A gem of a jazz classic that captures the arrival of spring, paired with a heartwarming story

I’ll Remember AprilBill Evans

I’ll Remember April

Bill Evans, known as a leading pianist in modern jazz, was strongly influenced by impressionist classical composers such as Debussy and Ravel.

Indeed, there’s something that connects Evans’s sound with Ravel’s.

A piece of his themed around spring is “I’ll Remember April.” It’s characterized by Evans’s signature stylish sound and a bright atmosphere that evokes the arrival of spring.

Up Jumped SpringFreddie Hubbard

Freddie Hubbard – Up Jumped Spring

Freddie Hubbard, a jazz trumpeter from Indianapolis.

After moving to New York in 1958, he fully embarked on a professional career and helped energize the jazz scene alongside artists like Ornette Coleman and Eric Dolphy.

When it comes to songs by him themed around spring, isn’t “Up Jumped Spring” the one that comes to mind? It’s a rare jazz piece in 3/4 time, so be sure to check it out.

They Say It’s SpringBlossom Dearie

They Say It’s Spring

Jazz vocalist Blossom Dearie, who made her mark with a childlike, innocent voice.

Although she was an artist from New York, she went to France at the age of 26 and began her professional career there.

From then on, her distinctive vocal timbre won her popularity, especially across Europe.

One of her spring-themed works is They Say It’s Spring.

Unusually for a spring-themed song, its lyrics are quite dark, so be sure to check out the Japanese translation as well.

Ev’ry Time We Say GoodbyeNatalie Cole

Natalie Cole – Ev’ry Time We Say Goodbye (with lyrics)

This is a song known in Japan as “Itsumo Sayonara o,” composed as an interlude number for the 1944 revue Seven Lively Arts.

In line with the lyrics, the chord progression actually shifts from major to minor.

There’ll Be Another SpringPeggy Lee

Peggy Lee – “There’ll Be Another Spring” (2021 Video)

“There’ll Be Another Spring” is a number released by Peggy Lee, who is counted among the greatest jazz vocalists and is also a Grammy Award winner.

It was included on her collaborative album with jazz pianist George Shearing, “Beauty and the Beat!”, and it tells the story of a couple who part ways in spring.

This wistful ballad has also been covered by Dianne Reeves and Diana Krall.

A Night in TunisiaArt Blakey & The Jazz Messengers

Art Blakey & the Jazz Messengers – A Night in Tunisia

A masterpiece that captures the exotic atmosphere of North Africa through innovative jazz rhythms and harmonies.

In August 1960, Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers delivered a performance that opened up new musical territory with a bold fusion of Afro-Cuban rhythms and bebop.

Anchored by powerful drumming, the sensual melodic lines woven by Lee Morgan’s trumpet and Wayne Shorter’s saxophone shine throughout.

Featured on the classic album “A Night in Tunisia,” this piece captivates with its interplay of exotic ambience and thrilling improvisation.

Perfect for a calm spring evening when you want to relax into the music and feel a breeze from distant lands.

Let’s Fall In LoveDiana Krall

Let’s Fall In Love

Canadian jazz pianist and singer Diana Krall gracefully performs this classic that lightly celebrates the joy and anticipation of falling in love.

Her delicate piano touch and sensuous vocals resonate like the warmth of spring, gently enveloping the heart.

Featured on her 1999 album “When I Look In Your Eyes,” this piece is a superb reinterpretation of the 1933 film theme song by Harold Arlen and Ted Koehler.

With a swing-infused jazz arrangement and refined musicianship, it brings out new charms in the song.

The Grammy-winning album is a perfect companion for the start of a new season—an ideal track for those who wish to spend a calm, soothing moment.