Rhapsody Streamnotes: Year 2014 Index

December 31

  1. Yemi Alade: King of Queens (2014, Effyzzie Music Group) B+(**)
  2. Melissa Aldana: Melissa Aldana & Crash Trio (2014, Concord Jazz) B+(*)
  3. Alvvays: Alvvays (2014, Polyvinyl) B+(*)
  4. Arca: Xen (2014, Mute) B
  5. Banks: Goddess (2014, Harvest) B+(**)
  6. Battle Trance: Palace of Wind (2014, New Amsterdam) B+(**)
  7. Rubén Blades: Tangos (2010 [2014], Sunnyside) B
  8. Michael Blake: Tiddy Boom (2014, Sunnyside) A-
  9. Mary J. Blige: The London Sessions (2014, Capitol) B+(***)
  10. Dean Blunt: Black Metal (2014, Rough Trade) B+(*)
  11. Fiorenzo Bodrato: Travelling Without Moving (2012 [2014], CMC) B+(***)
  12. Benjamin Booker: Benjamin Booker (2014, ATO) B+(***)
  13. Patrick Breiner Double Double: Mileage (2013 [2014], Sulde) B+(*)
  14. Peter Brötzmann/John Edwards/Steve Noble: Soul Food Available (2013 [2014], Clean Feed) B+(***)
  15. Malonie Carre: Forever (2014, self-released) B
  16. Charli XCX: Sucker (2014, Atlantic) A-
  17. Jimmy Cobb: The Original Mob (2014, Smoke Sessions) B+(***)
  18. Leonard Cohen: Live in Dublin (2013 [2014], Columbia, 3CD) A-
  19. J Cole: 2014 Forest Hills Drive (2014, RCA) B+(***)
  20. Ian William Craig: A Turn of Breath (2014, Recital) B+(*)
  21. D'Angelo and the Vanguard: Black Messiah (2014, RCA) A-
  22. Jeff Davis: Dragon Father (2013 [2014], Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(***)
  23. Duduvudu: Duduvudu: The Gospel According to Dudu Pukwana (2009 [2014], Edgetone) A
  24. Donald Edwards: Evolution of an Influenced Mind (2013 [2014], Criss Cross) B+(**)
  25. Chet Faker: Built on Glass (2014, Downtown) B+(**)
  26. Kevin Gates: By Any Means (2014, Bread Winners Association) B+(**)
  27. Ghostface Killah: 36 Seasons (2014, Tommy Boy) B+(***)
  28. Brantley Gilbert: Just as I Am (2014, Valory) B-
  29. Sax Gordon: In the Wee Small Hours (2013 [2014], Delmark) B+(**)
  30. Grouper: Ruins (2014, Kranky) B+(**)
  31. Hard Working Americans: The First Waltz (2014, Melvin) B+(*)
  32. Hildegard Lernt Fliegen: The Fundamental Rhythm of Unpolished Brains (2013 [2014], Yellowbird) B+(*)
  33. Hiss Golden Messenger: Lateness of Dancers (2014, Merge) B+(*)
  34. Sam Hunt: Montevalo (2014, MCA Nashville) B
  35. I Love Makonnen: I Love Makonnen (2014, OVO Sound, EP) B+(*)
  36. ICP Orchestra: East of the Sun (2014, ICP) B+(**)
  37. Anthony Jefferson: But Beautiful (2014, self-released) B+(**)
  38. Paul Jones: Short History (2014, Blujazz) B+(**)
  39. Jungle: Jungle (2014, XL) B+(**)
  40. Oliver Lake Organ Quartet: What I Heard (2013 [2014], Passin' Thru) B+(**)
  41. Link of Chain: A Songwriters' Tribute to Chris Smither (2011 [2014], Signature Sounds) B+(**)
  42. Loscil: Sea Island (2014, Kranky) B+(*)
  43. Colette Michaan: Incarnate/Encarna (2014, self-released) B
  44. Nicki Minaj: The Pinkprint (2014, Young Money) A-
  45. Ludovic Morlot/Seattle Symphony Orchestra: John Luther Adams: Become Ocean (2013 [2014], Cantaloupe) B+(***)
  46. Paal Nilssen-Love/Terrie Ex: Hurgu! (2013, PNL) B+(**)
  47. Paal Nilssen-Love Large Unit: Erta Ale (2014, PNL, 3CD) B+(***)
  48. Objekt: Flatland (2014, Pan, 2CD) A-
  49. Arturo O'Farrill & the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra: The Offense of the Drum (2013 [2014], Motéma Music) B+(**)
  50. Sonya Perkins: Dream a Little Dream (2014, self-released) B
  51. Noah Preminger: Background Music (2010 [2014], Fresh Sound New Talent) A-
  52. Quraishi: Mountain Melodies (2014, Evergreene Music) B+(**)
  53. Diane Roblin: Reconnect (2014, self-released) B+(*)
  54. Scurvy: Fracture (2010, Johnny Butler Jazz) B+(*)
  55. Shamir: Northtown (2014, Godmode, EP) B+(*)
  56. Sleaford Mods: Divide and Exit (2014, Harbinger Sound) A-
  57. Sleaford Mods: Austerity Dogs (2013, Harbinger Sound) A-
  58. Chris Smither: Still in the Levee (2014, Signature Sounds, 2CD) B+(*)
  59. Michael Snow & Thollem McDonas: Two Piano Concert at the Philadelphia Museum of Art (2014, Edgetone) B+(**)
  60. Jesse Stacken: Helleborus (2014, Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(***)
  61. Subtle Lip Can: Reflective Drime (2014, Drip Audio) B+(**)
  62. Joanne Tatham: Out of My Dreams (2014, Cafe Pacific) B
  63. Ana Tijoux: Vengo (2014, Nacional) B+(**)
  64. Leon Vynehall: Music for the Uninvited (2014, 3024) B+(*)
  65. Scott Wendholt & Adam Kolker Quartet: Andthem (2011 [2014], Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(**)
  66. Eddie Allen: Jazzy Brass for the Holidays (2009, DBCD) B-
  67. Chris Bauer: In a Yuletide Groove: Harmonica Jazz for the Holidays (2011, self-released) B-
  68. Alexis Cole: The Greatest Gift: Songs of the Season (2009, Motéma) C+
  69. Nathan Eklund: Craft Christmas (2011 [2012], OA2) B-
  70. Tobias Gebb Presents Trio West: Plays Holiday Songs, Vol. 2 (2009, Yummy House) B
  71. Milt Hinton/Ralph Sutton/Gus Johnson/Jim Galloway: The Sackville All Star Christmas Record (1986 [2014], Sackville/Delmark) B+(*)
  72. The Hot Club of San Francisco: Hot Club Cool Yule (2009, Azica) B-
  73. Knoxville Jazz Orchestra: Christmas Time Is Here (2012, self-released) B-
  74. Elisabeth Lohninger Band: Christmas in July (2011, JazzSick) B+(*)
  75. Eugene Marlow's Heritage Ensemble: Celebrations (2010, MEII Enterprises) A-
  76. Ellis Marsalis: A New Orleans Christmas Carol (2011, ELM) B-
  77. Will Scruggs Jazz Fellowship: Song of Simeon: A Christmas Journey (2012, self-released) B
  78. Donna Singer with the Doug Richards Trio: Kiss Me Beneath the Mistletoe (2012, Emerald Baby) B
  79. The United States Air Force Band: Cool Yule (2009, self-released) B
  80. Ezra Weiss: Alice in Wonderland: A Jazz Musical (2009, Northwest Childrens Theater and School) B
  81. Bring It On Home: Black America Sings Sam Cooke (1959-76 [2014], Ace) A
  82. Chris Butler: Easy Life (1970 [2014], Future Fossil) A-
  83. Lewis: L'Amour (1983 [2014], Light in the Attic) B
  84. Peru Bravo: Funk, Soul & Psych From Peru's Radical Decade (1968-74 [2014], Tiger's Milk) B+(*)
  85. George Van Eps: Once in Awhile (1946-49 [2014], Delmark) B+(***)
  86. Phil Driscoll: Drops of Praise (2006, Jordan/Koch) B
  87. The Gang Font: The Gang Font feat. Interloper (2007, Thirsty Ear) B+(*)
  88. Arthur Russell: The World of Arthur Russell (1980-88 [2004], Soul Jazz) B+(***)
  89. Arthur Russell: World of Echo (1986 [2004], Audika) B+(**)
  90. Carl Hancock Rux: Apothecary RX (2004, Giant Step) B+(*)
  91. The Green Seed: Drapetomania (2014, Communicating Vessels) A
  92. Billy Joe Shaver: Long in the Tooth (2014, Lightning Rod) A-
  93. Wadada Leo Smith: The Great Lakes Suites (2012 [2014], TUM, 2CD) A-
  94. Wussy: Attica! (Shake It) A

December 11

  1. Damon Albarn: Everyday Robots (2014, Parlophone) B+(*)
  2. Fatima Al Qadiri: Asiatisch (2014, Hyperdub) B+(**)
  3. Lotte Anker/Jakob Riis: Squid Police (2014, Konvoj) B+(*)
  4. Aurelio: Lándini (2014, Real World) B+(***)
  5. Iggy Azalea: Reclassified (2014, Def Jam) B+(**)
  6. Billy Bang/William Parker: Medicine Buddha (2009 [2014], NoBusiness) A-
  7. Beck: Morning Phase (2014, Capitol) B-
  8. Beyoncé: Beyoncé (2013, Columbia) B+(**)
  9. Big K.R.I.T.: Cadillactica (2014, Def Jam) A-
  10. Bishop Nehru/MF Doom: NehruvianDOOM (2014, Lex) B+(**)
  11. Dave Burrell/Steve Swell: Turning Point (2013 [2014], NoBusiness) A-
  12. Busdriver: Perfect Hair (2014, Big Dada) C
  13. Call Super: Suzi Ecto (2014, Houndstooth) A-
  14. Caribou: Our Love (2014, Merge) B+(**)
  15. Juan Pablo Carletti/Tony Malaby/Christopher Hoffman: Niño/Brujo (2013 [2014], NoBusiness) B+(***)
  16. Eric Church: The Outsiders (2014, Capitol Nashville) B+(*)
  17. The Cookers: Time and Time Again (2014, Motéma Music) B+(**)
  18. The Core Trio: The Core Trio With Matthew Shipp (2014, self-released) A-
  19. Frankie Cosmos: Zentropy (2014, Midheaven, EP) B+(*)
  20. Dee Daniels: Intimate Conversations (2012 [2014], Origin) B-
  21. De Beren Gieren & Susana Santos Silva: The Detour Fish: Live in Ljubljana (2014, Clean Feed) B+(**)
  22. Deerhoof: La Isla Bonita (2014, Polyvinyl) B+(**)
  23. Toumani Diabaté/Sidiki Diabaté: Toumani & Sidiki (2014, World Circuit) B+(**)
  24. Ron Di Salvio: Songs for Jazz Legends (2006 [2014], Blujazz) B
  25. Justin Townes Earle: Single Mothers (2014, Vagrant) B+(**)
  26. Emperor X: The Orlando Sentinel (2014, self-released) B+(***)
  27. Ethnic Heritage Ensemble: Black Is Back: 40th Anniversary Project (2014, Katalyst) B+(***)
  28. Orrin Evans: Liberation Blues (2014, Smoke Sessions) B+(**)
  29. Far East Movement: KTown Riot (2014, Interscope, EP) B+(*)
  30. Fire! Orchestra: Enter (2014, Rune Grammofon) B+(**)
  31. Aretha Franklin: Sings the Great Diva Classics (2014, RCA) B+(***)
  32. Friends & Neighbors: Hymn for a Hungry Nation (2012-13 [2014], Clean Feed) B+(**)
  33. Fucked Up: Glass Boys (2014, Matador) B+(**)
  34. Gazelle Twin: Unflesh (2014, Last Gang) B+(**)
  35. Danny Green Trio: After the Calm (2014, OA2) B+(**)
  36. Jimmy Greene: Beautiful Life (2014, Mack Avenue) B+(*)
  37. Johnny Griffith: Dance With the Lady (2014, GB) B+(*)
  38. Grünen [Achim Kaufmann/Robert Landfermann/Christian Lillinger]: Pith & Twig (2012-13 [2014], Clean Feed) B+(***)
  39. David Guetta: Listen (2014, Atlantic) B
  40. Barry Guy: Five Fizzles for Samuel Beckett (2009 [2014, NoBusiness, EP) B+(**)
  41. Hail Mary Mallon: Bestiary (2014, Rhymesayers Entertainment) B+(***)
  42. Half Japanese: Overjoyed (2014, Joyful Noise) B+(***)
  43. Maggie Herron: Good Thing (2014, self-released) B+(**)
  44. Hookworms: The Hum (2014, Weird World) B+(***)
  45. How to Dress Well: What Is This Heart? (2014, Domino) B
  46. Hurray for the Riff Raff: Small Town Heroes (2014, ATO) B+(**)
  47. Russ Johnson: Still Out to Lunch (2014, Yellowbird) B+(**)
  48. Kool A.D.: Word O.K. (2014, self-released) A-
  49. Jonas Kullhammar: Gentlemen (2014, Moserobie) A-
  50. Michel Lambert: Journal des Épisodes II (1992-2014 [2014], Jazz From Rant) B+(***)
  51. Nikki Lane: All or Nothin' (2014, New West) B+(*)
  52. Let's Wrestle: Let's Wrestle (2014, Fortuna Pop) B+(*)
  53. Luis Lopes Lisbon Berlin Trio: The Line (2014, Clean Feed) A-
  54. Brian Lynch and Emmet Cohen: Questioned Answer (2012 [2014], Hollistic Musicworks) B+(**)
  55. Tony Malaby's Tubacello: Scorpion Eater (2013 [2014], Clean Feed) B+(***)
  56. Thurston Moore: The Best Day (2014, Matador) A-
  57. Mostly Other People Do the Killing: Blue (2014, Hot Cup) B
  58. Nick Mulvey: First Mind (2014, Fiction/Harvest) B+(*)
  59. Wolfgang Muthspiel: Driftwood (2013 [2014], ECM) B+(*)
  60. Naomi Punk: Television Man (2014, Captured Tracks) B
  61. The New Basement Tapes: Lost on the River (2014, Island) B+(*)
  62. Jim Norton Collective: Time Remembered: Compositions of Bill Evans (2013 [2014], Origin) B+(**)
  63. Old Crow Medicine Show: Remedy (2014, ATO) B+(**)
  64. Old Style Sextet: Old Style Sextet (2014, Blujazz) B+(*)
  65. Parker Abbott Trio: The Wayfinders (2012-13 [2014], self-released) B
  66. Peaking Lights: Cosmic Logic (2014, Weird World) B+(***)
  67. Rich Pellegrin Quintet: Episodes IV-VI (2014, OA2) B+(*)
  68. Perfume Genius: Too Bright (2014, Turnstile) B
  69. Rod Picott: Hang Your Hopes on a Crooked Nail (2014, Welding Rod) B+(***)
  70. Pink Floyd: The Endless River (2014, Rhino) B+(*)
  71. Roil [Chris Abrahams/Mike Majkowski/James Waples]: Raft of the Meadows (2013-14 [2014], NoBusiness) B+(***)
  72. Boris Savoldelli/Garrison Fewell: Electric Bat Conspiracy (2014, Creative Nation Music) B+(*)
  73. Louis Sclavis Quartet: Silk and Salt Memories (2014, ECM) B+(***)
  74. Brandon Seabrook: Sylphid Vitalizers (2014, New Atlantis) B+(*)
  75. Serengeti: Kenny Dennis III (2014, Joyful Noise) A-
  76. Slackk: Palm Tree Fire (2014, Local Action) B
  77. Sleaford Mods: Chubbed Up (2013-14 [2014], Ipecac) B+(***)
  78. Sam Smith: In the Lonely Hour (2014, Capitol) B-
  79. Tommy Smith/Brian Kellock: Whispering of the Stars (2014, Spartacus) B+(***)
  80. The Soundcarriers: Entropicalia (2014, Ghost Box) B+(**)
  81. Brian Swartz & the Gnu Sextet: Portraiture (2014, Summit) B+(**)
  82. Sunny Sweeney: Provoked (2014, Aunt Daddy) B+(*)
  83. Kate Tempest: Everybody Down (2014, Big Dada) A
  84. Tinashe: Aquarius (2014, RCA) B+(**)
  85. Ton Trio II: On and On (2013 [2014], Singlespeed Music) B+(**)
  86. Mark Turner Quartet: Lathe of Heaven (2013 [2014], ECM) B+(**)
  87. TV on the Radio: Seeds (2014, Harvest) B
  88. Us Free [Bill McHenry/Henry Grimes/Andrew Cyrille]: Fish Stories (2006 [2014], Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(***)
  89. The Vamps: Meet the Vamps (2014, Island) B+(**)
  90. The Vanguard Jazz Orchestra: OverTime: The Music of Bob Brookmeyer (2014, Planet Arts) B+(*)
  91. Velkro: Don't Wait for the Revolution (2012 [2014], Clean Feed) A
  92. David Virelles: Mboko (2013 [2014], ECM) B+(**)
  93. Jessie Ware: Tough Love (2014, Interscope) B+(*)
  94. Marcin Wasilewski Trio w/Joakim Milder: Spark of Life (2014, ECM) A-
  95. Bill Watrous/Pete Christlieb/Carl Saunders/The Gary Urwin Jazz Orchestra: A Beautiful Friendship (2014, Summit) B
  96. Colin Webster/Andrew Lisle/Alex Ward: Red Kite (2014, Raw Tonk) B+(**)
  97. Wildest Dreams: Wildest Dreams (2014, Smalltown Supersound) B+(**)
  98. Wu-Tang Clan: A Better Tomorrow (2014, Warner Brothers) B+(***)
  99. Neil Young: Storytone (2014, Reprise) B+(*)
  100. Young Thug & DJ Swamp Izzo: I Came From Nothing (2011, self-released) B+(*)
  101. Young Thug: I Came From Nothing 2 (2011, self-released) B+(*)
  102. Young Thug: I Came From Nothing 3 (2012, self-released) B+(***)
  103. Young Thug/Rich Homie Quan/Birdman: Birdman Presents Rich Gang: The Tour Pt. 1 (2014, Cash Money) B+(*)
  104. Zanussi 5: Live in Coimbra (2013 [2014], Clean Feed) A-
  105. Julian Bahula: Spirit of Malombo: Malombo Jazz, Jabula and Jazz Africa 1966-1984 (1966-84 [2014], Strut, 2CD) B+(**)
  106. Francis Bebey: Psychedelic Sanza 1982-1984 (1982-84 [2014], Born Bad) B+(**)
  107. Ted Daniel's Energy Module: Interconnection (1975 [2014], NoBusiness, 2CD) A-
  108. Disco: A Fine Selection of Independent Disco, Modern Soul and Boogie 1978-82 (1978-82 [2014], Soul Jazz, 2CD) B+(*)
  109. Gipsy Rhumba: The Original Rhythm of Gipsy Rhumba in Spain 1965-1974 (1965-74 [2014], Soul Jazz) B+(**)
  110. Keith Jarrett/Charlie Haden/Paul Motian: Hamburg '72 (1972 [2014], ECM) A-
  111. Willie Nelson and Sister Bobbie: December Day [Willie's Stash, Vol. 1] (2014, Legacy) B
  112. Salsa de la Bahia: A Collection of SF Area Salsa and Latin Jazz: Vol. 2, Hoy Y Ayer (1983-2013 [2014], Patois, 2CD) B+(**)
  113. Verckys et l'Orchestre Vévé: Congolese Funk, Abrobeat & Psychedelic Rumba 1969-1978 (1969-78 [2014], Analog Africa) A-
  114. Lotte Anker/Craig Taborn/Gerald Cleaver: Live at the Loft (2005 [2009], ILK Music) B+(***)
  115. Lotte Anker/Craig Taborn/Gerald Cleaver: Floating Islands (2008 [2009], ILK Music) A-
  116. The Coathangers: Suck My Shirt (2014, Suicide Squeeze) A-
  117. Bette Midler: It's the Girls (2014, East/West) B+(**)
  118. Rod Picott: Welding Burns (2011, Welding Rod) A-
  119. Revolutionary Snake Ensemble: Live Snakes (2014, Accurate) A
  120. Jenny Scheinman: The Littlest Prisoner (2014, Masterworks) A
  121. Withered Hand: New Gods (2014, Slumberland) A-
  122. Young Thug & Bloody Jay: Black Portland (2014, self-released) A-

November 22

  1. Greg Abate Quartet: Motif (2014, Whaling City Sound) A-
  2. Afro Latin Vintage Orchestra: Pulsion (2014, Ubiquity) B+(***)
  3. Allison Au Quartet: The Sky Was Pale Blue, Then Grey (2012 [2014], self-released) B+(**)
  4. Omer Avital: New Song (2014, Motéma) B+(*)
  5. Azealia Banks: Broke With Expensive Taste (2014, Prospect Park) B+(***)
  6. Batida: Dois (2014, Soundway) B+(**)
  7. Tony Bennett & Lady Gaga: Cheek to Cheek (2014, Interscope) B+(*)
  8. Eric Bibb: Blues People (2014, Stony Plain) B+(*)
  9. Big Freedia: Just Be Free (2014, Queen Diva) B+(*)
  10. Maggie Björklund: Shaken (2014, Bloodshot) B
  11. Otis Brown III: The Thought of You (2014, Blue Note) B
  12. Chingari [Ranjit Barot, U Shrinivas, Etienne Mbappé]: Bombay Makossa (2014, Abstract Logix) B+(*)
  13. Chumped: Teenage Retirement (2014, Anchorless) A-
  14. Gary Clark, Jr.: Live (2014, Warner Brothers, 2CD) B+(*)
  15. Nels Cline & Julian Lage: Room (2014, Mack Avenue) B+(*)
  16. Freddy Cole: Singing the Blues (2014, High Note) B+(**)
  17. Alessandro Collina/Rodolfo Cervetto/Marc Peillon/Fabrizio Bosso: Michel on Air (2014, ITI) B+(***)
  18. Kevin Conlon/The Groove Rebellion: In Transit (2014, Blujazz) B+(*)
  19. Chick Corea Trio: Trilogy (2010-12 [2014], Concord, 3CD) B+(***)
  20. Tara Davidson: Duets (2014, Addo) B+(**)
  21. Michael Denhoff/Ulrich Phillipp/Jörg Fischer: Trio Improvisations for Campanula, Bass and Percussion (2014, Sporeprint, 2CD) B+(***)
  22. Paul Dietrich Quintet: We Always Get There (2013 [2014], Blujazz) B+(*)
  23. Ani DiFranco: Allergic to Water (2014, Righteous Babe) B+(*)
  24. Brian Eno/Karl Hyde: High Life (2014, Warp) A-
  25. Ex Cops: Daggers (2014, Downtown) B+(*)
  26. Ex Hex: Rips (2014, Merge) B+(***)
  27. Expansions: The Dave Liebman Group: Samsara (2013 [2014], Whaling City Sound) B+(*)
  28. Marianne Faithfull: Give My Love to London (2014, Easy Sound) B+(*)
  29. Farmers by Nature: Love and Ghosts (2011 [2014], AUM Fidelity, 2CD) A-
  30. Bryan Ferry: Avonmore (2014, BMG) B+(*)
  31. Jean Luc Fillon: Oboman Plays Cole Porter: Begin the Night . . . (2013 [2014], Soupir Editions) B
  32. Flying Lotus: You're Dead (2014, Warp) B+(**)
  33. David Friesen Circle 3 Trio: Where the Light Fails (2013 [2014], Origin, 2CD) B+(**)
  34. Fumaça Preta: Fumaça Preta (2014, Soundway) A-
  35. Ananda Gari: T-Duality (2013 [2014], Auand) B+(**)
  36. Brad Goode Quartet: Montezuma (2013 [2014], Origin) B+(**)
  37. Vincent Herring: Uptown Shuffle (2014, Smoke Sessions) B+(**)
  38. Eric Hofbauer Quintet: Prehistoric Jazz Volume 1: The Rite of Spring (2014, Creative Nation Music) B+(***)
  39. Eric Hofbauer Quintet: Prehistoric Jazz Volume 2: Quintet for the End of Time (2014, Creative Nation Music) B+(**)
  40. Will Holshouser/Matt Munisteri/Marcus Rojas: Introducing Musette Explosion (2014, Aviary) B+(**)
  41. Javon Jackson: Expression (2014, Smoke Sessions) B+(*)
  42. Darius Jones: The Oversoul Manual (2014, AUM Fidelity) B-
  43. EG Kight: A New Day (2014, Blue South) B+(**)
  44. Lefteris Kordis: "Oh Raven, If You Only Had Brains . . .": Songs for Aesop's Fables (2010 [2012], Inner Circle Music) B
  45. Jonathan Kreisberg: Wave Upon Wave (2014, New for Now Music) B+(*)
  46. Kronomorfic [David Borgo & Paul Pellegrin]: Entangled (2013 [2014], OA2) B+(*)
  47. Jerry Lee Lewis: Rock & Roll Time (2014, Vanguard) B+(**)
  48. Little Dragon: Nabuma Rubberband (2014, Republic) B
  49. Logic: Under Pressure (2014, Def Jam) B+(**)
  50. Low Society: You Can't Keep a Good Woman Down (2014, Icehouse) B+(*)
  51. Corb Lund: Counterfeit Blues (2014, New West) B+(*)
  52. Harold Mabern: Right on Time (2014, Smoke Sessions) B+(*)
  53. Michael Mantler: The Jazz Composer's Orchestra Update (2013 [2014], ECM) B
  54. Thomas Marriott: Urban Folklore (2013 [2014], Origin) B+(*)
  55. Delfeayo Marsalis: The Last Southern Gentlemen (2014, Troubadour Jass) B+(***)
  56. Ross Martin/Max Johnson/Jeff Davis: Big Eyed Rabbit (2014, Not Two) B
  57. Bette Midler: It's the Girls! (2014, East/West) B
  58. Tony Monaco: Furry Slippers (2014, Summit) B
  59. Jemeel Moondoc/Connie Crothers: Two (2012, Relative Pitch) B+(*)
  60. Naked Wolf: Naked Wolf (2014, El Negocito) B+(*)
  61. The New Pornographers: Brill Bruisers (2014, Matador) B+(*)
  62. Sam Newsome: The Straight Horn of Africa: A Path to Liberation [The Art of the Soprano, Vol. 2] (2014, self-released) A-
  63. Miho Nobuzane: Simple Words: Jazz Loves Brazil (2014, self-released) B+(*)
  64. Karen O: Crush Songs (2006-10 [2014], Cult, EP) B+(*)
  65. O'Death: Out of Hands We Go (2014, Northern Spy) B+(***)
  66. Parquet Courts: Parkay Quarts: Content Nausea (2014, What's Your Rapture?) A-
  67. Clarence Penn & Penn Station: Monk: The Lost Files (2012 [2014], Origin) B+(*)
  68. Plymouth: Plymouth (2014, Rare Noise) B+(*)
  69. Bobby Previte: Terminals (2014, Cantaloupe) B+(*)
  70. Rex Richardson & Steve Wilson: Blue Shift (2014, Summit) B+(***)
  71. Doug Seegers: Going Down to the River (2014, Rounder) A-
  72. Pat Senatore Trio: Ascensione (2008-12 [2014], Fresh Sound) B+(**)
  73. Noura Mint Seymali: Tzenni (2014, Glitterbeat) B+(**)
  74. Ryan Shultz Quintet: Hair Dryers (2013 [2014], Origin) B+(*)
  75. Tyshawn Sorey: Alloy (2014, Pi) B+(***)
  76. The Spin Quartet: In Circles (2013 [2014], Origin) B+(**)
  77. Lyn Stanley: Potions: From the 50's (2014, A.T. Music) B+(**)
  78. Vince Staples: Hell Can Wait (2014, Def Jam, EP) B+(*)
  79. Aki Takase/Alexander von Schlippenbach: So Long, Eric!: Homage to Eric Dolphy (2014, Intakt) B+(***)
  80. Natsuki Tamura/Alexander Frangenheim: Nax (2013 [2014], Creative Sources) B+(*)
  81. Temples: Sun Structures (2014, Fat Possum) B+(*)
  82. T.I.: Paperwork (2014, Grand Hustle) B+(**)
  83. Touch and Go Sextet: Live at the Novara Jazz Festival (2012 [2014], Nine Winds) B+(***)
  84. Piet Verbist/Zygomatik: Cattitude (2014, Origin) B+(**)
  85. Marlene VerPlanck: I Give Up, I'm in Love (2014, Audiophile) A-
  86. Elio Villafranca and His Jazz Syncopators: Caribbean Tinge: Live From Dizzy's Club Coca-Cola (2011-12 [2014], Motéma) B+(*)
  87. Ernie Watts Quartet: A Simple Truth (2013 [2014], Flying Dolphin) B+(**)
  88. Luke Winslow-King: Everlasting Arms (2014, Bloodshot) B+(*)
  89. Jason Yeager Trio: Affirmation (2014, Inner Circle Music) B
  90. Yelle: Complètement Fou (2014, Kemosabe) B+(**)
  91. Peter Zak Trio: The Disciple (2013 [2014], SteepleChase) B+(***)
  92. Miguel Zenón: Identities Are Changeable (2014, Miel Music) B+(*)
  93. Peter Brötzmann/Sonny Sharrock: Whatthefuckdoyouwant (1987 [2014], Trost) B+(**)
  94. Illinois Jacquet/Leo Parker: Toronto 1947 (1947 [2013], Uptown) B+(***)
  95. Jerry Lee Lewis: The Knox Phillips Sessions: The Unreleased Recordings (1970s, Time-Life) A-
  96. Howard McGhee: West Coast 1945-1947 (1945-47 [2013], Uptown) B+(**)
  97. Hailu Mergia and the Walias: Tche Belew (1977 [2014], Awesome Tapes From Africa) A-
  98. Club Ska '67 (1967 [1980], Mango) A-
  99. Ross Johnson: Make It Stop!: The Most of Ross Johnson (1979-2006 [2008], Goner) B+(***)
  100. Jinx Lennon: Know Your Station Gouger Nation!!! (2006, Septic Tiger) A-
  101. Jinx Lennon: Live at the Spirit Store (2000, Septic Tiger) B+(*)
  102. Jinx Lennon: 30 Beacons of Light for a Land Full of Spite, Thugs, Drug Slugs, and Energy Vampires (2002, Septic Tiger) B+(**)
  103. Jinx Lennon: Trauma Themes Idiot Times (2009, Septic Tiger) A-
  104. Jinx Lennon: National Cancer Strategy (2010, Septic Tiger) B+(***)
  105. Fred McDowell: Amazing Grace (1966 [1994], Shout!/Testament) A-
  106. Bette Midler: Live at Last (1977, Atlantic) Her first B+(*)

October 31

  1. Jhené Aiko: Souled Out (2014, Def Jam) B+(*)
  2. Allo Darlin': We Came From the Same Place (2014, Slumberland) A-
  3. Marcia Ball: The Tattooed Lady and the Alligator Man (2014, Alligator) B+(*)
  4. Kenny Barron/Dave Holland: The Art of Conversation (2014, Blue Note) B+(***)
  5. David Binney: Anacapa (2014, Criss Cross) B+(*)
  6. Samuel Blaser/Paul Motian: Consort in Motion (2010 [2011], Kind of Blue) B+(***)
  7. Buck 65: Neverlove (2014, WEA Canada) B+(**)
  8. François Carrier/Michel Lambert/Alexey Lapin: The Russian Concerts Volume 2 (2013 [2014], FMR) B+(***)
  9. Jack Clement: For Once and for All (2014, IRS Nashville) B+(***)
  10. Neil Cowley Trio: Touch and Flee (2014, Naim Jazz) B+(*)
  11. Lajos Dudas Quartet: Live at Salzburger Jazzherbst (2012 [2013], Jazz Sick) A-
  12. Lajos Dudas Trio: Live at Porgy & Bess (2009 [2013], Jazz Sick) B+(***)
  13. Chris Dundas: Oslo Odyssey (2014, BLM, 2CD) B+(***)
  14. Mark Elf: Returns 2014 (2013 [2014], Jen Bay Jazz) B+(**)
  15. El-P/Killer Mike: Run the Jewels (2013, Fat Beats) B+(***)
  16. El-P/Killer Mike: Run the Jewels 2 (2014, Mass Appeal) B+(**)
  17. Bill Frisell: Guitar in the Space Age (2014, Okeh) B+(***)
  18. Alice Gerrard: Follow the Music (2014, Tompkins Square) B+(***)
  19. David Hazeltine: For All We Know (2014, Smoke Sessions) B+(***)
  20. Benjamin Herman: Trouble (2013 [2014], Dox) B+(*)
  21. Darrell Katz and the JCA Orchestra: Why Do You Ride? (2013 [2014], Leo) B+(*)
  22. Tove Lo: Queen of the Clouds (2014, Island) B
  23. The Mike Longo Trio: Celebrates Oscar Peterson: Live (2013 [2014], CAP) B+(**)
  24. Branford Marsalis: In My Solitude: Live at Grace Cathedral (2012 [2014], Okeh) B+(**)
  25. Tineke Postma/Greg Osby: Sonic Halo (2013 [2014], Challenge) B+(***)
  26. Angaleena Presley: American Middle Class (2014, Saddle Creek) A-
  27. Prince: Art Official Age (2014, Warner Brothers) B+(**)
  28. Prince/3rdEyeGirl: Plectrum Electrum (2014, Warner Brothers) B+(*)
  29. Joshua Redman: Trios Live (2009-13 [2014], Nonesuch) B+(**)
  30. Sylvain Rifflet & Jon Irabagon: Perpetual Motion: A Celebration of Moondog (2013 [2014], Jazz Village) B+(*)
  31. Rafael Rosa: Portrait (2014, self-released) B+(**)
  32. Matthew Shipp: I've Been to Many Places (2014, Thirsty Ear) B+(*)
  33. Wadada Leo Smith/Bill Laswell: The Stone (Akashic Meditation) (2014, MOD Technologies) B+(*)
  34. Spoke: (R)anthems (2013 [2014], River) B+(*)
  35. Marty Stuart and His Fabulous Superlatives: Saturday Night/Sunday Morning (2014, Superlatone, 2CD) B+(*)
  36. Tricky: Adrian Thaws (2014, !K7) B+(***)
  37. Ulf Wakenius: Solo: Momento Magico (2013 [2014], ACT) B+(*)
  38. Ezra Weiss Sextet: Before You Know It: Live in Portland (2013 [2014], Roark) A-
  39. Dann Zinn: Shangri La (2014, self-released) B
  40. Charlie Haden/Jim Hall: Charlie Haden/Jim Hall (1990 [2014], Impulse) A-
  41. Jerry Heldman: Revelation(s) (1973-74 [2014], Origin, 2CD) B
  42. Oscar Peterson: Plays the Harry Warren & Vincent Youmans Song Books (1952-59 [2014], Solar, 2CD) B+(***)
  43. Oscar Peterson: Plays the Richard Rodgers Song Book (1954-59 [2014], Solar) B+(**)
  44. Oscar Peterson: Plays the Irving Berlin Song Book (1952-59 [2014], Solar) B+(***)
  45. Oscar Peterson: Plays the Jimmy McHugh Song Book (1954-59 [2014], Solar) B+(**)
  46. The Rough Guide to Arabic Jazz ([2014], World Music Network, 2CD) B+(*)
  47. Hijaz: Chemsi (2011, Zephyrus) B+(**)
  48. The Rough Guide to Bollywood Disco (1965-93 [2014], World Music Network, 2CD) B+(***)
  49. Kishore Kumar: The Rough Guide to Kishore Kumar ([2014], World Music Network) B+(**)
  50. Wild Jimmy Spruill: Scratchin': The Wild Jimmy Spruill Story (1956-63 [2014], GVC, 2CD) A
  51. Lester Young: Boston, 1950 (1950 [2013], Uptown) B+(*)
  52. Oscar Peterson: The Oscar Peterson Trio at Zardi's (1955 [1994], Pablo/OJC, 2CD) A-
  53. Oscar Peterson: Plays My Fair Lady (1958, Verve) B+(**)
  54. Oscar Peterson: Plays the Harold Arlen Song Book (1954-59 [2001], Verve) B+(**)
  55. Oscar Peterson: Plays the Cole Porter Song Book (1959 [1990], Verve) B+(***)
  56. Oscar Peterson: Plays the George Gershwin Song Book (1952-59 [1996], Verve) B+(***)
  57. Oscar Peterson: Plays the Duke Ellington Song Book (1952-59 [1999], Verve) B+(***)
  58. Oscar Peterson: A Jazz Portrait of Frank Sinatra (1959 [1990], Verve) B+(***)
  59. The Oscar Peterson Trio: Fiorello (1960, Verve) B+(*)
  60. Oscar Peterson Trio: West Side Story (1962, Verve) B
  61. Oscar Peterson: The Jazz Soul of Oscar Peterson/Affinity (1959-62 [1996], Verve) B+(**)
  62. Richmond Fontaine: Winnemucca (2002, El Cortez) B+(***)
  63. Matthew Shipp/Guillermo E. Brown: Telephone Popcorn (2005 [2008], Nu Bop) B+(*)

September 30

  1. Ryan Adams: Ryan Adams (2014, Blue Note) B
  2. Jason Adasiewicz's Sun Rooms: From the Region (2013 [2014], Delmark) B+(***)
  3. Afghan Whigs: Do to the Beast (2014, Sub Pop) B+(**)
  4. Aphex Twin: Syro (2014, Warp) A-
  5. Avi Buffalo: At Best Cuckold (2014, Sub Pop) B+(*)
  6. Iggy Azalea: Ignorant Art (2011 [2012], Grand Hustle, EP) B+(**)
  7. Iggy Azalea: The New Classic (2014, Island) A-
  8. Daniel Blacksberg Trio: Perilous Architecture (2012 [2014], NoBusiness) B+(***)
  9. Frank Catalano/Jimmy Chamberlin: Love Supreme Collective (2014, Ropeadope) B+(*)
  10. Causa Sui: Pewt'r Sessions 3 (2014, El Paraiso) B+(**)
  11. Leonard Cohen: Popular Problems (2014, Columbia) A-
  12. Jack Cooper: Mists: Charles Ives for Jazz Orchestra (2014, Planet Arts) B+(*)
  13. Bo Dollis Jr. and the Wild Magnolias: A New Kind of Funk (2013, self-released) B+(***)
  14. Open Mike Eagle: Dark Comedy (2014, Mello Music Group) B+(**)
  15. Hal Galper Trio: O's Time (2014, Origin) B+(**)
  16. Gerry Gibbs Thrasher Dream Trio: We're Back (2014, Whaling City Sound) B+(**)
  17. John Hiatt: Terms of My Surrender (2014, New West) A-
  18. Kevin Hildebrandt: Tolerance (2012 [2014], Summit) B+(**)
  19. Homeboy Sandman: Hallways (2014, Stones Throw) A-
  20. William Hooker & Liudas Mockunas: Live at the Vilnius Jazz Festival (2013 [2014], NoBusiness) A-
  21. Jennifer Hudson: JHUD (2014, RCA) B+(*)
  22. Tommy Igoe: The Tommy Igoe Groove Conspiracy (2014, Deep Rhythm) B-
  23. Imarhan Timbuktu: Akal Warled (2014, Clermont) B+(**)
  24. Orlando Julius with the Heliocentrics: Jaiyede Afro (2014, Strut) A-
  25. Just Passing Through: The Breithaupt Brothers Songbook Vol. II (2014, ALMA) B
  26. Kalle Kalima & K-18: Buñuel de Jour (2013 [2014], TUM) B+(***)
  27. Sami Lane: You Know the Drill (2014, self-released, EP) B+(**)
  28. Gianni Lenoci/Kent Carter/Bill Elgart: Plaything (2012 [2014], NoBusiness) B+(***)
  29. The Mark Lomax Trio: Isis & Osiris (2012 [2014], Inarhyme) A-
  30. Alexander McCabe/Paul Odeh: This Is Not a Pipe (2014, Wamco) B+(**)
  31. Medeski, Scofield, Martin & Wood: Juice (2014, Indirecto) B+(*)
  32. The Microscopic Septet: Manhattan Moonrise (2014, Cuneiform) A-
  33. Jason Moran: All Rise: A Joyful Elegy for Fats Waller (2014, Blue Note) B+(*)
  34. Nicholas Payton: Numbers (2013 [2014], Paytone) B-
  35. Peripheral Vision: Sheer Tyranny of the Will (2014, self-released) B+(*)
  36. RED Trio & Mattias Ståhl: North and the Red Stream (2013 [2014], NoBusiness) B+(**)
  37. Wadada Leo Smith: The Great Lakes Suites (2012 [2014], TUM, 2CD) B+(***)
  38. Wadada Leo Smith/Jamie Saft/Joe Morris/Balasz Pandi: Red Hill (2014, Rare Noise) A-
  39. Ken Thomson and Slow/Fast: Settle (2012 [2014], NCM East) B+(***)
  40. Rosenna Vitro: Clarity: Music of Clare Fischer (2014, Random Act) B+(*)
  41. Loudon Wainwright III: Haven't Got the Blues (Yet) (2014, 429 Records) B+(*)
  42. Lee Ann Womack: The Way I'm Livin' (2014, Sugar Hill/Welk) A-
  43. Rashied Al Akbar/Muhammad Ali/Earl Cross/Idris Ackamoor: Ascent of the Nether Creatures (1980 [2014], NoBusiness) B+(***)
  44. Bambara Mystic Soul: The Raw Sound of Burkina Faso 1974-1979 (1974-79 [2011], Analog Africa) B+(**)
  45. Aby Ngana Diop: Liital (1994 [2014], Awesome Tapes From Africa) B+(***)
  46. The Evergreen Classic Jazz Band: Early Tunes 1915-1932 (1995 [2014], Delmark) A-
  47. John Hiatt: Here to Stay: Best of 2000-2012 (2000-12 [2013], New West) A-
  48. The Rough Guide to the Music of the Sahara [Second Edition] (1980-2013 [2014], World Music Network, 2CD) B+(***)
  49. Mamane Barka: Introducing Mamane Barka (2009, World Music Network) B+(**)
  50. Shaver: Shaver's Jewels: The Best of Shaver (1993-2001 [2013], New West) A-
  51. Sun Ra & His Arkestra: In the Orbit of Ra (1957-78 [2014], Strut, 2CD) A-
  52. The Buddy Tate Quartet: Texas Tenor (1978 [2014], Sackville/Delmark) A-
  53. Ruby Braff: Linger Awhile (1953-55 [1999], Vanguard) B+(**)
  54. Columbia Country Classics, Vol. 5: A New Tradition (1967-87 [1991], Columbia) B+(**)
  55. Julius Hemphill: Raw Materials and Residuals (1977 [1993], Black Saint) A-
  56. Julius Hemphill/Warren Smith: Chile New York (1980 [1998], Black Saint) B+(**)
  57. The Julius Hemphill Sextet: At Dr. King's Table (1997, New World) B+(***)
  58. The Julius Hemphill Sextet: The Hard Blues: Live in Lisbon (2003 [2004], Clean Feed) B+(***)
  59. Orlando Julius: Super Afro Soul (1966-72 [2007], Vampi Soul, 2CD) B+(**)
  60. Steve Lacy: Early Years 1954-1956 (1954-56 [2004], Fresh Sound, 2CD) B+(**)
  61. Steve Lacy: Soprano Sax (1957 [1991], Prestige/OJC) A-
  62. Steve Lacy: The Straight Horn of Steve Lacy (1960 [1985], Candid) A-
  63. Steve Lacy with Don Cherry: Evidence (1961 [1990], New Jazz/OJC) B+(***)
  64. Steve Lacy: Scratching the Seventies/Dreams (1969-77 [1997], Saravah, 3CD) B+(*)
  65. Steve Lacy Gang: Roba (1969 [1972], Saravah) B
  66. Steve Lacy: Lapis (1971 [1972], Saravah) B+(**)
  67. Steve Lacy Sextet: Scraps (1974, Saravah) B+(*)
  68. Steve Lacy: Dreams (1975, Saravah) B+(*)
  69. Steve Lacy: The Owl (1977, Saravah) B+(*)
  70. Steve Lacy: Axieme (1975 [1993], RED) B+(*)
  71. Steve Lacy/Andrea Centazzo/Kent Carter: In Concert (1976 [2006], Ictus) B+(***)
  72. Steve Lacy/Andrea Centazzo: Clangs (1977 [2006], Ictus) B+(**)
  73. Steve Lacy Quintet: Troubles (1979, Black Saint) B+(***)
  74. Steve Lacy: The Flame (1982, Soul Note) B+(*)
  75. Steve Lacy/Andrea Centazzo: Tao (1976-84 [2006], Ictus) B+(***)
  76. Steve Lacy/Mal Waldron: Live in Berlin (1984 [2007], Jazzwerkstatt) B+(**)
  77. Steve Lacy Trio: The Window (1987 [1988], Soul Note) A-
  78. Steve Lacy: More Monk (1989 [1991], Soul Note) B+(*)
  79. Steve Lacy Double Sextet: Clangs (1992 [1993], Hat Art) B+(**)
  80. Steve Lacy/Mal Waldron: "Let's Call This . . . Esteem" (1993, Slam) B+(**)
  81. Steve Lacy Trio: The Rent (1997 [1999], Cavity Search, 2CD) B+(***)
  82. Steve Lacy Trio: The Holy La (1998 [2002], Freelance) B+(***)
  83. Steve Lacy: The Beat Suite (2001 [2003], Sunnyside) B
  84. Steve Lacy: November (2003 [2010], Intakt) B+(**)
  85. Ron McClure Quintet: Descendants (1980 [1990], Ken) B+(**)
  86. Medeski Martin and Wood: Last Chance to Dance Trance (Perhaps): Best Of (1991-1996) (1991-96 [1999], Gramavision) B+(***)
  87. Brad Mehldau: The Art of the Trio: Volume One (1996 [1997], Warner Brothers) B+(***)
  88. Brad Mehldau: Art of the Trio 4: Back at the Vanguard (1999, Warner Brothers) B+(***)
  89. The Brad Mehldau Trio: Progression: Art of the Trio, Volume 5 (2000 [2001], Warner Brothers, 2CD) B+(***)
  90. Brad Mehldau: Anything Goes (2002 [2004], Warner Brothers) B+(***)
  91. Roger Miller: The Best of Roger Miller, Volume One: Country Tunesmith (1957-67 [1991], Mercury) A-
  92. Henry Threadgill Sextett: You Know the Number (1986 [1987], Jive/Novus) A-
  93. Henry Threadgill Sextett: Easily Slip Into Another World (1987 [1988], Jive/Novus) B+(***)
  94. Henry Threadgill: Song Out of My Trees (1993 [1994], Black Saint) B+(**)

September 9

  1. Audio One: An International Report (2014, Audiographic) A-
  2. The Bad Plus: Inevitable Western (2014, Okeh) B+(***)
  3. Bahamas: Bahamas Is Afie (2014, Brushfire/Island) B+(**)
  4. Cory Branan: The No-Hit Wonder (2014, Bloodshot) B+(*)
  5. The Bug: Angels & Devils (2014, Ninja Tune) B+(*)
  6. The Cellar and Point: Ambit (2011-13 [2014], Cuneiform) B
  7. Common: Nobody's Smiling (2014, Def Jam) B+(***)
  8. Eliana Cuevas: Espejo (2014, ALMA) B
  9. The Delines: Colfax (2014, El Cortez) A-
  10. Dirty Loops: Loopified (2014, Verve) C+
  11. Brian Eno/Karl Hyde: Someday World (2014, Warp) B+(*)
  12. Simone Felice: Strangers (2014, Dualtone) B+(*)
  13. The Felice Brothers: Favorite Waitress (2014, Dualtone) B+(***)
  14. 5 Seconds of Summer: 5 Seconds of Summer (2014, Capitol) B
  15. Four Year Strong: Go Down in History (2014, Pure Noise, EP) B-
  16. Roddy Frame: Seven Dials (2014, AED) B+(*)
  17. Larry Fuller: Larry Fuller (2013-14 [2014], Capri) B+(***)
  18. Richard Galliano: Sentimentale (2014, Resonance) A-
  19. Ben Goldberg/Adam Levy/Smith Dobson: Worry Later (2014, BAG Productions) B+(**)
  20. Ariana Grande: My Everything (2014, Island/Republic) B+(**)
  21. Eric Harland's Voyager: Vipassana (2014, GSI Studios) B-
  22. Phil Haynes: No Fast Food: In Concert (2012 [2014], Corner Store Jazz, 2CD) B+(***)
  23. Joe Henry: Invisible Hour (2014, Work Song) B+(*)
  24. Horse Meat Disco: Volume IV (2014, Strut) B+(**)
  25. Ikebe Shakedown: Stone by Stone (2014, Ubiquity) B
  26. Jason Jackson: Inspiration (2012 [2014], Jack & Hill Music/Planet Arts) B
  27. Ricky Kej/Wouter Kellerman: Winds of Samsara (2014, Listen 2 Africa) C
  28. Wiz Khalifa: Blacc Hollywood (2014, Atlantic) B+(**)
  29. Nils Landgren Funk Unit: Teamwork (2013, ACT) B+(*)
  30. Matt Lavelle/John Pietaro: Harmolodic Monk (2014, Unseen Rain) B+(**)
  31. Dave Liebman Big Band: A Tribute to Wayne Shorter (2014, Summit) B+(*)
  32. The Magic Words: Junk Train (2006 [2014], Shake It, EP) B+(**)
  33. Dean Magraw & Eric Kamau Gravatt: Fire on the Nile (2014, Red House) B+(**)
  34. The Margots: Pescado (2013, Okka Disk) B+(***)
  35. The Margots: Soplé (2014, Okka Disk) B+(***)
  36. J Mascis: Tied to a Star (2014, Sub Pop) B+(*)
  37. John McLaughlin & 4th Dimension: The Boston Record (2013 [2014], Abstract Logix) B
  38. The Muffs: Whoop Dee Doo (2014, Cherry Red) B+(***)
  39. Novox: Over the Honeymoon (2014, Label Z Production) C+
  40. Brad Paisley: Moonshine in the Trunk (2014, Arista) B-
  41. Pattern Is Movement: Pattern Is Movement (2014, Hometapes) B-
  42. Ivo Perelman/Karl Berger: Reverie (2014, Leo) A-
  43. Anthony Pirog: Palo Colorado Dream (2014, Cuneiform) B+(*)
  44. Jeff Richman & Wayne Johnson: The Distance (2014, ITI Music) B+(*)
  45. Ritmos Unidos: Ritmos Unidos (2014, Patois) B+(**)
  46. Bruce Robison/Kelly Willis: Our Year (2014, Premium) B+(***)
  47. Jason Roebke: Combination (2014, self-released) B+(*)
  48. Jamie Saft/Steve Swallow/Bobby Previte: The New Standard (2014, Rare Noise) B+(*)
  49. Akira Sakata/Johan Berthling/Paal Nilssen-Love: Arashi (2014, Trost) B+(***)
  50. Akira Sakata/Fred Lonberg-Holm/Ketil Gutvik/Paal Nilssen-Love: The Cliff of Time (2013 [2014], PNL) B+(*)
  51. Masahiko Satoh/Paal Nilssen-Love: Spring Snow (2013 [2014], PNL) B+(**)
  52. Carl Saunders: America (2013 [2014], Summit) B+(*)
  53. Billy Joe Shaver: Long in the Tooth (2014, Lightning Rod) B+(**)
  54. Side A: In the Abstract (2013 [2014], Not Two) B+(**)
  55. Tim Sparks: Chasin' the Boogie (2013 [2014], Tonewood) B+(***)
  56. Spider Bags: Frozen Letter (2014, Merge) B+(*)
  57. Statik Selektah: What Goes Around (2014, Duck Down Music) A-
  58. Ed Stone: King of Hearts (2014, Sapphire Music) C+
  59. Street Priest: More Nasty (2012 [2014], Humbler) B+(**)
  60. Randy Travis: Influence Vol. 2: The Man I Am (2012 [2014], Warner Brothers) B+(**)
  61. Ken Vandermark's Topology Nonet: Impressions of Po Music (2013, Okka Disk) B+(**)
  62. The Bill Warfield Big Band: Trumpet Story (2013-14 [2014], Planet Arts) B+(*)
  63. Wussy: Duo (2013, Shakt It, EP) B+(**)
  64. Cables to the Ace (2014, Communicating Vessels) B
  65. Jay Clayton & John Lindberg: As Tears Go By (1987 [2014], Jazzwerkstatt) B+(*)
  66. Hyperdub 10.1 (2006-14 [2014], Hyperdub, 2CD) B+(**)
  67. Charles Lloyd: Manhattan Stories (1965 [2014], Resonance, 2CD) A-
  68. Pete Magadini: Bones Blues (1977 [2014], Sackville/Delmark) B+(**)
  69. Don Pullen: Richard's Tune (1975 [2014], Sackville/Delmark) B+(***)
  70. Suburban Base: The History of Hardcore, Jungle, and Drum 'n' Bass: 1991-1997 (1991-97 [2014], New State, 3CD) B+(***)
  71. AALY Trio with Ken Vandermark: Hidden in the Stomach (1996 [1997], Silkheart) B+(**)
  72. AALY Trio with Ken Vandermark: I Wonder If I Was Screaming (2000, Crazy Wisdom) B+(**)
  73. Artifact iTi: Live in St. Johann (2008 [2010], Okka Disk) B+(***)
  74. Billy Bang Quintet: Invitation (1982, Soul Note) B+(**)
  75. John Wolf Brennan/Alex Cline/Daniele Patumi/Tscho Theissing/John Voirol: Shooting Stars and Traffic Lights (1993-97 [2006], Leo) B+(**)
  76. Caffeine: Caffeine (1993 [1994], Okka Disk) A-
  77. The John Carter Octet: Dauwhe (1982, Black Saint) B+(**)
  78. Cinghiale [Mars Williams/Ken Vandermark]: Hoofbeats of the Snorting Swine (1995 [1996], Eighth Day) B+(***)
  79. DK3: Neutrons (1997 [1998], Quarterstick) B+(***)
  80. The Frame Quartet: 35mm (2009, Okka Disk) B+(***)
  81. Joy Division: The Best of Joy Division (1979-80 [2008], Rhino) A-
  82. John Lindberg: Trilogy of Works for Eleven Instrumentalists (1984 [1985], Black Saint) B+(***)
  83. John Lindberg: Luminosity: Homage to David Izenzon (1992-06 [1996], Music & Arts) B+(**)
  84. John Lindberg: Quartet Afterstorm (1994, Black Saint) A-
  85. John Lindberg Ensemble: Bounce (1997, Black Saint) B+(***)
  86. John Lindberg Ensemble: A Tree Frog Tonality (2000, Between the Lines) B+(***)
  87. John Lindberg: Ruminations Upon Ives and Gottschalk (2001 [2003], Between the Lines) B+(***)
  88. Paul Motian Quintet: Misterioso (1986 [1987], Soul Note) B+(**)
  89. Paul Motian Trio: One Time Out (1987 [1989], Soul Note) B+(***)
  90. The Kevin Norton Ensemble: Knots (1997, Music & Arts) B+(***)
  91. NRG Ensemble: Bejazzo Gets a Facelift (1997, Atavistic) B+(***)
  92. Pago Libre: Stepping Out (2004 [2005], Leo) B+(***)
  93. Jeff Palmer/John Abercrombie/Arthur Blythe/Victor Lewis: Ease On (1992 [2013], Sledgehammer Blues) B+(***)
  94. Jeff Palmer/Arthur Blythe/John Abercrombie/Rashied Ali: Island Universe (1994, Soul Note) A-
  95. Sten Sandell Trio: Face of Tokyo (2008 [2009], PNL) B+(**)
  96. Alan Skidmore: After the Rain (1998, Miles Music) B+(***)
  97. Territory Band-4: Company Switch (2004 [2005], Okka Disk, 2CD) B+(**)
  98. The Thing: Action Jazz (2006, Smalltown Superjazz) B+(**)
  99. Vandermark Quartet: Solid Action (1994, Platypus) B+(***)
  100. Ken Vandermark: Standards (1994 [1995], Quinnah) B+(**)
  101. Ken Vandermark: Strade d'Acqua/Roads of Water (2008 [2010], Multi Kulti) B+(*)

August 21

  1. Laurie Antonioli: Songs of Shadow, Songs of Light: The Music of Joni Mitchell (2013 [2014], Origin) B
  2. Clarice Assad: Imaginarium (2014, Adventure Music) B-
  3. Auction Project: Slink (2014, self-released) B+(*)
  4. Baloni: Belleke (2012 [2014], Clean Feed) B+(**)
  5. Benyoro: Benyoro (2014, self-released) B+(***)
  6. Bolt: Shuffle (2013 [2014], Driff) B+(***)
  7. Anthony Branker & Word Play: The Forward (Towards Equality) Suite (2014, Origin) B+(***)
  8. Bobby Broom: My Shining Hour (2014, Origin) B+(**)
  9. Henry Butler/Steven Bernstein: Viper's Drag (2014, Impulse) B+(***)
  10. Calle 13: MultiViral (2014, El Abismo/Sony Music Latin) B+(***)
  11. Mario Castro Quintet/Strings: Estrella de Mar/Promotional Edition (2014, Interrobang) B-
  12. Collier & Dean: Sleek Buick (2013-14 [2014], Origin) B
  13. Wayne Coniglio/Scott Whitfield: Fast Friends (2012 [2014], Summit) B+(**)
  14. Cortex: Live! (2014, Clean Feed) A-
  15. Sylvie Courvoisier/Mark Feldman Quartet: Birdies for Lulu (2013 [2014], Intakt) B+(**)
  16. Jorrit Dijkstra: Music for Reeds and Electronics: Oakland (2013 [2014], Driff) B+(*)
  17. Diva: A Swingin' Life (2001-12 [2014], MCG Jazz) B+(**)
  18. Dr. John: Ske-Dat-De-Dat: The Spirit of Satch (2013 [2014], Concord) C
  19. Jorge Drexler: Bailar en la Cueva (2014, Warner Music Latina) B+(**)
  20. John Ellis & Andy Bragen: Mobro (2011 [2014], Parade Light) B-
  21. Dave "Knife" Fabris: Lettuce Prey (2010 [2014], Musea) B-
  22. FKA Twigs: LP1 (2014, Young Turks) B
  23. Danny Fox Trio: Wide Eyed (2012 [2014], Hot Cup) B+(***)
  24. Golem: Tanz (2014, Discos Corason) A-
  25. Grand Fatilla: Global Shuffle (2014, self-released) B+(*)
  26. The Green Seed: Drapetomania (2014, Communicating Vessels) A-
  27. Michael Griener/Rudi Mahall/Jan Roder/Christof Thewes: Squakk: Willisau & Berlin (2012-13 [2014], Intakt) A-
  28. Haitian Rail: Solarists (2014, New Atlantis) B+(**)
  29. Hans Hassler: Hassler (2011 [2013], Intakt) B
  30. Hercules & Love Affair: The Feast of the Broken Heart (Moshi Moshi) B
  31. Jessica Hernandez & the Deltas: Secret Evil (2014, Instant) B+(***)
  32. Wayne Horvitz: 55: Music and Dance in Concrete (2012 [2014], Cuneiform) B
  33. Ibibio Sound Machine: Ibibio Sound Machine (2014, Soundway) B+(*)
  34. Darius Jones/Matthew Shipp: Cosmic Lieder: The Darkseid Recital (2011-13 [2014], AUM Fidelity) B+(*)
  35. Pandelis Karayorgis Quintet: Afterimage (2014, Driff) B+(***)
  36. Ryan Keberle & Catharsis: Into the Zone (2014, Greenleaf Music) B+(*)
  37. Rebecca Kilgore with the Harry Allen Quartet: I Like Men (2013 [2014], Arbors) B+(*)
  38. Jonas Kullhammar/Jørgen Mathisen/Torbjörn Zetterberg/Espen Aalberg: Basement Sessions Vol. 3: The Ljubljana Tapes (2013 [2014], Clean Feed) B+(**)
  39. Lake Street Dive: Bad Self Portraits (2014, Signature Sounds) B+(*)
  40. Adam Lane's Full Throttle Orchestra: Live in Ljubljana (2012 [2014], Clean Feed) A-
  41. Ingrid Laubrock Octet: Zürich Concert (2011 [2014], Intakt) B+(*)
  42. Azar Lawrence: The Seeker (2011 [2014], Sunnyside) B+(**)
  43. Gordon Lee with the Mel Brown Septet: Tuesday Night (2014, Origin) B-
  44. Ricardo Lemvo/Makina Loca: La Rumba Soyo (2014, Cumbancha) A-
  45. Vincent Lyn: Live in New York City (2013 [2014], Budo) B+(*)
  46. Bob Mamet: London House Blues (2014, Blujazz) B+(**)
  47. Jessica Lea Mayfield: Make My Head Sing . . . (2014, ATO) B+(**)
  48. Medeski Martin & Wood + Nels Cline: Woodstock Sessions Vol. 2 (2013 [2014], Indirecto) B+(***)
  49. Nicole Mitchell's Black Earth Ensemble: Intergalactic Beings (2010 [2014], FPE) B+(***)
  50. Hafez Modirzadeh: In Convergence Liberation (2011 [2014], Pi) B+(**)
  51. Joe Morris Quartet: Balance (2014, Clean Feed) B+(**)
  52. Sam Most: New Jazz Standards (2013 [2014], Summit) B+(**)
  53. Myriad 3: The Where (2014, ALMA) B+(**)
  54. Tom Petty & the Heartbreakers: Hypnotic Eye (2014, Reprise) B+(*)
  55. Picastro: You (2014, Static Clang) B+(*)
  56. Pink Martini & the Von Trapps: Dream a Little Dream (2013 [2014], Heinz) B+(*)
  57. Greg Reitan: Post No Bills (2014, Sunnyside) B+(*)
  58. Dylan Ryan/Sand: Circa (2014, Cuneiform) B+(*)
  59. Irène Schweizer/Pierre Favre: Live in Zürich (2013, Intakt) A-
  60. 75 Dollar Bill: Olives in the Ears (2014, self-released) B+(***)
  61. Rotem Sivan Trio: For Emotional Use Only (2013 [2014], Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(**)
  62. Sohn: Tremors (2014, 4AD) B+(*)
  63. Spoon: They Want My Soul (2014, Anti-) A-
  64. Steve Swallow/Ohad Talmor/Adam Nussbaum: Singular Curves (2012 [2014], Auand) B+(***)
  65. Aki Takase/La Planète: Flying Soul (2012 [2014], Intakt) B+(***)
  66. Jonah Tolchin: Clover Lane (2014, Yep Roc) A-
  67. Trio 3 & Vijay Iyer: Wiring (2013 [2014], Intakt) B+(***)
  68. Matt Ulery: In the Ivory (2013-14 [2014], Greenleaf Music, 2CD) B+(*)
  69. Harvey Wainapel: Amigos Brasileiros Vol. 2 (2013 [2014], Jazzmission) B
  70. Seth Walker: Sky Still Blue (2014, The Royal Potato Family) B
  71. Reggie Watkins: One for Miles, One for Maynard (2014, Corona Music) B+(**)
  72. Anna Webber: Simple (2013 [2014], Skirl) B+(***)
  73. The Whammies: Play the Music of Steve Lacy Vol. 3: Live (2014, Driff) B+(***)
  74. Walter White: Most Triumphant (2013 [2014], Summit) B+(*)
  75. Steve Wilson/Lewis Nash Duo: Duologue (2013 [2014], MCG Jazz) B+(***)
  76. Tom Wolfe: Solerovescent (2014, Summit) B+(*)
  77. Wooden Wand: Farmer's Corner (2013 [2014], Fire) B+(**)
  78. J.J. Wright: Inward Looking Outward (2013 [2014], Ropeadope) B+(**)
  79. Calypso: Musical Poetry in the Caribbean 1955-1969 (1955-69 [2014], Soul Jazz) A-
  80. Smoke Dawson: Fiddle (1971 [2014], Tompkins Square) B+(***)
  81. Arto Lindsay: Encyclopedia of Arto (1996-2012 [2014], Northern Spy, 2CD) A-
  82. Sergio Mendes & Brasil '66: Stillness (1971 [2014], Universal Sound) B+(*)
  83. Punk 45: Underground Punk in the United States of America, Vol. 1: Kill the Hippies! Kill Yourself! The American Nation Destroys Its Young (1973-80 [2013], Soul Jazz) B+(***)
  84. Punk 45: Underground Punk and Post-Punk in the UK 1977-81, Vol. 2: There Is No Such Thing as Society: Get a Job, Get a Car, Get a Bed, Get Drunk! (1977-81 (2014), Soul Jazz) B+(***)
  85. The Best Punk Album in the World . . . Ever! (1975-84 [1995], Virgin, 2CD) A-
  86. Michael Griener/Jan Roder/Christof Thewes: Squakk (2008 [2009], Jazzwerkstatt) B+(**)
  87. Richard Hell: Spurts: The Richard Hell Story (1973-92 [2005], Rhino) B+(**)
  88. Oliver Lake: Heavy Spirits (1975 [1995], Black Lion) B+(*)
  89. The Oliver Lake String Project: Movement, Turns & Switches (1996, Passin' Thru) B
  90. Oliver Lake Quintet: Talkin' Stick (1997 [2000], Passin' Thru) B+(**)
  91. Oliver Lake Steel Quartet: Dat Love (2003 [2004], Passin' Thru) B+(***)
  92. Ted Rosenthal: My Funny Valentine (2007 [2008], Tokuma) B+(***)
  93. Nobu Stowe & Alan Munshower with Badal Roy: An die Musik (2006 [2008], Soul Note) A-
  94. Nobu Stowe: L'Albero Delle Meduse (2009 [2010], self-released) B+(***)
  95. Nobu Stowe-Lee Pembleton Project: Hommage an Klaus Kinski (2006 [2007], Soul Note) B+(**)
  96. Aki Takase/Alex von Schlippenbach/DJ Illvibe: Lok 03 (2004 [2005], Leo) A-
  97. Aki Takase/Silke Eberhard: Ornette Coleman Anthology (2006 [2007], Intakt, 2CD) A-
  98. Aki Takase/Louis Sclavis: Yokohama (2009, Intakt) B+(***)
  99. Aki Takase/Han Bennink: Two for Two (2011, Intakt) A-
  100. Tama: Rolled Up (2009, Jazzwerkstatt) B+(***)
  101. Leroy Vinnegar Sextet: Leroy Walks! (1957 [1989], Contemporary/OJC) B+(**)

July 30

  1. Dee Alexander: Songs My Mother Loves (2014, Blujazz) B+(**)
  2. Al Basile: Swing n' Strings (2013 [2014], Sweetspot) B+(**)
  3. Gerald Beckett: The Messenger (2013 [2014], Summit) B
  4. Kris Berg & the Metroplexity Big Band: Time Management (2014, Summit/MAMA) B+(*)
  5. Todd Bishop Group: Travelogue (2014, Origin) B
  6. Drew Ceccato/Adam Tinkle: Eidolon (2014, Edgetone) B+(*)
  7. Alan Chan Jazz Orchestra: Shrimp Tale (2013 [2014], Crown Heights Audio Network) B+(*)
  8. Dagens Ungdom: Dagens Ungdom (2014, Metronomicon Audio) B+(***)
  9. Jason Derulo: Talk Dirty (2014, Warner Brothers) A-
  10. Drumheller: Sometimes Machine (2014, Barnyard) B+(*)
  11. Dub Thompson: 9 Songs (2013 [2014], Dead Oceans, EP) A-
  12. The Equity & Social Justice Quartet: The Whisper of Flowers (2013 [2014], Edgetone) B+(**)
  13. Grenier/Archie Pelago: Grenier Meets Archie Pelago (2014, Melodic) B+(***)
  14. Paul Heaton & Jacqui Abbott: What Have We Become (2014, Virgin) A-
  15. Jazzhole: Blue 72 (2014, Beave Music) B+(**)
  16. Jua: Colors of Life (2014, Chocolate Chi Music) B-
  17. Sherie Julianne: 10 Degrees South (2014, Azul Do Mar) B
  18. Dave Kain: Raising Kain (2014, Stop Time) B+(**)
  19. Søren Kjaergaard/Ben Street/Andrew Cyrille: Syvmileskridt (2014, ILK Music) B+(***)
  20. La Dispute: Rooms of the House (2014, Vagrant) B+(***)
  21. La Roux: Trouble in Paradise (2014, Cherrytree/Interscope) B+(***)
  22. Le1f: Hey (2014, Terrible/XL, EP) B+(**)
  23. Jenny Lewis: The Voyager (2014, Warner Brothers) B+(***)
  24. Paul Marinaro: Without a Song (2014, Myrtle) B+(*)
  25. Terry Marshall: Arrival (2014, self-released) C+
  26. ¡Mayday x Murs!: ¡Mursday! (2014, Strange Music) A-
  27. Mark Meadows: Somethin' Good (2014, self-released) B-
  28. Roscoe Mitchell: Conversations II (2013 [2014], Wide Hive) B+(*)
  29. Bob Mould: Beauty & Pain (2014, Merge) B+(**)
  30. William Parker: Wood Flute Songs: Anthology/Live 2006-2012 (2006-12 [2013], AUM Fidelity, 8CD) A
  31. PJ Rasmussen: Another Adventure (2013 [2014], Third Freedom Music) B
  32. Real Estate: Atlas (2014, Domino) B+(**)
  33. Ellynne Rey: A Little Bit of Moonlight (2013 [2014], self-released) B
  34. Rent Romus' Life's Blood Ensemble: Cimmerian Crossroads (2014, Edgetone) A-
  35. Jochen Rueckert: We Make the Rules (2014, Whirlwind) B+(**)
  36. Amanda Ruzza/Mauricio Zottarelli: Glasses, No Glasses (2013 [2014], Pimenta Music) B+(***)
  37. Nicky Schrire: To the Spring (2013 [2014], self-released, EP) B-
  38. Shabazz Palaces: Lese Majesty (2014, Sub Pop) B+(***)
  39. Paul Shapiro: Shofarot Verses (2013 [2014], Tzadik) A
  40. Mitch Shiner and the Blooming Tones Big Band: Fly! (2014, Patois) B-
  41. Sia: 1000 Forms of Fear (2014, RCA) B
  42. Donna Singer: Destiny: Moment of Jazz (2014, Emerald Baby) B
  43. Vinnie Sperrazza: Apocryphal (2012 [2014], Loyal Label) B+(**)
  44. Isabel Stover: Her Own Sweet World (2010 [2014], self-released) B+(*)
  45. Tilting: Holy Seven (2013 [2014], Barnyard) B+(***)
  46. Peter Van Huffel/Michael Bates/Jeff Davis: Boom Crane (2013 [2014], Fresh Sound New Talent) A-
  47. Anne Waldman: Jaguar Harmonics (2014, Fast Speaking Music) A-
  48. Cabaret Voltaire: #7885 Electropunk to Technopop (1978-85 [2014], Mute) A-
  49. Miles Davis: Miles at the Fillmore (Miles Davis 1970: The Bootleg Series, Vol. 3) (1970 [2014], Columbia/Legacy, 4CD) B+(***)
  50. Nancy Harrow: Wild Women Don't Have the Blues/You Never Know (1960-62 [2014], Fresh Sound) B+(***)
  51. Craig Leon: Early Electronic Works: Nommos Visiting (1981-82 [2013], Aparte) A-
  52. Enrico Pieranunzi/Marc Johnson/Joey Baron: Play Morricone 1 & 2: The Complete Recordings (2001-02 [2014], CAM Jazz, 2CD) A-
  53. George Adams/Don Pullen: Don't Lose Control (1979 [1980], Soul Note) B+(***)
  54. George Adams/Don Pullen Quartet: Earth Beams (1980, Timeless) A-
  55. George Adams-Don Pullen Quartet: Life Line (1981, Timeless) B+(*)
  56. George Adams & Don Pullen: Melodic Excursions (1982, Timeless) B+(*)
  57. George Adams-Dannie Richmond: Gentlemen's Agreement (1983, Soul Note) B+(*)
  58. George Adams/Don Pullen Quartet: Decisions (1984, Timeless) B+(**)
  59. The Chris Anderson Trio: Inverted Image/My Romance (1960-61 [2012], Fresh Sound) A-
  60. Conrad Bauer: Hummelsummen (2002 [2003], Intakt) B+(**)
  61. Conrad Bauer/Johannes Bauer: Bauer Bauer (1993 [1995], Intakt) B+(**)
  62. Conrad Bauer/Peter Kowald/Günter Sommer: Between Heaven and Earth (2001 [2003], Intakt) A-
  63. Ron Carter/Herbie Hancock/Tony Williams: Third Plane (1977 [1983], Milestone/OJC) B+(***)
  64. Duke Ellington and Ray Brown: This One's for Blanton (1972-73 [2000], Pablo/OJC) B+(***)
  65. Art Farmer: Out of the Past (1960-61 [1996], Chess) B+(***)
  66. Charlie Haden: Quartet West (1986 [1987], Verve) B+(**)
  67. Charlie Haden/Chris Anderson: None but the Lonely Heart (1997, Naim) A-
  68. Fred Hersch: Fred Hersch Plays Rodgers & Hammerstein (1996, Nonesuch) B+(***)
  69. Earl Hines: Blues in Thirds (1965 [1989], Black Lion) A-
  70. Earl Hines: One for My Baby (1974 [1995], Black Lion) A-
  71. Earl Hines: Plays Duke Ellington, Volume Two (1971-75 [1997], New World) B+(***)
  72. Johnny Hodges/Earl "Fatha" Hines: Stride Right (1966, Verve) A-
  73. New Orleans Rhythm Kings: The Complete Set: 1922-1925 (1922-25 [2001], Retrieval, 2CD) A
  74. Don Pullen: Healing Force (1976, Black Saint) B+(**)
  75. The Don Pullen Quintet: The Sixth Sense (1985, Black Saint) B
  76. Art Tatum: Classic Early Solos (1934-1937) (1934-37 [1991], MCA) B+(***)
  77. Art Tatum: The Standard Sessions: 1935-1943 Transcriptions (1935-43 [1991], Music & Arts, 2CD) A-
  78. Art Tatum: The Art Tatum Solo Masterpieces: Volume One (1953 [1992], Pablo/OJC) B+(***)
  79. Art Tatum: The Art Tatum Solo Masterpieces: Volume Two (1953-55 [1992], Pablo/OJC) B+(**)
  80. Art Tatum: The Art Tatum Solo Masterpieces: Volume Three (1953-55 [1992], Pablo/OJC) B+(***)
  81. Art Tatum: The Art Tatum Solo Masterpieces: Volume Six (1953-55 [1992], Pablo/OJC) A-
  82. Art Tatum: The Art Tatum Solo Masterpieces: Volume Seven (1953-55 [1992], Pablo/OJC) B+(***)
  83. Art Tatum: The Art Tatum Solo Masterpieces: Volume Eight (1953-56 [1992], Pablo/OJC) B+(***)
  84. Art Tatum: The Complete Pablo Solo Masterpieces (1953-56 [1991], Pablo, 7CD) A-
  85. The Cecil Taylor Quartet: Looking Ahead! (1958 [1990], Contemporary/OJC) B+(***)
  86. Cecil Taylor: Silent Tongues (1974, Arista/Freedom) A-
  87. Cecil Taylor: Algonquin (1999 [2004], Bridge) B+(***)
  88. Trevor Watts Moiré Music Trio: Moire (1995, Intakt) A-
  89. Trevor Watts: The Deep Blue (2008 [2009], Jazzwerkstatt) A-
  90. Zentralquartett [Conrad Bauer/Ulrich Gumpert/Ernest-Ludwig Petrowsky/Günter Sommer]: Zentralquartett (1990 [2001], Intakt) B+(***)
  91. Zentralquartett: Plié (1994, Intakt) A
  92. Zentralquartett: Careless Love (1997 [1998], Intakt) A-
  93. Zentralquartett/Synopsis: Auf Der Elbe Schwimmt Ein Rosa Krokodil (1974 [2008], Intakt) A-

July 8

  1. Ab-Soul: These Days . . . (2014, Top Dawg) B+(**)
  2. Darren Barrett: Energy in Motion: The Music of the Bee Gees (2014, dB Studios) B-
  3. Darren Barrett dB Quintet: Live and Direct 2014 (2014, dB Studios) B
  4. Beat Funktion: Voodooland (2014, DO Music) B-
  5. Itamar Borochov Quartet: Outset (2011 [2014], RealBird) B+(**)
  6. Camper Van Beethoven: La Costa Perdida (2013, 429 Records) B
  7. Camper Van Beethoven: El Camino Real (2014, 429 Records) B+(**)
  8. Mark Charig/Georg Wolf/Jörg Fischer: Free Music on a Summer Evening (2010 [2014], Spore Print) B+(*)
  9. Sébastien Chaumont Quartet: Still Walkin' (2011-13 [2014], ITI) B+(**)
  10. Jeff Colella/Putter Smith: Lotus Blossom (2013 [2014], The American Jazz Institute/Capri) B+(**)
  11. Ry Cooder/Corridos Famosos: Live at the Great American Music Hall, San Francisco Aug 31-Sept 1, 2011 (2011 [2013], Nonesuch) B+(**)
  12. Davina & the Vagabonds: Sunshine (2014, Roustabout) B+(**)
  13. Lana Del Rey: Ultraviolence (2014, Interscope) B+(***)
  14. Andrew Downing/Jim Lewis/David Occhipinti: Bristles (2013 [2014], Occdav Music) B+(*)
  15. East India Youth: Total Strife Forever (2014, Stolen) B
  16. Kali Z. Fasteau: Piano Rapture (2014, Flying Note) A-
  17. Lee Fields: Emma Jean (2014, Truth & Soul) B+(**)
  18. Danny Freyer: Must Be Love (2014, Blue Bend) B-
  19. Ben Frost: Aurora (2014, Bedroom Community) B+(**)
  20. Future Islands: Singles (2013 [2014], 4AD) B+(*)
  21. Mary Gauthier: Trouble & Love (2014, In the Black) A-
  22. Brian Groder Trio: Reflexology (2013 [2014], Latham) B+(***)
  23. Luke Haines: New York in the '70s (2014, Cherry Red) B
  24. Holly Hofmann: Low Life: The Alto Flute Project (2014, Capri) B+(*)
  25. Bobby Hutcherson/David Sanborn/Joey DeFrancesco: Enjoy the View (2014, Blue Note) B+(*)
  26. B.J. Jansen: Ronin (2013 [2014], ARC) B+(**)
  27. Kasai Allstars: Beware the Fetish [Congotronics 5] (2014, Crammed Discs, 2CD) B+(***)
  28. Seun Kuti + Egypt 80: A Long Way to the Beginning (2013 [2014], Knitting Factory) B+(***)
  29. Dawn Landes: Bluebird (2014, Western Vinyl) B+(**)
  30. Peter Lerner: Continuation (2014, OA2) B+(***)
  31. The John A. Lewis Trio: One Trip Out (2014, Valarteri) B+(*)
  32. Roberto Magris Trio: One Night in With Hope and More, Vol. 2 (2008-10 [2013, JMood) B+(**)
  33. Roberto Magris Septet: Morgan Rewind: A Tribute to Lee Morgan Vol. 2 (2010 [2012], JMood, 2CD) B+(*)
  34. Roberto Magris Quintet: Cannonball Funk'n Friends (2010 [2013], JMood) B+(**)
  35. Roberto Magris Space Trek: Aliens in a Bebop Planet (2011 [2012], JMood, 2CD) B+(***)
  36. MARS 4-Tet: The Blind Watchmaker (2014, Summit) B+(**)
  37. The Pete McGuinness Jazz Orchestra: Strength in Numbers (2013 [2014], Summit) B+(*)
  38. Willie Nelson: Band of Brothers (2014, Legacy) A-
  39. Conor Oberst: Upside-Down Mountain (2014, Nonesuch) B+(**)
  40. Beata Pater: Golden Lady (2013 [2014], B&B) B
  41. Matt Pavolka: The Horns Band (2013 [2014], Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(**)
  42. Felix Peikli: Royal Flush (2013 [2014], self-released) B
  43. The Ralph Peterson Fo'tet Augmented: Alive at Firehouse 12: Vol 2: Fo' n Mo' (2013 [2014], Onyx) B+(***)
  44. Popcaan: Where We Come From (2014, Mixpak) B+(***)
  45. Rallidae: Paper Birds (2013 [2014], self-released, EP) B-
  46. Andrew Rathbun Quartet: Numbers & Letters (2012 [2014], SteepleChase) B+(**)
  47. Sam Reed Meets Roberto Magris: Ready for Reed (2011 [2013, JMood) B+(***)
  48. Jefferson Rose Band: Feel Like Dancing (2014, self-released) B
  49. Harold Rubin/Barre Phillips/Tatsuya Nakatani: E on a Thin Line (2009 [2014], Hopscotch) B+(***)
  50. Saxophone Summit [Dave Liebman/Ravi Coltrane/Joe Lovano]: Visitation (2011 [2014], ArtistShare) B+(***)
  51. Bobby Selvaggio: Short Stories (2013 [2014], Origin) B+(**)
  52. Sonny Simmons: Leaving Knowledge, Wisdom and Brilliance/Chasing the Bird? (2006-14 [2014], Improvising Beings, 8CD) B+(***)
  53. Sonzeira: Brasil Bam Bam Bam (2014, Talkin' Loud/Virgin) B+(***)
  54. Storyboard [David Boswell/Alex Locascio/Rod MacDowell]: Hello (2014, My Quiet Moon) B
  55. Strand of Oaks: Heal (2014, Dead Oceans) B-
  56. Sun Kil Moon: Benji (2014, Caldo Verde) B+(***)
  57. Swans: To Be Kind (2014, Young God, 2CD) B
  58. Allison Adams Tucker: April in Paris (2012 [2014], Allegato Music) B
  59. Paul Tynan & Aaron Lington: Bicoastal Collective: Chapter Four (2013 [2014], OA2) B+(*)
  60. Sharon Van Etten: Are We There (2014, Jagjaguwar) B-
  61. Cornelius Veit/Eugen Prieur/Jörg Fischer: Stromraum (2012-13 [2014], Spore Print) B+(***)
  62. Brahja Waldman Quintet: Sir Real Live at Resonance (2013 [2014], self-released) B+(**)
  63. The War on Drugs: Lost in the Dream (2014, Secretly Canadian) B+(***)
  64. Walt Weiskopf: Overdrive (2013 [2014], Posi-Tone) B
  65. Wild Beasts: Present Tense (2014, Domino) B
  66. Dexter Johnson & Le Super Star de Dakar: Live à l'Étoile (1969 [2014], Teranga Beat) B+(***)
  67. Oscar Peterson/Ben Webster: During This Time (1972 [2014], Art of Groove) A-
  68. Air: Open Air Suit (1978, Novus) B+(**)
  69. Chris Burn: Music for Three Rivers (1995-97 [1997], Victo) B+(*)
  70. Gerry Hemingway Quartet: Devil's Paradise (1999 [2003], Clean Feed) B+(***)
  71. Joe Henderson: Our Thing (1963 [1995], Blue Note) A-
  72. Joe Henderson: Joe Henderson Quintet at the Lighthouse (1970 [2004], Milestone/OJC) B+(**)
  73. Joe Henderson: Joe Henderson in Japan (1971 [2006], Milestone/OJC) B+(***)
  74. Joe Henderson: Relaxin' at Camarillo (1979 [1993], Contemporary/OJC) A-
  75. Joe Henderson: Joe Henderson Big Band (1992-96 [1997], Verve) B+(*)
  76. Art Hodes: Keepin' Out of Mischief Now (1988, Candid) A-
  77. New Air Featuring Cassandra Wilson: Air Show No. 1 (1986 [1989], Black Saint) B+(**)
  78. Oscar Peterson et Joe Pass: À La Salle Pleyel (1975 [1997], Pablo/OJC, 2CD) A-
  79. The Michael Jefry Stevens/Dominic Duval Quintet: Elements (1994 [1996], Leo) B+(*)

June 21

  1. Jason Ajemian/Tony Malaby/Rob Mazurek/Chad Taylor: A Way a Land of Life (2006 [2014], NoBusiness) B+(***)
  2. Jason Ajemian: Folklords (2012 [2014], Delmark) A-
  3. Dave Alvin & Phil Alvin: Common Ground: Dave Alvin & Phil Alvin Play and Sing the Songs of Big Bill Broonzy (2014, Yep Roc) A-
  4. Angles 9: Injuries (2013 [2014], Clean Feed) B+(***)
  5. Tigger Benford & Party: Vessel of Gratitude (2014, self-released) B+(*)
  6. Boogaloo Assassins: Old Love Dies Hard (2013, Sicario, EP) B+(***)
  7. François Carrier/Michel Lambert/Alexey Lapin: The Russian Concerts (2013 [2014], FMR) A-
  8. Tom Chang: Tongue & Groove (2012 [2014], Raw Toast) B+(**)
  9. Mac DeMarco: Salad Days (2014, Captured Tracks) B
  10. Digital Primitives: Lipsomuch/Soul Searchin' (2011 [2014], Hopscotch, 2CD) A
  11. Dave Douglas & Uri Caine: Present Joys (2013 [2014], Greenleaf Music) B+(**)
  12. Bob Dylan in the 80s: Volume One (2014, ATO) B+(**)
  13. John Fullbright: Songs (2014, Blue Dirt) B+(*)
  14. Paul Giallorenzo's GitGo: Force Majeure (2013 [2014], Delmark) B+(***)
  15. Hat: Twins (2012 [2014], Hot Blues) B+(***)
  16. Chrissie Hynde: Stockholm (2014, Caroline) B+(*)
  17. Ideal Bread: Beating the Teens: Songs of Steve Lacy (2013 [2014], Cuneiform, 2CD) B+(***)
  18. José James: While You Were Sleeping (2014, Blue Note) B
  19. Beat Kaestli: Collage (2013 [2014], B+B Productions) B+(**)
  20. Miranda Lambert: Platinum (2014, RCA Nashville) A-
  21. Joe LoCascio and Woody Witt: Absinthe: The Music of Billy Strayhorn (2011 [2014], Blue Bamboo Music) B+(**)
  22. Tony Malaby Tamarindo: Somos Aqua (2013 [2014], Clean Feed) B+(***)
  23. Alon Nechushtan: Venture Bound (2012 [2014], Enja) B+(**)
  24. Parquet Courts: Sunbathing Animal (2014, What's Your Rupture?) A-
  25. Dolly Parton: Blue Smoke (2014, Sony Masterworks) B+(*)
  26. Lenny Pickett With the UMO Jazz Orchestra: The Prescription (2012 [2014], Random Act) B+(***)
  27. Cene Resnik Quartet: Live: From the Sky (2013 [2014], Clean Feed) B+(**)
  28. Röyksopp & Robyn: Do It Again (2014, Cherrytree, EP) B+(***)
  29. Samo Salamon Bassless Quartet: 2Alto (2012 [2014], SteepleChase LookOut) B+(*)
  30. Adam Schroeder: Let's (2013 [2014], Capri) B+(***)
  31. Sturgill Simpson: Metamodern Sounds in Country Music (2014, High Top Mountain) B+(***)
  32. Spiral Mercury Chicago/São Paulo Underground Feat. Pharoah Sanders: Pharoah & the Underground (2013 [2014], Clean Feed) B+(*)
  33. Assif Tsahar/Gerry Hemingway/Mark Dresser: Code Re(a)d (2011 [2014], Hopscotch) A-
  34. Assif Tsahar/Tatsuya Nakatani: I Got It Bad (2014, Hopscotch) B+(***)
  35. François Tusques: La Jungle du Douanier Rousseau (2013 [2014], Improvising Beings) B+(**)
  36. The David Ullmann 8: Corduroy (2014, Little Sky) B+(**)
  37. Peter Van Huffel's Gorilla Mask: Bite My Blues (2013 [2014], Clean Feed) B+(*)
  38. Jack White: Lazaretto (2014, Third Man) B-
  39. Neil Young: A Letter Home (2014, Third Man) B+(**)
  40. Jaki Byard: The Late Show: An Evening With Jaki Byard: Live at the Keystone Korner, Vol. 3 (1979 [2014], High Note) B+(**)
  41. John Coltrane: Offering: Live at Temple University (1966 [2014], Impulse, 2CD) B+(**)
  42. Sleepy John Estes with Hammie Nixon: Live in Japan (1974 [2014], Delmark) B+(***)
  43. The Rough Guide to the Music of Mali [Second Edition] (1996-2013 [2014], World Music Network, 2CD) B+(***)
  44. Samba Touré: Songhai Blues: Homage to Ali Farka Touré (2009, Riverboat) B+(**)
  45. Miles Davis: The Complete Birth of the Cool (1948-50 [1998], Capitol Jazz) B
  46. Miles Davis: In Person: Friday Night at the Blackhawk, San Francisco: Complete Volume 1 (1961 [2003], Columbia/Legacy, 2CD) A-
  47. Miles Davis: In Person: Saturday Night at the Blackhawk, San Francisco: Complete Volume 2 (1961 [2003], Columbia/Legacy, 2CD) A-
  48. Miles Davis: In Person: Friday and Saturday Nights at the Blackhawk: Complete (1961 [2003], Columbia/Legacy, 4CD) A-
  49. Bob Dylan: Bob Dylan's Greatest Hits, Vol. II (1962-71 [1971], Columbia) A-
  50. Bob Dylan: Pat Garrett & Billy the Kid (1973, Columbia) B-
  51. Bob Dylan: Dylan (1973 [2014], Columbia/Legacy) C-
  52. Bob Dylan: Hard Rain (1976, Columbia) C+
  53. Bob Dylan: Bob Dylan at Budokan (1978 [1979], Columbia) C
  54. Bob Dylan: Street Legal (1978, Columbia) B-
  55. Bob Dylan: Saved (1980, Columbia) B-
  56. Bob Dylan: Shot of Love (1981, Columbia) B
  57. Bob Dylan: Infidels (1984, Columbia) B-
  58. Bob Dylan: Real Live (1984, Columbia) B-
  59. Bob Dylan: Knocked Out Loaded (1986, Columbia) B
  60. Bob Dylan: Down in the Groove (1983-87 [1988], Columbia) B-
  61. Bob Dylan/Grateful Dead: Dylan & the Dead (1987 [1989], Columbia) B-
  62. Bob Dylan: Greatest Hits, Vol. 3 (1973-90 [1994], Columbia) B+(**)
  63. Bob Dylan: Playlist: The Very Best of Bob Dylan '80s (1980-89 [2010], Columbia/Legacy) B+(*)
  64. Bob Dylan: MTV Unplugged (1995, Columbia) B+(*)
  65. Gil Evans: Gil Evans & Ten (1957 [1989], Prestige/OJC) B
  66. The Gil Evans Orchestra: Into the Hot (1961 [1999], Impulse) B
  67. Gil Evans/Steve Lacy: Paris Blues (1987 [1988], Owl) B+(**)
  68. The Horace Silver Quintet: The Tokyo Blues (1962 [2009], Blue Note) A-
  69. Horace Silver: Paris Blues: Olympia Teater, Paris, 1962 (1962 [2002], Pablo) B+(**)
  70. Horace Silver: The Hardbop Grandpop (1996, Impulse) B+(*)
  71. Horace Silver: Jazz Has a Sense of Humor (1998, Verve) B+(***)
  72. Terrell Stafford: Centripetal Force (1996 [1997], Candid) B+(**)

May 29

  1. Lily Allen: Sheezus (2014, Warner Brothers/Regal) A
  2. Rodrigo Amado Motion Trio & Peter Evans: The Freedom Principle (2013 [2014], NoBusiness) B+(**)
  3. Rodrigo Amado Motion Trio & Peter Evans: Live in Lisbon (2013 [2014], NoBusiness) B+(**)
  4. Atmosphere: Southsiders (2014, Rhymesayers Entertainment) B+(***)
  5. BadBadNotGood: III (2014, Innovative Leisure) B+(**)
  6. Mike Baggetta Quartet: Thieves and Secrets (2013 [2014], Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(*)
  7. Brian Blade & the Fellowship Band: Landmarks (2010 [2014], Blue Note) B+(*)
  8. Kyle Bruckmann's Wrack: . . . Awaits Silent Tristero's Empire (2013 [2014], Singlespeed) B+(**)
  9. Chromeo: Fancy Footwork (2007, Vice) B+(***)
  10. Chromeo: White Women (2014, Big Beat) B+(***)
  11. Brigitte DeMeyer: Savannah Road (2014, BDM Music) B+(**)
  12. Matthieu Donarier & Albert van Veenendaal's Planetarium: The Visible Ones (2010-12 [2014], Clean Feed) B+(**)
  13. Mark Egan: About Now (2014, Wavetone) B-
  14. Orrin Evans' Captain Black Big Band: Mother's Touch (2011 [2014], Posi-Tone) B+(**)
  15. Fennesz: Bécs (2013 [2014], Editions Mego) B+(*)
  16. Satoko Fujii Orchestra New York: Shiki (2013 [2014], Libra) B+(**)
  17. Fujiya & Miyagi: Artificial Sweeteners (2014, Yep Roc) B+(*)
  18. Gato Libre: DuDu (2013 [2014], Libra) B
  19. Freddie Gibbs & Madlib: Piñata (2011-13 [2014], Madlib Invazion) B+(***)
  20. Luther Gray/Jim Hobbs/Kaethe Hostetter/Winston Braman: Lawnmower II (2012 [2014], Clean Feed) B+(***)
  21. Grieves: Winter & the Wolves (2014, Rhymesayers Entertainment) A-
  22. Max Johnson Trio: The Invisible Trio (2013 [2014], Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(**)
  23. Max Johnson: The Prisoner (2012 [2014], NoBusiness) B+(***)
  24. Franklin Kiermyer: Further (2014, self-released) B+(**)
  25. Lee Konitz/Dan Tepfer/Michael Janisch/Jeff Williams: First Meeting: Live in London Volume 1 (2010 [2014], Whirlwind) B+(***)
  26. Lee Konitz: Standards Live: At the Village Vanguard (2009 [2014], Enja) B+(**)
  27. Amy LaVere: Runaway's Diary (2014, Archer) A-
  28. Steve Lehman Octet: Mise en Abîme (2014, Pi) A
  29. Lost in the Trees: Past Life (2013 [2014], Anti) B+(***)
  30. Lykke Li: I Never Learn (2014, Atlantic) B+(**)
  31. Jeremy Manasia: Pixel Queen (2013 [2014], Blujazz) B+(***)
  32. Dom Minasi & Hans Tammen: Alluvium (2013 [2014], Straw2gold Pictures) B+(*)
  33. Moodymann: Moodymann (2014, Mahogani) B+(*)
  34. Barbara Morrison: I Love You, Yes I Do (2014, Savant) A-
  35. Moskus: Mestertyven (2014, Hubro) A-
  36. Mozes & the Firstborn: Mozes & the Firstborn (2013 [2014], Burger) B+(**)
  37. Natural Child: 1971 (2011, Infinity Cat) B+(***)
  38. Natural Child: Dancin' With Wolves (2014, Burger) B+(**)
  39. Old 97's: Most Messed Up (2014, ATO) A-
  40. Ought: More Than Any Other Day (2014, Constellation) A-
  41. Marc Ribot Trio: Live at the Village Vanguard (2012 [2014], Pi) B+(***)
  42. Sonny Rollins: Road Shows: Volume 3 (2001-12 [2014], Okeh) A-
  43. The Roots: . . . And Then You Shoot Your Cousin (2014, Def Jam) B+(**)
  44. Felipe Salles: Ugandan Suite (2013 [2014], Tapestry) B+(***)
  45. JC Sanford Orchestra: Views From the Inside (2013 [2014], Whirlwind) B
  46. Shit Robot: We Got a Love (2014, DFA) B+(***)
  47. Brenda Earle Stokes: Right About Now (2014, self-released) B
  48. Nelda Swiggett Stringtet: Blue-Eyed Painted Lady (2013 [2014], Origin) B+(*)
  49. Tigran: Shadow Theater (2012 [2014], Sunnyside) C+
  50. Tune-Yards: Nikki Nack (2014, 4AD) B+(**)
  51. Manuel Valera: Self Portrait (2013 [2014], Mavo) B+(**)
  52. Leo Welch: Sabougla Voices (2014, Big Legal Mess) A-
  53. Western Jazz Quartet: Free Fall (2014, Blujazz) B+(*)
  54. Mars Williams/Ingebrigt Håker Flaten/Tim Daisy: Moments Form (2012 [2013], Idyllic Noise) B+(*)
  55. Nate Wooley/Hugo Antunes/Chris Corsano: Malus (2012 [2014], NoBusiness) B+(**)
  56. Wussy: Attica! (2014, Shake It) A-
  57. Basak Yavuz: Things (2012 [2014], Z Music) B+(*)
  58. The Young Mothers: A Mother's Work Is Never Done (2013 [2014], Tektite) A-
  59. Brigitte Zarie: L'amour (2013 [2014], NJ Music) B
  60. Tektite Records Presents: The Young Mothers Sampler 1 (2012-14 [2014], Tektite, EP) B+(**)
  61. Al Haig Trio: Al Haig Trio [Period Recordings] (1954 [2000], Fresh Sound) B+(***)
  62. Al Haig Trio: Invitation (1974, Spotlite) B+(**)
  63. The Tubby Hayes Quintet: Down in the Village (1962 [1963], Fontana) B+(**)
  64. Lee Konitz/Warne Marsh: Lee Konitz With Warne Marsh (1955 [2006], Atlantic/Rhino) A-
  65. Lee Konitz: Satori (1974 [1997], Milestone/OJC) B+(***)
  66. Lee Konitz Featuring Harold Danko: Wild as Springtime (1984 [1997], Candid) A-
  67. Lee Konitz/Franco D'Andrea: 12 Gershwin in 12 Keys (1988 [1997], Philology) B+(***)
  68. Junior Mance Trio: Junior's Blues (1962 [1998], Riverside/OJC) A
  69. Ron Miles Quartet: Laughing Barrel (2002 [2003], Sterling Circle) B+(**)
  70. Tommy Smith & Brian Kellock: Bezique (2002, Spartacus) A-
  71. Aki Takase/Rudi Mahall: The Dessert (2002 [2003], Leo) B+(***)

May 3

  1. Kris Adams: Longing (2012-13 [2014], Jazzbird) B
  2. Rodrigo Amado: Wire Quartet (2011 [2014], Clean Feed) A-
  3. Marsha Ambrosius: Fvck & Love (2014, self-released, EP) B+(*)
  4. Bobby Avey: Authority Melts From Me (2012 [2014], Whirlwind) A-
  5. Drake Bell: Ready Steady Go! (2014, Surfdog) B-
  6. Andy Biskin Ibid: Act Necessary (2012 [2014], Strudelmedia) A-
  7. Mark Buselli: Untold Stories (2013 [2014], OA2) B+(**)
  8. Brian Charette: Square One (2014, Posi-Tone) B+(**)
  9. Ty Citerman: Bop Kabbalah (2013 [2014], Tzadik) B+(***)
  10. The Nels Cline Singers: Macroscope (2013 [2014], Mack Avenue) B+(***)
  11. Rodney Crowell: Tarpaper Sky (2014, New West) A-
  12. Deena: Rock River (2014, Verbena Music) A-
  13. Jeff Denson & Claudio Puntin: Two (2008-10 [2014], Pfmentum) B+(**)
  14. Jeff Denson & Joshua White: I'll Fly Away (2013 [2014], Pfmentum) B+(***)
  15. Thom Douvan: Brother Brother (2013 [2014], self-released) B
  16. Fear of Men: Loom (2014, Kanine) B+(***)
  17. Lisa Ferraro: Serenading the Moon (2013 [2014], Pranavasonic Universal) B+(***)
  18. Future: Honest (2014, Epic) B+(**)
  19. Paulinho Garcia: Beautiful Love (2013 [2014], Shrinktunes) B+(**)
  20. Rich Halley 4: The Wisdom of Rocks (2013 [2014], Pine Eagle) A-
  21. Elias Haslanger: Live at the Gallery (2013 [2014], Cherrywood) B+(*)
  22. Homeboy Sandman: White Sands (2014, Stones Throw, EP) B+(***)
  23. Kelis: Food (2014, Ninja Tune) B-
  24. Live From Festival Au Desert Timbuktu (2013, Clermont Music) B+(***)
  25. Dominic J. Marshall Trio: Spirit Speech (2013 [2014], Origin) B+(*)
  26. Mike Marshall/Turtle Island Quartet: Mike Marshall & the Turtle Island Quartet (2013 [2014], Adventure Music) B
  27. The Menzingers: Rented World (2014, Epitaph) B
  28. Sei Miguel: Salvation Modes (2005-12 [2014], Clean Feed) B+(*)
  29. Roy Nathanson's Sotto Voce: Complicated Day (2013 [2014], Enja/Yellow Bird) B+(**)
  30. The Ocular Concern: Sister Cities (2013 [2014], PJCE) B+(*)
  31. Ivo Perelman/Mat Maneri: Two Men Walking (2013 [2014], Leo) B+(***)
  32. Ivo Perelman: Book of Sound (2013 [2014], Leo) B+(***)
  33. Ivo Perelman: The Other Edge (2014, Leo) A-
  34. Xavi Reija: Resolution (2013 [2014], Moonjune) B+(***)
  35. Jason Roebke Octet: High/Red/Center (2013 [2014], Delmark) B+(***)
  36. Mehmet Ali Sanlikol: Whatsnext? (2014, Dunya) B+(*)
  37. Jenny Scheinman: The Littlest Prisoner (2013 [2014], Masterworks) A-
  38. Sara Serpa & André Matos: Primavera (2013 [2014], Circle Music) C+
  39. Bruce Springsteen: American Beauty (2014, Columbia, EP) C+
  40. Peter Stampfel and the Brooklyn & Lower Manhattan Banjo Squadron: Better Than Expected (2014, Don Giovanni) B+(**)
  41. The Strypes: Snapshot (2013 [2014], Virgin) A
  42. Supreme Cuts: Divine Ecstasy (2014, Dovecote) A-
  43. Yosvany Terry: New Throned King (2013 [2014], 5Pasion) B+(***)
  44. Tweens: Tweens (2014, Frenchkiss) B
  45. Colin Vallon: Le Vent (2013 [2014], ECM) B+(**)
  46. Jerry Vivino: Back East (2013 [2014], Blujazz) B+(**)
  47. Ken Watters/Ingrid Felts: Watters/Felts Project (2013 [2014], Summit) B+(***)
  48. David White Jazz Orchestra: The Chase (2013 [2014], Mister Shepherd) B+(*)
  49. Jessica Williams: With Love (2013-14 [2014], Origin) B+(**)
  50. Norma Winstone: Dance Without Answer (2012 [2014], ECM) B+(**)
  51. Young Thug & Bloody Jay: Black Portland (2014, self-released) B-
  52. ZZ Quartet: Beyond the Lines (2012 [2014], In + Out) B+(**)
  53. Balani Show Super Hits: Electronic Street Parties From Mali ([2014], Sahelsounds) A-
  54. The Beatles: A Jazz Tribute (2002-05 [2014], High Note) B
  55. Joe Beck: Get Me (2006 [2014], Whaling City Sound) B+(***)
  56. Decaler Balani (2011, Masalacism, EP) B+(***)
  57. The Jimmy Giuffre 3 & 4: New York Concerts (1965 [2014], Elemental, 2CD) B+(***)
  58. Moreno and L'Orch First Moja-One: Vol. 2: More Pili (1981-83 [2014], Sterns Africa) A-
  59. Guy Barker: Soundtrack (2001 [2002], Provocateur) B+(***)
  60. Gordon Beck Trio: Gyroscope (1968 [2002], Art of Life) B+(**)
  61. Gordon Beck: One for the Road (1995, JMS) B+(*)
  62. Gunnar Bergsten & Peter Nordahl: Play Lars Gullin (2000 [2004], Proprius) B+(***)
  63. Peter Bernstein + 3: Heart's Content (2002 [2003], Criss Cross) B+(***)
  64. Paul Bley/Gary Peacock: Mindset (1992 [1997], Soul Note) B+(**)
  65. Jane Ira Bloom: The Red Quartets (1997-99 [1999], Arabesque) A-
  66. Don Braden Septet: After Dark (1993 [1994], Criss Cross) B+(**)
  67. Ruby Braff: Braff Plays Wimbledon: First Set (1996, Zephyr) B+(***)
  68. Ruby Braff: Braff Plays Wimbledon: Second Set (1996, Zephyr) B+(***)
  69. Anthony Braxton: News From the '70s (1971-76 [1999], Felmay) B+(***)
  70. Anthony Braxton: Quartet (Coventry) 1985 (1985 [2002], Leo, 2CD) B+(*)
  71. Anthony Braxton: Quartet (Birmingham) 1985 (1985 [2002], Leo, 2CD) B+(***)
  72. Anthony Braxton: Quartet (London) 1985 (1985 [1990], Leo, 2CD) A-
  73. Anthony Braxton: Eugene (1989) (1989, Black Saint) B+(*)
  74. Willem Breuker Kollektief & Loes Luca: Deze Kant Op, Dames!/This Way, Ladies (1992 [1993], BV Haast) B+(*)
  75. Willem Breuker Kollektief: The Parrot (1980-95 [1996], BV Haast) B+(**)
  76. Willem Breuker Kollektief/Loes Luca: Kurt Weill (1983-97 [1998], BV Haast) B+(***)
  77. Willem Breuker: Psalm 122 (1998, BV Haast) B-
  78. Baikida Carroll: Shadows and Reflections (1982, Soul Note) B+(**)
  79. Dick Cary's Tuesday Night Friends: Got Swing? (2000 [2001], Arbors) B+(**)
  80. John Coltrane: Live at the Village Vanguard: The Master Takes (1961 [1998], Impulse) A
  81. Jon Corbett/Steve Done: Another Fine Mess (1994 [1995], Slam) B+(**)
  82. Andrew Cyrille/Jeanne Lee/Jimmy Lyons: Nuba (1979, Black Saint) B+(***)
  83. Andrew Cyrille: Good to Go, With a Tribute to Bu (1995 [1997], Soul Note) A-
  84. Satoko Fujii/Mark Dresser/Jim Black: Toward, "To West" (1998 [2000], Enja) A-
  85. Satoko Fujii Orchestra: Jo (1998 [2000], Buzz) B+(**)
  86. Stan Getz/Bob Brookmeyer: Recorded Fall 1961 (1961 [2002], Verve) B+(**)
  87. The Stan Getz Quartet: Pure Getz (1982, Concord Jazz) B+(***)
  88. Terry Gibbs: Dream Band, Vol. 6: One More Time (1959 [2002], Contemporary) A-
  89. Jimmy Giuffre: The Jimmy Giuffre Clarinet (1956 [2001], Collectables) B+(***)
  90. Benny Goodman: Plays Eddie Sauter (1939-46 [1997], Hep) B+(**)
  91. Jon Gordon: Along the Way (1997, Criss Cross) B+(***)
  92. Wycliffe Gordon: What You Dealin' With (2001, Criss Cross) B+(***)
  93. Simon Goubert: Haïti (1991, Seventh) A-
  94. Dusko Goykovich: Portrait: A 70th Birthday Celebration (1949-99 [2001], Enja) A-
  95. Jerry Granelli UFB: Broken Circle (1996, Intuition) B+(***)
  96. Jerry Granelli: Music Has Its Way With Me (1999, Perimeter) B+(***)
  97. Stéphane Grappelli/Joe Pass/Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen: Tivoli Gardens, Copenhagen, Denmark (1979 [1990], Pablo/OJC) B+(**)
  98. Green Room: Live Trajectories (1996, Leo Lab) B+(**)
  99. Frank Lowe: The Flam (1975 [1993], Black Saint) A-
  100. The Albert Mangelsdorff Quartet: Never Let It End (1970 [2008], MPS) A-
  101. Albert Mangelsdorff: A Jazz Tune I Hope (1978 [2008], MPS) B+(**)
  102. Louis Sclavis: Clarinettes (1984-85 [1985], IDA) B+(***)

April 15

  1. Jason Anick: Tipping Point (2013 [2014], Magic Fiddle Music) B+(*)
  2. Bobby Bare Jr's Young Criminals' Starvation League: Undefeated (2014, Bloodshot) B
  3. Kris Bowers: Heroes + Misfits (2012 [2014], Concord Jazz) B-
  4. Carla Bozulich: Boy (2014, Constellation) B+(***)
  5. Sheela Bringi: Incantations (2014, Black Swan Sounds) B+(**)
  6. Carlene Carter: Carter Girl (2014, Rounder) B+(**)
  7. Chicago Underground Duo: Locus (2014, Northern Spy) B+(***)
  8. Cloud Nothings: Here and Nowhere Else (2014, Carpark) A-
  9. The Tim Daisy Quartet: Streets in Time (2012 [2013], Relay) B+(**)
  10. The Tim Daisy Trio: A Fine Day in Berlin (2013, Relay) B+(**)
  11. Tim Daisy & Mikolaj Trzaska: In This Moment (2012 [2014], Relay) B+(**)
  12. Keith Davis Trio: Still (2013 [2014], LoNote) B+(**)
  13. Luther Dickinson: Rock 'N Roll Blues (2014, New West) B+(*)
  14. Dave Douglas/Chet Doxas/Steve Swallow/Jim Doxas: Riverside (2012 [2014], Greenleaf Music) A-
  15. Duck Sauce: Quack to Be Released (2014, Fool's Gold) B+(**)
  16. Eagulls: Eagulls (2014, Partisan) B+(*)
  17. Robert Ellis: The Lights From the Chemical Plant (2014, New West) B
  18. EMA: The Future's Void (2014, Matador) B+(***)
  19. Andrew Hadro: For Us, the Living (2013 [2014], Tone Rogue) B+(***)
  20. Ross Hammond: Humanity Suite (2013 [2014], Prescott) B+(***)
  21. JazzBonez: Watch It! (2013 [2014], Summit) B
  22. Kool & Kass Are . . . Peaceful Solutions: Coke Boys 5 (2014, self-released) B+(***)
  23. Glenn Kotche: Adventureland (2014, Cantaloupe) B+(***)
  24. Krom: Krom (2013 [2014], self-released) C+
  25. Takuya Kuroda: Rising Son (2014, Blue Note) B+(*)
  26. Metronomy: Love Letters (2014, Because/Elektra) B+(**)
  27. Jaro Milko & the Cubalkanics: Cigarros Explosivos! (2014, Asphalt Tango) B+(*)
  28. Noshir Mody: Stories From the Years of Living Passionately (2013 [2014], self-released) B
  29. John Németh: Memphis Grease (2014, Blue Corn Music) B+(**)
  30. Matt Newton: Within Reach (2013 [2014], self-released) B+(*)
  31. Off!: Wasted Years (2014, Vice) B+(**)
  32. Leslie Pintchik: In the Nature of Things (2013 [2014], Pintch Hard) B+(*)
  33. Louis Prima Jr. and the Witnesses: Blow (2013 [2014], Warrior) B+(**)
  34. Ratking: So It Goes (2014, Hot Charity/HXC/XL) B
  35. Rufus Reid: Quiet Pride: The Elizabeth Catlett Project (2012 [2014], Motéma) B+(*)
  36. Ellen Rowe Quintet: Courage Music (2013 [2014], PKO) B+(***)
  37. Sabina: Toujours (2014, Bar/None) B+(**)
  38. Zan Stewart: The Street Is Making Music (2013 [2014], Mobo Dog) B+(***)
  39. Todd Terje: It's Album Time (2014, Olsen) A-
  40. Michael Wollny Trio: Weltentraum (2013 [2014], ACT) B+(**)
  41. Rabih Abou-Khalil: Between Dusk and Dawn (1986 [1987], MMP) B+(***)
  42. Rabih Abou-Khalil: The Cactus of Knowledge (2000 [2001], Enja) A-
  43. Julian Arguëlles: Escapade (1999, Provocateur) B+(***)
  44. Julian Arguëlles: Partita (2005 [2006], Basho) B+(***)
  45. Kenny Davern: Breezin' Along (1996 [1997], Arbors) B+(***)
  46. Ernest Dawkins' New Horizons Ensemble: Cape Town Shuffle: Live at Hothouse (2002 [2003], Delmark) A-
  47. Elton Dean: Elton Dean's Newsense (1997 [1998], Slam) B+(*)
  48. Walt Dickerson: Relativity (1962 [1995], New Jazz/OJC) B+(*)
  49. Walt Dickerson: To My Queen (1962 [1996], New Jazz/OJC) B+(**)
  50. Danny D'Imperio: The Outlaw (1994-96 [1996], Sackville) B+(**)
  51. Johnny Dodds/Jimmy Blythe: Johnny Dodds & Jimmy Blythe 1926-1928 (1926-28 [1993], Timeless) A-
  52. Arne Domnérus & Putte Wickman: Happy Together (1995, Ladybird, 2CD) B+(**)
  53. Kenny Dorham: 'Round About Midnight at the Cafe Bohemia (1956 [2002], Blue Note, 2CD) A-
  54. Mark Dresser/Denman Maroney: Duologues (2000 [2001], Victo) B+(***)
  55. Kenny Drew: Trio/Quartet/Quintet: The Riverside Collection (1956-57 [1988], Riverside/OJC) B+(***)
  56. Billy Drummond: Dubai (1995 [1996], Criss Cross) A-
  57. 8 Bold Souls: Last Option (1999 [2000], Thrill Jockey) A-
  58. Duke Ellington and His Cotton Club Orchestra: Jungle Nights in Harlem 1927-1932 (1927-32 [1991], RCA/Bluebird) A-
  59. Duke Ellington: At the Bal Masque (1958 [1959], Columbia) B
  60. Duke Ellington: At the Bal Masque [Bonus Tracks] (1958-60 [2011], Essential Jazz Classics) B+(*)
  61. Duke Ellington's Spacemen: The Cosmic Scene (1958 [2007], Mosaic) B+(***)
  62. Duke Ellington and His Orchestra: Afro-Bossa (1962-63 [1982], Discovery) A
  63. James Emery: Standing on a Whale Fishing for Minnows (1996 [1997], Enja) A-
  64. James Emery Septet: Spectral Domains (1997-98 [1999], Enja) B+(***)
  65. James Emery: Transformations (2001 [2003], Between the Lines) B+(*)
  66. Ethnic Heritage Ensemble: Freedom Jazz Dance (1999, Delmark) A-
  67. Orrin Evans: Listen to the Band (1999 [2000], Criss Cross) B+(***)
  68. Maynard Ferguson: Maynard Ferguson and His Birdland Dream Band (1956 [2011], Fresh Sound) B+(***)
  69. Tommy Flanagan: Let's Play the Music of Thad Jones (1993, Enja) B+(***)
  70. Chuck Folds: Hitting His Stride (1992 [1996], Arbors) B+(***)
  71. Kenny Garrett: Standard of Language (2001-02 [2003], Warner Brothers) B+(**)
  72. Michael Garrick Trio: A Lady in Waiting (1993 [1994], Jazz Academy) B+(***)
  73. Michael Garrick Quartet and Orchestra with Jacqui Dankworth: For Love of Duke . . . and Ronnie (1995-97 [1997], Jazz Academy) A-
  74. Dennis Gonzalez Dallas-London Sextet: Catechism (1987 [1996], Music & Arts) B+(**)
  75. Haiti Direct: Big Band, Mini Jazz & Twoubadou Sounds, 1960-1978 (1960-78 [2014], Strut, 2CD) A-
  76. Tambastics: Tambastics (1992, Music & Arts) B+(*)

April 3

  1. Jaime Affoumado/Alex Blake/Arturo O'Farrill/Bill Ware: The Puppeteers (2013 [2014], Puppet's) B+(**)
  2. Ambrose Akinmusire: The Imagined Savior Is Far Easier to Paint (2014, Blue Note) B-
  3. Mike Bardash Quintet: Polygon (2013 [2014], Rhombus) B+(*)
  4. The Baseball Project: 3rd (2014, Yep Roc) B+(***)
  5. Big Ups: Eighteen Hours of Static (2014, Tough Love/Dead Labour) A-
  6. Aloe Blacc: Lift Your Spirit (2013 [2014], XIX/Interscope) B+(*)
  7. Blaqstarr: The Blaq-Files (2002-06) (2002-06 [2014], Jeffree's/Mad Decent, EP) B+(*)
  8. The Coathangers: Suck My Shirt (2014, Suicide Squeeze) B+(**)
  9. Company Freak: Le Disco Social (2014, Opus Label) A-
  10. Mike DiRubbo: Threshold (2013 [2014], Ksanti) A-
  11. Drive-By Truckers: English Oceans (2014, ATO) B+(**)
  12. Benjamin Duboc: St. James Infirmary (2013 [2014], Improvising Beings) B+(*)
  13. Rachel Eckroth: Let Go (2013 [2014], Virgo Sun) B
  14. Colin Edwin/Lorenzo Feliciati: Twinscapes (2013 [2014], RareNoise) B+(***)
  15. Scott Feiner & Pandeiro Jazz: A View From Below (2013 [2014], self-released) B
  16. Free Nelson Mandoomjazz: The Shape of Doomjazz to Come/Saxophone Giganticus (2013 [2014], RareNoise) A-
  17. Erik Friedlander: Nighthawks (2013 [2014], Skipstone) B+(***)
  18. Tom Griesgraber/Bert Lams: Unnamed Lands (2013 [2014], self-released) B+(*)
  19. Hamell on Trial: The Happiest Man in the World (2014, New West) B+(**)
  20. Tim Hegarty: Tribute (2013 [2014], Miles High) B+(***)
  21. Lisa Hilton: Kaleidoscope (2013 [2014], Ruby Slippers) B+(**)
  22. The Hold Steady: Teeth Dreams (2014, Razor & Tie/Washington Square) A-
  23. Hutchinson Andrew Trio: Prairie Modern (2012 [2014], Chronograph) B+(***)
  24. International Orange: International Orange (2013 [2014], self-released) B+(***)
  25. Christine Jensen Jazz Orchestra: Habitat (2013 [2014], Justin Time) B+(*)
  26. Sharon Jones & the Dap-Kings: Give the People What They Want (2014, Daptone) B+(*)
  27. Matthew Kaminski: Swingin' on the New Hammond (2013 [2014], Summit) B+(*)
  28. Stacey Kent: The Changing Lights (2013 [2014], Warner Jazz) B+(**)
  29. Joachim Kühn/Alexey Kruglov: Duo Art: Moscow (2012 [2014], ACT) A-
  30. Jon Langford: Skull Orchard Revisited (2011, Bloodshot) A-
  31. Jon Langford & Skull Orchard: Here Be Monsters (2014, In De Goot/Relativity) A-
  32. Mike Longo: Step On It (2013 [2014], CAP) B+(***)
  33. Allen Lowe: Mulatto Radio: Field Recordings: 1-4 (2012 [2014], Constant Sorrow, 4CD) A-
  34. Romero Lubambo: Só: Brazilian Essence (2013 [2014], Sunnyside) B+(*)
  35. Machine Mass [Tony Bianco/Michel Delville]: Inti (2012 [2014], Moonjune) B+(**)
  36. Shawn Maxwell: Shawn Maxwell's Alliance (2013 [2014], Chicago Sessions) B-
  37. Aaron McEvers/M13: 1 Human, Too Human (2013 [2014], Blujazz) B
  38. Kristen Miranda: Double Time (2013 [2014], self-released) B+(**)
  39. The North: Slow Down (This Isn't the Mainland) (2013 [2014], Dowsett) B+(*)
  40. Itaru Oki: Chorul Zukan (2013 [2014], Improvising Beings) B+(***)
  41. Phantogram: Voices (2014, Republic) B+(*)
  42. Yvonnick Prene & Padam Swing: Wonderful World (2014, self-released) B+(*)
  43. Tom Rainey: Obbligato (2013 [2014], Intakt) A-
  44. Isaiah Rashad: Cilvia Demo (2014, Top Dawg) B+(***)
  45. Dianne Reeves: Beautiful Life (2014, Concord Jazz) B-
  46. Dave Rempis/Lasse Marhaug: Naancore (2012 [2014], Aerophonic) B+(**)
  47. Dave Rempis/Darren Johnston/Larry Ochs: Spectral (2012 [2014], Aerophonic) B+(***)
  48. Eric Revis: In Memory of Things Yet Seen (2013 [2014], Clean Feed) A-
  49. Alfredo Rodriguez: The Invasion Parade (2014, Mack Avenue) B+(*)
  50. Noah Rosen/Alan Silva: O.I.L.: Orchestrated Improvised Lives (2013, Improvising Beings) B+(***)
  51. Barbara Rosene: Nice and Naughty (2013, Stomp Off) B+(**)
  52. Catherine Russell: Bring It Back (2014, Jazz Village) A-
  53. Leon Russell: Life Journey (2014, Universal) B-
  54. Akira Sakata/Giovanni Di Domenico: Iruman (2012 [2014], Mbari Musica) B+(*)
  55. Marc Seales: American Songs Volume 2: Blues . . . and Jazz (2012 [2014], Origin) B+(*)
  56. Shakira: Shakira (2014, RCA) A-
  57. Kendra Shank & John Stowell: New York Conversations (2011-12 [2014], TCB) B+(**)
  58. Sisyphus: Sisyphus (2014, Asthmatic Kitty) B+(**)
  59. Skrillex: Recess (2014, Owsla/Big Beat/Atlantic) B-
  60. Adam Smale: Out of the Blue (2013 [2014], self-released) B+(*)
  61. Speedy Ortiz: Real Hair (2014, Carpark, EP) B+(*)
  62. Daniel Szabo/Peter Erskine/Edwin Livingston: A Song From There (2013 [2014], self-released) B+(*)
  63. Tacocat: NVM (2014, Hardly Art) B+(***)
  64. Tensnake: Glow (2014, Astralwerks) B+(***)
  65. Tokyo Police Club: Forcefield (2014, Mom + Pop Music) B+(***)
  66. Caetano Veloso: Abraçaço (2014, Nonesuch) B+(**)
  67. Joe Louis Walker: Hornet's Nest (2014, Alligator) B-
  68. Dean Wareham: Dean Wareham (2014, Sonic Cathedral) B+(***)
  69. Dan Weiss: Fourteen (2012 [2014], Pi) B-
  70. The Westerlies: Wish the Children Would Come on Home: The Music of Wayne Horvitz (2013 [2014], Songlines) B+(**)
  71. Pharrell Williams: Girl (2014, Columbia) A-
  72. Withered Hand: New Gods (2014, Slumberland) B+(**)
  73. YG: My Krazy Life (2014, Def Jam) B-
  74. Johnny Cash: Out Among the Stars (1981-84 [2014], Columbia) B+(***)
  75. Fieldwork: Your Life Flashes (2002, Pi) A-
  76. John Gill's Dixieland Serenaders: Looking for a Little Bluebird (1994 [1996], Stomp Off) A-
  77. John Gill's Dixieland Serenaders: Take Me to the Midnight Cakewalk Ball (1995 [1998], Stomp Off) A-
  78. Vince Giordano's Nighthawks: Quality Shout! (1992-93 [1993], Stomp Off) A-
  79. Hardcore Traxx: Dance Mania Records 1986-1997 (1986-97 [2014], Strut, 2CD) B+(***)
  80. Vijay Iyer: Memorophilia (1995, Asian Improv) B+(***)
  81. Vijay Iyer: Architextures (1996 [1998], Asian Improv) A-
  82. Vijay Iyer: Panoptic Modes (2000 [2001], Red Giant) B+(***)
  83. Vijay Iyer: Blood Sutra (2003, Artists House) A-
  84. Roscoe Mitchell & the Note Factory: Song for My Sister (2002, Pi) B+(**)
  85. New Orleans Classic Jazz Orchestra: Blowin' Off Steam (1990, Stomp Off) B+(***)
  86. Pam Pameijer's New Jazz Wizards: Remember Johnny Dodds, Vol. 1 (2002, Stomp Off) A-
  87. Pam Pameijer's New Jazz Wizards: Remember Johnny Dodds Vol. 2 (2002 [2004], Stomp Off) A-
  88. Harry Reser: Banjo Crackerjax 1922-1930 (1922-30 [1992], Yazoo) B+(***)
  89. Harry Reser: Harry Reser and the Clicquot Club Eskimos (1951 [2008], Bauer) B+(*)
  90. Silver Leaf Jazz Band: Streets & Scenes of New Orleans (1993 [1994], Good Time Jazz) B+(***)
  91. Silver Leaf Jazz Band: Jelly's Last Jam (1993, Good Time Jazz) B+(**)
  92. Silver Leaf Jazz Band: Great Composers of New Orleans Jazz (1996 [1997], Good Time Jazz) B+(***)
  93. South Frisco Jazz Band: Got Everything (1989-91 [1992], Stomp Off) B+(**)
  94. Chris Tyle's Silver Leaf Jazz Band: Sugar Blues: A Tribute to Joseph "King" Oliver (1995, Stomp Off) A-

March 19

  1. Juhani Aaltonen: To Future Memories (2010 [2013], TUM) B+(***)
  2. Against Me!: Transgender Dysphoria Blues (2014, Total Treble) B+(**)
  3. Ariel Alexander & Jon Bremen: Street Cries (2013 [2014], self-released, EP) B+(*)
  4. Arild Andersen/Tommy Smith/Paolo Vinaccia: Mira (2012 [2014], ECM) B+(***)
  5. Katy B: Little Red (2014, Columbia) B+(***)
  6. Jeff Ballard Trio: Time's Tales (2013 [2014], Okeh) B+(***)
  7. Bruce Barth: Daybreak (2013 [2014], Savant) B+(**)
  8. Matt Bauder and Day in Pictures: Nightshades (2013 [2014], Clean Feed) B+(***)
  9. Dierks Bentley: Riser (2014, Captiol Nashville) B-
  10. Tyrone Birkett/Emancipation: Postmodern Spirituals: The Promised Land (2013 [2014], Araminta Music) B+(**)
  11. Raoul Björkenheim: Ecstasy (2012 [2014], Cuneiform) B+(***)
  12. Toni Braxton & Babyface: Love Marriage & Divorce (2014, Motown) B+(***)
  13. Laura Cantrell: No Way There From Here (2013 [2014], Thrift Shop) A-
  14. Regina Carter: Southern Comfort (2013 [2014], Sony Masterworks) A-
  15. Neneh Cherry: Blank Project (2014, Smalltown Supersound) B+(***)
  16. Kris Davis Trio: Waiting for You to Grow (2013 [2014], Clean Feed) A-
  17. Michael Dessen Trio: Resonating Abstractions (2013 [2014], Clean Feed) B+(**)
  18. DKV + Mats Gustafsson/Paal Nilssen-Love/Massimo Pupillo: Schl8hof (2011 [2013], Trost) B+(**)
  19. Henrik Otto Donner & TUMO: And It Happened . . . the Music of Henrik Otto Donner (2012 [2014], TUM) B+(**)
  20. Violeta Ferrer/Raymond Boni: Federico García Lorca (2013 [2014], Fou) B+(*)
  21. Jean-Marc Foussat: L'Oiseau (2011-12 [2014], Fou) B
  22. Jean-Marc Foussat, Sylvain Guérineau & Joe McPhee: Quod (2010 [2014], Fou) B+(*)
  23. Jean-Marc Foussat & Ramón Lopez: Ça Barbare, Là! (2012 [2014], Fou) B+(**)
  24. Jean-Marc Foussat/Simon Hénocq: Nopal (2013 [2014], Fou) B+(**)
  25. Get the Blessing: Lope and Antilope (2013 [2014], Naim Jazz) B+(*)
  26. Tord Gustavsen Quartet: Extended Circle (2013 [2014], ECM) B+(***)
  27. Mary Halvorson Trio: Ghost Loop (2012 [2013], ForTune) B+(**)
  28. Mary Halvorson/Michael Formanek/Tomas Fujiwara: Thumbscrew (2013 [2014], Cuneiform) A-
  29. Scott Hamilton Quartet: Dean Street Nights (2012 [2014], Woodville) B+(**)
  30. Craig Handy: Craig Handy & 2nd Line Smith (2011 [2014], Okeh) A-
  31. Billy Hart Quartet: One Is the Other (2013 [2014], ECM) B
  32. John Hollenbeck/Alban Darche/Sébastien Boisseau/Samuel Blaser: JASS (2013 [2014], Yolk) A-
  33. Randy Ingram: Sky/Lift (2012 [2014], Sunnyside) B+(**)
  34. Vijay Iyer: Mutations (2013 [2014], ECM) A-
  35. Stan Kenton Alumni Band: Road Scholars Live (2013 [2014], Summit) B
  36. Knifefight: Knifefight (2013, Anticon, EP) B+(***)
  37. Jonas Kullhammar/Torbjörn Zetterberg/Espen Aalberg: Basement Sessions Vol. 2 (2012 [2014], Clean Feed) A-
  38. James Brandon Lewis: Divine Travels (2011 [2014], Okeh) A-
  39. Lydia Loveless: Somewhere Else (2014, Bloodshot) B+(**)
  40. Made to Break: Cherchez La Femme (2013 [2014], Trost) B+(***)
  41. Stephen Malkmus & the Jicks: Wig Out at Jagbags (2014, Matador) B+(**)
  42. Brad Mehldau Trio: Where Do You Start (2008-11 [2012], Nonesuch) A-
  43. Brad Mehldau/Mark Guiliana: Mehliana: Taming the Dragon (2013 [2014], Nonesuch) B+(**)
  44. Pat Metheny Unity Group: Kin (2013 [2014], Nonesuch) B-
  45. Roscoe Mitchell: Conversations I (2013 [2014], Wide Hive) B
  46. Modern Baseball: You're Gonna Miss It All (2014, Run for Cover) B+(***)
  47. Jennifer Nettles: That Girl (2014, Mercury Nashville) B
  48. The New Mendicants: Into the Lime (2014, Ashmont) A-
  49. Angel Olsen: Burn Your Fire for No Witness (2014, Jagjaguwar) B+(*)
  50. The Jim Olsen Ensemble: We See Stars (2013 [2014], OA2) B+(**)
  51. Ark Ovrutski: 44:33 (2013 [2014], Zoho) B+(*)
  52. Ulysses Owens Jr.: Onward & Upward (2013 [2014], D Clef) B+(*)
  53. Chris Parker: Full Circle (2013 [2014], OA2) B+(**)
  54. Adrian Raso and Fanfare Ciocarlia: Devil's Tale (2013 [2014], Asphalt Tango) B+(***)
  55. Mike Reed's People, Places & Things: Second Cities Volume 1 (2013, 482 Music) A-
  56. Revolutionary Snake Ensemble: Live Snakes (2011-13 [2014], Accurate) A-
  57. Schoolboy Q: Oxymoron (2014, Interscope) B+(**)
  58. Serengeti: C.A.B. (2013, Anticon, EP) A-
  59. Daniel Smith: Smokin' Hot Bassoon Blues (2013 [2014], Summit) B+(*)
  60. The Souljazz Orchestra: Inner Fire (2014, Strut) B+(*)
  61. St. Vincent: St. Vincent (2014, Loma Vista/Republic) B+(***)
  62. Step Brothers: Lord Steppington (2014, Rhymesayers) B+(**)
  63. Ben Stolorow/Ian Carey: Duocracy (2013 [2014], Kabosha) B+(**)
  64. Tinariwen: Emmaar (2013 [2014], Anti-) B+(***)
  65. Tri-Fi: Staring Into the Sun (2013 [2014], self-released) B
  66. Ken Vandermark/Agustí Fernández: Interacting Fields (2013, Discordian) B+(***)
  67. Javier Vercher/Ferenc Nemeth: Imaginary Realm (2013, Dreamers Collective) B+(**)
  68. Johnny Cash: Songs of Our Soil (1958-59 [2002], Columbia/Legacy) A-
  69. Johnny Cash: Ride This Train (1959-60 [2002], Columbia/Legacy) B+(**)
  70. Johnny Cash: The Sound of Johnny Cash (1962-62 [1962], Columbia) B+(*)
  71. Johnny Cash: Blood, Sweat and Tears (1962 [1963], Columbia) B+(***)
  72. Johnny Cash: Ring of Fire: The Best of Johnny Cash (1958-63 [1963], Columbia) B+(**)
  73. Johnny Cash: Bitter Tears: Ballads of the American Indian (1964, Columbia) A-
  74. Johnny Cash: Orange Blossom Special (1964 [2002], Columbia/Legacy) B+(*)
  75. Johnny Cash: Sings the Ballads of the True West (1959-65 [2002], Columbia/Legacy) B+(***)
  76. Johnny Cash: Everybody Loves a Nut (1965-66 [1966], Columbia) B-
  77. Johnny Cash: Happiness Is You (1962-65 [1966], Columbia) B
  78. Johnny Cash & June Carter: Carryin' On With Johnny Cash & June Carter (1967 [2002], Columbia/Legacy) B+(**)
  79. Johnny Cash: From Sea to Shining Sea (1967 [1968], Columbia) B+(**)
  80. Johnny Cash: The Johnny Cash Show (1970, Columbia) B+(*)
  81. Johnny Cash: I Walk the Line [Soundtrack] (1970, Columbia) B
  82. Johnny Cash: Little Fauss and Big Halsy [Soundtrack] (1971, Columbia) B+(*)
  83. Johnny Cash: Man in Black (1971, Columbia) B+(***)
  84. Johnny Cash: A Thing Called Love (1972, Columbia) B
  85. Johnny Cash: Johnny Cash På Österåker (1972 [2007], Columbia/Legacy) B+(**)
  86. Johnny Cash: Any Old Wind That Blows (1973, Columbia) A-
  87. Johnny Cash & June Carter Cash: Johnny Cash and His Woman (1973, Columbia) B
  88. Johnny Cash: Ragged Old Flag (1974, Columbia) B
  89. Johnny Cash: Johnny Cash Sings Precious Memories (1975, Columbia) C-
  90. Johnny Cash: John R. Cash (1975, Columbia) B
  91. Johnny Cash: Look at Them Beans (1975, Columbia) B+(*)
  92. Johnny Cash: Strawberry Cake (1975 [1976], Columbia) B+(**)
  93. Johnny Cash: One Piece at a Time (1976, Columbia) B+(***)
  94. Johnny Cash: The Last Gunfighter Ballad (1976 [1977], Columbia) B+(**)
  95. Johnny Cash: The Rambler (1976-77 [1977], Columbia) B
  96. Johnny Cash: I Would Like to See You Again (1976-77 [1978], Columbia) B+(**)
  97. Johnny Cash: Gone Girl (1978, Columbia) B+(**)
  98. Johnny Cash: Silver (1979 [2002], Columbia/Legacy) B+(*)
  99. Johnny Cash: Rockabilly Blues (1979-80 [1980], Columbia) B
  100. Johnny Cash: The Baron (1980-81 [1981], Columbia) B
  101. Johnny Cash/Jerry Lee Lewis/Carl Perkins: The Survivors Live (1981 [1982], Columbia) B
  102. Johnny Cash: The Adventures of Johnny Cash (1981-82 [1982], Columbia) B+(*)
  103. Johnny Cash: Johnny 99 (1983, Columbia) B+(*)
  104. Johnny Cash: Rainbow (1984-85 [1985], Columbia) B-
  105. Johnny Cash & Waylon Jennings: Heroes (1984-85 [1986], Columbia) B-
  106. Waylon Jennings/Willie Nelson/Johnny Cash/Kris Kristofferson: Highwayman (1984 [1985], Columbia) B
  107. Waylon Jennings/Willie Nelson/Johnny Cash/Kris Kristofferson: Highwayman 2 (1989 [1990], Columbia) B-
  108. Budd Johnson & Phil Woods: The Ole Dude & the Fundance Kid (1984 [1985], Uptown) A-
  109. Gene Ludwig-Pat Martino Trio: Young Guns (1968-69 [2014], High Note) A-

February 12

  1. Actress: Ghettoville (2014, Ninja Tune) B+(*)
  2. Eddie Allen: Push (2013 [2014], Edjallen Music) B+(**)
  3. Scott H. Biram: Nothin' but Blood (2014, Bloodshot) B+(***)
  4. Lena Bloch: Feathery (2012 [2014], Thirteenth Note) B+(***)
  5. John Brown: Quiet Time (2007 [2014], Brown Boulevard) B+(**)
  6. Steve Cardenas: Melody in a Dream (2012 [2014], Sunnyside) B+(*)
  7. Cities Aviv: Come to Life (2014, Young One) B+(*)
  8. The Wayne Escoffery Quintet: Live at Firehouse 12 (2013 [2014], Sunnyside) B+(*)
  9. Hard Working Americans: Hard Working Americans (2014, Melvin/Thirty Tigers) B+(***)
  10. Jon Irabagon/Mark Helias/Barry Altschul: It Takes All Kinds (2013 [2014], Irabbagast/Jazzwerkstatt) B+(***)
  11. Kidd Jordan/Alvin Fielder/Peter Kowald: Trio and Duo in New Orleans (2002-05 [2013], NoBusiness, 2CD) A-
  12. Daunik Lazro/Joëlle Léandre: Hasparren (2011 [2013], NoBusiness) B+(***)
  13. The John Lurie National Orchestra: The Invention of Animals (1993-94 [2014], Amulet) B+(***)
  14. Eleni Mandell: Let's Fly a Kite (2014, Yep Roc) B+(*)
  15. Parker Millsap: Parker Millsap (2014, Okrahoma) B+(**)
  16. Ian O'Beirne: Glasswork (2013 [2014], self-released) B+(*)
  17. Eric Paslay: Eric Paslay (2014, Capitol Nashville) B
  18. Amy Ray: Goodnight Tender (2014, Daemon) B+(***)
  19. Rudy Royston: 303 (2013 [2014], Greenleaf Music) B+(**)
  20. Herb Silverstein: Monday Morning (2013 [2014], self-released) B+(*)
  21. Snowbird: Moon (2014, Bella Union, 2CD) B
  22. John Stein & the Mingotan Project: Emotion (2013 [2014], Whaling City Sound) B+(**)
  23. Helen Sung: Anthem for a New Day (2013 [2014], Concord Jazz) B+(*)
  24. Camille Thurman: Origins (2013 [2014], Hot Tone Music) B+(*)
  25. Adam Unsworth/Byron Olson/John Vanore: Balance (2009-11 [2014], Acoustical Concepts) B+(*)
  26. Young Fathers: Tape Two (2013, Anticon, EP) B+(**)
  27. Young Fathers: Dead (2014, Anticon) B+(*)
  28. Gene Ammons: The Happy Blues (1956 [1991], Prestige/OJC) B+(***)
  29. Gene Ammons All Stars: Jammin' With Gene (1956 [1986], Prestige/OJC) B+(**)
  30. Gene Ammons: Funky (1957 [1986], Prestige/OJC) B+(*)
  31. Gene Ammons' All Stars: The Big Sound (1958 [1991], Prestige/OJC) B+(*)
  32. Gene Ammons and His All Stars: Groove Blues (1958 [1992], Prestige/OJC) B+(**)
  33. Gene Ammons/Sonny Stitt: Boss Tenors: Straight Ahead From Chicago August 1961 (1961 [1992], Verve) B+(***)
  34. Gene Ammons/Sonny Stitt: Boss Tenors in Orbit! (1962 [2002], Verve) A-
  35. Gene Ammons: Angel Eyes (1960-62 [1998], Prestige/OJC) B+(**)
  36. Bix Beiderbecke: Volume 2: At the Jazz Band Ball (1927-28 [1990], Columbia) A-
  37. John Coltrane/Paul Quinichette: Cattin' With Coltrane and Quinichette (1957 [1990], Prestige/OJC) B+(***)
  38. John Coltrane: Coltrane/Prestige 7105 (1957 [1987], Prestige/OJC) B+(***)
  39. John Coltrane With the Red Garland Trio: Traneing In (1957 [1987], Prestige/OJC) B+(***)
  40. Miles Davis: Miles Davis and Horns (1951-53 [1989], Prestige/OJC) B+(*)
  41. Miles Davis: Blue Haze (1953-54 [1988], Prestige/OJC) B+(***)
  42. Miles Davis: Bags Groove (1954 [2008], Prestige/RVG Remasters) A-
  43. Miles Davis All Stars: Walkin' (1954 [1986], Prestige/OJC) B+(***)
  44. Miles Davis: Blue Moods (1955 [1990], Debut/OJC) B
  45. Miles Davis and Milt Jackson: Quintet/Sextet (1956 [1989], Prestige/OJC) B+(**)
  46. Miles Davis: Miles Davis and the Modern Jazz Giants (1954-56 [1989], Prestige/OJC) B+(*)
  47. Eric Dolphy Quintet: Outward Bound (1960 [1987], New Jazz/OJC) A-
  48. Eric Dolphy: Out There (1960 [1989], New Jazz/OJC) B+(**)
  49. Eric Dolphy: Eric Dolphy at the Five Spot: Volume 2 (1961 [1992], Prestige/OJC) B+(**)
  50. Eric Dolphy & Booker Little: Memorial Album: Recorded Live at the Five Spot (1961 [1989], Prestige/OJC) B+(***)
  51. Ray Draper Quintet: Tuba Sounds (1957 [2001], Prestige/OJC) B+(**)
  52. Tommy Flanagan/John Coltrane/Kenny Burrell/Idrees Sulieman: The Cats (1957 [1990], Prestige/OJC) B+(*)
  53. Tommy Flanagan: Overseas (1957 [1999], Prestige/OJC) A-
  54. Tommy Flanagan: The Tommy Flanagan Trio (1960 [1990], Prestige/OJC) B+(***)
  55. Clancy Hayes: Swingin' Minstrel (1956-58 [1963], Good Time Jazz) B+(**)
  56. Booker Little: Booker Little and Friend (1961, Bethlehem) A-
  57. Jack McDuff and Gene Ammons: Brother Jack Meets the Boss (1962 [1988], Prestige/OJC) B+(**)
  58. Ken McIntyre/Eric Dolphy: Looking Ahead (1960 [1986], New Jazz/OJC) B+(*)
  59. Charles Mingus: The Charles Mingus Quartet + Max Roach (1955 [1990], Debut/OJC) B
  60. Oliver Nelson: Screamin' the Blues (1960 [1991], New Jazz/OJC) A-
  61. Oliver Nelson with Eric Dolphy: Straight Ahead (1961 [1989], New Jazz/OJC) B+(**)
  62. Mel Powell: The Best Things in Life (1953-56 [1999], Vanguard) B+(***)
  63. Mel Powell: It's Been So Long (1953-56 [1999], Vanguard) A-
  64. Paul Quinichette/Shad Collins/Freddie Green/Walter Page/Jo Jones: For Basie (1957 [1990], Prestige/OJC) B+(**)
  65. Jimmy Smith: Groovin' at Small's Paradise (1957 [1999], Blue Note, 2CD) B+(**)
  66. Jimmy Smith: Bashin': The Unpredictable Jimmy Smith (1962 [2007], Verve) B+(*)
  67. Jimmy Smith & Wes Montgomery: Jimmy & Wes: The Dynamic Duo (1966 [1997], Verve) B+(**)
  68. Jimmy Smith and Wes Montgomery: Further Adventures of Jimmy and Wes (1966 [1993], Verve) B+(*)
  69. Rex Stewart/Dicky Wells: Chatter Jazz (1959, RCA) A-
  70. Mal Waldron: Mal-1 (1956 [1991], Prestige/OJC) A-
  71. Mal Waldron: Mal/2 (1957 [1991], Prestige/OJC) A-
  72. Mal Waldron: Mal/3: Sounds (1958 [1992], Prestige/OJC) B+(*)
  73. Mal Waldron: Mal/4: Trio (1958 [1995], New Jazz/OJC) A-
  74. The Mal Waldron Trio: Impressions (1959 [1992], New Jazz/OJC) B+(***)
  75. Mal Waldron: Update (1986 [1987], Soul Note) B+(**)
  76. Mal Waldron Trio: Our Colline's a Treasure (1987 [1991], Soul Note) B+(***)
  77. Ben Webster/Don Byas: Ben Webster Meets Don Byas (1968 [1973], MPS) B+(*)
  78. Clarence Williams: Dreaming the Hours Away: The Columbia Recordings Volume One (1926-28 [1998], Frog) A-
  79. Clarence Williams: Gimme Blues: Washboard Bands 1926-29 (1926-29 [2011], Frog) B+(***)
  80. Clarence Williams: Shake 'Em Up: The Vocalion, Brunswick, Victor, Paramount & Grey Gull Recordings (1927-29 [2000], Frog) A-
  81. Clarence Williams: Whoop It Up: The Columbia Recordings Volume 2 (1929-31 [1998], Frog) B+(***)
  82. Mary Lou Williams: Zoning (1974 [1995], Smithsonian Folkways) A-
  83. Mary Lou Williams Trio: At Rick's Café Americain (1979 [1999], Storyville) B+(***)
  84. Lester Young, Roy Eldridge and Harry Edison: Laughin' to Keep From Cryin' (1958 [2000], Verve) B+(**)

January 31

  1. Action Bronson/Party Supplies: Blue Chips 2 (2013, Fool's Gold) B+(**)
  2. Joey Badass: Summer Knights (2013, Cinematic Music Group) B+(*)
  3. Bastille: Bad Blood (2013, Virgin) B
  4. Janice Borla Group: Promises to Burn (2013 [2014], Tall Grass) B+(*)
  5. Charles Bradley: Victim of Love (2013, Daptone) B+(**)
  6. Joshua Breakstone: With the Wind and the Rain (2013 [2014], Capri) B+(*)
  7. Classixx: Hanging Gardens (2013, Innovative Leisure) B+(*)
  8. Maya Jane Coles: Comfort (2013, I Am Me) B+(***)
  9. Matt Criscuolo: Blippity Blat (2013 [2014], self-released) B
  10. Mikal Cronin: MCII (2013, Merge) B+(*)
  11. Currensy: New Jet City (2013, self-released) B+(*)
  12. Currensy & Young Roddy: Bales (2013, self-released) B+(**)
  13. Barbara Levy Daniels: Love Lost and Found (2013 [2014], Bidproductions) B+(***)
  14. Darkside: Psychic (2013, Matador) B-
  15. Death Grips: Government Plates (2013, Third Worlds) B-
  16. Nir Felder: Golden Age (2011 [2014], Okeh) B+(***)
  17. Ben Flocks: Battle Mountain (2013 [2014], self-released) A-
  18. Carol Fredette: No Sad Songs for Me (2012 [2014], Soundbrush) B+(**)
  19. Gardland: Syndrome Syndrome (2013, RVNG Intl) B+(**)
  20. The History of Apple Pie: Out of View (2013, Marshall Teller) B+(**)
  21. Mimi Jones: Balance (2012 [2014], Hot Tone Music) B+(*)
  22. Elly Kouri: I Love You Too Much (2013 [2014], RBR) B+(*)
  23. David Krakauer: The Big Picture (2013 [2014], Table Pounding) B+(***)
  24. Machinedrum: Vapor City (2013, Ninja Tune) B+(*)
  25. Sarah Manning: Harmonious Creature (2013 [2014], Posi-Tone) B+(***)
  26. Moderat: II (2013, Monkeytown) B+(*)
  27. Moutin Factory Quintet: Lucky People (2013 [2014], Blujazz/Plus Loin Music) B+(**)
  28. Russ Nolan: Relentless (2013 [2014], Rhinoceruss Music) B+(*)
  29. Danilo Perez: Panama 500 (2013 [2014], Mack Avenue) B+(**)
  30. Judy Philbin and Adam Levine: Keeping It Simple (2013 [2014], self-released) B+(*)
  31. Pusha T: Wrath of Caine (2013, GOOD Music) B+(**)
  32. Scenes: . . . But Not Heard (2013 [2014], Origin) B+(**)
  33. Lenny Sendersky/Tony Romano: Desert Flower (2013 [2014], LeTo) B+(*)
  34. Sonny Simmons/Delphine Latil/Thomas Bellier: Beyond the Planets (2013 [2014], Improvising Beings, 2CD) A-
  35. Bruce Springsteen: High Hopes (2014, Columbia) B+(*)
  36. Stellar OM Source: Joy One Mile (2013, RVNG Intl) B+(***)
  37. Marnie Stern: The Chronicles of Marnia (2013, Kill Rock Stars) B+(*)
  38. Shirazette Tinnin: Humility: Purity of My Soul (2013 [2014], Hot Tone Music) B
  39. Troy Ave: New York City: The Album (2013, BSB) B+(***)
  40. Fernando Ulibarri: Transform (2013 [2014], self-released) B+(*)
  41. We Love . . . Detroit (2013, We Love, 2CD) B+(***)
  42. Holly Williams: The Highway (2013, Georgiana) B+(*)
  43. Christine Wodrascka/Jean Luc Cappozzo/Gerry Hemingway: 2° Étage: Grey Matter (2012 [2013], NoBusiness) B+(***)
  44. YAPP: Symbolic Heads (2011 [2013], NoBusiness) B+(***)
  45. Tom Zé: Tropicália Lixo Lógico (2012, self-released) A-
  46. Chet Baker: Broken Wing (1978 [1979], Inner City) B
  47. Ruby Braff/Ellis Larkins: 2 x 2: Ruby Braff and Ellis Larkins Play Rodgers and Hart (1955, Vanguard) B+(***)
  48. Al Cohn/Zoot Sims: Al and Zoot (1957 [1998], Chess) B+(**)
  49. Eddie Costa Quartet: Guys and Dolls Like Vibes (1958 [2001], Verve) B+(**)
  50. Duke Ellington and His Orchestra: The Ellington Suites: The Queen's Suite/The Goutelas Suite/The Uwis Suite (1959-72 [2013], Fantasy/OJC) B+(*)
  51. Bill Evans: How My Heart Sings! (1962 [2013], Fantasy/OJC) A-
  52. Art Farmer/Gigi Gryce: When Farmer Met Gryce (1954-55 [1994], Prestige/OJC) A-
  53. Art Farmer: Art Farmer Quintet Featuring Gigi Gryce (1955 [1991], Prestige/OJC) B+(***)
  54. Art Farmer/Benny Golson: Meet the Jazztet (1960 [1990], Chess) A-
  55. Herb Geller: Herb Geller Plays (1954-55 [1955], Emarcy) A-
  56. Hampton Hawes: Four! (1958 [1991], Contemporary/OJC) A-
  57. Hampton Hawes: For Real! (1958 [1995], Contemporary/OJC) A-
  58. Earl Hines: Tour de Force Encore (1972 [1992], Black Lion) B+(***)
  59. Jutta Hipp: Jutta Hipp With Zoot Sims (1956 [1996], Blue Note) B+(**)
  60. John Jenkins/Clifford Jordan/Bobby Timmons: Jenkins, Jordan and Timmons (1957 [1994], New Jazz/OJC) A-
  61. Clifford Jordan Quartet: Spellbound (1960 [1993], Riverside/OJC) A-
  62. Harold Land: Harold in the Land of Jazz (1958 [1988], Contemporary/OJC) B+(*)
  63. Harold Land: Damisi (1971-74 [1991], Mainstream) B+(**)
  64. Shelly Manne & His Men: Live! At the Manne Hole Vol. 1 (1961 [1992], Contemporary/OJC) A-
  65. Shelly Manne & His Men: Live! At the Manne Hole Vol. 2 (1961 [1992], Contemporary/OJC) B+(***)
  66. Jackie McLean: 4, 5 and 6 (1956 [1991], Prestige/OJC) A-
  67. Jackie McLean Quintet: Jackie's Pal: Introducing Bill Hardman (1956 [1991], Prestige/OJC) B+(***)
  68. Jackie McLean: Makin' the Changes (1957 [1992], New Jazz/OJC) B+(***)
  69. Jackie McLean: A Fickle Sonance (1961 [1999], Blue Note) B+(**)
  70. Gil Melle Quartet: Gil's Guests (1956-57 [1990], Prestige/OJC) B+(***)
  71. The Gerry Mulligan Quartet: What Is There to Say? (1959 [1994], Columbia/Legacy) B+(***)
  72. Oscar Pettiford: The New Oscar Pettiford Sextet (1949-53 [1999], Debut/OJC) A-
  73. Sonny Rollins: Moving Out (1954 [1987], Prestige/OJC) B+(***)
  74. Sonny Rollins: Tour de Force (1956 [1989], Prestige/OJC) A-
  75. Sonny Rollins: The Sound of Sonny (1957 [1987], Riverside/OJC) A-
  76. Frank Rosolino: Frank Rosolino Quintet (1957 [1993], VSOP) B+(***)
  77. Howard Rumsey's Lighthouse All-Stars: Sunday Jazz A La Lighthouse, Vol. 1 (1953 [1991], Contemporary/OJC) B+(**)
  78. Howard Rumsey's Lighthouse All-Stars: Sunday Jazz A La Lighthouse, Vol. 2 (1953 [1998], Contemporary/OJC) A-
  79. Jimmy Rushing: Jimmy Rushing and the Smith Girls: Bessie - Clara - Mamie & Trixie: The Songs They Made Famous (1960 [1961], Columbia) A-
  80. Horace Silver: Horace Silver Trio (1952-53 [1989], Blue Note) B+(***)
  81. The Horace Silver Quintet: The Stylings of Silver (1957 [2002], Blue Note) B+(***)
  82. The Horace Silver Quintet & Trio: Blowin' the Blues Away (1959 [1999], Blue Note) B+(**)
  83. The Horace Silver Quintet: Horace-Scope (1960 [2006], Blue Note) B+(***)

January 19

  1. T.K. Blue: A Warm Embrace (2013 [2014], Blujazz) B-
  2. Dean Blunt: The Redeemer (2013, Hippos in Tanks) B
  3. JC Brooks & the Uptown Sound: Howl (2013, Bloodshot) B
  4. Ari Brown: Groove Awakening (2013, Delmark) B+(***)
  5. Buika: La Noche Más Larga (2013, Warner Music Latina) B+(*)
  6. George Cables: Icons & Influences (2013 [2014], HighNote) B+(***)
  7. Rosanne Cash: The River & the Thread (2014, Blue Note) B+(**)
  8. Glenn Cashman's Southland Nonet: Music Without Borders (2012 [2013], Primrose Lane) B+(**)
  9. Checkpoint Rock: Canciones Desde Palestina (2009, Talka) B+(**)
  10. The Child of Lov: The Child of Lov (2013, Domino) B+(*)
  11. The Computers: Love Triangles Hate Squares (2013, One Little Indian) B
  12. Steve Davis: For Real (2013 [2014], Posi-Tone) B+(**)
  13. Rob Derke & the NY Jazz Quartet: Blue Divide (2013 [2014], Zoho) B+(***)
  14. John Di Fiore: Yellow Petals (2013 [2014], Third Freedom Music) B+(***)
  15. Donato Dozzy: Plays Bee Mask (2013, Spectrum Spools) B+(**)
  16. Dub Club: Foundation Come Again (2013, Stones Throw) B+(**)
  17. Kahil El'Zabar's Ritual Trio: Follow the Sun (2013, Delmark) B+(**)
  18. The Fat Babies: 18th & Racine (2013, Delmark) B+(***)
  19. The Front Bottoms: Talon of the Hawk (2013, Bar/None) B+(**)
  20. Laurel Halo: Chance of Rain (2013, Hyperdub) B+(*)
  21. Fareed Haque: Trance Hypothesis (2013, Delmark) B+(**)
  22. Taylor Haskins: Fuzzy Logic (2011-13 [2014], Sunnyside) B-
  23. Angel Haze: Dirty Gold (2013, Republic) A-
  24. David Helbock's Random/Control: Think of Two (2013 [2014], Traumton) B+(**)
  25. Honey Island Swamp Band: Cane Sugar (2013, Louisiana Red Hot) B
  26. Hookworms: Pearl Mystic (2013, Weird World) A-
  27. Carolyn Lee Jones: The Performer (2013, Cat'nround Sound) B+(***)
  28. Juicy J: Stay Trippy (2013, Taylor Gang/Kemosabe/Columbia) B+(*)
  29. Manika Kaur: Satnam Waheguru: The True Name (2013 [2014], self-released) B+(**)
  30. Kool A.D.: Not O.K. (2013, self-released) A-
  31. Kool and Kass: Peaceful Solutions (2013, self-released) A-
  32. Greg Lewis: Organ Monk: American Standard (2013 [2014], self-released) B+(*)
  33. Logos: Cold Mission (2013, Keysound) B+(*)
  34. London Grammar: If You Wait (2013, Warner/Chappell) B+(*)
  35. Lucius: Wildewoman (2013, Mom + Pop Music) B+(*)
  36. Zara McFarlane: If You Knew Her (2013 [2014], Brownswood) B
  37. Cava Menzies/Nick Phillips: Moment to Moment (2013 [2014], self-released) B+(***)
  38. Pete Mills: Sweet Shadow (2013 [2014], Cellar Live) B+(***)
  39. Juana Molina: Wed 21 (2013, Crammed Discs) B+(**)
  40. No Joy: Wait to Pleasure (2013, Mexican Summer) B+(*)
  41. Jeremy Pelt: Face Forward, Jeremy (2013 [2014], High Note) B-
  42. Katy Perry: Prism (2013, Capitol) B+(*)
  43. The Danny Petroni Blue Project: The Blue Project (2013 [2014], DPS) B+(***)
  44. Pharmakon: Abandon (2013, Sacred Bones, EP) B+(*)
  45. Robert Prester: Dogtown (2013 [2014], Commonwealth Ave. Productions) B
  46. Quadron: Avalanche (2013, Vested in Culture) B+(**)
  47. Radical Dads: Rapid Reality (2013, Uninhabitable Mansions) A-
  48. Lee Ranaldo and the Dust: Last Night on Earth (2013, Matador) B
  49. The Rempis/Daisy Duo: Second Spring (2013 [2014], Aerophonic) B+(***)
  50. Dave Rempis/Joshua Abrams/Avreeayl Ra: Aphelion (2013 [2014], Aerophonic) B+(***)
  51. Matt Renzi: Rise and Shine (2012 [2014], Three P's) B+(**)
  52. LeAnn Rimes: Spitfire (2013, Curb) B+(*)
  53. Pete Robbins: Pyramid (2013 [2014], Hate Laugh Music) B+(***)
  54. Rich Rosenthal: Falling Up (2012 [2014], Muse-Eek) B+(***)
  55. Brandon Ross/Stomu Takeishi: For Living Lovers: Revealing Essence (2013 [2014], Sunnyside) B
  56. Anton Schwartz: Flash Mob (2013 [2014], Anton Jazz) B
  57. Archie Shepp: Attica Blues Orchestra Live: I Hear the Sound (2013 [2014], Archieball) B+(***)
  58. Edward Simon: Venezuelan Suite (2012 [2014], Sunnyside) B+(**)
  59. Sly5thAve: Sly 5th Ave Presents Akuma (2012 [2014], self-released) B+(**)
  60. E. Doctor Smith: Quantum (2013, Edgetone) B
  61. 10^32K: That Which Is Planted: Live in Buffalo and Rochester (2013, Passin' Thru) A-
  62. Randy Travis: The Influence Vol. 1: The Man I Am (2013, Warner Brothers) B
  63. Steve Treseler Group: Center Song (2013 [2014], Creative Music Adventures) B+(*)
  64. Tropic of Cancer: Restless Idylls (2013, Blackest Ever Black) B-
  65. Mikolaj Trzaska/Devin Hoff/Michael Zerang: Sleepless in Chicago (2011-12 [2013], NoBusiness) B+(***)
  66. Ken Vandermark/The Resonance Ensemble: Head Above Water/Feet Out of the Fire (2012-13 [2013], Not Two, 2CD) A-
  67. Frank Wess: Magic 201 (2011 [2014], IPO) B+(***)
  68. The White Buffalo: Shadows, Greys & Evil Ways (2013, Unison Music) B+(**)
  69. Matt Wilson Quartet + John Medeski: Gathering Call (2013 [2014], Palmetto) B+(***)
  70. Nils Wogram Root 70 With Strings: Riomar (2012 [2014], NWOG) B+(*)
  71. Barry Guy/London Jazz Composers' Orchestra/Irène Schweizer: Theoria (1991 [1992], Intakt) B+(*)
  72. Barry Guy/London Jazz Composers Orcheatra/Irène Schweizer/Marilyn Crispell/Pierre Favre: Double Trouble Two (1995 [1998], Intakt) B+(**)
  73. Cecil Taylor: Air (1960, Candid) A-
  74. Cecil Taylor-Buell Neidlinger: New York City R&B (1961, Candid) B+(***)
  75. Cecil Taylor: Cell Walk for Celeste (1961, Candid) B+(**)
  76. Jon Hopkins: Immunity (2013, Domino) A-