Jazz might be called “America’s only art form”, but it must also be music’s most misunderstood genre, too-often associated with weightless, warring cliches of either unfettered self indulgence, or wafer-thin lounge crooning.
To celebrate the recent opening of the UAE's first "proper" jazz club – Quincy Jones-endorsed hangout Q's, at Palazzo Versace Dubai – we asked the venue's first resident act, British drummer firebrand Ollie Howell, for five albums likely to convert any jazz agnostic.
Or alternatively, just head down to hear Howell’s razor-sharp quartet – they’re in town until February 13, so catch ‘em soon.
Art Blakey and The Jazz Messengers – Moanin’ (1958)
“There’s so much energy and excitement in that band, it’s completely infectious, you can’t sit still when you listen to it.”
Miles Davis – Kind of Blue (1959)
“It’s a such an iconic album, the musicianship is incredible – it captures one of the greatest musical moments in history.”
Terence Blanchard – Choices (2009)
“It’s just beautiful. It’s a really powerful record – there’s some speeches from [philosopher/activist] Dr. Cornel West there about the choices you make through life. I love the way Blanchard composes, and it’s quite a modern sounding record, too.”
Ambrose Akinmusire – When The Heart Emerges Glistening (2011)
“This sits perfectly in an area where the improvisation is so advanced technically, yet has so much soul and passion, while the compositions speak to you on such an emotional level – a great example of contemporary jazz.”
Jacob Collier – In My Room (2016)
“Jacob is one of the scariest musicians alive – this album encapsulates jazz harmony, really complicated polyrhythms, yet has so much pop production and feel-good beats that it really captures every audience member – it’s mind blowing.”
Read our full profile of Ollie Howell here.
Ollie Howell performs at Q's Bar & Lounge, Palazzo Versace Dubai, every Monday-Friday, 8.30pm-12.30am, until February 13.
