[For Beginners] Classic Modern Jazz Albums: Recommended Records to Start With
Modern jazz began with 1940s bebop and has pushed the boundaries of musical possibility through innovative expression.
Musicians of the time moved beyond traditional swing, employing complex harmonies, rhythms, and improvisation to forge a completely new musical world.
The rich sonic landscapes created by instruments such as jazz guitar, piano, and saxophone continue to captivate music fans to this day.
In this article, we’ll introduce a number of classic albums that let you fully savor the appeal of modern jazz.
Even if you’re interested in jazz but aren’t sure where to start, you’re sure to discover exciting new music.
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- A classic jazz-funk masterpiece. A popular recommended track that offers a different flavor from traditional jazz.
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- Famous Western jazz classics. Recommended popular songs.
[For Beginners] Classic Albums of Modern Jazz: Recommended Records to Start With (11–20)
Lonely WomanOrnette Coleman
Ornette Coleman, the revolutionary of jazz, and his masterpiece The Shape of Jazz to Come.
As its title suggests, this 1959 release is known as a historic work that presented the “shape of jazz to come.” With its piano-less, stripped-down lineup, the melodies of each instrument weave together freely, almost like a conversation—one of its greatest charms.
This innovative style has been highly acclaimed, earning a place in the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Completely unlike previous jazz, its thrilling and provocative sound is perfect for anyone seeking a new musical encounter.
Be sure to experience the shock for yourself!
A Night in TunisiaArt Blakey & The Jazz Messengers
Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers, led by the legendary drummer Art Blakey.
Their A Night in Tunisia is a quintessential hard bop masterpiece, famed the world over.
This group is also known as a proving ground for young jazz players, and this album showcases performances brimming with talent.
The passionate playing, bursting with Afro-Cuban rhythms, conveys the raw power of jazz directly.
In particular, the blazing back-and-forth of solos by the two saxophonists is breathtaking.
If you want to feel the heat and excitement of modern jazz with your whole body, this is a must-listen album.
Song For My FatherHorace Silver
Horace Silver, the American pianist renowned as a leading figure of hard bop.
His 1965 release Song for My Father is a landmark of modern jazz that epitomizes his career.
Flowing throughout the album is a buoyant, uplifting sound that fuses blues and gospel with Latin and African elements.
The title track, in particular, is known to have been inspired by his trip to Brazil and his feelings for his father.
Its memorable melody and comfortable groove even influenced later pop music.
It’s a perfect album for anyone curious about the world of jazz.
Let the rhythmic piano carry you and enjoy the funky vibe!
Giant StepsJohn Coltrane
Giant Steps, a signature work by American saxophonist John Coltrane, who rewrote the history of modern jazz.
Released in 1960, this monumental album was the first in which he presented an entire set of original compositions.
Its complex harmonies—known as the “Coltrane changes,” his hallmark—are like a labyrinth of sound that sent shockwaves through the music scene of the time.
While the dazzling displays of virtuosity are thrilling, the album also includes tender pieces dedicated to his wife and daughter.
It’s a record brimming with profound appeal, where you can savor both his passion for exploring new musical possibilities and a deeply human warmth.
Maiden VoyageHerbie Hancock
Herbie Hancock, a jazz pianist who debuted on the Blue Note label and was discovered by Miles Davis.
While he became known on the fusion scene through his use of synthesizers, he also left behind classic recordings in the modern jazz genre.
This work is his fifth album, and true to its concept of “the sea,” it is characterized by a transparent, shimmering sound.
Brilliant CornersThelonious Monk
Thelonious Monk is an American jazz pianist.
He was an unfortunate artist who came to be reappraised after his death, but he is now regarded as one of the giants of the jazz scene.
This work is an album released in 1957 and is one of his signature recordings.
His unique use of chords and rhythm conveys his forward-thinking approach.
[For Beginners] Masterpieces of Modern Jazz: Recommended Albums to Start With (21–30)
My Favorite ThingsJohn Coltrane
My Favorite Things, known as a landmark album by saxophonist John Coltrane.
Originally a song from a musical, in Coltrane’s hands it is reborn as passionate jazz that shifts its character like a kaleidoscope.
The work is famous for marking his full-fledged use of the soprano saxophone, and it was inducted into the Grammy Hall of Fame.
Its structure—leading listeners from a melody everyone knows into the profound world of modal jazz improvisation—is one reason it captivates so many.
It’s a perfect first listen for anyone who wants to experience the free spirit of jazz.