The best Art Blakey albums

20 records, ordered by how much we can tell you about each one — not by chart position.

  1. 1
    The Freedom Rider

    The Freedom Rider Start here

    1964

    A vibrant tapestry of sharp rhythms and rich melodies that embodies the spirit of 1960s jazz innovation.

  2. 2
    The African Beat

    The African Beat

    1962

    An exhilarating fusion of African rhythms and hard-bop jazz, energizing the listener with vibrant percussion and soulful melodies.

  3. 3
    Holiday for Skins

    Holiday for Skins

    1959

    A vibrant blend of polyrhythmic grooves and soulful melodies that reflects the essence of late '50s jazz innovation.

  4. 4
    Roots & Herbs

    Roots & Herbs

    1961

    A vibrant blend of hard-bop rhythms and intricate melodies, showcasing Blakey's powerful drumming and dynamic ensemble work.

  5. 5
    Orgy in Rhythm

    Orgy in Rhythm

    1957

    A vibrant exploration of rhythm and texture, blending complex jazz arrangements with Afro-Cuban influences.

  6. 6
    Anthenagin

    Anthenagin

    1973

    A rich blend of traditional jazz with complex rhythms and intricate melodies, showcasing Blakey's powerful drumming and dynamic ensemble work.

  7. 7
    The Witch Doctor

    The Witch Doctor

    1968

    A vibrant fusion of African rhythms and hard-bop jazz that pulsates with energy and improvisational brilliance.

  8. 8
    Buhaina's Delight

    Buhaina's Delight

    1963

    A vibrant fusion of hard bop rhythms and soulful melodies that showcases Blakey's powerful drumming and the ensemble's improvisational prowess.

  9. 9
    A Night in Tunisia

    A Night in Tunisia

    1960

    A vibrant fusion of complex rhythms and melodic improvisation that captures the essence of bebop jazz.

  10. 10
    Like Someone in Love

    Like Someone in Love

    1967

    A vibrant interplay of intricate rhythms and melodic improvisation that embodies the essence of 1960s jazz.

  11. 11
    Drums Around the Corner

    Drums Around the Corner

    1999

    Explosive rhythms and intricate melodies intertwine, showcasing the dynamic interplay of jazz standards and original compositions.

  12. 12
    Free for All

    Free for All

    1964

    A dynamic interplay of sharp rhythms and improvisational flair underlines this vibrant exploration of hard bop jazz.

  13. 13
    Art Blakey!!!!! Jazz Messengers!!!!!

    Art Blakey!!!!! Jazz Messengers!!!!!

    1961

    Dynamic interplay between hard-bop rhythms and soulful improvisation creates a vibrant jazz experience that captivates from start to finish.

  14. 14
    Hold On, I'm Coming

    Hold On, I'm Coming

    1966

    A vibrant blend of hard-bop jazz and soulful rhythms that captures the essence of 1960s American music.

  15. 15
    Theory of Art

    Theory of Art

    1987

    A vibrant blend of intricate bebop rhythms and soulful improvisation that showcases Blakey's dynamic drumming and ensemble cohesion.

  16. 16
    Golden Boy

    Golden Boy

    1964

    Dynamic rhythms and vibrant brass sections intertwine, creating an infectious energy that defines Art Blakey's jazz mastery.

  17. 17
    Selections from Lerner and Loewe's...

    Selections from Lerner and Loewe's...

    1957

    A vibrant jazz reimagining of Broadway standards, blending intricate arrangements with Blakey's signature rhythmic drive.

  18. 18
    Drum Suite

    Drum Suite

    1957

    A vibrant exploration of rhythmic complexity interwoven with rich improvisations and a deep sense of cultural heritage.

  19. 19
    Gypsy Folk Tales

    Gypsy Folk Tales

    1977

    A vibrant fusion of jazz rhythms and Eastern European melodies, creating an intricate tapestry of sound that invites exploration.

  20. 20
    Reflections in Blue

    Reflections in Blue

    1979

    A vibrant fusion of bebop rhythms and lyrical melodies, showcasing an ensemble of jazz talent in a rich sonic tapestry.