The 13 Best Jazz Albums of 2021
Creative, improvised music in the Black American tradition remains in a state of wonder and genre-crossing excitement in the best jazz albums of 2021.
jon irabagon
Solo Saxophones for Lonely Times: Jon Irabagon, J.D. Allen, and Jaleel Shaw
Recently, three prominent jazz saxophonists emerged with unaccompanied solo LPs: J.D. Allen, Jon Irabagon, and Jaleel Shaw. Each of these new Covid-era recordings suggests new possibilities.
Dave Douglas Quintet’s ‘Brazen Heart: Live at Jazz Standard’ Sits Cozily Next to Miles Davis’ ‘Plugged Nickel’ Recordings
This is trumpeter/composer Dave Douglas' second quintet, playing its repertoire from memory in eight sets in four nights. Dazzling.
Mostly Other People Do the Killing: Mauch Chunk
Moppa Elliott and his merry band of feather rufflers make a slightly safer album this time around, but it's no less an adventure.
Jon Irabagon: Behind the Sky / Inaction Is an Action
Saxophonist Jon Irabagon unleashes two albums in one day, with one succeeding in doing what the other one sets out to do.