Jazz (Smooth-Crossover-Pop) / Easy Listening (Reference)

The reference list includes records that have been obtained and/or rated (in blue) as well as many other records that have been recommended from various sources.

Mindi Abair

• Come As You Are [2004, GRP], B–
• Life Less Ordinary [2006, GRP], B

Greg Adams

• Firefly [2004, 215 Records]

Akusmi

• Fleeting Future [2022, Tonal Union], B+(**)

Gerald Albright (1957– )

• The Very Best of Gerald Albright [(2001), Atlantic]
• Kickin' It Up [2004, GRP], B

Alfa Mist (1991– )

• Bring Backs [2021, Anti-], B+(*)
• Variables [2023, Anti-], B+(*)

Herb Alpert (1935– )

• The Lonely Bull [1962, Shout! Factory], C+
• South of the Border [1964, Shout! Factory], B–
• Whipped Cream and Other Delights [1965, Shout! Factory], B
• Sounds Like [1967, Shout! Factory], B–
• Herb Alpert's Ninth [1967, Shout! Factory], C+
• The Beat of the Brass [1968, Shout! Factory], C–
• Christmas Album [1968, A&M]
• Classics, Vol. 1 [1962–70, A&M], B
• Lost Treasures: Rare & Unreleased [1963–74, Shout! Factory], C
• Rise [1979, A&M]
• Classics, Vol. 20 [(1987), A&M]
• Passion Dance [1997, Almo]
• Colors [1999, Almo]
• w/Lani Hall: Live: Anything Goes [2009, Concord], B

Corbin Andrick

• Bonzo Squad: There's Always Tomorrow [2019, self-released, EP], B

Android Trio

• Other Worlds [2021, Cuneiform], C+

Dennis Angel

• On Track [2014, Timeless Grooves], B–

Charlie Apicella (1979– )

• w/Iron City: Put the Flavor on It [2008, Carlo Music], B–
• w/Iron City: Sparks [2009, Carlo Music], B
• w/Iron City: Groove Machine [2018, OA2], B+(*)
• w/Charlie Apicella & Iron City Meet The Griots Speak: Destiny Calling [2022, OA2], B+(***)
• Charlie Apicella & Iron City Meet The Griots Speak: Call to Action / Call to Prayer [2022, OA2], B+(**)

Dave Archer

• Dave Corp: The Sweet Life [2007, Sluggo Music], B–

Joe Armon-Jones

• Turn to Clear View [2019, Brownswood], B

Dave Askren

• w/Jeff Benedict: It's All About the Groove [2013, DaWay Music], B+(**)
• w/Jeff Benedict: Denver Sessions [2022, Tapestry], B+(**)

Brian Auger (1939– )

• Brian Auger's Oblivion Express [1971, RCA Victor]
• Brian Auger's Oblivion Express: Reinforcements [1975, RCA Victor]
• Brian Auger's Oblivion Express: Complete Oblivion [1971–75, Soul Bank]

Augi

• Citizens of the World [2012, Diapson West], B+(*)

Roy Ayers (1940– )

• West Coast Vibes [1963, United Artists]
• Ubiquity [1970, Verve], B–
• He's Coming [1971, 2009), Verve], B
• Virgo Red [1973, Verve], B–
• Change Up the Groove [1974, Verve], B
• A Tear to a Smile [1975, Verve], C+
• Mystic Voyage [1975, Polydor]
• Vibrations [1976, Verve], C
• Lifeline [1977, Verve], C+
• You Send Me [1978, Verve], C
• Evolution: The Polydor Anthology [1970–81, Polydor, 2 CD]

Jay Azzolina (1952– )

Jeff Babko

• Crux [2012, Tonequake], B+(*)
• w/David Piltch: The Libretto Show [2022, Tudor Tones], B+(*)

David Bach

• Window on the West [1995, Integrity]
• Otherworld [2013, Integrity Music], B

BadBadNotGood

• BBNG2 [2012, self-released], B+(*)
• III [2014, Innovative Leisure], B+(**)
• w/Ghostface Killah: Sour Soul [2015, Lex], A–
• IV [2016, Innovative Leisure], B–
• Talk Memory [2021, XL/Innovative Leisure], B

Bob Baldwin (1960– )

• Rejoice [1990, Atlantic]
• Brazil Chill [2004, A440 Music]

Lisa Marie Baratta

• Summertime Jazz [2012, self-released], B

Jon Batiste (1986– )

• w/Chad Smith, Bill Laswell: The Process [2014, MOD Technologies], B+(***)
• Hollywood Africans [2018, Verve], B+(*)
• Anatomy of Angels: Live at the Village Vanguard [2018, Verve], B+(*)
• We Are [2020, Verve], B+(**)
• World Music Radio [2023, Verve], B+(**)

Chris Bauer

• In a Yuletide Groove: Harmonica Jazz for the Holidays [2011, self-released], B–

Walter Beasley (1961– )

• Beasley [1987, Verve], B–
• Just Kickin' It [1989, Verve], C
• Intimacy [1992, Verve], C+
• For Your Pleasure [1998, Shanachie]

Beat Funktion

• Moon Town [2013, DO Music], B
• Voodooland [2014, DO Music], B–
• Olympus [2015, DO Music], B

Pete Belasco

• Get It Together [1997, Polygram]

David Benoit (1953– )

• w/Russ Freeman: Benoit/Freeman Project [1994]

George Benson (1943– )

• w/Jack McDuff: The New Boss Guitar of George Benson [1964, Prestige OJC]
• It's Uptown [1966, Columbia], B+(***)
• Blue Benson [1967, Polydor]
• Shape of Things to Come [1968, Verve], B+(*)
• Tell It Like It Is [1969, Verve], B
• The Other Side of Abbey Road [1969, A&M]
• I Got a Woman and Some Blues [1969, Verve], C
• White Rabbit [1971, CTI/Sony Masterworks], B
• Beyond the Blue Horizon [1971, CTI/Sony Masterworks], B+(*)
• Body Talk [1973, CTI/Sony Masterworks], B
• Good King Bad [1975, Columbia]
• Breezin' [1976, Warner Brothers], B
• Give Me the Night [1980, Warner Brothers]
• The Essential George Benson [1963–80, Columbia/Legacy, 2 CD], B
• Tenderly [1989, Warner Brothers]
• Essentials: The Very Best of George Benson [(1998), Jive]
• Irreplaceable [2004, GRP], C–
• Songs and Stories [2009, Concord/Monster Music], C+
• Guitar Man [2011, Concord], B–

Berlioz

• Jazz Is for Ordinary People [2023, self-released, EP], B+(*)

Randy Bernsen

• Grace Notes [2015, Jericho Jams], B

Black Lives [2021– ]

• From Generation to Generation [2021, Jammin' Colors, 2CD], B+(**)
• People of Earth [2024, Jammin' Colors], B+(***)

Kenny Blake

• An Intimate Affair [1996, Heads Up]
• w/Maria Shaheen: Go Where the Road Leads [2012, Summit], B+(*)

Blue Lab Beats

• Blue Eclipse [2024, Blue Adventure], B

Mike Bogle (1961– )

• Dr. Mike Bogle: Let There Be Light [2021, MBP/Groove], B

Boston Horns

• Shibuya Gumbo [2008, Boston Horns]

David Boswell

• Windows [2012, My Quiet Moon], B–
• Storyboard: w/Alex Locascio, Rod McDowell: Hello [2014, My Quiet Moon], B

Chris Botti

• Midnight Without You [1997, Verve/Forecast]
• A Thousand Kisses Deep [2003, Columbia]
• When I Fall in Love [2004, Columbia], B–

Rick Braun (1955– )

• Body and Soul [1996, Bluemoon]
• Full Stride [1998, Atlantic]
• Kisses in the Rain [2001, Warner Brothers]
• Esperanto [2003, Warner Brothers], B–

Tom Braxton

• Endless Highway [2009, Pacific Coast Jazz], B–

Brazzamerica

• Brazzamerica [2016, self-released], B+(**)

The Brecker Brothers [1975–1981]

• The Brecker Brothers Collection / Volume One [1975–81, Novus], B
• Sneakin' Up Behind You: The Very Best of the Brecker Brothers [1975–81, Arista/Legacy], B
• Return of the Brecker Brothers [1992, Verve], B
• Priceless Jazz Collection [(1999), GRP]

Bright Dog Red

• Under the Porch [2022, Ropeadope], B+(*)

Brian Bromberg (1960– )

• It's About Time: The Acoustic Project [1991, Nova]
• Choices [2004, A440], B
• Downright Upright [2006, Artistry], B
• Full Circle [2016, Artistry], B

Butcher Brown

• Camden Session [2018, Gearbox], B+(*)
• #KingButch [2020, Concord Jazz], B+(*)
• Encore [2021, Concord Jazz, EP], B
• Butcher Brown Presents Triple Trey [2022, Concord Jazz], B+(**)
• Solar Music [2023, Concord Jazz], B

Norman Brown

• Just Between Us [1992, Verve], B
• West Coast Coolin' [2004, Warner Brothers]

Paul Brown

• Up Front [2004, GRP]

Alex Bugnon

• Head Over Heels [1990, Orpheus], B
• Free [2005, Narada], B

Bobby Caldwell (1951– )

• Perfect Island Nights [2005, Music Force]

Ed Calle

• Twilight [2001, Concord Jazz]

Mindy Canter

• Fluteus Maximus: One Session, One Take [2011, Mindela Music], B–

Kenny Carr

• Idle Talk [2014, self-released], B+(*)
• Exit Moon [2015, Zoozazz Music], B+(*)

Steve Carter

• Cosmopolis [2008, self-released], B

Craig Chaquico (1954– )

• Acoustic Highway [1993, Higher Octave]
• Acoustic Planet [1994, Higher Octave]
• Midnight Noon [2004, Higher Octave], B
• Holiday [2005, Higher Octave], C+

Chicago Soul Jazz Collective

• w/Dee Alexander: On the Way to Be Free [2022, JMarq], B+(*)

Frankie Cicala

• Frankie Plays! [2006, 3B's], B–

Marc Ciprut

• Moonshine [2024, White Label], B

Jeff Coffin (1965– )

• Commonality [1999, Compass]
• Mutopia [2008, Compass]
• Into the Air [2012, Ear Up], B
• Between Dreaming and Joy [2022, Ear Up], B+(**)
• w/Jordan Perlson, Viktor Krauss: Coffin / Perlson / Krauss [2023, Ear Up], B+(***)

Louis Cole

• Quality Over Opinion [2022, Brainfeeder], B+(*)

Steve Cole

• Between Us [2000, Atlantic]
• NY LA [2003, Warner Brothers]
• Spin [2005, Narada Jazz], C+

Nick Colionne

• Keepin' It Cool [2005, Narada Jazz], B
• No Limits [2008, Koch], B–

Charles Compo

• Foolish Pleasure [2012, Chaos Music], B

Joyce Cooling

• Keeping Cool [1999, Heads Up]
• This Girl's Got to Play [2004, Narada Jazz], C
• Revolving Door [2006, Narada Jazz], B–

Chris Cortez

• Aunt Nasty [2008–2012, Blue Bamboo Music], B–

Julian Coryell

• Duality [1997, N2K]

The Crusaders (1971–76)

• Pass the Plate [1971, Verve], B–
• Southern Comfort [1974, GRP]
• Chain Reaction [1975, MCA]
• Free as the Wind [1976, MCA]
• Those Southern Knights [1976, GRP]
• Images [1978, Blue Thumb], B
• The Golden Years [1962–81, GRP, 3 CD], B
• Rural Renewal [2003, PRA/Verve], C

Brian Culbertson

• Nice and Slow [2001, Atlantic]
• Come On Up [2003, Warner Brothers], B–

Barry Danielian

• Metaphorically Speaking [2013, Tariqah], B+(*)

Dapp Theory

• Layers of Chance [2008, Contrology/ObliqSound], B+(**)

Eric Darius

• Night on the Town [2004, Higher Octave Music], B
• Just Getting Started [2006, Narada Jazz], B

Yussef Dayes (1993– )

• Black Classical Music [2023, Brownswood/Nonesuch], A–

Karl Denson (1968– )

• Chunky Pecan Pie [1994, Minor Music]
• Dance Lesson #2 [2001, Blue Note], B
• Lunar Orbit [2007, Bobby Ace], B–
• Karl Denson's Tiny Universe: Brother's Keeper [2009, Shanachie], B+(**)

DJ Notoya

• Funk Tide: Tokyo Jazz-Funk From Electric Bird 1978–87 [1978–87, Wewantsounds/Electric Bird], B–

Domi and JD Beck

• Not Tight [2022, Apeshit/Blue Note], B–

Donkeyazz

• Play the Blues [2021, Singo], C

Down to the Bone [1997– ]

• The Urban Grooves: Album II [1999, Internal Bass]
• Spread the Word: Album III [2000, Atlantic]
• Crazy Vibes and Things [2002, GRP]
• Cellar Funk [2004, Narada Jazz], B–
• Spread Love Like Wildfire [2005, Narada Jazz], B+

George Duke (1946–2013)

• Faces in Reflection [1974, Verve], B
• Feel [1974, Verve], B–
• I Love the Blues, She Heard My Cry [1975, Verve], B
• The Aura Will Prevail [1975, Universal Classics]
• Brazilian Love Affair [1979, Epic]
• Follow the Rainbow [1979, Epic]
• The Essential George Duke [1977–90, Epic/Legacy, 2 CD], B
• Cool [2000, Warner Brothers]
• Dream Weaver [2013, Heads Up], B–

Candy Dulfer (1969– )

• Saxuality [1991, Arista]
• What Does It Take? [1999, N-Coded Music]
• Candy Store [2007, Telarc]
• Crazy [2012, Razor & Tie], B+(*)

Jimmy Earl (1957– )

• Jimmy Earl [1995, Severn], B+(*)
• Stratosphere [1999, Severn], B

Ebi Soda [2019– ]

• Honk If You're Sad [2022, Tru Thoughts], B+(*)

Ecco La Musica

• Morning Moon [2011, Big Round], B

Mark Egan (1951– )

• Truth Be Told [2009, Wavetone], C+
• About Now [2014, Wavetone], B–

Richard Elliot

• City Speak [1996, Blue Note]

Damian Erskine

• So To Speak [2010, DE], B+(**)

Eric Essix

• Southbound [2000, Zebra]

Ezra Collective [2017– ]

• You Can't Steal My Joy [2019, Enter the Jungle], B
• Where I'm Meant to Be [2022, Partisan], B+(**)

Percy Faith (1908–76)

• Music of Christmas [1966, Columbia]
• 16 Most Requested Songs [(1978), Columbia]
• All-Time Greatest Hits [(1978), Columbia]
• Christmas Is ... [(1989), Columbia]
• The Percy Faith Treasure [(1994), Sony]

Fazer

• Plex [2022, City Slang], B+(**)

Foreign Motion

• In Flight [2013, self-released], B+(**)

Patrick Forgas

• Forgas Band Phenomena: L'Axe de Fou / Axis of Madness [2008, Cuneiform], B+(**)

Fourplay [1991– ]

• Journey [2004, Bluebird], C

Michael Franks (1944– )

• The Best of Michael Franks: A Backward Glance [(1998), Warner Brothers]
• The Michael Franks Anthology: The Art of Love [(2003), Warner Brothers]
• Love Songs [(2004), Warner Brothers/Rhino]

The Funky Organics

• The Funky Organics [2016, Chicken Coup/Summit], B

Kenny G (1959– )

• Duotones [1986, Arista]
• Greatest Hits [1982–92, Arista]
• Miracles: The Holiday Album [1994, Arista]
• Ultimate Kenny G [1986–2002, Arista], C+
• The Essential Kenny G [1986–2004, Arista/Legacy, 2 CD], C

The Galactic Cowboy Orchestra

• All Out of Peaches [2011, New Folk], B+(*)

Alekos Galas

• Mediterranean Breeze [2010, Ehos]

Leo Gandelman

• Black Pearls [1997, Polygram]
• Brazilian Soul [1999, Dubas Musica]
• Brazilian Groove Band: Anatomy of Groove [2009, Far Out], B

Garage A Trois [2003– ]

• Emphasizer [2003, Tone Cool]
• Outre Mer [2005, Telarc], A–
• Always Be Happy, but Stay Evil [2011, The Royal Potato Family], B
• Calm Down Cologne [2019, Royal Potato Family], B+(*)

Mike Garson (1945– )

• Conversations With My Family [2006, Resonance, CD+DVD], B+(*)

Maxfield Gast

• Eat Your Beats [2009, Militia Hill], B–
• Side by Side [2010, Militia Hill], B+(**)
• Ogo Pogo [2014, Militia Hill], B+(**)

Cochemea Gastelum

• The Electric Sound of Johnny Arrow [2010, Mowo!], B+(*)
• Cochemea: All My Relations [2019, Daptone], B+(**)
• Cochemea: Vol. II: Baca Sewa [2021, Daptone], B+(*)

Grant Geissman

• Rustic Technology [1993, Blue Moon]
• In With the Out Crowd [1998, Higher Octave]

Ghost Rhythms [2007– ]

• Live at Yoshiwara [2019, Cuneiform], B+(*)
• Spectral Music [2021, Cuneiform], B–

Gnappy

• Unloaded [2006, Bean Pie], B

Alan Goldsher

• The Complete Pocket Sessions [2019, Gold Note], B–

Jeff Golub (1955–2015)

• Out of the Blue [1999, Atlantic]
• Dangerous Curves [2000, GRP]
• Temptation [2005, Narada Jazz], B
• Blues for You [2009, E1 Music], B

Richie Goods

• Live at the Zinc Bar [2007, Richman], B+(**)
• Three Rivers [2014, Richman], B

Cameron Graves

• Planetary Prince [2017, Mack Avenue], B–
• Seven [2021, Mack Avenue], B–
• Live From the Seven Spheres [2022, Mack Avenue], B–

Euge Groove

• Livin' Large [2004, Narada Jazz], C+
• Just Feels Right [2005, Narada Jazz], B–

Groove Collective [1993– ]

• Dance of the Drunken Master [1998, Shanachie]
• Declassified [1999, Shanachie]

Morgan Guerin

• Tales of the Facade [2024, Candid], B+(*)

Steve Haas

• The Haas Company: w/Andy Timmons: Vol. 1: Galactic Tide [2024, Psychiatric], B
• The Haas Company: w/Frank Gambale: Vol. 2: Celestial Latitude, B+(**)

Everette Harp (1961– )

• What's Going On [1997, Blue Note]

Jimmy Haslip (1951– )

• Red Heat [2000, Unitone]
• Blues for Tony [2010, MoonJune]

Marsha Heydt

• One Night [2007, Blue Toucan], C+
• Diggin' the Day [2013, Blujazz], B

HHY

• HHY and and Macumbas: Camouflage Vector: Edits From Live Actions 2017–2019 [2017–2019, Nyege Nyege Tapes], B+(**)
• HHY and the Kampala Unit: Lithium Blast [2020, Nyege Nyege Tapes], B+(*)

High Pulp

• Pursuit of Ends [2022, Anti-], B+(*)
• Days in the Desert [2023, Anti-], B+(**)

Warren Hill

• Kiss Under the Moon [1991, Jive/Novus]
• Pop Jazz [2005, Native Language], B–
• La Dolce Vita [2008, Koch], B–

Al Hirt (1922–99)

• At the Mardi Gras [1962, BMG Classics], B
• Greatest Hits [1962–64, RCA], B+
• Super Jazz, Vol. 1 [1975, Monument]
• Bourbon Street Parade [(1994), Intersound]
• The Al Hirt Collection [(1997), Razor & Tie]
• Music to Watch Girls By [(2000), RCA]

Johnny Hodges

• Yeah . . . About That [2012, Veritas], B

Incognito [1981– ]

• Jazz Funk [1981, Ensign]
• The Best of Incognito [(2000), Polygram]
• Adventures in Black Sunshine [2004, Narada Jazz], B+
• Eleven [2006, Narada Jazz], B
• Beer + Things + Flowers [2006, Narada Jazz], C+

Brian Jackson (1952– )

• This Is Brian Jackson [2022, BBE], B+(*)

Paul Jackson (1947– )

• Funk on a Stick [2005, Backdoor], B+(*)

Paul Jackson Jr (1959– )

• Never Alone: Duets [1996, Blue Note]

Jackson Garrett [2008– ]

• Let Sleeping Dogs Lie [2011, self-released], C

Jaga Jazzist [2001– ]

• A Livingroom Hush [2001, Ninja Tune]
• The Stix [2003, Ninja Tune]
• One-Armed Bandit [2010, Ninja Tune], B+(**)
• Pyramid [2020, Brainfeeder], B+(**)

Jake Breaks [2021– ]

• Breaksy [2021, Wide Hive], B+(**)

Bob James (1939– )

• Explosions [1965, ESP], B+(***)
• Once Upon a Time: The Lost 1965 New York Studio Sessions [1965, Resonance], B+(**)
• Straight Up [1995, Warner Brothers]
• w/Kirk Whallum: Joined at the Hip [1996, Warner Brothers]
• Angels of Shanghai [2004–2005, Koch], B
• w/David Sanborn: Quartette Humaine [2013, Okeh], B+(**)
• Bob James Trio: Feel Like Making Live! [2022, Evolution], B

Boney James

• Sweet Thing [1997, Warner Brothers]
• Pure [2004, Warner Brothers], B–

The Jazz Crusaders [1961–1971]

• At the Lighthouse / Pacific Jazz Records [1962, Blue Note], B+(**)
• Live at the Lighthouse '66 [1966, Pacific Jazz]
• Lighthouse '68 [1967, Pacific Jazz]
• Lighthouse '69 [1969, World Pacific Jazz]
• The Pacific Jazz Quintet Studio Sessions [1961–70, Mosaic, 6 CD]
• Old Socks, New Shoes . . . New Socks, Old Shoes [1970, Verve], B

Jazzhole [1994– ]

• Circle of the Sun [2003, Beave Music]
• Blue 72 [2014, Beave Music], B+(**)

Clarence Johnson III

• Watch Him Work [2013, Like Father Like Son Music], B

Norman Johnson

• If Time Stood Still [2010, Pacific Coast Jazz], B

Ronny Jordan (1962–2014)

• The Antidote [1992, 4th & Broadway]
• A Brighter Day [1999, Blue Note], C+
• At Last [2001, N2K]

Stanley Jordan (1959– )

• Stanley Jordan [1984, Blue Note]
• Magic Touch [1985, Blue Note]
• Cornucopia [1986, Blue Note]
• Standards, Vol. 1 [1986, Blue Note]
• State of Nature [2008, Mack Avenue], B

Marcus Joseph

• Beyond the Dome [2021, Jazz Re:freshed], B

Bert Kaempfert (1923–80)

• The Very Best of Bert Kaempfert [(1995), Taragon]

Jeff Kashiwa

• Another Door Opens [2000, Native Language]

Bernie Kenerson

• Just You and Me [2007, Bernup], B

John Carroll Kirby

• Blowout [2023, Stones Throw], B–

John Klemmer (1946– )

• Blowin' Gold [1969, Cadet/Concept]
• Priceless Jazz Collection [1967–72, GRP]
• Barefoot Ballet [1976, Verve], B+(*)
• Arabesque [1977, Verve], B
• Nexus One (for Trane) [1979, RCA]

Mark Knox

• Places [2006, Dreambox Media], B

Andre Kostelanetz (1901–80)

• 16 Most Requested Songs [(1972), Columbia]
• Wonderland of Golden Hits [(1990), Columbia]

Dave Koz

• Lucky Man [1993, Capitol]
• The Dance [1999, Capitol]

Delvon Lamarr

• Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio: I Told You So [2021, Colemine], B+(*)
• Cold as Weiss [2022, Colemine], B+(*)

Las Vegas Boneheads

• Sixty and Still Cookin' [2023, Curt Miller Music], B

Hubert Laws (1939– )

• The Laws of Jazz [1964–66, Atlantic]
• Flute By-Laws [1965–66, Atlantic]
• Afro-Classic [1970, Columbia]
• The Rite of Spring [1971, Columbia]
• Wild Flower [1972, Atlantic]
• Morning Star [1972, Sony Masterworks], B–
• In the Beginning [1974, CTI/Sony Masterworks], B
• Moondance [2003, Savoy jazz]

Ronnie Laws (1950– )

• Pressure Sensitive [1975, Blue Note]
• The Best of Ronnie Laws [1975–80, Blue Note], C+
• Tribute to the Legendary Eddie Harris [1996, Blue Note]

LCSM [Likwid Continual Space Motion]

• Earthbound [2020, Super-Sonic Jazz], B+(***)

Danny Lerman

• Ice Cat [2019, Blujazz], B–

Howard Levy (1960– )

• The Stranger's Hand [1999, Tone Center]
• Alone and Together [2009, Balkan Samba]
• Tonight and Tomorrow [2009, Chicago Sessions]

Liquid Soul [1996– ]

• Liquid Soul [1996, Ark 21], B–
• Make Some Noise [1998, Ark 21]
• Here's the Deal [2000, Shanachie], B
• Evolution [2002, Shanachie]
• One-Two Punch [2006, Telarc], B+(**)

Dave Lombardo (1965– )

• Rites of Percussion [2023, Ipecac], B+(**)

Jeff Lorber (1952– )

• The Jeff Lorber Fusion [1977, Inner City]
• Flipside [2005, Narada Jazz], B

Bobby Lyle

• Night Breeze [1985, Evidence]
• Pianomagic [1991, Atlantic]
• Power of Touch [1997, Atlantic]
• Joyful [2002, Lightyear]

Arthur Lyman (1934–2002)

• More of the Best of the Arthur Lyman Group [(1996), DCC]
• With a Christmas Vibe [(1996), Rykodisc]

Vincent Lyn

• Heaven Bound [2011, Budo], B+(*)
• Wing Sing [2012, Budo], B
• Live in New York City [2013, Budo], B+(*)

Sean Malone

• Cortlandt [1996, Free Electric Sound], B+(*)

Chuck Mangione (1940– )

• Chuck Mangione Quartet [1972, Mercury]
• Alive! [1972, Mercury]
• Together [1973, Mercury]
• Land of Make Believe [1973, Mercury]
• The Best of Chuck Mangione [1973–88, Columbia/Legacy], C
• Greatest Hits [(1996), Feels So Good]

Ethan Mann

• w/Greg Bandy, Chip Crawford: It's All About a Groove [2009, Petunia], B–

Mantovani (1905–80)

• The Incomparable Mantovani [1964, Polygram]
• Mantovani's Golden Hits [(1967), London]
• More Golden Hits [(1984), London]
• A Night in Vienna [(1988), Bainbridge]
• White Christmas [(1989), London]
• Mantovani's Golden Hits [(1990), Bainbridge)]
• A Lovely Way to Spend an Evening [(1995), Madacy]

Eric Marienthal (1957– )

• Crossroads [1990, GRP]
• Easy Street [1997, Polygram]
• Walk Tall: Tribute to Cannonball Adderley [1998, Polygram]

Keith Marks

• Foreign Funk [2006, Markei], B–

Terrace Martin (1978– )

• Velvet Portraits [2016, Ropeadope], B
• w/Robert Glasper, 9th Wonder, Kamasi Washington: Dinner Party [2020, Sounds of Crenshaw, EP], B+(*)
• w/Robert Glasper, 9th Wonder, Kamasi Washington: Dinner Party: Dessert [2020, Sounds of Crenshaw, EP], B+(*)
• Village Days [2020, Sounds of Crenshaw/Empire, EP], B+(**)
• Drones [2021, BMG], B+(**)
• Dinner Party: Enigmatic Society [2023, Sounds of Crenshaw, EP], B

Chris Massey

• Chris Massey's "Nue Jazz Project": Vibrainium [2010, Chris Massey Music], B+(*)

Keiko Matsui

• The Very Best of Keiko Matsui [(2004), GRP]
• Walls of Akendora [2005, Narada Jazz], B+

Marion Meadows

• Next to You [2000, Heads Up]
• In Deep [2002, Heads Up]

Menahan Street Band

• The Exciting Sounds of the Menahan Street Band [2021, Daptone], B–

Jacob Merlin

• Alchemy of Soul [2009, Backline], B–

Raul Midón (1968– )

• Eclectic Adventurist [2022, Artistry/Mack Avenue], B+(*)
• Lost and Found [2024, ReKondite ReKords], C+

Jason Miles (1952– )

• Celebrating the Music of Weather Report [2000, Telarc]
• A Live Affair: The Music of Ivan Lins [2000, Telarc]
• Miles to Miles: In the Spirit of Miles Davis [2005, Narada Jazz], B–
• What's Going On? [2006, Narada Jazz], B–
• Soul Summit: Live at the Berks Jazz Fest! [2007, Shanachie], B+(**)
• 2 Grover With Love [2008, Koch], B–
• w/Ingrid Jensen: Kind of New [2014, Whaling City Sound], B
• Kind of New 2: Blue Is Paris [2017, Lightyear], B+(*)

Marcus Miller (1959– )

• Marcus Miller [1984, Warner Brothers]
• Live and More [1998, GRP]
• The Ozell Tapes: The Official Bootleg [2003, Telarc]
• Silver Rain [2005, Koch], B
• Marcus [2008, Concord Jazz], B
• Afrodeezia [2015, Blue Note], B+(*)

Molly Tigre

• Molly Tigre [2018, Very Special], B+(***)

Monsieur Dubois [2004– ]

• Ruff [2004, Challenge], B

Stanton Moore (1972– )

• Flyin' the Koop [2001, Blue Thumb]
• III [2006, Telarc], B+(*)
• Emphasis on Parenthesis [2007, Telarc], B–
• Groove Alchemy [2010, Telarc], B+(*)

Mörglbl

• Grötesk [1999–2006, The Laser's Edge], B+(*)

Mr. Groove

• Little Things [2007, DiamonDisc], B–

Dave Mullen

• Mahoney's Way [2006, Roberts Music Group], B+(**)

Mylab

• Mylab [2004, Terminus], A–

Najee

• Songs From the Key of Life [1995, EMI]

Native Soul

• Soul Step [2008, Talking Drum], B+(**)

Peter Nero (1934– )

• Hail the Conquering Hero / New Piano in Town [1961–63, Collectables]
• Peter Nero's Greatest Hits [(1974), Columbia]

Gerry Niewood (1943– )

• Facets [2004, Native Language]

Novox

• Over the Honeymoon [2014, Label Z Production], C+

O.

• WeirdOs [2024, Speedy Wunderground], B+(*)

Steve Oliver

• Positive Energy [2002, Native Language]
• Snowfall [2006, Koch], C

Oranj Symphonette

• Plays Mancini [1996, Gramavision], B
• The Oranj Album [1998, Rykodisc]

Kim Pensyl

• Under the Influence [1996, Shanachie]
• Foreign Love Affair [2014, Summit], B

Pieces of a Dream [1981– ]

• The Best of Pieces of a Dream [1982–89, Blue Note]
• Goodbye Manhattan [1994, Blue Note]

Simon Phillips (1957– )

• Another Lifetime [1997, Magna Carta]
• Protocol III [2015, Phantom], B

Pittsburgh Jazz Orchestra

• Joyful Jazz [2015, MCG Jazz], C

Portico Quartet [2007– ]

• Knee Deep in the North Sea [2007, Vortex], B+(**)
• Isla [2009, Real World], B+(**)
• Portico Quartet [2011, Real World], B
• Live/Remix [2012, Real World, 2CD], B
• Art in the Age of Automation [2017, Gondwana], B+(**)
• Memory Streams [2019, Gondwana], B+(*)
• Terrain [2021, Gondwana], B+(*)
• Monument [2021, Gondwana], B+(*)

Doc Powell

• Inner City Blues [1996, Discovery]
• Cool Like That [2004, Heads Up], B

Roger Powell

• Fossil Poets [2006, Inner Knot], B+(**)

Boots Randolph (1927–2007)

• Yakety Sax! [1963, Monument]
• Sentimental Journey [1973, Monument]
• A Whole New Ballgame [2006, Zoho], B–

Benny Reid (1980– )

• Findings [2007, Concord]
• Escaping Shadows [2008, Concord], B

Renegades of Jazz

• Moyo Wangu [2016, Agogo], B+(***)

Revelators Sound System

• Revelators [2022, 37d03d], B+(*)

Nelson Riddle (1921–85)

• The Best of Nelson Riddle [(1990), Capitol]
• Capitol Years [(1999), EMI]

Karriem Riggins (1975– )

• Alone Together [2012, Stones Throw], B+(*)
• Headnod Suite [2017, Stones Throw], B+(**)

The Rippingtons [1987– ]

• Moonlighting [1987, GRP]
• Curves Ahead [1991, GRP]
• Black Diamond [1997, Windham Hill]
• Life in the Tropics [2000, Peak]

RJ and the Assignment

• Deceiving Eyes [2012, self-released], B+(*)
• The Stroke of Midnight [2013, self-released], B
• Hybrid Harmony [2019, self-released], B

Thom Rotella (1951– )

• Can't Stop [1997, Telarc]
• Out of the Blues [2007, Four Bar Music], B+(*)

Rich Ruth

• I Survived, It's Over [2022, Third Man], B

Amanda Ruzza

• This Is What Happened [2009, Pimenta], B
• w/Mauricio Zottarelli: Glasses, No Glasses [2013, Pimenta Music], B+(***)

Sachal Studios Orchestra

• Jazz and All That: In Memory of Dave Brubeck [2013, Imagine Music], B–

Philippe Saisse

• At World's Edge [2009, Koch], C

Joe Sample (1939–2014)

• Carmel [1978, MCA]
• w/David T. Walker: Swing Street Café [1978, Verve], B+(*)
• Did You Feel That? [1994, Warner Brothers]
• The Pecan Tree [2002, Universal]

Dave Samuels (1948–2019)

• Double Image [1977, Enja]
• Caribbean Jazz Project: Afro Bop Alliance [2008, Heads Up], B–

David Sanborn (1945– )

• Taking Off [1975, Warner Brothers]
• Sanborn [1976, Warner Brothers]
• Heart to Heart [1978, Warner Brothers]
• Voyeur [1980, Warner Brothers]
• Close-Up [1988, Reprise], B+
• Another Hand [1991, Elektra]
• Upfront [1991, Elektra], A–
• Inside [1998, Elektra]
• Timeagain [2003, Verve], B
• Closer [2005, Verve], B+

Phil Sargent

• A New Day [2010, Sargent Jazz], B–

Kiefer Shackelford

• When There's Love Around [2021, Stones Throw], B

Dave Sharp

• 7 [2009, Vortex Jazz], B

Scary Pockets [2017– ]

• Scary Goldings: Scary Goldings IV [2021, Pockets], B+(*)

Chip Shelton

• Have Flute Will Travel: Stop 2 Cape May [2007, Chicken Coop]
• Imbued With Memories [2007, Summit], C+

Dan Siegel

• Northern Lights [1987, Columbia]
• Hemispheres [1994, Playfull/Sunset Blvd.]

Lonnie Liston Smith (1940– )

• Astral Traveling [1973, Flying Dutchman]
• Expansions [1974, Flying Dutchman]
• Visions of a New World [1975, Flying Dutchman/RCA], B–
• Reflections of a Golden Dream [1976, Flying Dutchman]
• Ankhspansion [1991, Novus]

E. Doctor Smith (1956– )

• Quantum [2013, Edgetone], B

Ronny Smith

• Struttin' [2024, Pacific Coast Jazz], B+(*)

Steve Smith (1954– )

• Vital Information [1983, Columbia]
• Global Beat [1987, Columbia]
• Steve Smith and Vital Information NYC Edition: Viewpoint [2011, BFM Jazz], B+(*)
• Steve Smith and Vital Information: Time Flies [2022, Wounded Bird], B+(**)

Snarky Puppy

• w/Metropole Orkest: Sylva [2014, Impulse!], B+(***)
• Family Dinner Volume Two [2015, Decca], B–
• Culcha Vulcha [2016, Universal], C+

The Soul Rebels [1994– ]

• Unlock Your Mind [2012, Rounder], B

The Souljazz Orchestra

• Solidarity [2012, Strut]
• Inner Fire [2014, Strut], B+(*)
• Resistance [2015, Strut], B+(***)
• Chaos Theories [2019, Strut], B+(*)

Soulive [1999– ]

• Turn It Out [2000, Orchard]
• Break Out [2005, Concord], C+
• Rubber Soulive [2010, Royal Family], C+

Speakers Corner Quartet

• Further Out Than the Edge [2023, OTIH], B+(**)

Greg Spero (1985– )

• Greg Spero's Spirit Fingers: Peace [2020, Ropeadope], B+(*)

Spyro Gyra [1976– ]

• Incognito [1982, Amherst]
• Access All Areas [1983, Amherst]
• Breakout [1986, Amherst]
• Dreams Beyond Control [1993, GRP]
• Road Scholars [1997, GRP]
• The Deep End [2004, Heads Up], B–

The Stance Brothers

• Kind Soul [2008, Ricky Tick], B

Nick Stefanacci

• 26 Years [2010, NS], B

Ed Stone

• King of Hearts [2014, Sapphire Music], C+

Stooges Brass Band [2003– ]

• It's About Time [2003, The Gruve Label], B+(**)

Story City

• Time and Materials [2012, self-released], B

Doug Stuart

• Dougie Stu: Familiar Future [2020, Ropeadope], B

Joey Stuckey

• Mixture [2012, Senate], B

Andy Summers (1942– )

• I Advance Masked [1982, A&M]
• Earth + Sky [2004, Goldenwire]

Susan SurfTone

• Shore [2011, Acme Brothers], B–

Frank Swart

• Funkwrench Blues: Soundtrack for a Film Without Pictuers [2023, Need to Know], B+(*)

Szun Waves

• New Hymn to Freedom [2016–2017, The Leaf Label], B+(*)

Al Thompson Jr.

• City Mainstream [2012, Alcalgar], B

Wayman Tisdale (1964–2009)

• Decisions [1998, Atlantic]
• Rebound [2008, Rendezvous], B

Times 4

• Eclipse [2010, Groove Tonic Media], B+(*)

Nestor Torres (1957– )

• Sin Palabras (Without Words) [2004, Heads Up], B–

Trombone Shorty (1986– )

• Trombone Shorty's Swingin' Gate [2002, Louisiana Red Hot]
• Backatown [2010, Verve Forecast], C+
• Say That to Say This [2013, Verve], B–
• Parking Lot Symphony [2017, Blue Note], B–
• Lifted [2022, Blue Note], B

John Tropea (1946– )

• Tropea [1976, Jasrac]
• Gotcha Rhythm Right Here [2015, STP], B–

Turning Point

• Matador [2005, Native Language], B–

Urban Knights [1995– ]

• Urban Knights V [2003, Narada Jazz], C
• Urban Knights VI [2005, Narada Jazz], C

The Urban Renewal Project

• Go Big or Go Home [2012, Lombardy], C+

Urbanity

• Urban Soul [2017, Alfi], B
• Urbanity [2018, Alfi], B

Freddy V

• Easier Than It Looks [2008, Watersign Productions], B

The Verge [2012– ]

• Introducing . . . the Verge [2012, Danger Productions], B+(*)

The Waitiki 7

• Adventures in Paradise [2009, Pass Out]
• New Sounds of Exotica [2010, Pass Out], B

Andre Ward

• Steppin' Up [2004, Award/Orpheus], B+

Freddie Washington

• In the Moment [2009, RFW], B

Grover Washington Jr. (1943–99)

• Inner City Blues [1971, Verve], B+(*)
• All the King's Horses [1972, Verve], B
• Soul Box [1973, Verve], A–
• Mr. Magic [1975, Motown], B
• Feels So Good [1975, Verve], B+(**)
• A Secret Place [1976, Verve], B
• Reed Seed [1977, Motown], B
• Winelight [1980, Elektra], B
• Come Morning [1981, Elektra]

Kim Waters

• Love's Melody [1998, Shanachie]
• In the Name of Love [2004, Shanachie], C+

Danny Weis (1948– )

• Sweet Spot [2007, Marshmellow], B

Kirk Whallum (1958– )

• And You Know That! [1988, Columbia]
• The Promise [1989, Columbia]
• Unconditional [2000, Warner Brothers]
• Kirk Whallum Performs the Babyface Songbook [2005, Rendezvous]

Lenny White (1949– )

• Venusian Summer [1975, Nemperor]
• The Adventures of Astral Pirates [1978, Elektra]
• Anomaly [2010, Abstract Logix], C+

Peter White (1954– )

• Reveillez-Vous [1990, Chase Music]
• Caravan of Dreams [1996, Columbia]

Kamaal Williams (1989– )

• The Return [2018, Black Focus], B+(**)
• Wu Hen [2020, Black Focus], B+(*)

Pamela Williams

• Saxtress [1996, Heads Up]
• Sweet Saxations [2005, Shanachie], B–

Dan Wilson

• Things Eternal [2023, Brother Mister/Mack Avenue], B+(**)

Peter Xifaras

• Fusion [2023, Music With No Expiration], B+(*)

Yellowjackets [1981– ]

• Four Corners [1987, MCA]
• Politics [1988, MCA]
• The Spin [1989, MCA]
• Green House [1990, GRP]
• Like a River [1992, GRP]
• Run for Your Life [1993, GRP]
• Dreamland [1994, Warner Brothers]
• Club Nocturne [1998, Warner Brothers]
• Mint Jam [2002, Yellowjackets]
• Time Squared [2003, Heads Up], B
• Altered State [2005, Heads Up], C
• Twenty Five [2005, Heads Up, CD+DVD], B+(*)
• Lifecycle [2008, Heads Up], B–
• A Rise in the Road [2013, Mack Avenue], B
• Cohearence [2016, Mack Avenue], B+(**)
• Parellel Motion [2022, Mack Avenue], B

Young Pilgrims

• We're Young Pilgrims [2021, Stoney Lane], B–

Jon Zeeman

• Zeeland [2008, Membrane], B–

Zubatto Syndicate

• Zubatto Syndicate 2 [2015, Boscology], C+

Various Artists

• Christmas Break: Relaxing Jazz for the Holidays [1992–98, Telarc], B
• Forever, for Always, for Luther: A Tribute to Luther Vandross [2004, GRP], B
• Forever, for Always, for Luther: Vol. II [2006, Rendezvous], B
• Jazz for Couch Potatoes! [2004, Shanachie], B
• Late Night Count Basie [2023, Primary Wave, EP], B+(**)
• Mizell: The Mizell Brothers at Blue Note Records [1972–76, Blue Note], C+