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[Western Music] Classic Jazz Fusion Masterpieces: Must-Listen Recommended Albums [2025]
Among the many subgenres of jazz, fusion—true to the meaning of the word—features a crossover sound that blends a jazz foundation with a wide range of genres, from rock and Latin music to even electronic music.
It’s an extremely popular genre in Japan as well.
For those who’ve become interested in fusion, we’re introducing must-hear fusion masterpieces! In addition to historical classics, we’ve included recent gems that embody jazz fusion elements in a broad sense.
Why not experience the depth of fusion’s sound—one that transcends the boundaries of jazz and has had an immense impact on contemporary popular music?
Western Music: Classic Jazz Fusion Masterpieces. Must-Listen Recommended Albums [2025] (1–10)
SpainChick Corea
Pianist Chick Corea, who was active in a variety of band formats, formed Return to Forever with bassist Stanley Clarke.
Yes, the band known for “Spain,” a masterpiece that left its mark on jazz fusion history.
Their second album, Light as a Feather, which includes “Spain,” was released in 1972 and has long been cherished as a classic where Latin music and fusion are brilliantly combined.
Night Birdsshakatak
They are one of the quintessential jazz-funk to fusion bands that Britain is proud of.
Many of you have probably at least heard the band’s distinctive name, Shakatak.
Their self-titled second album, released in 1982 and featuring Night Birds—both a classic that catapulted their name into the spotlight and one of their signature tracks—is a must-listen if you’re interested in genres like fusion or smooth jazz.
The memorable melodies and stylish band ensemble aren’t at all difficult or abstruse; above all, they’re simply a pleasure to listen to.
It’s also highly recommended as an introduction to fusion!
Pharaoh’s DanceMiles Davis
When talking about jazz, Miles Davis is an indispensable figure.
He has many classic albums, but the one I especially want beginners to hear is Bitches Brew.
The reason this album is still so highly regarded today is that it was the first work to bring rock elements into jazz.
However, rather than the driving, fast-paced sound many people associate with rock, it has an eerie atmosphere that’s hard to describe.
First, give it a listen yourself and see what kind of music it is.
LingusSnarky Puppy
Snarky Puppy, the American group that continues to create some of the most innovative sounds on the modern jazz scene.
Formed in Texas in 2004, they operate as a music collective led by Michael League and have since grown to become five-time Grammy Award winners.
Released in 2014, We Like It Here is a groundbreaking work recorded in a Dutch studio with a live audience.
While rooted in jazz, their sound deftly fuses funk, R&B, and world music, effortlessly transcending traditional jazz frameworks and captivating listeners.
In particular, Cory Henry’s breathtaking keyboard solo is a must-hear.
Unbound by genre and showcasing exceptional musicianship, this album represents a pinnacle of contemporary fusion and continues to be cherished by many listeners.
Black MarketWeather Report
Joe Zawinul was a pioneer in introducing electric pianos and synthesizers to the field of jazz fusion.
In 1970, he formed Weather Report with saxophonist Wayne Shorter, and their innovative musicality gained wide popularity.
Among their work, the highly acclaimed album Black Market is often regarded as a culmination of their achievements.
By incorporating rhythms from world and folk music into traditional electric jazz, their sound became the band’s defining trait and established a unique, unmistakable originality.
Bali RunFourplay
A supergroup bringing together top players in the jazz–fusion world: Bob James, Lee Ritenour, Nathan East, and Harvey Mason! Formed in 1990, they made their debut the following year with a self-titled album.
Rather than four seasoned, highly skilled musicians clashing and showing off, their band ensemble—marked by tasteful give-and-take—is a pleasure to hear and offers a refined flavor of smooth jazz.
It conveys a sense of chic, not by flaunting technique, but by presenting subtly sophisticated playing.
Whether as lounge music in a café or as in-car background music, this album is sure to provide a wonderful time.
Portrait of TracyJaco Pastorius
Jaco Pastorius was not only a leading bassist in the jazz and fusion worlds, but a great player whose innovative fretless bass work influenced a wide range of artists, including rock musicians.
His achievement in expanding the possibilities of the bass—regardless of genre—is so significant that he’s often mentioned alongside a guitarist like Jimi Hendrix.
Jaco left behind remarkable work, from numerous guest appearances to his time with Weather Report, but this time we’re focusing on his solo debut masterpiece, “Jaco Pastorius.” It’s a record that always feels new, showcasing not only the dazzling playing of a wildly talented Jaco in his mid-twenties, but also his full prowess as a composer and producer.