The best Post-Bop albums
of the 1970s.
Where to start with 1970–1979 post-bop — with a one-line read on why each one matters.
Top of the 1970s — post-bop
Top picks from 1970–1979, ranked by where we would start.
Herbie Hancock
Butterfly
A seamless blend of jazz-funk grooves and ethereal melodies that encapsulate the spirit of late '70s musical experimentation.
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Herbie Hancock
Thrust
A vibrant fusion of jazz, funk, and electronic textures that pushes the boundaries of improvisation and rhythm.
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Chick Corea
Piano Improvisations Vol. 1
A reflective exploration of jazz through improvisational piano, weaving intricate melodies with delicate rhythms.
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Chick Corea
The Leprechaun
A whimsical blend of jazz and avant-garde elements that dances between playful melodies and intricate improvisation.
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Sonny Rollins
The Way I Feel
A vibrant blend of post-bop jazz that showcases melodic improvisation over rhythmic grooves.
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Sonny Rollins
Don't Ask
A vibrant blend of post-bop improvisation and rhythmic exploration, infused with disco and soulful melodies.
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John Coltrane
Transition
A spiritual journey marked by expansive improvisation and intricate textures that redefine the boundaries of jazz.
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John Coltrane
The Mastery of John Coltrane, Vol. 2: To the Beat of a Different Drum
A profound exploration of improvisation, blending intricate melodies with rhythmic freedom and spiritual depth.
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Dave Liebman
Drum Ode
A vibrant exploration of rhythmic textures blending jazz improvisation with intricate percussion patterns.
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Dave Liebman
Sweet Hands
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Archie Shepp
Lady Bird
A vibrant post-bop exploration where intricate melodies intertwine with dynamic rhythms, showcasing Shepp's bold saxophone artistry.
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Archie Shepp
Pitchin Can
A vibrant blend of free jazz and post-bop, merging intense improvisation with socially conscious themes.
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Bill Evans
From Left to Right
Subtle harmonies and delicate rhythms create a serene landscape of introspective melodies and intricate improvisations.
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Bill Evans
On Green Dolphin Street
A tender exploration of melody and harmony, weaving intricate piano lines with soft, introspective rhythms.
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Billy Cobham
Total Eclipse
A vibrant fusion of jazz and funk, driven by intricate rhythms and powerful percussion layered with rich melodic textures.
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Billy Cobham
Spectrum
'Spectrum' effectively captures the essence of Cobham's artistry by intertwining energetic funk grooves with jazz intricacies. It provides a strong foundation for understanding the innovative approaches he brings to rhythm and melody.
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Ahmad Jamal
Genetic Walk
A seamless blend of modal harmonies and intricate rhythms, creating an expansive soundscape that invites deep listening.
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Ahmad Jamal
Ahmad Jamal '73
A vibrant blend of cool jazz and rhythmic improvisation, showcasing intricate arrangements and soulful melodies.
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Larry Carlton
Larry Carlton
'Larry Carlton' encapsulates his artistry, blending jazz and blues in a way that feels both accessible and deeply engaging. It serves as a showcase for his guitar skills while introducing the listener to the emotive qualities of his music.
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Jean-Luc Ponty
Upon the Wings of Music
A vibrant fusion of jazz improvisation and classical elegance, showcasing Ponty's violin mastery against rich, textured arrangements.
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Jean-Luc Ponty
Imaginary Voyage
Imaginary Voyage highlights Ponty's exceptional violin work and innovative arrangements, effectively capturing his artistic vision. The album's varied soundscapes provide a well-rounded experience that showcases both his technical skill and emotive playing.
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Kenny Barron
Sunset to Dawn
A vibrant fusion of intricate melodies and rhythmic complexity, showcasing jazz's evolution through Barron's innovative piano techniques.
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Kenny Barron
Innocence
A vibrant blend of intricate piano melodies and dynamic rhythms, illustrating the evolution of jazz in the late 1970s.
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Roy Ayers
Vibrations
A vibrant blend of jazz-funk and soul, infused with infectious grooves and uplifting melodies.
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