton, born in the Netherlands and now based in the United States, is a jazz pianist who has drawn attention on the new-generation jazz scene since the late 2000s.
Raised in a musical family, he wields a musicality that extends beyond jazz.
Among the works in the discography of this innovative contemporary jazz player, I’d like to highlight Boogablues from his landmark solo debut album, Two-Shade.
In his mid-20s at the time, Gerald’s youthful yet brilliantly spirited, effervescent piano favors band interplay and overall groove over merely showcasing technical prowess.
With its smooth, elegant melodies and cool, dynamically nuanced playing, it’s sure to captivate anyone who loves piano trios.
Tuesday WonderlandEsbjörn Svensson Trio
The jazz piano trio from Sweden, E.
S.
T.
Their full name is the Esbjörn Svensson Trio, but they’re often referred to by the abbreviation.
The title track of their 2006 album, “Tuesday Wonderland,” features a beautiful piano arrangement.
Especially toward the end, electronic sounds and the like start to mix in, creating a very chaotic atmosphere—but that unfamiliar sound becomes incredibly addictive!