Biréli Lagrène – 15 (1982) is the debut album of the French jazz guitarist Biréli Lagrène, recorded when he was just 15 years old. Showcasing his extraordinary talent, the album blends gypsy jazz traditions inspired by Django Reinhardt with modern jazz and fusion elements. Lagrène’s virtuoso technique, swift improvisations, and deep swing feel are evident throughout. Tracks highlight his youthful energy and remarkable mastery of the guitar. 15 marked the arrival of a prodigy who would become one of the most celebrated guitarists in contemporary jazz and gypsy jazz scenes.

Slim & Slam – The Groove Juice Special (1996) is a compilation album celebrating the playful and innovative swing duo of Bulee “Slim” Gaillard and Leroy “Slam” Stewart, who were active mainly in the late 1930s and early 1940s. Known for their humorous lyrics, inventive wordplay (including Slim’s famous “Vout” language), and tight vocal-bass-guitar interplay, the duo blended jazz, scat singing, and novelty music. This collection features classics like “Flat Foot Floogie” and “Cement Mixer (Put-Ti-Put-Ti),” capturing their zany charm and musical creativity. It’s a joyful, rhythmically rich slice of pre-bop jazz history.

Harry Reser – Banjo Crackerjax 1922–1930 (1992) is a compilation highlighting the virtuosity of banjoist Harry Reser, one of the most technically skilled and innovative musicians of the 1920s. Featuring solo and ensemble recordings, the album showcases Reser’s rapid-fire picking, complex arrangements, and humorous flair. He blends ragtime, early jazz, and novelty music into tightly crafted, energetic pieces. Tracks like “Crackerjack” and “Lolly Pops” reflect his showmanship and the vibrant spirit of the era. Banjo Crackerjax is a must-listen for fans of early jazz and classic banjo, preserving a key figure in American popular music history.

Harry Reser's Six Jumping Jacks – 1926–1930 (2006) is a compilation album featuring recordings from the pioneering novelty jazz group led by banjo virtuoso Harry Reser. Known for their humorous, high-energy performances and tight musicianship, the Six Jumping Jacks blended hot jazz, early swing, and vaudeville-style comedy. This collection showcases the band’s playful spirit, intricate arrangements, and Reser’s remarkable banjo technique. Songs like “I’m Happy When You’re Happy” and “Make My Cot Where the Cot-Cot-Cotton Grows” reflect the light-hearted, fast-paced sound of 1920s dance music. The album is a vibrant snapshot of pre-swing era entertainment.

Lee Konitz – Chicago 'N All That Jazz (1975) is a unique album where alto saxophonist Lee Konitz reinterprets songs from the Broadway musical Chicago. Blending cool jazz with theatrical flair, Konitz brings a laid-back, improvisational touch to well-known tunes like “All That Jazz” and “Razzle Dazzle.” Backed by a small jazz ensemble, his fluid, melodic phrasing contrasts playfully with the show’s brassy origins. The album stands out as a creative crossover project, showcasing Konitz’s ability to adapt popular material into his signature cool, cerebral jazz style.

Norio Maeda – Saxophone Unity (1967) is a Japanese jazz album arranged and conducted by pianist Norio Maeda, featuring a powerful saxophone ensemble. Blending big band swing with modern jazz sensibilities, the album showcases tight arrangements, rich harmonies, and energetic solos from some of Japan’s top saxophonists of the era. Maeda’s sophisticated orchestration brings a unique cohesion to the sax section, creating a dynamic and polished sound. Saxophone Unity is considered a standout in 1960s Japanese jazz, reflecting the country’s growing jazz scene and Maeda’s role as a key figure in its development.

Stanley Jordan & Novecento – Dreams of Peace (2003) is a collaborative album between American jazz guitarist Stanley Jordan and Italian jazz-pop group Novecento. Blending smooth jazz, fusion, and ambient elements, the album features Jordan’s signature two-hand tapping guitar technique alongside lush, melodic arrangements by Novecento. Tracks like “What You Are to Me” and “Dreams of Peace” highlight a serene, emotionally rich atmosphere. The album stands out for its refined production, warm tones, and a strong sense of musical synergy, offering a peaceful, introspective listening experience rooted in jazz and contemporary soul.

Red Garland – Solar (1962) is a jazz album by renowned pianist Red Garland, released on Prestige Records. Known for his lyrical touch and blues-infused style, Garland leads a trio featuring bassist Sam Jones and drummer Art Taylor. The album includes the standout title track “Solar” (composed by Miles Davis), along with standards like “Where Are You?” and “The Very Thought of You.” Solar showcases Garland’s elegant phrasing, swinging rhythm, and masterful use of block chords, making it a strong example of his post-Miles Davis Trio work and a classic in straight-ahead jazz.

Focus – In and Out of Focus (1970) is the debut album by Dutch progressive rock band Focus. Blending rock, jazz, classical, and folk elements, the album introduces the band's eclectic style and instrumental prowess. It features early versions of their signature sound, with Thijs van Leer’s keyboards and flute, Jan Akkerman’s guitar work, and occasional vocals. Tracks like “Focus (Instrumental)” and “House of the King” (added in later editions) hint at the complex, symphonic rock direction they would fully develop later. The album laid the groundwork for their international success in the 1970s.

Trudy Desmond – Make Me Rainbows (1995) is a jazz vocal album by Canadian singer Trudy Desmond, known for her elegant phrasing and emotional depth. On this release, she interprets lesser-known gems from the Great American Songbook and film music, with subtle, tasteful accompaniment. The album features lush arrangements and a warm, intimate vocal style, showcasing Desmond’s ability to bring new life to classic tunes. Make Me Rainbows is celebrated for its refined artistry and heartfelt delivery, solidifying her place among Canada’s finest jazz vocalists.

Kathryn Moses – Kathryn Moses (1976) is the debut album by Canadian flutist and vocalist Kathryn Moses. Blending jazz, soul, funk, and Brazilian influences, the album showcases her versatility as both a musician and singer. Released on CBC Records, it features smooth grooves, rich flute melodies, and sophisticated arrangements typical of 1970s jazz fusion. Tracks like “Music in My Heart” highlight her warm vocal style and melodic sensibility. The album has gained cult status among collectors for its mellow, genre-blending sound and is considered a hidden gem of Canadian jazz-funk.

Ed Bickert & Rob McConnell – Mutual Street (1984) is a collaborative jazz album by Canadian guitarist Ed Bickert and valve trombonist Rob McConnell. Known for their refined, understated style, the duo delivers a collection of intimate, swing-influenced tracks with elegant interplay and subtle improvisation. The album blends smooth guitar voicings with warm trombone tones, highlighting their deep musical chemistry. Mutual Street is a standout in Canadian jazz, appreciated for its tasteful arrangements and the relaxed, conversational quality of the performances.

Quaterna Réquiem – O Arquiteto (2012) is the third studio album by Brazilian symphonic prog band Quaterna Réquiem. Entirely instrumental, it blends classical influences with progressive rock, showcasing intricate compositions and cinematic arrangements. Inspired by architecture and the creative process, the album features lush keyboards, dynamic guitar work, and orchestral textures. Tracks like “A Revelação” and “O Mestre” highlight the band’s sophisticated, emotive style. O Arquiteto affirms Quaterna Réquiem’s place in Latin America’s progressive rock scene, offering a rich, conceptual listening experience for fans of symphonic and instrumental prog.

Anané – The Evolution Ethnic (2005) is the debut album by Cape Verdean singer and DJ Anané Vega. Blending Afro-house, Latin, soul, and dance music, the album reflects her multicultural roots and spiritual influences. Produced by Louie Vega (of Masters at Work), it features rhythmic percussion, smooth vocals, and global grooves. Tracks like “Bem Ma Mi” and “Let Me Love You” showcase her fusion of traditional African sounds with modern electronic beats. The Evolution Ethnic is both a celebration of heritage and a bold, genre-crossing entry into the world music and dance scenes.

Mieczysław Kosz – Reminiscence (2005) is a posthumous compilation showcasing the lyrical brilliance of Polish jazz pianist Mieczysław Kosz. A blind virtuoso influenced by classical music and Bill Evans-style jazz, Kosz blended impressionistic harmonies with emotional depth. Reminiscence features solo and trio recordings from the late 1960s and early ’70s, capturing his unique phrasing and introspective style. The album highlights his brief but impactful career before his tragic death in 1973, and stands as a poignant testament to his artistry and legacy in European jazz.