Favorite jazz albums 2018? I would say that I have at least a dozen or so. First reveal, which turned out to be a 2nd after their 1st album, it's a group from Windy City - Chicago Edge Ensemble - and their second album 'Insidious Anthem'. An excellent recordings with mix of improvised jazz fusion, avant garde, classical and rock. Everything what I listen to on this album reminds me stuff which came from AACM (Assocation for the Advancement of Creative Musicians), but with new fresh look and great sound. A little-known CD but it does so impressive.
Next album comes from similar jazz as I mentioned above, and in the context free/impro-avant garde jazz of course, but with well known stars of improvised music. This is an album of Jemeel Moondoc Quartet 'The Astral Revelations' issued by famous and fantastic French label 'RogueArt'. It's also fantastic improvised and creative jazz which comes from the top shelf of jazz musicians.
Number three is Joshua Redman and his dream team in recordings 'Still Dreaming' - on stage also Ron Miles - cornet, Scott Colley - bass, Brian Blade - drums. I think there is no need to present these musicians. It's a fresh look on music of Joshua's father Dewey Redman as well as all members famous group Old And New Dreams. Maybe music on 'Still Dreaming' sounds secondary, but I would ask what it does not sound secondary in jazz of 21 century? I really enjoy tunes from this album - there is lots of improvisation ideas set by the new and fresh sound. Also sound quality first class! Bravo!
My favorite 2018 jazz albums from ECM Records? Oh yes, I also have a few favorite tittles. I see on podium three recordings - new album of Andrew Cyrille as 2nd for ECM as leader - 'Lebroba'. Title 'Lebroba' is taken from two first letters of birth places three great musicians appearing on this beautiful album - Wadada Leo Smith was born in Leland, Mississippi, Andrew Cyrille was born in Brooklyn, NYC, Bill Frisell was born in Baltimore, Maryland - so we have LeBroBa
Music on this album is amazing - a lot of space, precious of silence, meditations, and intellectual musing. This is it! I love this album!
I absolutely have to add to my favorites ECM 'new-old' recordings of Keith Jarrett Trio - 'After The All'. There is a special album for Keith and of course for me. Live recording was taken on November 14, 1998 at New Jersey Performing Arts Center, Newark, NJ after two years absence Master due to sickness. Keith Jarrett had been unable to play in public. This recordings documents his return to performance. And what's happening? You can hear happiness, fun, and pleasure from playing wonderful jazz music three great Masters. I love it!