Essential nu jazz listening

The albums that define nu jazz.

Our picks for where to start with nu jazz — with a one-line read on why each one matters.

The nu jazz essentials

Twenty-four picks. Press play on any of them.

Sugarless Girl

Capsule

Sugarless Girl

An immersive blend of upbeat electro-pop and experimental soundscapes that invites listeners into a vibrant sonic realm.

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Nexus-2060

Capsule

Nexus-2060

A vibrant fusion of J-pop and dance music, blending infectious melodies with futuristic electronic textures.

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In Between

Jazzanova

In Between

A seamless blend of downtempo grooves and jazz-infused melodies that invites both relaxation and dance.

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Of All the Things

Jazzanova

Of All the Things

'Of All the Things' serves as a entry point by highlighting Jazzanova's unique blend of sounds and styles. It presents a well-rounded experience that encapsulates their artistry while remaining engaging for newcomers.

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Live Sessions EP

Bonobo

Live Sessions EP

An atmospheric blend of downtempo beats and lush electronic textures creates an immersive auditory journey through reflective soundscapes.

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Fragments

Bonobo

Fragments

A lush tapestry of downtempo beats and organic textures, weaving together emotional depth and intricate soundscapes.

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Slugs of Love

Little Dragon

Slugs of Love

A shimmering blend of synth-pop and nu jazz that balances introspective lyricism with vibrant, danceable grooves.

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Light Extracts

Eivind Aarset

Light Extracts

Eivind Aarset crafts an ethereal blend of ambient textures and jazz improvisation, creating a soundscape that invites deep listening.

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Connected

Eivind Aarset

Connected

Connected serves as a cornerstone of Aarset's oeuvre, showcasing his ability to blend genres while maintaining a distinct voice. The album flows beautifully, making it easy for newcomers to engage with his sonic landscape.

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Gotan Object

Gotan Project

Gotan Object

An eclectic fusion of electronic beats and tango melodies that invites dance while evoking deep emotional landscapes.

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Nabuma Rubberband

Little Dragon

Nabuma Rubberband

A mesmerizing blend of synth-pop and trip-hop, infused with soulful vocals and intricate electronic textures.

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Lunático

Gotan Project

Lunático

A seamless blend of electronic beats and traditional tango melodies creates an atmospheric journey through modern Buenos Aires.

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Channel The Spirits

The Comet Is Coming

Channel The Spirits

A cosmic fusion of electronic grooves and jazz-inflected improvisation takes listeners on an interstellar journey through sound.

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Death to the Planet

The Comet Is Coming

Death to the Planet

Futuristic jazz rhythms intertwine with explosive rock energy, crafting a cosmic soundscape that feels both chaotic and exhilarating.

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From Detroit to St Germain

St Germain

From Detroit to St Germain

A vibrant fusion of jazz-inflected house and Detroit techno, embodying a soulful yet rhythmic journey through soundscapes.

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Tourist

St Germain

Tourist

A seamless blend of jazzy grooves and deep house rhythms that transports listeners to vibrant urban landscapes.

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Weirdo

Emma-Jean Thackray

Weirdo

A genre-defying blend of nu jazz and electronic textures that explores introspective themes with a playful yet poignant touch.

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Nuspirit Helsinki

Nuspirit Helsinki

Nuspirit Helsinki

A smooth fusion of jazzy grooves and electronic textures, creating a laid-back soundscape perfect for late-night listening.

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Cry Baby Soul

The Wah Wah Collective

Cry Baby Soul

A vibrant blend of soulful melodies and intricate rhythms that redefine the boundaries of contemporary nu jazz.

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Konfusion

Skalpel

Konfusion

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Skalpel

Skalpel

Skalpel

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Third and Double

Gabin

Third and Double

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Um Yang

Emma-Jean Thackray

Um Yang

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Shine

Parov Stelar

Shine

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By decade

Where nu jazz landed in each era.