The best Buddy Rich albums

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

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Big Swing Face

Big Swing Face

Showcases Buddy Rich's energetic drumming and features a cohesive mix of big band sounds that are accessible for new listeners.

  1. 1
    Class of '78

    Class of '78

    1977

    A vibrant fusion of big band energy and contemporary jazz rhythms, showcasing exceptional musicianship and intricate arrangements.

  2. 2
    Big Swing Face

    Big Swing Face Start here

    A vibrant showcase of big band jazz, merging intricate rhythm with energetic improvisation and Rich's explosive drumming.

  3. 3
    The New One!

    The New One!

    1968

    A vibrant blend of big band jazz and intricate rhythms, showcasing Rich's explosive drumming alongside a tight ensemble.

  4. 4
    Lionel Hampton Presents Buddy Rich

    Lionel Hampton Presents Buddy Rich

    1977

    Vibrant jazz rhythms intertwine with intricate solos, showcasing the technical brilliance of Buddy Rich in a dynamic ensemble setting.

  5. 5
    Big Band Machine

    Big Band Machine

    1975

    A vibrant fusion of jazz and big band sounds, driven by explosive brass arrangements and Rich's virtuosic drumming.

  6. 6
    The Roar of '74

    The Roar of '74

    1973

    A vibrant showcase of complex rhythms and dynamic improvisation, reflecting the peak of big band jazz in the early '70s.

  7. 7
    This One's for Basie

    This One's for Basie

    1957

    A vibrant showcase of big band jazz featuring explosive rhythms and rich horn arrangements that pay tribute to Count Basie.

  8. 8
    Rich à la Rakha

    Rich à la Rakha

    1968

    A vibrant fusion of traditional Indian music and jazz, showcasing intricate rhythms and virtuosic musicianship.

  9. 9
    Buddy Rich Sings Johnny Mercer

    Buddy Rich Sings Johnny Mercer

    1956

    Rich's vibrant drumming underpins a collection of lush ballads, marrying jazz rhythms with heartfelt vocal interpretations.

  10. 10
    Blues Caravan

    Blues Caravan

    1962

    A vibrant showcase of big band swing and intricate drumming that captures the essence of jazz in the early '60s.

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    Richcraft

    Richcraft

    1959

    A vibrant fusion of intricate rhythms and melodic improvisation showcasing Buddy Rich's unparalleled drumming prowess.

  12. 12
    Rich Versus Roach

    Rich Versus Roach

    1959

    A dynamic clash of percussive power and intricate melodies showcases the brilliance of two jazz drumming legends.

  13. 13
    Transition

    Transition

    1974

    A vibrant fusion of big band energy and intricate jazz rhythms that showcases Rich's unmatched drumming prowess.

  14. 14
    Playtime

    Playtime

    1962

    A vibrant blend of intricate percussion and lush melodies showcasing Rich's unparalleled drumming prowess and the synergy of jazz ensemble performance.

  15. 15
    A Different Drummer

    A Different Drummer

    1971

    A vibrant fusion of big band jazz and rock influences, showcasing Rich's explosive drumming and intricate arrangements.

  16. 16
    Channel One Set

    Channel One Set

    2017

  17. 17
    The Swinging Buddy Rich West Coast All-Star Sessions

    The Swinging Buddy Rich West Coast All-Star Sessions

    2009

  18. 18
    One Night Stand

    One Night Stand

    1991

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    Krupa and Rich

    Krupa and Rich

    1956

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    No Jive

    No Jive

    1992