Bands & artists like John Surman

If you like John Surman, these artists play in similar sounds, ideas, or styles. Use this as a starting point to branch out and find something new to listen to.

Artists to try next

Keith Jarrett

Keith Jarrett

Guide

Known for his improvisational style, Jarrett's work often blends jazz with classical influences, creating rich, atmospheric soundscapes.

jazz
Jan Garbarek

Jan Garbarek

Garbarek's ethereal saxophone tones and incorporation of world music elements evoke a similar immersive quality to Surman's compositions.

jazz
Tord Gustavsen

Tord Gustavsen

Gustavsen's piano-driven jazz features delicate textures and a contemplative mood that resonates with Surman's layered approach.

jazz
Charles Lloyd

Charles Lloyd

Lloyd's fusion of jazz with spiritual and world music elements creates a lush sound environment akin to Surman's explorations.

blues jazz
Evan Parker

Evan Parker

Parker's avant-garde saxophone techniques and improvisational style align closely with the experimental aspects of Surman's music.

free improvisation free jazz jazz
Nils Frahm

Nils Frahm

Frahm's blending of classical and electronic sounds offers a textured, atmospheric experience similar to the sonic landscapes created by Surman.

ambient music classical music contemporary classical music
David Sylvian

David Sylvian

Sylvian's art rock sensibilities and use of atmospheric instrumentation create an immersive listening experience that parallels Surman's work.

ambient music ambient pop art pop
Pat Metheny

Pat Metheny

Guide

Metheny’s innovative guitar work and genre-blending style result in complex, evolving soundscapes reminiscent of Surman’s fluid compositions.

Latin pop hard bop jazz

Common questions

Who sounds like John Surman?

Artists similar to John Surman include Keith Jarrett, Jan Garbarek, Tord Gustavsen and Charles Lloyd. Each shares elements of John Surman's sound while bringing their own perspective.

What genre is John Surman?

John Surman is primarily known for jazz, experimental rock and swing. Each piece unfolds with a fluid interplay of tension and release, where layered textures create an atmospheric density that immerses the listener in a constantly evolving sonic landscape.

Where should I start if I like John Surman?

If you enjoy John Surman, start with Keith Jarrett — their album "The Köln Concert" is a great entry point. Known for his improvisational style, Jarrett's work often blends jazz with classical influences, creating rich, atmospheric soundscapes.