2024 has already proven to be an exciting year for jazz enthusiasts, with a number of high-profile live recordings offering rare glimpses into the artistry of legendary musicians. From the dynamic improvisations of Miles Davis to the timeless charm of Nat King Cole, The Improv Cafe presents a curated selection of the most compelling jazz, big band, and swing releases this year. These albums not only capture the essence of live performance but also offer unparalleled insight into the musical conversations that shaped some of the most important figures in jazz history.
Miles Davis Quintet – Miles in France 1963 & 1964 (The Bootleg Series, Vol. 8)
The Miles in France collection is the eighth installment in the legendary Miles Davis Bootleg Series, and it offers a breathtaking exploration of the birth of the Second Great Quintet. Captured during performances in 1963 and 1964, this six-CD set features a stunning selection of unreleased live recordings, including three performances from the Festival Mondial du Jazz in Antibes and two additional concerts from Paris in October 1964.
This set serves as both a reflection of the closing chapters of the Miles Davis Quintet’s early days and a new beginning, as the group evolves and begins to incorporate Wayne Shorter into the fold. The inclusion of performances such as “So What,” “All Blues,” and “Stella By Starlight” showcases the band’s revolutionary fusion of modal jazz and daring improvisations. With over four hours of music, the Miles in France set captures the magical energy of the band, highlighted by the electrifying presence of Davis, Shorter, Herbie Hancock, Ron Carter, and Tony Williams. The mix of fresh material and newly discovered performances makes this collection a must-have for any jazz aficionado.
Bill Charlap Trio – And Then Again
For jazz piano trio enthusiasts, the Bill Charlap Trio’s And Then Again is a thrilling addition to their already impressive catalog. Recorded live at New York’s iconic Village Vanguard, this album offers an hour of high-wire swing and stunning balladry, showcasing the trio’s seamless chemistry and remarkable improvisational abilities. The set includes a mix of jazz standards and original compositions, all infused with the trio’s trademark precision and spontaneity.
Charlap’s virtuosity, supported by his long-time rhythm section of bassist Peter Washington and drummer Kenny Washington, shines through in every track. The trio’s deep musical rapport is palpable, creating a rich listening experience that feels as organic as it is refined. The album’s title track, a composition by the legendary Kenny Barron, sets the tone for the evening, and the entire set continues to build in intensity and beauty. With And Then Again, the Bill Charlap Trio once again proves why they are among the finest jazz ensembles of the modern era.
Wayne Shorter – Celebration, Volume 1
Wayne Shorter’s Celebration, Volume 1 is a spectacular live recording that captures the saxophonist at the height of his creative powers. Recorded in 2014, this performance showcases Shorter’s renowned quartet with pianist Danilo Perez, bassist John Patitucci, and drummer Brian Blade. The album’s tracks, imbued with Shorter’s unique compositional style, offer a thrilling musical journey, blending intricate harmonies and daring improvisations.
The quartet’s interplay is exceptional, with each musician bringing their own flair while maintaining an incredible sense of unity. Shorter’s saxophone weaves through the compositions with lyrical beauty, while Perez’s piano lines and Patitucci’s bass provide a foundation of warmth and depth. The live setting brings an added dimension to these performances, with the band’s spontaneous energy and telepathic communication clearly evident throughout. Celebration, Volume 1 is a testament to Shorter’s legacy and his ability to craft music that transcends time.
Nat King Cole – Live At The Blue Note Chicago
Live at The Blue Note Chicago is a rare and intimate live recording that offers a glimpse into the genius of Nat King Cole. Recorded in August 1953 during his return to Chicago, the album captures the legendary crooner in an electric setting at the Blue Note, one of the city’s first integrated venues. The performances are filled with the warmth and charm that defined Cole’s career, with his velvety voice effortlessly gliding through classic tunes like “Unforgettable” and “Route 66.”
But what makes this release truly special is the intimate nature of the recording. Cole’s exchanges with the audience, his witty remarks, and the palpable connection he had with his hometown crowd create an unforgettable atmosphere. His unrestrained piano solos further reveal his deep musicality, offering a side of Cole that is rarely heard in his more polished studio recordings. This album is a historic treasure, offering fans a chance to witness Cole in an electric moment of his career, playing in the city that shaped him.
Alice Coltrane – The Carnegie Hall Concert (2024 Release)
Released in 2024 by Impulse! Records, The Carnegie Hall Concert is a landmark live album by the incomparable Alice Coltrane. Recorded during her performance at Carnegie Hall on February 21, 1971, this album captures Coltrane in full cosmic mode, blending jazz, spirituality, and Eastern influences in a way that only she could. Coltrane’s powerful harp playing and piano work, along with her visionary compositional style, create a mesmerizing experience that transports listeners to another realm.
The performance at Carnegie Hall is a defining moment in Coltrane’s career, as she was at the peak of her creative powers. The concert featured Coltrane’s renowned ensemble, which included saxophonist Pharoah Sanders, drummer Rashied Ali, and bassist Jimmy Garrison. Together, they pushed the boundaries of jazz, creating an otherworldly sound that was ahead of its time. The Carnegie Hall Concert is a must-have for anyone interested in the fusion of jazz and spiritual music, and it cements Alice Coltrane’s legacy as one of the most innovative and influential musicians in jazz history.
2024 has already brought forth some incredible live jazz, big band, and swing releases, and The Improv Cafe is thrilled to share these extraordinary albums with its audience. Whether it’s the historic performances of Miles Davis and Nat King Cole or the modern mastery of Bill Charlap and Wayne Shorter, these albums capture the essence of live jazz at its finest. As we move through the year, these releases will undoubtedly continue to resonate with fans, offering a deeper appreciation for the ever-evolving art form of jazz.