Jean Barraque, Dmitri Shostakovich, Igor Stravinsky and Iannis Xenakis.
Coltrane (1957)
John Coltrane’s debut features many of the hallmarks that the saxophonist would later become famous for.
Grade: A-
Mingus Three
The trio setting apparently doesn’t fit with Charles Mingus’ style.
Grade: B
A Swingin’ Affair!
Frank Sinatra goes through the motions on A Swingin’ Affair.
Grade: B+
East Coasting – Charles Mingus
One of Charles Mingus’ rare, non-essential LPs.
Grade: B+
The Clown
Despite the title, “The Clown” is one of Charles Mingus’ darkest masterpieces.
Grade: A
Close to You – Frank Sinatra
“Close to You” is Frank Sinatra at his funniest.
Grade: A
Monk’s Music
Monk’s Music is one the pianists most essential LPs.
Grade: A
‘Round About Midnight
‘Round About Midnight began Davis’ rapid ascent to the jazz throne.
Grade: A-
Ray Charles: The Atlantic Years
Ray Charles’ 1957 debut was one of the first great R&B records.
Grade: A
Jazz by Sun Ra
The debut of Sun Ra and His Solar Arkestra is one of the decade’s greatest hidden gems.
Grade: A
The Jazz Workshop
The debut LP of George Russell is a timeless classic that has aged like a fine wine.
Grade: A