Jazz is like a strong coffee. People who love it, really love it and they will gladly drink it with no milk and no sweeteners. They want it as is.
Those who are unaccustomed to the taste, however, might need something a little sweeter to begin with. Here are 10 essential albums to help you along on your journey to the center of jazz.
Time Out by Dave Brubeck
Dave Brubeck created some of the most complex jazz music of all time. Time Out, however, was surprisingly a huge commercial success, making it a good choice for jazz amateurs.
Kind of Blue by Miles Davis
Kind of Blue is an album that you probably already have lying about the house somewhere, even if you’re not yet a jazz fan.
Ella & Louis by Ella Fitzgerald and Louis Amstrong
Ella & Louis is an irresistible album made up of stunning jazz ballads.
Chet Baker Sings by Chet Baker
Chet Baker is a phenomenal jazz trumpet player and a wonderful singer. His soulful tone on this album will help you fall in love with the genre.
The Epic by Kamsai Washington
For some more modern jazz, the saxophonist Kamsai Washington is easily one of the greatest jazz musicians of the 21st century.
A Love Supreme by John Coltrane
A hugely influential and iconic album which marks one of the defining moments in the jazz genre.
Mingus Ah Um by Charles Mingus
A 10/10 jazz album that isn’t too difficult to sink your teeth into.
Heavy Weather by Weather Report
This funkier fusion of jazz will definitely get you in the mood for more.
Angel Eyes by Dave Brubeck
Angel Eyes is another wonderful jazz album from Dave Brubeck. It’s much softer and is an easy transition if you already enjoy classical piano.
10 Years Solo Live by Brad Mehldau
Meldhau is a talented jazz musician whose catalog consists of some popular music tracks from Radiohead and Massive Attack. His jazzy ensembles of these popular songs make him a great gateway artist if you want to dip your toes into jazzy waters.
