[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 Albums to Start With (31–40)
Soul StationHank Mobley
This is a landmark work by tenor saxophonist Hank Mobley, released in 1960.
With a top-tier rhythm section—Wynton Kelly on piano, Paul Chambers on bass, and Art Blakey on drums—Hank delivers a poised and refined performance.
Though he is sometimes described as understated, the quality of this album is exceptional.
Sonny Side UpDizzy Gillespie
Dizzy Gillespie was a trumpet player known for his dynamic performances with his cheeks puffed out.
This album was released in 1959.
His collaborators are Sonny Rollins, famous as a tenor saxophonist, and fellow tenor saxophonist Sonny Stitt.
It’s a classic modern jazz album where you can enjoy the three musicians’ performance battle.
Full HouseWes Montgomery
This work is a recording of a live performance by jazz guitarist Wes Montgomery from 1962.
He was a player respected by later jazz guitarists such as Pat Metheny, Joe Pass, and Kenny Burrell.
The most distinctive feature of his technique is picking with his right-hand thumb.
Blue’s MoodsBlue Mitchell
As the title suggests, this is an album where you can fully enjoy Blue Mitchell’s vibe.
Every track is excellent, but “I’ll Close My Eyes” and “Scrapple from the Apple,” in particular, are especially known as standout performances.
Study In BrownClifford Brown
This is the album that jazz trumpeter Clifford Brown recorded with drummer Max Roach in 1955.
It is one of his signature works.
The crisp, dynamic performances are outstanding, and great things were expected of him, but he died in a car accident in 1956 at the young age of 25.
[For Beginners] Classic Modern Jazz Albums: Recommended Records to Start With (41–50)
Midnight BlueKenny Burrell
Here is a signature album by jazz guitar virtuoso Kenny Burrell.
Released in 1963, this record lets you savor Burrell’s groovy swing playing and Stanley Turrentine’s soulful solos.
It’s a must-have album for guitar enthusiasts.
Bass On TopPaul Chambers
As the album title suggests, this is a leader album by bassist Paul Chambers, released in 1957.
At the time, a work that put the bass front and center was unusual.
It’s an intriguing record whose appeal changes depending on which of the other sections—guitar, piano, or drums—you choose to focus on.