Essential 2000s jazz rock

The best Jazz Rock albums of the 2000s.

Where to start with 2000–2009 jazz rock — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

Top of the 2000s — jazz rock

Top picks from 2000–2009, ranked by where we would start.

The Power to Believe Tour Box

King Crimson

The Power to Believe Tour Box

A sonic collage of interviews, demos, and live performances showcasing King Crimson's improvisational prowess and complex artistry.

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The Champaign–Urbana Sessions

King Crimson

The Champaign–Urbana Sessions

A sprawling collection of improvisational jams that melds intricate musicianship with spontaneous creativity.

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Chicago XXX

Chicago

Chicago XXX

A polished blend of adult contemporary and soft rock that showcases Chicago's signature horn arrangements and heartfelt melodies.

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Chicago XXXII – Stone of Sisyphus

Chicago

Chicago XXXII – Stone of Sisyphus

A blend of smooth jazz and pop-rock melodies, underscored by introspective lyrics and intricate musicianship.

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Joe's Domage

Frank Zappa

Joe's Domage

A sprawling tapestry of sounds that blends surreal humor with intricate musical structures and experimental flair.

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Fire Wire

Larry Carlton

Fire Wire

A vibrant fusion of jazz guitar mastery and bluesy grooves, accented by rich melodies and engaging rhythms.

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Deep Into It

Larry Carlton

Deep Into It

Smooth jazz guitar interweaves with soulful melodies and rhythmic grooves, creating a relaxing yet engaging sonic landscape.

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Spiral

Hiromi Uehara

Spiral

A dynamic interplay of intricate melodies and rhythmic exploration that defies conventional jazz boundaries.

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Lost Files

Hiroki Kikuta

Lost Files

A kaleidoscopic blend of jazz rock infused with electronic elements, creating a vibrant and experimental soundscape.

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Another Mind

Hiromi Uehara

Another Mind

A vibrant fusion of avant-garde jazz and intricate rhythms, pushing the boundaries of contemporary jazz with playful experimentation.

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Riviera

Big Head Todd and the Monsters

Riviera

A vibrant fusion of rock, blues, and folk that pulses with energy and introspective storytelling.

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Morph the Cat

Donald Fagen

Morph the Cat

A smooth blend of jazz-inflected rock and sophisticated pop, steeped in Fagen's trademark wit and lush arrangements.

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