[For Beginners] Classic Modern Jazz Albums: Recommended Records to Start With

Somethin’ ElseCannonball Adderley

Cannonball Adderley – Autumn Leaves

This is an album released in 1958 on Blue Note, featuring alto saxophonist Cannonball Adderley in collaboration with Miles Davis.

In particular, the track Autumn Leaves included on this record—especially its distinctive intro—is widely cherished as a classic performance of a standard jazz number.

Now’s The TimeCharlie Parker

Now’s The Time

Charlie Parker is an alto saxophonist.

His prime was in the late 1940s.

He was known as a genius improviser.

This work conveys his talent best.

The recordings were made in New York in 1952 and 1953.

It is said that the improvisations of jazz musicians after him have been influenced, to a greater or lesser extent, by Charlie Parker.

Back At The Chicken ShackJimmy Smith

Back At The Chicken Shack

Back at the Chicken Shack, highly regarded as a soul-jazz masterpiece by organist Jimmy Smith, is one of his signature works that elevated the Hammond organ to a leading role in jazz.

Released in 1963, the album is marked by a strong bluesy feeling and warm, groovy performances.

It’s suffused with a relaxed vibe, as if you’re listening in on a laid-back jam session in a ‘chicken shack.

’ The easy, engaging interplay among musicians—several of whom would later become NEA Jazz Masters—will have you unconsciously swaying along.

It’s the perfect record for times when you want to enjoy music without overthinking or when you want to lift your spirits.

RefugeAndrew Hill

Refuge (Rudy Van Gelder Edition/1999 Remaster)

Point of Departure is a work by pianist Andrew Hill and is known as a landmark of modern jazz.

A masterpiece on the Blue Note label, it brings together star players including Eric Dolphy.

Its avant-garde sonorities and thrilling developments make for a passionate session that moves not only listeners but the performers themselves.

There’s even a famous anecdote that some members were moved to tears during the performance, underscoring the recording’s emotional impact.

It’s a must-listen for anyone who wants to step beyond the conventional boundaries of jazz and experience an intellectually free sonic world.

We Get RequestsOscar Peterson

Days Of Wine And Roses

Oscar Peterson was a pianist renowned as one of the most technically skilled in the jazz world.

His credo of happy, lucid playing is immediately apparent if you listen to the included track Days of Wine and Roses.

It’s a perfect work for those listening to jazz for the first time.

The Scene ChangesBud Powell

Cleopatra’s Dream

This is an album recorded from performances by jazz pianist Bud Powell in New Jersey and released in 1959.

Consisting of nine tracks, including Cleopatra’s Dream—so famous among modern jazz fans that it’s said everyone knows it—the album is highly regarded as a masterpiece from Powell’s mid-period.

Helen MerrillHelen Merrill

Helen Merrill with Clifford Brown / You’d Be So Nice To Come Home To

This is an album recorded in 1954 by the female vocalist Helen Merrill—renowned for her alluring husky voice—in collaboration with trumpeter Clifford Brown.

Above all, the second track, You’d Be So Nice to Come Home To, is celebrated as a masterpiece and leaves an unforgettable, striking impression after just one listen.