Rhapsody Streamnotes: Year 2021 Index

December

  1. Adele: 30 (2021, Columbia) B-
  2. Teno Afrika: Amapiano Selections (2019-20 [2021], Awesome Tapes From Africa) B+(***)
  3. Damon Albarn: The Nearer the Fountain, More Pure the Stream Flows (2021, Transgressive) B+(*)
  4. Ben Allison: Moments Inside (2021, Sonic Camera) B+(*)
  5. Pedro Melo Alves' Omniae Large Ensemble: Lumina (2020 [2021], Clean Feed) B+(*)
  6. Rodrigo Amado Northern Liberties: We Are Electric (2017 [2021], Not Two) A-
  7. Roxana Amed: Ontology (2021, Sony Music Latin) B
  8. Amyl and the Sniffers: Comfort to Me (2021, Rough Trade) A-
  9. Florian Arbenz/Hermon Mehari/Nelson Veras: Conversation #1: Condensed (2021, Hammer) A-
  10. Florian Arbenz: Conversation #2 & #3 (2020 [2021], Hammer) B+(***)
  11. Florian Arbenz/Maikel Vistel/François Moutin: Conversation #4: Vulcanized (2021, Hammer) B+(***)
  12. Patricia Barber: Clique! (2021, Impex) B+(***)
  13. Courtney Barnett: Things Take Time, Take Time (2021, Mom + Pop) A-
  14. The Baylor Project: Generations (2021, Be a Light) B+(***)
  15. Rubén Blades y Roberto Delgado & Orquesta: Salswing! (2021, Rubén Blades Productions)
  16. Theo Bleckmann & the Westerlies: This Land (2019 [2021], Westerlies Music) B+(***)
  17. Blue Reality [Michael Marcus/Joe McPhee/Jay Rosen/Warren Smith]: Quartet! (2020 [2021], Mahakala Music) B+(***)
  18. Dean Blunt: Black Metal 2 (2021, Rough Trade) B+(**)
  19. Weedie Braimah: The Hands of Time (2021, Stretch Music/Ropeadope) B+(**)
  20. Anthony Braxton: 12 Comp (ZIM) 2017 (2017 [2021], Firehouse 12, 12CD) B+(***)
  21. Patricia Brennan: Maquishti (2018 [2021], Valley of Search) B+(*)
  22. Bugpowder: Cage Tennis (2020 [2021], Trytone) A-
  23. Chamber 4: Dawn to Dusk (2020 [2021], JACC) B+(***)
  24. Bill Charlap Trio: Street of Dreams (2021, Blue Note) B+(**)
  25. Melanie Charles: Y'all Don't (Really) Care About Black Women (2021, Verve) B+(***)
  26. The Chisel: Retaliation (2021, La Vida Es Un Mus) B+(*)
  27. Margo Cilker: Pohorylle (2021, Loose) A-
  28. Chick Corea Akoustik Band: Live (2018 [2021], Stretch, 2CD) B+(**)
  29. Theo Croker: BLK2LIFE // A Future Past (2021, Sony Masterworks) B
  30. Joy Crookes: Skin (2021, Insanity) B+(**)
  31. Theon Cross: Intra-I (2021, New Soil) A-
  32. Angel Bat Dawid: Hush Harbor Mixtape Vol. 1 Doxology (2021, International Anthem) B+(**)
  33. Erika De Casier: Sensational (2021, 4AD) B+(**)
  34. Joey DeFrancesco: More Music (2021, Mack Avenue) B+(***)
  35. Indigo De Souza: Any Shape You Take (2021, Saddle Creek) B+(*)
  36. Boubacar "Badian" Diabaté: Mande Guitar (2021, Lion Songs) B+(**)
  37. Dwayne Dopsie and the Zydeco Hellraisers: Set Me Free (2021, Louisiana Red Hot) B+(***)
  38. Hamid Drake/Elaine Mitchener/William Parker/Orphy Robinson/Pat Thomas: Black Top Presents: Some Good News (2019 [2021], Otoroku, 2CD) B+(**)
  39. Mathias Eick: When We Leave (2020 [2021], ECM) B+(**)
  40. Wendy Eisenberg: Bloodletting (2019 [2021], Out of Your Head) B+(*)
  41. John Ellis/Adam Levy/Glenn Patscha: Say It Quiet (2021, Sunnyside) B+(**)
  42. Joe Farnsworth: City of Sounds (2021, Smoke Sessions) B+(*)
  43. Steven Feifke Big Band: Kinetic (2019 [2021], Outside In Music) B+(*)
  44. Sam Fender: Seveneen Going Under (2021, Polydor) B
  45. R.A.P. Ferreira: The Light Emitting Diamond Cutter Scriptures (2021, Ruby Yacht) B+(***)
  46. Sierra Ferrell: Long Time Coming (2021, Rounder) A-
  47. Friends & Neighbors: The Earth Is # (2021, Clean Feed) B+(***)
  48. Fred Frith/Ikue Mori: A Mountain Doesn't Know It's Tall (2015 [2021], Intakt) B+(**)
  49. Ben LaMar Gay: Open Arms to Open Us (2021, International Anthem) B+(*)
  50. The Generations Quartet [Dave Liebman/Billy Test/Evan Gregor/Ian Froman]: Invitation (2021, Albert Murray/John Aveni) A-
  51. Ghost Rhythms: Spectral Music (2021, Cuneiform) B-
  52. Goat Girl: On All Fours (2021, Rough Trade) B+(**)
  53. Godspeed You! Black Emperor: G_d's Pee at State's End (2021, Constellation) B+(*)
  54. Cameron Graves: Seven (2021, Mack Avenue) B-
  55. Gordon Grdina's Square Peg: Klotski (2021, Attaboygirl) B+(***)
  56. Gordon Grdina: Pendulum (2021, Attaboygirl) B+(**)
  57. Muriel Grossmann: Union (2021, Dreamland) B+(***)
  58. Grouper: Shade (2021, Kranky) B+(*)
  59. Jeff Hamilton Trio: Merry & Bright (2021, Capri) B
  60. Hutch Harris: Suck Up All the Oxygen (2021, self-released, EP) B+(**)
  61. Alexander Hawkins: Togetherness Music: For Sixteen Musicians (2020 [2021], Intakt) B+(***)
  62. Miho Hazama: Imaginary Visions (2021, Edition) B+(**)
  63. Thomas Heberer: The Day That Is (2021, Sunnyside) B+(***)
  64. William Hooker: Big Moon (2020 [2021], Org Music) B+(***)
  65. Jazzmeia Horn and Her Noble Force: Dear Love (2021, Empress Legacy) B+(*)
  66. François Houle/Samo Salamon: Unobservable Mysteries (2020, Samo) B+(**)
  67. HTRK: Rhinestones (2021, N&J Blueberries) B+(***)
  68. Michael Hurley: Time of the Foxgloves (2021, No Quartet) B+(**)
  69. Susie Ibarra: Talking Gong (2020 [2021], New Focus) B+(*)
  70. Susie Ibarra: Walking on Water (2018-19 [2021], Innova) B+(**)
  71. Abdullah Ibrahim: Solotude: My Journey, My Vision (2021, Gearbox) B+(**)
  72. Il Sogno: Graduation (2021, Auand/Gotta Let It Out) B+(**)
  73. Jon Irabagon: Bird With Streams (2020 [2021], Irabbagast) B
  74. Boldy James & the Alchemist: Bo Jackson (2021, ALC) B+(*)
  75. Jlin: Embryo (2021, Planet Mu, EP) B+(*)
  76. Jungle: Loving in Stereo (2021, Awal) B+(*)
  77. Masabumi Kikuchi: Hanamichi: The Final Studio Recording (2013 [2021], Red Hook) B+(*)
  78. Frank Kimbrough: Ancestors (2017 [2021], Sunnyside) B+(***)
  79. Kimbrough (2021, Newvelle) A-
  80. Katy Kirby: Cool Dry Place (2021, Keeled Scales) B+(*)
  81. Craig Klein: Talkative Horns: Musical Conversations on Lucien Barbarin (2021, Tromboklein Music) B+(**)
  82. The Klezmatics: Letters to Afar (2013 [2021], Chant) B+(*)
  83. Mick Kolassa: Uncle Mick's Christmas Album (2021, Endless Blues) B
  84. Martin Küchen & Michaela Antalová: Thunder Before Lightning (2019 [2021], Clean Feed) B-
  85. La La Lars: La La Lars III (2021, <1000) B+(***)
  86. Lady Blackbird: Black Acid Soul (2021, Foundation Music/BMG) B+(*)
  87. Mon Laferte: Seis (2021, Universal Music Mexico) A-
  88. Mon Laferte: 1940 Carmen (2021, Universal Music Mexico) B+(***)
  89. Mary LaRose: Out Here (2021, Little (i) Music) B+(***)
  90. Mike LeDonne's Groover Quartet + Big Band: It's All Your Fault (2020 [2021], Savant) B+(*)
  91. Jihye Lee Orchestra: Daring Mind (2020 [2021], Motéma) B+(**)
  92. James Brandon Lewis Quartet: Code of Being (2021, Intakt) A-
  93. Dave Liebman Expansions: Selflessness: The Music of John Coltrane (2021, Dot Time) B+(**)
  94. Lingua Ignota: Sinner Get Ready (2021, Sargent House) B-
  95. Lukah: Why Look Up, God's in the Mirror (2021, Fxck Rxp Rxcxrds) A-
  96. Harold Mabern: Mabern Plays Coltrane (2018 [2021], Smoke Sessions) B+(*)
  97. Mach-Hommy: Balens Cho (2021, Griselda, EP) B+(**)
  98. Magdalena Bay: Mercurial World (2021, Luminelle) A
  99. Miko Marks & the Resurrectors: Our Country (2021, Redtone) A-
  100. Miko Marks & the Resurrectors: Race Records (2021, Redtone, EP) B+(**)
  101. Terrace Martin: Drones (2021, BMG) B+(**)
  102. Nick Mazzarella/Ingebrigt Håker Flaten/Avreeayl Ra: What You Seek Is Seeking You (2019 [2021], Astral Spirits) B+(***)
  103. Christian McBride & Inside Straight: Live at the Village Vanguard (2014 [2021], Mack Avenue) B+(**)
  104. Makaya McCraven: Deciphering the Message (2021, Blue Note) B+(**)
  105. Lori McKenna: Christmas Is Right Here (2021, CN, EP) B+(***)
  106. Pat Metheny: Side-Eye NYC (V1.IV) (2019 [2021], Modern) B+(*)
  107. Mexstep: Vivir (2021, Mexstep Music) B+(***)
  108. Ming Bau Set: Yakut's Gallop (2020 [2021], Fundacja Sluchaj) B+(***)
  109. Mogwai: As the Love Continues (2021, Temporary Residence) B
  110. Samuel Mösching: Ethereal Kinks (2021 [2022], Bronzeville Music) B
  111. Rachel Musson: Dreamsing (2020 [2021], 577) B+(**)
  112. Mustafa: When Smoke Rises (2021, Regent Park Songs, EP) B+(*)
  113. Navy Blue: Navy's Reprise (2021, Freedom Sounds) B+(***)
  114. Angelika Niescier/Alexander Hawkins: Soul in Plain Sight (2020 [2021], Intakt) B+(***)
  115. Stephanie Nilles: I Pledge Allegiance to the Flag: The White Flag (2019 [2021], Sunnyside) B+(**)
  116. Oz Noy: Snapdragon (2020, Abstract Logix) B+(*)
  117. Adam O'Farrill: Visions of Your Other (2021, Biophilia) A-
  118. Joy Orbison: Still Slipping Vol. 1 (2021, XL) B+(**)
  119. Pino Palladino and Blake Mills: Notes Wtih Attachments (2021, Impulse) B+(*)
  120. Jeff Parker: Forfolks (2021, International Anthem) B+(*)
  121. Grethen Parlato: Flor (2021, Edition) B+(**)
  122. Hannah Peel: Fir Wave (2021, My Own Pleasure) B+(**)
  123. Greentea Peng: Man Made (2021, AMF) B+(***)
  124. Barre Phillips/John Butcher/Ståle Liavik Solberg: We Met - and Then (2018-19 [2021], Relative Pitch) B+(**)
  125. Chris Pierce: American Silence (2021, Pierce) B+(*)
  126. Robert Plant/Alison Krauss: Raise the Roof (2021, Rounder) B+(*)
  127. Portico Quartet: Monument (2021, Gondwana) B+(*)
  128. Mariá Portugal: Erosão (2021, Fun in the Church) B+(**)
  129. Punkt. Vrt. Plastik [Kaja Draksler/Petter Eldh/Christian Lillinger]: Somit (2020 [2021], Intakt) B+(***)
  130. Jordan Rakei: What We Call Life (2021, Ninja Tune) B+(*)
  131. Phil Ranelin: Ininite Expressions (2020 [2021], ORG Music) B+(**)
  132. Enrico Rava: Edizione Speciale (2019 [2021], ECM) B+(***)
  133. Stephen Riley: I Remember You (2019 [2021], SteepleChase) B+(***)
  134. Emily Scott Robinson: American Siren (2021, Oh Boy) B+(***)
  135. Porter Robinson: Nurture (2021, Mom + Pop) B
  136. Andreas Røysum Ensemble: Fredsfanatisme (2021, Motvind) B+(**)
  137. RP Boo: Established! (2021, Planet Mu) B+(**)
  138. Jana Rush: Painful Enlightenment (2021, Planet Mu) B
  139. Allison Russell: Outside Child (2021, Fantasy) A-
  140. Sten Sandell/Lisa Ullén: Double Music (2021, Clean Feed) B+(**)
  141. Nitin Sawhney: Immigrants (2021, Sony Masterworks) A-
  142. Elori Saxl: The Blue of Distance (2021, Western Vinyl) B+(*)
  143. Jared Schonig: Two Takes Vol. 1: Quintet (2021, Anzic) B+(**)
  144. Jared Schonig: Two Takes Vol. 2: Big Band (2021, Anzic) B+(***)
  145. Serengeti: Have a Summer (2021, self-released) B
  146. Shad: TAO (2021, Secret City) B+(***)
  147. Shame: Drunk Tank Pink (2021, Dead Oceans) B+(***)
  148. Paula Shocron/William Parker/Pablo Díaz: El Templo (2019 [2021], Astral Spirits) A-
  149. Skerebotte Fatta: Appaz (2020 [2021], ForTune) B+(***)
  150. Rejjie Snow: Baw Baw Black Sheep (2021, Honeymoon/+1) B+(**)
  151. Sonic Liberation Front: Moon Rust Red Streets (2020 [2021], High Two) B+(**)
  152. Tyshawn Sorey/Alarm Will Sound: For George Lewis/Autoschediasms (2019-20 [2021], Cantaloupe, 2CD) B+(*)
  153. Tyshawn Sorey/King Britt: Tyshawn & King (2021, The Buddy System) A-
  154. Esperanza Spalding: Songwrights Apothecary Lab (2021, Concord) B
  155. Spellling: The Turning Wheel (2021, Sacred Bones) B+(*)
  156. Rossano Sportiello: That's It (2021, Arbors) B+(**)
  157. Strictly Missionary: Heisse Scheisse (2021, Astral Spirits) B+(***)
  158. Ohad Talmor Trio: Mise En Place (2020 [2021], Intakt) B+(***)
  159. Kaidi Tatham: An Insight to All Minds (2021, First Word) B+(**)
  160. Henry Threadgill Zooid: Poof (2019 [2021], Pi) A-
  161. Throttle Elevator Music: Final Floor (2021, Wide Hive) B+(**)
  162. Unscientific Italians: Play the Music of Bill Frisell Vol. 1 (2019 [2021], Hora) A-
  163. Uptown Vocal Jazz Quartet: Fools for Yule (2021, Housekat) C
  164. Valerie June: The Moon and Stars: Prescription for Dreamers (2021, Fantasy) B+(*)
  165. Roseanna Vitro: Sing a Song of Bird (2017-21 [2021], Skyline) A-
  166. Morgan Wade: Reckless (2021, Ladylike) B+(***)
  167. The War on Drugs: I Don't Live Here Anymore (2021, Atlantic) B
  168. Butch Warren & Freddie Redd: Baltimore Jazz Loft (2013 [2021], Bleebop) B+(**)
  169. Anna Webber: Idiom (2019 [2021], Pi, 2CD) B+(***)
  170. Tierra Whack: Rap? (2021, Interscope, EP) B+(**)
  171. Tierra Whack: Pop? (2021, Interscope, EP) B+(**)
  172. Tierra Whack: R&b? (2021, Interscope, EP) B+(*)
  173. Jamire Williams: But Only After You Have Suffered (2021, International Anthem) B+(*)
  174. Willow: Lately I Feel Everything (2021, MSFTS Music/Roc Nation) B+(*)
  175. Martin Wind Quartet: My Astorian Queen (2021, Laika) B+(**)
  176. Michael Wollny/Emile Parisien/Tim Lefebvre/Christian Lillinger: XXXX (2019 [2021], ACT Music) B+(***)
  177. The Wonderful World of Louis Armstrong All Stars: A Gift to Pops (2021, Verve) A-
  178. Yola: Stand for Myself (2021, Easy Eye Sound) B
  179. Neil Young/Crazy Horse: Barn (2021, Reprise) A-
  180. Young Thug: Punk (2021, YSL/300 Entertainment/Atlantic) B+(***)
  181. Brandee Younger: Somewhere Different (2021, Impulse!) B+(**)
  182. Hasaan Ibn Ali: Retrospect in Retirement of Delay: The Solo Recordings (1962-65 [2021], Omnivore, 2CD) B+(**)
  183. Amapiano Now ([2021], NTS) B+(***)
  184. Neil Ardley & the New Jazz Orchestra: Jazz Calendar: Olympic Studios '66 (1966 [2020], Jazz in Britain, EP) B+(*)
  185. Neil Ardley: Kaleidoscope of Rainbows: QEH, 20th Oct 75 (1975 [2021], Jazz in Britain, 2CD) A-
  186. Art Blakey & the Jazz Messengers: First Flight to Tokyo: The Lost 1961 Recordings (1961 [2021], Blue Note) A-
  187. Ian Carr Double Quintet: Solar Session (1970 [2021], Jazz in Britain) B+(**)
  188. The Allen Cohen Big Band: The Oracle [The Ron Mathewson Tapes Vol. 4] (1968 [2020], Jazz in Britain, EP) B+(*)
  189. Mike Gibbs: Revisiting Tanglewood 63: The Early Tapes (1970 [2021], Jazz in Britain) B+(**)
  190. Group Sounds Four & Five: Black and White Raga (1965-66 [2020], Jazz in Britain) B+(**)
  191. Joe Harriott: Chronology: Live 1968-69 (1968-69 [2020], Jazz In Britain) B+(**)
  192. Joe Harriott Quintet: Formation: Live '61 (1961 [2021], Jazz in Britain, EP) B+(*)
  193. Emmylou Harris and the Nash Ramblers: Ramble in Music City: The Lost Concert (1990 [2021], Nonesuch) B+(**)
  194. The Tubby Hayes Quartet: Free Flight [The Ron Mathewson Tapes Vol. 3] (1972 [2020], Jazz in Britain, 2CD) B+(**)
  195. Tubby Hayes Quartet: The Complete Hopbine '69 [The Ron Mathewson Tapes Vol. 7] (1969 [2021], Jazz in Britain, 2CD) B+(***)
  196. Allan Holdsworth/Ray Warleigh/Ron Mathewson/Bryan Spring: Warleigh Manor: The Ron Mathewson Tapes Vol. 1 (1979 [2020], Jazz in Britain) B+(**)
  197. Journeys in Modern Jazz: Britain (1965-1972) (1965-72 [2021], Decca) A-
  198. Jeanne Lee: Conspiracy (1975 [2021], Moved-by-Sound) B+(*)
  199. Bob Marley & the Wailers: The Capitol Session '73 (1973 [2021], Mercury/Tuff Gong) A-
  200. Ron Mathewson: Memorial (1968-76 [2020], Jazz in Britain) B+(***)
  201. Mathewson & Mathewson: Blow (1976 [2020], Jazz in Britain) B
  202. Lee Morgan: The Complete Live at the Lighthouse (1970 [2021], Blue Note, 8CD) B+(***)
  203. Bheki Mseleku: Beyond the Stars (2003 [2021], Tapestry Works) B+(**)
  204. The New Jazz Orchestra: Le Déjuener Sur L'Herbe (1968 [2021], Decca) B+(***)
  205. New Life: Visions of the Third Eye (1979 [2021], Early Future) B+(***)
  206. Mike Osborne & Friends: Live at the Peanuts Club (1975-76 [2020], Jazz in Britain) B+(***)
  207. PAZ/The Singing Bowls of Tibet/Allan Holdsworth: Live in London '81: The Ron Mathewson Tapes Vol. 2 (1981 [2020], Jazz in Britain, EP) B
  208. Oscar Peterson: A Time for Love: The Oscar Peterson Quartet - Live in Helsinki, 1987 (1987 [2021], Mack Avenue) B+(***)
  209. Plastic People of the Universe: Magicke Noci 1997 (1997 [2021], Guerilla) B+(***)
  210. Elvis Presley: Elvis: Back in Nashville (1971 [2021], RCA/Legacy, 4CD) B-
  211. Don Rendell/Ian Carr Quintet: Blue Beginnings (1964 [2021], Jazz in Britain) B+(**)
  212. Marcos Resende: Marcos Resende & Index (1976 [2021], Far Out) B+(**)
  213. Roswell Rudd & Duck Baker: Live (2002-04 [2021], Dot Time) B+(***)
  214. The Ray Russell Sextet: Spontaneous Event: Live Vol. 1: 1967-69 (1967-69 [2020], Jazz in Britain) B+(***)
  215. The Ray Russell Sextet: Forget to Remember: Live Vol. 2: 1970 (1970 [2021], Jazz in Britain) A-
  216. Bola Sete: Samba in Seattle: Live at the Penthouse 1966-1968 (1966-68 [2021], Tompkins Square, 3CD) A-
  217. Archie Shepp: Live in Paris (1974) (1974 [2021], Transversales Disques) B+(***)
  218. Splinters: Inclusivity (1972 [2021], Jazz in Britain, 3CD) B+(***)
  219. Mike Taylor Quartet: Mandala (1965 [2021], Jazz in Britain) B+(***)
  220. Roseanna Vitro: Listen Here (1982 [2021], Skyline) B+(**)
  221. Ken Wheeler and the John Dankworth Orchestra: Windmill Tilter: The Story of Don Quixote (1969 [2021], Decca) B+(***)
  222. Mike Gibbs: Directs the Only Chrome-Waterfall Orchestra (1975, Bronze) A-
  223. Sho Madjozi: Limpopo Champions League (2018, Flourish and Multiply) A-
  224. A Soldier's Sad Story: Vietnam Through the Eyes of Black America 1966-1973 (1966-73 [2003], Kent) A-
  225. Ikizukuri + Susans Santos Silva: Suicide Underground Orchid (2021, Multikulti Project) ++
  226. Burnt Sugar/The Arkestra Chamber: Angels Over Oakanda (2018-21 [2021], Avantgroidd) A-
  227. James Brandon Lewis Red Lily Quintet: Jesup Wagon (2020 [2021], Tao Forms) A
  228. Allen Lowe: Turn Me Loose White Man (1900-60 [2021], Constant Sorrow, 30CD) A

November

  1. Greg Abate: Magic Dance: The Music of Kenny Barron (2021, Whaling City Sound, 2CD) B+(**)
  2. ABBA: Voyage (2021, Polar) B-
  3. Ada Lea: One Hand on the Steering Wheel the Other Sewing a Garden (2021, Saddle Creek) B+(**)
  4. Aesop Rock X Blockhead: Garbology (2021, Rhymesayers Entertainment) B+(**)
  5. Fatima Al Qadiri: Medieval Femme (2021, Hyperdub) B-
  6. Android Trio: Other Worlds (2021, Cuneiform) C+
  7. Anika: Change (2021, Sacred Bones) B+(**)
  8. Artifacts [Tomeka Reid/Nicole Mitchell/Mike Reed]: . . . And Then There's This (2021, Astral Spirits) A-
  9. Asleep at the Wheel: Half a Hundred Years (2021, Home) A-
  10. Attitude!: Pause & Effect (2019 [2021], ESP-Disk) B+(**)
  11. Aya: Im Hole (2021, Hyperdub) B+(**)
  12. Badbadnotgood: Talk Memory (2021, XL/Innovative Leisure) B
  13. Balimaya Project: Wolo So (2020 [2021], Jazz Re:Freshed) A-
  14. Bktherula: Love Black (2021, Warner) B+(***)
  15. Black Country, New Road: For the First Time (2021, Ninja Tune) B+(**)
  16. The Black Keys: Delta Kream (2021, Nonesuch) B+(**)
  17. Johnathan Blake: Homeward Bound (2021, Blue Note) B+(***)
  18. Terence Blanchard: Absence (2021, Blue Note) B+(**)
  19. Blu: The Color Blu(e) (2021, Nature Sounds) B+(*)
  20. Borderlands Trio [Stephan Crump/Kris Davis/Eric McPherson]: Wandersphere (2020 [2021], Intakt, 2CD) B+(***)
  21. Darrin Bradbury: Talking Dogs & Atomic Bombs (2019, Anti-) B+(**)
  22. Darrin Bradbury: Artvertisement (2021, Anti-) B+(***)
  23. Bridge of Flowers: A Soft Day's Night (2021, ESP-Disk) B+(*)
  24. The Brkn Record: The Architecture of Oppression Part 1 (2021, Mr. Bongo) B+(***)
  25. Sarah Buechi/Contradiction of Happiness & Jena Philharmonic: The Paintress (2020 [2021], Intakt) A-
  26. John Butcher/Dominic Lash/John Russell/Mark Sanders: Discernment (2020 [2021], Spoonhunt) B+(*)
  27. John Butcher/Sharon Gal/David Toop: Until the Night Melts Away (2019 [2021], Shrike) B
  28. Francesco Cafiso: Irene of Boston: Conversation Avec Corto Maltese (2020, Eflat) A-
  29. Brandi Carlile: In These Silent Days (2021, Low Country Sound/Elektra) B
  30. Hayes Carll: You Get It All (2021, Dualtone) A-
  31. François Carrier: Glow (2019 [2021], FMR) A-
  32. Daniel Carter/Tobias Wilner/Djibril Toure/Federico Ughi: New York United, Volume 2 (2018 [2021], 577 Records) A-
  33. Ron Carter/Jack DeJohnette/Gonzalo Rubalcaba: Skyline (2021, 5 Passion) A-
  34. Claudia Quintet: Evidence-Based (2021, Flexatonic) A-
  35. Gerald Cleaver: Griots (2020 [2021], Positive Elevation/577) B+(**)
  36. Cochemea: Vol. II: Baca Sewa (2021, Daptone) B+(*)
  37. Anat Cohen & Marcello Gonçalves: Reconvexo (2020 [2021], Anzic) B+(*)
  38. Steve Coleman and Five Elements: Live at the Village Vanguard Volume II (MDW NTR) (2018 [2021], Pi, 2CD) A-
  39. Isaiah Collier & the Chosen Few: Cosmic Transitions (2020 [2021], Division 81) B+(***)
  40. The Contraptionists: Working Man's Dread (2021, self-released) B
  41. The Cookers: Look Out! (2021, Gearbox) B+(*)
  42. Elvis Costello & the Attractions: Spanish Model (2021, UMe) B+(**)
  43. Sylvie Courvoisier/Mary Halvorson: Searching for the Disappeared Hour (2021, Pyroclastic) B+(***)
  44. Neil Cowley: Hall of Mirrors (2021, Mote) B+(**)
  45. Cyclone Trio: The Clear Revolution (2020 [2021], 577) B+(**)
  46. Jeremiah Cymerman/Charlie Looker: A Horizon Made of Canvas (2020 [2021], Astral Spirits) B+(*)
  47. Andrew Cyrille Quartet: The News (2019 [2021], ECM) B
  48. Daggerboard: Last Days of Studio A (2018-19 [2021], Wide Hive) B+(**)
  49. Lana Del Rey: Blue Bannisters (2011, Polydor/Interscope) B+(***)
  50. Dos Santos: City of Mirrors (International Anthem) B+(*)
  51. Eliane Elias: Mirror Mirror (2021, Candid) B+(***)
  52. Ingebrigt Håker Flaten: (Exit) Knarr (2021, Odin) A-
  53. Flukten: Velkommen Hap (2021, Odin) B+(***)
  54. Nick Fraser Quartet: If There Were No Opposites (2019 [2021], Ezz-Thetics) B+(*)
  55. Erik Friedlander: Sentinel (2020, Skipstone) B+(**)
  56. David Friesen: Day of Rest (2020 [2021], Origin) B+(**)
  57. Fred Frith Trio With Lotte Anker/Susana Santos Silva: Road (2021, Intakt, 2CD) B+(***)
  58. Rob Frye: Chihuahuan Desert Birdscapes (2020 [2021], Astral Spirits) B
  59. Futari: Underground (2021, Libra) B+(**)
  60. Nubya Garcia: Source + We Move (2021, Concord) B
  61. Gerry Gibbs Thrasher Dream Trios: Songs From My Father (2021, Whaling City Sound, 2CD) B+(**)
  62. Gift of Gab: Finding Inspiration Somehow (2021, Nature Sounds) A
  63. Frode Gjerstad/Isach Skeidsvoll: Twenty Fingers (2021, Relative Pitch) A-
  64. The Emma Goldman Bust-Out Brigade: The Emma Goldman Bust-Out Brigade (2021, Nomad Eel) B+(**)
  65. Rich Halley/Dan Clucas/Clyde Reed/Carson Halley: Boomslang (2021, Pine Eagle) A-
  66. Scott Hamilton/Duke Robillard: Swingin' Again (2021, Blue Duchess) B+(*)
  67. Louis Hayes: Crisis (2021, Savant) B+(**)
  68. Natalie Hemby: Pins and Needles (2021, Fantasy) B+(*)
  69. Carlos Henriquez: The South Bronx Story (2021, Tiger Turn) B+(***)
  70. Hiss Golden Messenger: Quietly Blowing It (2021, Merge) B+(*)
  71. Jon Hopkins: Music for Psychedelic Therapy (2021, Domino) B
  72. Idles: Crawler (2021, Partisan) B+(***)
  73. Ill Considered: Liminal Space (2021, New Soil) A-
  74. Illuminati Hotties: Let Me Do One More (2021, Snack Shack Tracks/Hopeless) A-
  75. Injury Reserve: By the Time I Get to Phoenix (2021, No Label) B+(*)
  76. Irreversible Entanglements: Open the Gates (2021, International Anthem) A-
  77. Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit: Georgia Blue (2021, Southeastern) B
  78. Wanda Jackson: Encore (2021, Big Machine/Blackheart, EP) B+(*)
  79. Arushi Jain: Under the Lilac Sky (2021, Leaving) B+(***)
  80. Irene Jalenti: Dawn (2020 [2021], Antidote Sounds) B+(**)
  81. Malcolm Jiyane Tree-O: Umdali (2018 [2021], Mushroom Hour Half Hour) A-
  82. Samara Joy: Samara Joy (2020 [2021], Whirlwind) B+(***)
  83. JPEGMafia: LP! (2021, Republic) B+(**)
  84. Vera Kappeler/Peter Conradin Zumthor: Herd (2020 [2021], Intakt) B+(*)
  85. Kasai Allstars: Black Ants Always Fly Together, One Bangle Makes No Sound (2021, Crammed Discs) B+(***)
  86. Darrell Katz &amp OddSong: Galeanthropology (2019-21 [2021], JCA) B+(**)
  87. Jacqueline Kerrod: 17 Days in December (2021, Orenda) B+(**)
  88. Lady Gaga: Dawn of Chromatica (2021, Interscope) B+(*)
  89. Langhorne Slim: Strawberry Mansion (2021, Dualtone) B+(**)
  90. Remy Le Boeuf's Assembly of Shadows: Architecture of Storms (2019-21 [2021], SoundSpore) B
  91. Stefano Leonardi/Antonio Bertoni: Viandes (2018 [2021], Astral Spirits) B+(*)
  92. LoneLady: Former Things (2021, Warp) B+(**)
  93. Brandon López Trio: Live at Roulette (2021, Relative Pitch) B+(**)
  94. Low: Hey What (2021, Sub Pop) C
  95. Brian Lynch: Songbook Vol. 1: Bus Stop Serenade (2016 [2021], Holistic MusicWorks) B+(*)
  96. Doug MacDonald: Serenade to Highland Park (2021, DMAC Music) B+(**)
  97. Myele Manzanza: Crisis & Opportunity, Vol. 1: London (2021, DeepMatter) B+(***)
  98. Myele Manzanza: Crisis & Opportunity, Vol. 2: Peaks (2021, DeepMatter) B+(*)
  99. Megan Thee Stallion: Something for Thee Hotties: From Thee Archives (2019-21 [2021], 300 Entertainment) A-
  100. Francisco Mela Featuring Matthew Shipp and William Parker: Music Frees Our Souls (2020 [2021], 577) B+(***)
  101. Mereba: Azeb (2021, Interscope, EP) B+(***)
  102. Allison Miller/Jane Ira Bloom: Tues Days (2021, Outline) B+(***)
  103. John R. Miller: Depreciated (2021, Rounder) A-
  104. Cameron Mizell & Charlie Rauh: Local Folklore (2020-21 [2021], Destiny) B
  105. Hedvig Mollestad: Tempest Revisited (2021, Rune Grammofon) B+(*)
  106. Moor Mother: Black Encyclopedia of the Air (2021, Anti-) B+(*)
  107. Van Morrison: Latest Record Project: Volume 1 (2021, BMG/Exile, 2CD) B
  108. Camila Nebbia Quartet: Corre El Río De La Memoría Sobre La Tierra Que Arrastra Trazos, Dejando Rastros De Alguna Huella Que Hoy Es Número (2020 [2021], Ramble) B+(**)
  109. Willie Nelson: The Willie Nelson Family (2021, Legacy) B
  110. Arturo O'Farrill/The Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra: Dreaming in Lions (2021, Blue Note) B+(**)
  111. OneTwoThree: OneTwoThree (2021, Kill Rock Stars) A-
  112. The Ed Palermo Big Band: I've Got News for You: The Music of Edgar Winter (2021, Sky Cat) C+
  113. Phil Parisot: Inventions (2021, OA2) B+(*)
  114. Park Hye Jin: Before I Die (2021, Ninja Tune) B+(**)
  115. William Parker/Patricia Nicholson: No Joke! (2019-20 [2021], ESP-Disk) A-
  116. Zeena Parkins/Mette Rasmussen/Ryan Sawyer: Glass Triangle (2021, Relative Pitch) B+(*)
  117. Parquet Courts: Sympathy for Life (2021, Rough Trade) B+(***)
  118. Nicholas Payton: Smoke Sessions (2021, Smoke Sessions) B+(**)
  119. PinkPantheress: To Hell With It (2021, Parlophone, EP) B+(**)
  120. Professor Cunningham and His Old School: The Lockdown Blues (2021, Arbors) B+(*)
  121. Abbey Rader/John McMinn: Two as One (2021, Abray) B+(*)
  122. Anaïs Reno: Lovesome Thing: Anaïs Reno Sings Ellington & Strayhorn (2021, Harbinger) A-
  123. Steph Richards With Joshua White: Zephyr (2019 [2021], Relative Pitch) B+(**)
  124. ROVA: The Circumference of Reason (2018-19 [2021], ESP-Disk) B+(***)
  125. Dua Saleh: Crossover (2021, Against Giants, EP) A-
  126. Sara Schoenbeck: Sara Schoenbeck (2019-21 [2021], Pyroclastic) B+(***)
  127. Self Esteem: Prioritise Pleasure (2021, Fiction) B+(**)
  128. Sara Serpa: Intimate Strangers (2021, Biophilia) B+(**)
  129. Matthew Shipp: Codebreaker (2020 [2021], Tao Forms) A-
  130. Jacob Shulman: Connectedness (2021, Endectomorph Music) B+(***)
  131. Silk Sonic [Bruno Mars/Anderson .Paak]: An Evening With Silk Sonic (2021, Aftermath/Atlantic) B-
  132. Nala Sinephro: Space 1.8 (2021, Warp) B+(*)
  133. Josh Sinton: B. (2021, Form Is Possibility) B+(**)
  134. Sir Babygirl: Golden Bday; The Mixtape (2021, self-released) B+(**)
  135. Nate Smith: Kinfolk 2: See the Birds (2021, Edition) B
  136. Wadada Leo Smith, Jack DeJohnette & Vijay Iyer: A Love Sonnet for Billie Holiday (2016 [2021], TUM) B+(***)
  137. Wadada Leo Smith's Great Lakes Quartet: The Chicago Symphonies (2015-18 [2021], TUM, 4CD) A-
  138. Snail Mail: Valentine (2021, Matador) B+(**)
  139. Snotty Nose Rez Kids: Life After (2021, Distorted Muse/Fontana North) B+(**)
  140. The Source: . . . But Swinging Doesn't Bend Them Down (2019 [2021], Odin) B+(***)
  141. Space Afrika: Honest Labour (2021, Dais) B+(*)
  142. Vince Staples: Vince Staples (2021, Blacksmith/Motown, EP) B+(**)
  143. Helen Sung: Quartet + (2021, Sunnyside) B+(*)
  144. Taylor Swift: Fearless (Taylor's Version) (2021, Republic) B+(***)
  145. Taylor Swift: Red (Taylor's Version) (2021, Republic) B+(***)
  146. Craig Taborn: Shadow Plays (2020 [2021], ECM) B+(*)
  147. Aki Takase/Daniel Erdmann: Isn't It Romantic? (2020 [2021], BMC) B+(**)
  148. This Is It!: Mosaic (2021, Libra) B+(***)
  149. Tirzah: Colourgrade (2021, Domino) B+(*)
  150. Trees Speak: PostHuman (2021, Soul Jazz) B+(*)
  151. Two Much [Reut Regev and Igal Foni]: Never Enough (2021, Relative Pitch) B+(***)
  152. U-Roy: Solid Gold (2021, Trojan) B+(*)
  153. Tommy Vig: 2022: Jazz Jazz (2021, Klassikus Jazz) C
  154. Will Vinson/Gilad Hekselman/Antonio Sanchez: Trio Grande (2019 [2020], Whirlwind) B+(***)
  155. Pabllo Vittar: Batidão Tropical (2021, Sony, EP) B+(*)
  156. Summer Walker: Still Over It (2021, LVRN/Interscope) B+(*)
  157. Dean Wareham: I Have Nothing to Say to the Mayor of L.A. (2021, Double Feature) B+(**)
  158. Marcin Wasilewski Trio: En Attendant (2019 [2021], ECM) B+(*)
  159. Jane Weaver: Flock (2021, Fire) B+(**)
  160. Westside Gunn: Hitler Wears Hermes 8: Sincerely, Adolf (2021, Griselda/Empire) B
  161. Westside Gunn: Hitler Wears Heres 8: Side B (2021, Griselda/Empire) B
  162. Mareike Wiening: Future Memories (2020 [2021], Greenleaf Music) B+(*)
  163. Wiki: Half God (2021, Wikset Enterprise) B+(**)
  164. Lainey Wilson: Sayin' What I'm Thinkin' (2021, Broken Bow) B+(***)
  165. Remi Wolf: You're a Dog (2019, Island, EP) B+(*)
  166. Remi Wolf: I'm Allergic to Dogs (2020, Island, EP) B+(**)
  167. Remi Wolf: We Love Dogs! (2021, Island) B+(**)
  168. Remi Wolf: Juno (2021, Island) B+(***)
  169. Ben Black: Mystery & Wonder (2007 [2021], Origin) B+(**)
  170. Laurence Cook/Jacques Coursil/Warren Gale/Perry Robinson/Steve Tintweiss: Ave B Free Jam (1967, Inky Dot) B
  171. Jimmy Giuffre 3: Graz Live 1961 (1961 [2019], Ezz-Thetics) B+(***)
  172. Joe Harriott Quintet: Free Form & Abstract Revisited (1960-62 [2021], Ezz-Thetics, 2CD) A-
  173. Calvin Keys: Shawn-Neeq (1971 [2021], Black Jazz) B+(*)
  174. Jim Knapp Orchestra: It's Not Business, It's Personal (2009 [2021], Origin) B+(*)
  175. Harold Land: Westward Bound! (1962-65 [2021], Reel to Real) B+(**)
  176. Mujician: 10 10 10 (2010 [2021], Cuneiform) B+(**)
  177. Harvie S Trio: Going for It (1985 [2021], Savant) A-
  178. Sacred Soul of North Carolina (2020 [2021], Bible & Tire) A-
  179. Archie Shepp: Blasé and Yasmina Revisited (1969 [2021], Ezz-thetics) A-
  180. Be Kind Rewind [Original Motion Picture Soundtrack] (2007 [2008], Lakeshore) B
  181. Between the Covers (1989-2005 [2006], Legacy) B
  182. Glen Campbell: The Legacy (1961-2002) (1961-2002 [2003], Capitol, 4CD) C
  183. Sonny Clark: My Conception (1957-59 [2000], Blue Note) B+(***)
  184. Tony Conrad: Thunderboy! (1971-73 [2002], Table of the Elements) B-
  185. Sylvie Courvoisier/Mary Halvorson: Crop Circles (2016 [2017], Relative Pitch) B+(***)
  186. Bing Crosby: Bing! His Legendary Years, 1931 to 1957 (1931-57 [1993], MCA, 4CD) B+(***)
  187. Disco Tex & His Sex-O-Lettes: Disco Tex & His Sex-O-Lettes (1975, Chelsea) B+(**)
  188. Dr. John: The Very Best of Dr. John (1968-92 [1995], Rhino) A-
  189. Arnold Dreyblatt: The Sound of One String (1979-91 [1998], Table of the Elements) B+(***)
  190. A Good Year [Music From the Motion Picture] ([2006], Legacy/Sony Music Soundtrack) B
  191. Fred Hammond: The Essential Fred Hammond (1991-2004 [2007], Verity/Legacy, 2CD) C+
  192. Heart of the Forest: The Music of the Baka Forest People of Southeast Cameroon (1993, Hannibal) B+(***)
  193. Bobby Hutcherson: Medina (1968-69 [1998], Blue Note) A-
  194. Illuminati Hotties: Kiss Yr Frenemies (2018, Tiny Engines) B+(**)
  195. John P. Kee: The Essential John P. Kee (1991-2000 [2007], Verity/Legacy, 2CD) B-
  196. Frankie Lymon & the Teenagers: The Very Best of Frankie Lymon & the Teenagers (1956-60 [2000], Rhino) A
  197. Make 'Em Mokum Crazy: This Is the New Sound of Popcore (1995-96 [1996], Mokum) A-
  198. Donnie McClurkin: The Essential Donnie McClurkin (2000-05 [2007], Verity/Legacy, 2CD) B-
  199. John R. Miller: Service Change (2014, 789875 DK) B+(***)
  200. John R Miller & the Engine Lights: The Trouble You Follow (2018, Emperor) B+(**)
  201. New Jack City [Music From the Motion Picture] (1991, Giant) B+(***)
  202. Notekillers: Airport + Ants (2006, Notekillers, EP) B+(*)
  203. The Orioles: For Collectors Only (1948-57 [1992], Collectables, 3CD) B+(*)
  204. The Orioles: Sing Their Greatest Hits (1948-54 [1991], Collectables) B+(**)
  205. Putumayo Presents: Christmas Around the World (1990-2002 [2003], Putomayo World Music) C+
  206. Eliane Radigue: Adnos I-III (1973-80 [2002], Table of the Elements, 3CD) B+(**)
  207. Rhythm Love and Soul Live (2002 [2003], Shout! Factory) B+(**)
  208. Smokey Robinson: Where There's Smoke . . . (1979, Tamla) B+(***)
  209. Tom Robinson: North by Northwest (1982, IRS) B+(*)
  210. Kevin Roth: Between the Notes (2006, Star Gazer) B
  211. Juan Carlos Quintero: Joy to the World (2007, Tenure) B-
  212. Roxy Music: Greatest Hits (1972-75 [1977], Atco) A
  213. Roxy Music: The High Road (1982 [1983], Warner Brothers, EP) B+(***)
  214. Roxy Music: Heart Still Beating (1982 [1990], Reprise) A-
  215. The Rubinoos: The Rubinoos (1977, Beserkley) B+(*)
  216. Frederic Rzewski: Coming Together/Attica/Les Mouton De Panurge (1973 [1974], Opus One) A-
  217. Sarge: Distant (2000, Mud) B+(**)
  218. Gil Scott-Heron and Brian Jackson: It's Your World (1976, Arista) A-
  219. The Selecter: Too Much Pressure (1980, Chrysalis) B+(***)
  220. The Sex Pistols: Filthy Lucre Live (1996, Virgin) A-
  221. Shalamar: Three for Love (1980, Solar) B+(***)
  222. Shalamar: Go for It (1981, Solar) B+(***)
  223. Shalamar: Greatest Hits (1978-81 [1982], Solar) A-
  224. Shoes: Present Tense (1979, Elektra) B+(***)
  225. Shoes: Tongue Twister (1981, Elektra) A-
  226. Shop Assistants: Shop Assistants (1986, Blue Guitar) B+(**)
  227. Shop Assistants: Will Anything Happen (1986 [2008], Cherry Red) B+(**)
  228. Silkworm: Lifestyle (2000, Touch & Go) A-
  229. The Silos: About Her Steps (1985, Record Collect) B+(***)
  230. Silos: Cuba (1987, Record Collect) B+(**)
  231. Slade: Slayed? (1972, Polydor) B+(**)
  232. Slave: Show Time (1981, Cotillion) B+(*)
  233. Snapback: Purgatory (2006, "Insert Your Major Label Name Here" Music) B+(**)
  234. Phoebe Snow: The Best of Phoebe Snow (1974-78 [1982], Columbia) B+(**)
  235. The Specials: Ghost Town/Why?/Friday Night Saturday Morning (1981, Chrysalis, EP) B+(***)
  236. The Speed Boys: That's What I Like (1982, I Like Mike) A-
  237. The Speedboys: Look What Love's Done to Me Now (1983, I Like Mike) A-
  238. Steppin' Out: Disco's Greatest Hits (1970-78 [1978], Polydor) A-
  239. The Strokes: The Modern Age (2000, Rough Trade, EP) B+(***)
  240. The Strokes: First Impressions of Earth (2005 [2006], RCA) B+(*)
  241. The Suburbs: In Combo (1980, Twin/Tone) A-
  242. Sugar and Poison (1971-89 [1996], Virgin, 2CD) B+(***)
  243. Billy Swan: I Can Help (1974, Monument) B+(**)
  244. Billy Swan: Billy Swan (1976, Monument) B+(***)
  245. Billy Swan: At His Best (1974-76 [1978], Monument) A-
  246. Billy Swan: Like Elvis Used to Do (1999 [2000], Audium Entertainment) B+(**)
  247. Billy Swan and Buzz Cason: Billy & Buzz Sing Buddy (2018, Arena) B+(*)
  248. Swan Silvertones: Amen Amen Amen: The Essential Collection (1952-63 [2015], Rockbeat/Archive Alive) A-
  249. Tavares: The Best of Tavares (1974-76 [1977], Capitol) B+(**)
  250. The Thermals: The Body, the Blood, the Machine (2006, Sub Pop) B+(**)
  251. Thomas Jefferson Slave Apartments: Straight to Video (1997, Anyway) B+(***)
  252. Thomas Jefferson Slave Apartments: No Old Guy Lo-Fi Cry (2000, Rockathon) B+(***)
  253. Sally Timms: Cowboy Sally (1997, Bloodshot, EP) B+(**)
  254. Sally Timms & Jon Langford: Songs of False Hope and High Values (2000, Bloodshot, EP) B+(**)
  255. Sally Timms: In the World of Him (2004, Touch & Go) B+(*)
  256. Tokyo Police Club: A Lesson in Crime (2006, Paper Bag, EP) B+(***)
  257. Tony Toni Toné: Hits (1988-97 [1997], Mercury) A-
  258. Pete Townshend: Who Came First (1972, Track) B+(*)
  259. Trin-I-Tee 5.7: Holla: The Best of Trin-I-Tee 5.7 (1998-2002 [2007], GospoCentric/Legacy) B
  260. Trouble Funk: Drop the Bomb (1982, Sugar Hill) A-
  261. Trouble Funk: Trouble Over Here/Trouble Over There (1987, Island) B+(**)
  262. Luther Vandross: The Best of Luther Vandross: The Best of Love (1980-89 [1989], Epic, 2CD) B+(***)
  263. Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble: Live Alive (1985-86 [1986], Epic) B+(**)
  264. Stevie Ray Vaughan and Double Trouble: Greatest Hits (1983-90 [1995], Epic) A-
  265. The Very Best of Praise & Worship Volume 2 (1996-2006 [2007], Verity/Legacy) B-
  266. Andreas Vollenweider: Midnight Clear (2006, SLG) B-
  267. Tom Waits: Blood Money (2002, Anti-) A-
  268. Tom Waits: The Black Rider (1993, Island) B+(***)
  269. Hezekiah Walker: The Essential Hezekiah Walker (1992-2005 [2007], Verity/Legacy, 2CD) C
  270. Wide Right: Wide Right (2002, Wide Right, EP) B+(***)
  271. Jesse Winchester: Jesse Winchester (1970, Ampex) B+(***)
  272. Bill Withers: The Best of Bill Withers (1971-74 [1975], Sussex) A-
  273. O.V. Wright: The Soul of O.V. Wright (1972-73 [1992], MCA) B+(**)
  274. Zetrospective: Dancing in the Face of Adversity (1978-84 [1989], ZE) A-
  275. Zetrospective: Hope Springs Eternal (1980-84 [1989], ZE) B+(**)
  276. Warren Zevon: Stand in the Fire (1980, Asylum) B+(***)
  277. ZZ Top: Greatest Hits (1979-90 [1992], Warner Brothers) A-

October 26

  1. JD Allen: Queen City (2020 [2021], Savant) B+(*)
  2. Thomas Anderson: Ladies and Germs (2021, Out There) A-
  3. Atmosphere: Word? (2021, Rhymesayers Entertainment) B+(*)
  4. Nathan Bell: Red, White and American Blues (It Couldn't Happen Here) (2021, Need to Know) A
  5. Steven Bernstein's Millennial Territory Orchestra: Tinctures in Time (Community Music, Vol. 1) (2021, Royal Potato Family) B+(***)
  6. Burnt Sugar/The Arkestra Chamber: Angels Over Oakanda (2018-21 [2021], Avantgroidd) B+(***)
  7. Whit Dickey/William Parker/Matthew Shipp: Village Mothership (2020 [2021], Tao Forms) A-
  8. DMX Krew: Loose Gears (2021, Hypercolour) B+(***)
  9. Erin Enderlin: Barroom Mirrors EP (2021, Black Crow Productions, EP) B+(**)
  10. Hernâni Faustino: Twelve Bass Tunes (2020 [2021], Phonogram Unit) B+(***)
  11. Thomas Fehlmann: Böser Herbst (2021, Kompakt) A-
  12. Joe Fiedler's "Open Sesame": Fuzzy and Blue (2021, Multiphonics) B+(***)
  13. Adam Forkelid: 1st Movement (2021, Prophone) B+(***)
  14. Kazemde George: I Insist (2019 [2021], Greenleaf Music) B+(***)
  15. Julia Govor: Winter Mute (2021, Jujuka, EP) B+(**)
  16. Mickey Guyton: Remember Her Name (2021, Capitol Nashville) B+(***)
  17. Jazz Daddies: Moontower Nights (2021, self-released) B
  18. Eunhye Jeong: Nolda (2021, ESP-Disk) B+(**)
  19. Rochelle Jordan: Play With the Changes (2021, Young Art) B+(***)
  20. Jü: III (2021, RareNoise) B+(*)
  21. Kuzu: All Your Ghosts in One Corner (2020 [2021], Aerophonic) B+(***)
  22. José Lencastre Nau Quartet + Pedro Carneiro: Thoughts Are Things (2021, Phonogram Unit) A-
  23. David Leon: Aire De Agua (2020 [2021], Out of Your Head) B+(***)
  24. Lil Nas X: Montero (2021, Columbia) B+(*)
  25. Karen Marguth: Until (2014-21 [2021], OA2) B+(*)
  26. John Moulder: Metamorphosis (2019 [2021], Origin) B
  27. Bryan Murray & Jon Lundbom: Beats by Balto! Vol. 2 (2021, Chant) B+(***)
  28. Jo Berger Myhre: Unheimlich Manoeuvre (2021, RareNoise) B+(**)
  29. Randy Napoleon: Rust Belt Roots: Randy Napoleon Plays Wes Montgomery, Grant Green and Kenny Burrell (2018 [2021], OA2) B+(**)
  30. Q'd Up: Going Places (2021, Tantara) B
  31. RaeLynn: Baytown (2021, Round Here) B+(***)
  32. Rebellum: The Darknuss (2021, Avantgroidd) B+(***)
  33. Matthew Stevens: Pittsburgh (2021, Whirlwind) B
  34. Trondheim Jazz Orchestra & The MaXx: Live (2018 [2021], MNJ) B+(**)
  35. Trondheim Jazz Orchestra & Ole Morten Vågan: Plastic Wave (2020 [2021], Odin, 2CD) A-
  36. Albert Ayler: New York Eye and Ear Control Revisited (1964 [2021], Ezz-Thetics) B+(*)
  37. Albert Ayler Quintet: 1966: Berlin, Lörrach, Paris & Stockholm. Revisited (1966 [2021], Ezz-Thetics) B+(***)
  38. Marion Brown: Capricorn Moon to Juba Lee Revisited (1965-66 [2019], Ezz-Thetics) A-
  39. John Coltrane Quartet: Newport, New York, Alabama, 1963 Revisited (1963 [2021], Ezz-Thetics) B+(***)
  40. John Coltrane: Chasin' the Trane Revisited (1961 [2021], Ezz-Thetics) A-
  41. John Coltrane: A Love Supreme: Live in Seattle (1965 [2021], Impulse) B+(**)
  42. Kid Creole and the Coconuts: Nothin' Left but the Rest (1996 [2021], 2C2C) B+(**)
  43. Lionel Loueke: Close Your Eyes (2018 [2021], Sounderscore) B+(***)
  44. Nick Lowe and Los Straitjackets: Walkabout (2013-19 [2020], Yep Roc) B
  45. Nadje Noordhuis: Gullfoss (2019 [2021], Little Mystery) B+(*)
  46. Send I a Lion: A Nighthawk Reggae Joint (1979-84 [2019], Omnivore) B+(***)
  47. Billy Joe Shaver & Kinky Friedman: Live Down Under (2002 [2021], Omnivore) B+(**)
  48. Mike Taylor: Trio, Quartet & Composer (1965-68 [2021], Ezz-Thetics) B+(*)
  49. Keola Beamer: Wooden Boat (1994, Dancing Cat) B+(*)
  50. Nathan Bell: In Tune, On Time, Not Dead (2007, Zensuit) A-
  51. Nathan Bell: Traitorland (2008, Zensuit) Fundamentals:A-
  52. Nathan Bell: Black Crow Blue (An American Album) (2011, Stone Barn) B+(**)
  53. Nathan Bell: Blood Like a River (2013, Stone Barn) B+(*)
  54. Nathan Bell: I Don't Do This for Love, I Do This for Love (Working and Hanging On in America) (2015, Stone Barn) B+(***)
  55. Nathan Bell: Love > Fear (48 Hours in Traitorland) (2017, Stone Barn) B+(***)
  56. Nathan Bell: Er Gwaetha Pawb a Phopeth (In Spite of Everyone & Everything) (2017 [2018], Angry Stick) B+(**)
  57. Nathan Bell: Loves Bones and Stars, Love's Bones and Stars (2018, Angry Stick) B+(***)
  58. Chris Berry and the Bayaka of Yandoumbe: Listen . . . OKA! (2011, Oka Productions) A-
  59. Bingo: Songs for Children in English With Brazilian and Caribbean Rhythms (2005, Soundbrush) B+(*)
  60. Burnt Sugar/The Arkestra Chamber: Live From Minnegiggle Falls (2004 [2007], Avant Groidd) B+(**)
  61. Burnt Sugar/The Arkestra Chamber: All Ya Needs That Negrocity (2008-11 [2011], Avant Groidd) A-
  62. Calling Rastafari (1981 [1982], Nighthawk) B+(***)
  63. Rhys Chatham: A Rhys Chatham Compendium (1971-89 [2002], Table of the Elements) A-
  64. The Contemporary Piano Ensemble: The Key Players (1993, DIW/Columbia) B+(**)
  65. Don Dixon: Chi-Town Budget Show (1988, Restless) B+(*)
  66. Double Dee & Steinski: The Payoff Mix/Lesson Two/Lesson 3 (1985, Tommy Boy, EP) A
  67. Ian Dury & the Blockheads: Live! All the Best, Mate (1990 [2000], Music Club) A-
  68. The Ebony Hillbillies: Barefoot and Flying (2011, EH Music) B+(***)
  69. Shirley Eikhard: The Last Hurrah (2000, Shirley Eikhard Music) B+(**)
  70. Shirley Eikhard: End of the Day (2001, Shirley Eikhard Music) B+(*)
  71. Shirley Eikhard: Stay Open (2002-03 [2003], Shirley Eikhard Music) B+(***)
  72. Thomas Fehlmann: 1929: Das Jahr Babylon (2018, Kompakt) B+(*)
  73. Fela and Afrika 70: Zombie (1976 [1977], M.I.L. Multimedia) A-
  74. Dan Fogelberg: The Essential Dan Fogelberg (1973-90 [2003], Epic/Legacy) C+
  75. Forgetting Sarah Marshall [Original Motion Picture Soundtrack] ([2008], Verve Forecast) B
  76. Gimme Indie Rock V. 1 (1984-99 [2000], K-Tel, 2CD) B+(*)
  77. The Golden Gate Quartet: Travelin' Shoes (1937-39 [1992], RCA/Bluebird) B+(***)
  78. Grateful Dead: Dozin' at the Knick (1990 [1996], Grateful Dead, 3CD) B+(**)
  79. Grateful Dead: Crimson White & Indigo (1989 [2010], Grateful Dead/Rhino, 3CD) B
  80. The Guess Who: The Greatest of the Guess Who (1969-75 [1977], RCA Victor) B+(*)
  81. Hard Times Come Again No More Vol. 1: Early American Rural Songs of Hard Times and Hardships (1924-37 [1998], Yazoo) A-
  82. Barry Harris: Live at Maybeck Recital Hall Volume Twelve (1990 [1991], Concord) B+(**)
  83. Wynonie Harris: Rockin' the Blues (1944-50 [2001], Proper, 4CD) A-
  84. Jimi Hendrix Experience: Radio One (1967 [1988], Rykodisc) B+(***)
  85. Jimi Hendrix: Woodstock (1969 [1994], MCA) A-
  86. Jimi Hendrix: Hendrix in the West (1968-70 [2011], Experience Hendrix/Legacy) B+(***)
  87. Jimi Hendrix: Valleys of Neptune (1969-70 [2010], Experience Hendrix/Legacy) B+(**)
  88. Jimi Hendrix: Blue Wild Angel: Jimi Hendrix Live at the Isle of Wight (1970 [2002], Experience Hendrix/MCA, 2CD) B+(**)
  89. Jimi Hendrix: Voodoo Child: The Jimi Hendrix Collection (1967-70 [2001], Experience Hendrix/Universal, 2CD) A
  90. Jimi Hendrix: Fire: The Jimi Hendrix Collection (1967-70 [2010], Experience Hendrix/Legacy) A
  91. Tish Hinojosa: Dreaming of the Labyrinth/Soñar del Laberinto (1996, Warner Brothers) B+(***)
  92. His Name Is Alive: Stars on E.S.P. (1996, 4AD) B+(*)
  93. Robin Holcomb: Robin Holcomb (1990, Elektra) B+(*)
  94. The Hollies: In the Hollies Style (1964, Parlophone) B+(*)
  95. The Hollies: The Hollies' Greatest Hits (1965-72 [1973], Epic) B+(***)
  96. Howlin' Wolf: His Best (1951-64 [1997], MCA/Chess) A+
  97. Hüsker Dü: Everything Falls Apart (1982 [1983], Reflex, EP) B+(**)
  98. Irakere: Irakere (1978 [1979], Columbia) B+(***)
  99. Ronald Shannon Jackson: Pulse (1984, Celluloid) B+(*)
  100. Ronald Shannon Jackson and the Decoding Society: Decode Yourself (1984, Island) B+(*)
  101. Ronald Shannon Jackson: Red Warrior (1990, Axiom) B+(**)
  102. The Jacksons: The Jacksons (1976, Epic) B
  103. The Jacksons: Destiny (1978, Epic) B+(***)
  104. The Jacksons: Triumph (1980, Epic) B+(**)
  105. The Jacksons: Victory (1984, Epic) B+(***)
  106. Jaojoby: Aza Arianao (2001, Label Bleu) B+(**)
  107. Ella Jenkins: Little Johnny Brown (1971 [2001], Smithsonian/Folkways) B+(***)
  108. Jethro Tull: Live: Bursting Out (1978 [2004], Chrysalis, 2CD) B-
  109. Jethro Tull: Stormwatch (1979, Chrysalis) C+
  110. Jethro Tull: A (1980, Chrysalis) C+
  111. George Jones: The Definitive Collection 1955-1962 (1955-62 [2004], Mercury) A
  112. Maria Kalaniemi: Maria Kalaniemi (1992 [1994], Xenophile) B+(**)
  113. Kartet: The Bay Window (2006 [2007], Songlines) B+(***)
  114. Ustad Ali Akbar Khan/Pandit Swapan Chaudhuri: Passing on the Tradition (1995 [1996], AMMP) B+(*)
  115. B.B. King: The Best of B.B. King (1969-71 [1973], ABC) B+(***)
  116. B.B. King: The Best of B.B. King [20th Century Masters: The Millennium Collection] (1967-85 [1999], MCA) B+(***)
  117. B.B. King: Blues Summit (1993, MCA) B+(***)
  118. B.B. King: His Definitive Greatest Hits (1963-93 [1999], Polygram, 2CD) A-
  119. B.B. King: Deuces Wild (1997, MCA) B+(***)
  120. B.B. King: Let the Good Times Roll: The Music of Louis Jordan (1999, Geffen) B+(**)
  121. Kodo: Ibuki (1997, Tristar) B+(*)
  122. Ali Hassan Kuban: From Nubia to Cairo (1980 [1989], Piranha) B+(***)
  123. Fela Ransome Kuti and His Koola Lobitos: Highlife Jazz and Afro-Soul (1963-1969) (1963-69 [2016], Knitting Factory, 3CD) B+(***)
  124. Lady Saw: Passion (1997, VP) B+(*)
  125. Ladysmith Black Mambazo: The Best of Ladysmith Black Mambazo (1975-85 [1992], Shanachie) B+(***)
  126. Ladysmith Black Mambazo: The Gift of the Tortoise (1994, Music for Little People) B+(*)
  127. Tony Lakatos/Al Foster/Kirk Lightsey/George Mraz: News (1994 [1995], Jazzline) B+(**)
  128. Jim Lauderdale: Pretty Close to the Truth (1994, Atlantic) B+(*)
  129. Let the Good Times Roll: 20 of New Orleans' Finest R&B Classics 1949-1966 (1949-66 [2002], Capitol) A-
  130. Linx: Intuition (1981, Chrysalis) B+(**)
  131. Living Things: Ahead of the Lions (2004 [2005], Jive/Zomba) B+(***)
  132. Look Directly Into the Sun: China Pop 2007 ([2007], Invisible China/Bloodshot) B+(***)
  133. Love: Da Capo (1967, Elektra) B+(***)
  134. Love: Four Sail (1969, Elektra) B+(**)
  135. Love: Out Here (1969, Blue Thumb) B-
  136. Love: False Start (1970, Blue Thumb) B+(**)
  137. The Lovin' Spoonful: Greatest Hits (1965-68 [2000], Buddha) A-
  138. Nick Lowe and His Cowboy Outfit: The Rose of England (1985, Columbia) B+(***)
  139. Nick Lowe: Untouched Takeaway (1995-2001 [2004], Yep Roc) B
  140. Luna: Slide (1993, Elektra, EP) B+(***)
  141. Lynyrd Skynyrd: Nuthin' Fancy (1975, MCA) B+(**)
  142. Lynyrd Skynyrd: Gimme Back My Bullets (1976, MCA) B+(*)
  143. Lynyrd Skynyrd: One More From the Road (1976, MCA) B+(**)
  144. Lynyrd Skynyrd: Street Survivors (1977, MCA) B+(***)
  145. Lynyrd Skynyrd: Gold & Platinum (1972-77 [1979], MCA, 2CD) B+(***)
  146. Yo-Yo Ma: Classic Yo-Yo (1992-2001 [2001], Sony Classical) B+(*)
  147. Ewan MacColl: Black and White: The Definitive Collection (1972-86 [1990], Green Linnet) A-
  148. Mardi Gras Party (1971-90 [1991], Rounder) A-
  149. The Master Musicians of Jajouka Featuring Bachir Attar: Apocalypse Across the Sky (1992, Axiom) B+(***)
  150. Masters of the Boogie Piano [Delmark 50th Anniversary Collection] (1939-2001 [2003], Delmark) B+(***)
  151. Johnny Mathis: The Ultimate Hits Collection (1956-86 [1998], Columbia) B+(**)
  152. Moby Grape: Moby Grape (1967, Columbia) B+(*)
  153. Moby Grape: Wow (1968, Columbia) C+
  154. Moby Grape: Moby Grape '69 (1969, Columbia) B-
  155. M.O.P.: Handle Ur Bizness (1998, Relativity, EP) B+(*)
  156. Bill Morrissey: North (1986, Philo) B+(*)
  157. Bill Morrissey: Bill Morrissey (1991, Philo) B+(*)
  158. Bill Morrissey & Greg Brown: Friend of Mine (1993, Philo) B+(**)
  159. Alan Morse: Four O'Clock and Hysteria (2007, Inside Out Music) B
  160. Pablo Moses: I Love I Bring (1975 [1978], United Artists) B+(**)
  161. Motörhead: No Remorse (1979-84 [1984], Bronze) B+(***)
  162. The Walter Norris Quartet: Sunburst (1991, Concord) B+(***)
  163. Roy Orbison: 16 Biggest Hits (1960-64 [1999], Monument/Legacy) A
  164. Annette Peacock: I Have No Feelings (1986, Ironic) B-
  165. Annette Peacock: An Acrobat's Heart (2000, ECM) B
  166. Ken Peplowski: The Other Portrait (1996, Concord) B
  167. Ralph Peterson Quintet: Art (1992 [1994], Blue Note) B+(*)
  168. Pointer Sisters: Pointer Sisters' Greatest Hits (1978-81 [1982], Planet) B+(*)
  169. Pointer Sisters: Greatest Hits (1973-85 [1989], RCA) B+(**)
  170. Genesis P-Orridge & Astrid Monroe: When I Was Young (2001 [2004], Important) B+(**)
  171. Prodigy Present: The Dirtchamber Sessions: Volume One (1998 [1999], XL) A-
  172. Dr. Krishna Raghavendra: RARE Pulse (2001, GEMA) B+(*)
  173. The Ramones: Pleasant Dreams (1981, Sire) B+(***)
  174. The Rave-Ups: Town and Country (1985, Fun Stuff) B+(***)
  175. R.E.M.: New Adventures in Hi-Fi (1996, Warner Bros.) B+(***)
  176. Remember Shakti [John McLaughlin/Zakir Hussain/U. Shrinivas/V. Selvaganesh]: The Believer (1999 [2000], Verve) B+(**)
  177. Remember Shakti: Saturday Night in Bombay (2000 [2001], Verve) B+(**)
  178. The Replacements: Stink ("Kids Don't Follow" Plus Seven) (1982, Twin/Tone, EP) B+(**)
  179. Mike Rizzo: Webster Hall's New York Dance CD v.6 (2003, Webster Hall NYC) B+(**)
  180. Jimmy Rogers: The Complete Chess Recordings (1950-59 [1997], MCA, 2CD) B+(**)
  181. Nate Ruth: Whatever It Meant (2002, Soundless) B
  182. Shirley and Lee: Let the Good Times Roll (1952-59 [2000], Ace) B+(***)
  183. Jack Smith: Les Evening Gowns Damnées: 56 Ludlow Street 1962-1964 Volume I (1962-64 [1997], Table of the Elements) B+(*)
  184. Jack Smith: Silent Shadows of Cinemaroc Island: 56 Ludlow Street 1962-1964 Volume II (1962-64 [1997], Table of the Elements) B
  185. The Sound of Kinshasa: Guitar Classics From Zaire (1950s-70s [1982], Original Music) A-
  186. Jeremy Steig/Eddie Gomez: Outlaws (1976 [1977], Enja) B+(***)
  187. Streets of Dakar: Generation Boul Falé ([1999], Sterns) A-
  188. Daryl Stuermer: Go (2007, Inside Out Music) B-
  189. Swans: Soundtracks for the Blind (1996, Young God/Atavistic, 2CD) B
  190. Swayzak: Himawari (2000, Medicine) B+(***)
  191. Swayzak: Dirty Dancing (2002, !K7) B+(**)
  192. The Tanzania Sound (1960s [1987], Original Music) A-
  193. A Taste of the Indestructible Beat of Soweto ([1993], Earthworks) A
  194. Train Don't Leave Me: Recorded Live at the 1st Annual Sacred Steel Convention (2000 [2001], Arhoolie) B+(**)
  195. Merle Travis: Sweet Temptation: The Best of Merle Travis 1946-1953 (1946-53 [2000], Razor & Tie) A-
  196. James Blood Ulmer: Black Rock (1982, Columbia) A-
  197. UTD [Urban Thermo Dynamics: DCQ/Ces/Mos Def]: Manifest Destiny (2004, Illson Media) B+(***)
  198. Eddie "Cleanhead" Vinson: Clean Head's Back in Town (1957, Bethlehem) A-
  199. Eddie 'Cleanhead' Vinson: The Original Cleanhead (1970, BluesTime) A-
  200. Eddie "Cleanhead" Vinson: Kidney Stew [The Definitive Black & Blue Sessions] (1969-78 [1996], Black & Blue) A-
  201. Bert Williams: "It's Getting So You Can't Trust Nobody": The Songs of Bert Williams Volume One (1901-22 [199X], Vaudeville Archive Records) A-
  202. Don Williams: The Best of Don Williams, Volume II (1975-78 [1979], MCA) B+(***)
  203. Bobby Womack: Greatest Hits (1972-89 [1999], Capitol) B+(*)
  204. Stevie Wonder: Original Musiquarium I (1971-82 [1982], Motown, 2CD) B+(***)
  205. Stevie Wonder: In Square Circle (1985, Tamla) B+(***)
  206. Stevie Wonder: Jungle Fever (1991, Motown) B+(**)
  207. Betty Wright: Danger High Voltage (1974, Alston) A-
  208. Betty Wright: Live (1978, Alston) B+(***)
  209. Yo Yo: You Better Ask Somebody (1993, EastWest) A-
  210. Dwight Yoakam: Just Lookin' for a Hit (1986-89 [1989], Reprise) B+(***)
  211. Neil Young & the Bluenotes: This Note's for You (1988, Reprise) B-
  212. Neil Young & Crazy Horse: Weld (1991, Reprise, 2CD) A-
  213. Neil Young: Unplugged (1993, Reprise) B+(***)
  214. Neil Young & Crazy Horse: Broken Arrow (1996, Reprise) B+(**)
  215. Yuri Yunakov Ensemble: New Colors in Bulgarian Wedding Music (1997, Traditional Crossroads) B+(***)
  216. Z-Man: Dope or Dogfood (2003, Refill) B+(***)
  217. Tapper Zukie: Man Ah Warrior (1973 [1977], MER) B+(***)
  218. Henry Threadgill Zooid: Poof (2021, Pi) +

September 26

  1. Eivind Aarset 4tet: Phantasmagoria, or a Different Kind of Journey (2021, Jazzland) B+(***)
  2. Adult Mom: Driver (2020 [2021], Epitaph) B+(**)
  3. Air Craft: Divergent Path (2021, Craftedair/Blujazz) B
  4. Lauren Alaina: Sitting Pretty on Top of the World (2021, Mercury Nashville) B-
  5. Rodrigo Amado Motion Trio & Alexander von Schlippenbach: The Field (2019 [2021], NoBusiness) A-
  6. Arab Strap: As Days Get Dark (2021, Rock Action) B+(**)
  7. Baby Queen: The Yearbook (2021, Polydor) B+(***)
  8. Dmitry Baevsky: Soundtrack (2019 [2021], Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(**)
  9. Benny the Butcher: Pyrex Picasso (2018 [2021], Rare Scrilla/BSF, EP) B+(*)
  10. Eric Bibb: Dear America (2021, Provogue) B+(**)
  11. Nat Birchall: Ancient Africa (2021, Ancient Archive of Sound) B+(***)
  12. Lena Bloch & Feathery: Rose of Lifta (2019 [2021], Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(*)
  13. Bomba Estéreo: Deja (2021, Sony Music Latin) B+(**)
  14. Anthony Braxton: Quartet (Standards) 2020 (2020 [2021], New Braxton House, 13CD) A-
  15. The Bug: Fire (2021, Ninja Tune) B+(*)
  16. Butcher Brown: #KingButch (2020, Concord Jazz) B+(*)
  17. Butcher Brown: Encore (2021, Concord Jazz) B
  18. George Cables: Too Close for Comfort (2021, HighNote) B+(*)
  19. Marc Cary: Life Lessons (2020 [2021], Sessionheads United) B+(***)
  20. Chubby and the Gang: The Mutt's Nuts (2021, Partisan) B+(**)
  21. Chvrches: Screen Violence (2021, Glassnote) B+(***)
  22. Mike Cohen: Winter Sun (2021, Blujazz) B+(**)
  23. Charley Crockett: Music City USA (2021, Son of Davy) B+(***)
  24. Lao Dan/Deng Boyu: TUTU Duo (2019 [2021], NoBusiness) B+(***)
  25. Caroline Davis: Portals, Volume 1: Mourning (2020 [2021], Sunnyside) B+(**)
  26. Graham Dechter: Major Influence (2018 [2021], Capri) B+(**)
  27. Sasha Dobson: Girl Talk (2021, self-released) B+(**)
  28. Chet Doxas: You Can't Take It With You (2019 [2021], Whirlwind) B+(**)
  29. Gerry Eastman Trio: Trust Me (2021, self-released) B+(*)
  30. Amir ElSaffar/Rivers of Sound Orchestra: The Other Shore (2020 [2021], Outnote) B+(***)
  31. Family Plan: Family Plan (2020 [2021], Endectomorph Music) B+(***)
  32. Alon Farber: Hagiga: Reflecting on Freedom (2020 [2021], Origin) B
  33. The Felice Brothers: From Dreams to Dust (2021, Yep Roc) B+(**)
  34. Satoko Fujii: Piano Music (2021, Libra) B+(*)
  35. Kenny Garrett: Sounds From the Ancestors (2021, Mack Avenue) B+(**)
  36. Jon Gordon: Stranger Than Fiction (2021, ArtistShare) B+(**)
  37. Georg Graewe & Sonic Fiction Orchestra: Fortschritt Und Vergnügen (2020, Random Acoustics) B+(**)
  38. Gordon Grdina/Jim Black: Martian Kitties (2021, Astral Spirits) B+(**)
  39. The Halluci Nation: One More Saturday Night (2021, Radicalized) B+(***)
  40. Walker Hayes: Country Stuff (2021, Monument, EP) B+(**)
  41. Homeboy Sandman: Anjelitu (2021, Mello Music Group, EP) A-
  42. Marc Johnson: Overpass (2018 [2021], ECM) B+(**)
  43. India Jordan: Watch Out! (2021, Ninja Tune, EP) B+(**)
  44. Timo Lassy: Trio (2021, We Jazz) B+(***)
  45. Little Simz: Sometimes I Might Be Introvert (2021, Age 101) B+(***)
  46. Lyle Mays: Eberhard (2020 [2021], self-released, EP) B
  47. Szilard Mezei Tubass Quintet: Rested Turquoise (2018 [2021], NoBusiness) B+(***)
  48. Aakash Mittal: Nocturne (2018 [2021], self-released) B+(***)
  49. Liudas Mockunas/Christian Windfeld: Pacemaker (2018 [2021], NoBusiness) B+(*)
  50. Nils Petter Molvaer: Stitches (2021, Modern) B+(***)
  51. Kacey Musgraves: Star-Crossed (2021, MCA Nashville) B+(**)
  52. Mushroom: Songs of Dissent: Live at the Make Out Room 8/9/19 (2019 [2021], Alchemikal Art) B+(**)
  53. Adam Nolan Trio: Prim and Primal (2021, self-released) B+(***)
  54. Chuck Owen and the Jazz Surge: Within Us: Celebrating 25 Years of the Jazz Surge (2021, MAMA/Summit) B+(*)
  55. Alexis Parsons: Alexis (2021, New Artists) B+(**)
  56. Lukasz Pawlik: Long-Distance Connections (2017-19 [2021], Summit) B+(**)
  57. Carly Pearce: 29: Written in Stone (2021, Big Machine) A-
  58. Houston Person: Live in Paris (2019 [2021], HighNote) B+(***)
  59. Pink Siifu: Gumbo'! (2021, Field-Left) B+(**)
  60. Polo G: Hall of Fame (2021, Columbia/Only Dreamers Achieve) B+(*)
  61. Mauricio J. Rodriguez: Luz (2021, self-released) B
  62. Adonis Rose and the New Orleans Jazz Orchestra: Petite Fleur (2019-20 [2021], Storyville) B+(***)
  63. Renee Rosnes: Kinds of Love (2021, Smoke Sessions) B+(*)
  64. Saint Etienne: I've Been Trying to Tell You (2021, Heavenly) B+(**)
  65. David Sanford Big Band Featuring Hugh Ragin: A Prayer for Lester Bowie (2016 [2021], Greenleaf Music) B+(***)
  66. The Scenic Route Trio: Flight of Life (2021, self-released) B+(*)
  67. Penelope Scott: Hazards (2021, Many Hats, EP) B+(*)
  68. Sidemen: Sidemen (2021, Summit) B
  69. Sturgill Simpson: The Ballad of Dood & Juanita (2021, High Top Mountain, EP) B+(**)
  70. Cleo Sol: Mother (2021, Forever Living Originals) B+(***)
  71. Pauline Anna Strom: Angel Tears in Sunlight (2020 [2021], RVNG Intl.) B+(***)
  72. Tropical Fuck Storm: Deep States (2021, Joyful Noise) B+(*)
  73. Turnstile: Glow On (2021, Roadrunner) B+(*)
  74. Yuma Uesaka and Marilyn Crispell: Streams (2018 [2021], Not Two) B+(***)
  75. Leon Vynehall: Rare, Forever (2021, Ninja Tune) B
  76. We Are the Union: Ordinary Life (2021, Bad Time) B+(*)
  77. Young Stoner Life/Young Thug/Gunna: Slime Language 2 (2021, YSL/300 Entertainment) B+(***)
  78. John Coltrane: Another Side of John Coltrane (1956-61 [2021], Craft) B+(***)
  79. Marshall Crenshaw: The Wild, Exciting Sounds of Marshall Crenshaw: Live in the 20th and 21st Century (1983-2018 [2021], Sunset Blvd., 2CD) B+(*)
  80. Marianne Faithfull: The Montreux Years (1995-2009 [2021], BMG) B+(***)
  81. Joel Futterman: Creation Series (2008 [2021], NoBusiness, 5CD) A-
  82. Frode Gjerstad/Kent Carter/John Stevens: Detail-90 (1990 [2021], NoBusiness) B+(***)
  83. John Hiatt: The Confidence Man in Canada (1989 [2021], Hobo) B+(*)
  84. Sheila Jordan: Comes Love: Lost Session 1960 (1960 [2021]) B+(***)
  85. Itaru Oki Quartet: Live at Jazz Spot Combo 1975 (1975 [2021], NoBusiness) B+(***)
  86. Lee Scratch Perry: The Specialist: The Pama Years (1969-71 [2021], Pama) B+(***)
  87. Sam Rivers Quartet: Undulation [Sam Rivers Archive Project, Volume 5] (1981 [2021], NoBusiness) A-
  88. Jim Snidero: Strings (2001 [2021], Savant) A-
  89. Pauline Anna Strom: Trans-Millenia Music (1982-88 [2017], RVNG Intl.) B+(***)
  90. Mototeru Takagi/Susumu Kongo/Nao Takeuchi/Shola Koyama: Live at Little John, Yokohama 1999 (1999 [2021], NoBusiness) A-
  91. Total Music Association: Walpurgisnacht (1971-88 [2021], NoBusiness) A-
  92. What Goes On: The Songs of Lou Reed (1967-2019 [2021], Ace) A-
  93. 50 Cent: The Massacre (2005, Shady/Aftermath/Interscope) B+(**)
  94. Eivind Aarset: Électronique Noire (1998, Jazzland) A-
  95. Eivind Aarset's Électronique Noire: Light Extracts (2001, Jazzland) B+(***)
  96. Eivind Aarset: Connected (2004, Jazzland) B+(**)
  97. Eivind Aarset: Sonic Codex (2007, Jazzland) B+(**)
  98. Eivind Aarset & the Sonic Codex Orchestra: Live Extracts (2010, Jazzland) B+(**)
  99. Autosalvage: Autosalvage (1968, RCA Victor) B+(***)
  100. Dan Bern: The Swastika E.P. (2002, Messenger, EP) A-
  101. Chuck Berry: The Anthology (1955-73 [2000], MCA/Chess, 2CD) A
  102. Chuck Berry: Gold (1955-73 [2005], Chess) A
  103. Big Brother and the Holding Company: Be a Brother (1970, Columbia) B+(*)
  104. Black Flag: Damaged (1981, SST) B+(**)
  105. Mary J. Blige: Herstory, Vol. 1 (1992-97 [2019], Geffen) A-
  106. Mary J. Blige: Love & Life (2003, Geffen) B+(***)
  107. Kurtis Blow: The Best of Kurtis Blow [20th Century Masters/The Millennium Collection] (1979-86 [2003], Mercury/Chronicles) B+(***)
  108. Burning Spear: Creation Rebel: The Original Classic Recordings From Studio One (1969-72 [2004], Heartbeat) A-
  109. Burning Spear: Reggae Greats (1975-78 [1984], Island) A-
  110. Burning Spear: People of the World (1986, Slash) B+(**)
  111. Burning Spear: The Best of Burning Spear [20th Century Masters: The Millennium Collection] (1975-91 [2002], Island/Chronicles) A-
  112. Butthole Surfers: Butthole Surfers (1983, Alternative Tentacles, EP) B+(**)
  113. Butthole Surfers: Butthole Surfers/Live PCPPEP (1982-84 [2003], Latino Buggerveil) B+(*)
  114. Butthole Surfers: Electriclarryland (1996, Capitol) B+(*)
  115. Gene Chandler: The Duke of Earl (1962, Vee-Jay) B+(**)
  116. Gene Chandler: The Girl Don't Care (1967, Brunswick) B+(*)
  117. Childish Gambino: Culdesac (2010, Glassnote) B+(***)
  118. Childish Gambino: Because the Internet (2013, Glassnote) B-
  119. The Chi-Lites: (For God's Sake) Give More Power to the People (1971, Brunswick) A-
  120. The Credibility Gap: A Great Gift Idea (1974 [1974], Reprise) B+(*)
  121. Creole Kings of New Orleans: Volume Two (1950-58 [1993], Specialty) A-
  122. Devo: Greatest Hits (1977-84 [1990], Warner Bros.) B+(***)
  123. Devo: Greatest Misses (1976-82 [1990], Warner Bros.) B+(*)
  124. The Dismemberment Plan: The Dismemberment Plan Is Terrified (1997, DeSoto) A-
  125. The Dismemberment Plan: Change (2001, DeSoto) B+(**)
  126. Floyd Dixon: Marshall Texas Is My Home (1953-57 [1991], Specialty) B+(***)
  127. D.O.A.: War on 45 (1982, Alternative Tentacles, EP) A-
  128. The Doors: Morrison Hotel (1970, Elektra) B
  129. The Doors: 13 (1967-70 [1970], Elektra) B+(***)
  130. Marianne Faithfull: Come and Stay With Me: The UK 45s 1964-1969 (1964-69 [2018], Ace) B
  131. Marianne Faithfull: Marianne Faithfull's Greatest Hits (1964-69 [1987], Abkco) B
  132. Marianne Faithfull: Faithfull: A Collection of Her Best Recordings (1964-94 [1994], Island) A-
  133. Marianne Faithfull: Vagabond Ways (1999, IT/Virgin) B+(**)
  134. Marianne Faithfull: Before the Poison (2005, Anti-) B
  135. Freddy Fender: Canciones De Mi Barrio [The Roots of Tejano Rock] (1959-64 [1993], Arhoolie) B+(**)
  136. Freddy Fender: The Best of Freddy Fender (1974-77 [1977], Dot) A-
  137. Freddy Fender: Swamp Gold (1978, ABC) B+(**)
  138. Ferron: Testimony (1981, Philo) A-
  139. The Firesign Theatre: How Can You Be in Two Places at Once When You're Not Anywhere at All (1969, Columbia) B-
  140. The Firesign Theatre: Don't Crush That Dwarf, Hand Me the Pliers (1970, Columbia) B-
  141. The Firesign Theatre: I Think We're All Bozos on This Bus (1971, Columbia) C+
  142. The Firesign Theatre: Everything You Know Is Wrong (1974, Columbia) B
  143. The Firesign Theatre: Give Me Immortality or Give Me Death (1998, Rhino) B
  144. The Firesign Theatre: Boom Dot Bust (1999, Rhino) B-
  145. The Firesign Theatre: The Bride of Firesign (2001, Rhino) B-
  146. Paul Gayten & Annie Laurie/Dave Bartholomew/Roy Brown: Regal Records in New Orleans (1949-51 [1991], Specialty) B+(**)
  147. The Go-Betweens: Metal and Shells (1983-84 [1985], PVC) A-
  148. Guitar Slim: Sufferin' Mind (1953-55 [1991], Specialty) B+(***)
  149. Orchestra Harlow: El Exigente (1967, Fania) B+(***)
  150. Orchestra Harlow: Hommy: A Latin Opera (1973, Fania) B
  151. Orchestra Harlow: Salsa (1973 [1974], Fania) B+(***)
  152. Larry Harlow: Greatest Hits (1971-79 [2008], Fania) A-
  153. Camille Howard: Vol. 1: Rock Me Daddy (1947-52 [1993], Specialty) A-
  154. Camille Howard: Vol. 2: X-Temporaneous Boogie (1947-52 [1996], Specialty) B+(***)
  155. Tommy James: The Very Best of Tommy James & the Shondells (1964-71 [1993], Rhino) B+(**)
  156. Jimmy Liggins & His Drops of Joy: Vol. 2: Rough Weather Blues (1947-53 [1992], Specialty) A-
  157. Joe Liggins & the Honeydrippers: Vol. 2: Dripper's Blues (1950-54 [1992], Specialty) B+(***)
  158. Percy Mayfield: Vol. 2: Memory Pain (1950-57 [1992], Specialty) B+(***)
  159. Roy Milton & His Solid Senders: Vol. 2: Groovy Blues (1945-53 [1992], Specialty) B+(***)
  160. Roy Milton & His Solid Senders: Vol. 3: Blowin' With Roy (1945-53 [1994], Specialty) B+(**)
  161. Ismael Miranda Con Orchestra Harlow: Oportunidad (1972, Fania) B+(**)
  162. Jemeel Moondoc: Muntu Recordings (1975-79 [2009], NoBusiness, 3CD) B+(***)
  163. Jemeel Moondoc Trio: Judy's Bounce (1981 [1982], Soul Note) B+(***)
  164. Jemeel Moondoc Sextet: Konstanze's Delight (1981 [1983], Soul Note) B+(**)
  165. Jemeel Moondoc: The Zookeeper's House (2013 [2014], Relative Pitch) A-
  166. Jemeel Moondoc & Hilliard Greene: Cosmic Nickelodeon (2015 [2016], Relative Pitch) B+(**)
  167. More Girl Group Greats (1958-66 [2001], Rhino) A-
  168. Carly Pearce: Carly Pearce (2018-19 [2020], Big Machine) B
  169. Carly Pearce: 29 (2020, Big Machine, EP) B+(***)
  170. Lee Perry: Upsetters 14 Dub Blackboard Jungle (1973 [2004], Auralux) A-
  171. Lee Scratch Perry: Upsetter in Dub: Upsetter Shop Volume One (1970s [1997], Heartbeat) B+(**)
  172. Lee "Scratch" Perry: Soundzs From the Hot Line (1970s [1992], Heartbeat) B+(***)
  173. Lee "Scratch" Perry: Meets Bullwackie in Satan's Dub (1990, ROIR) B+(*)
  174. Lee "Scratch" Perry: From the Secret Laboratory (1990, Mango) B+(***)
  175. Lee "Scratch" Perry + Subatomic Sound System: Super Ape Returns to Conquer (2017, Subatomic Sound) A-
  176. Lloyd Price: Vol. 2: Heavy Dreams (1952-56 [1993], Specialty) B+(**)
  177. Puss N Boots: No Fools, No Fun (2013-14 [2014], Blue Note) B+(*)
  178. Puss N Boots: Sister (2020, Blue Note) B+(*)
  179. Joe Turner/Smilin' Smokey Lynn/Big Maceo/H-Bomb Ferguson: Shouting the Blues (1949-53 [1992], Specialty) B+(**)
  180. The Upsetters: Clint Eastwood (1970, Pama) B+(***)
  181. The Upsetters: Blackboard Jungle Dub (1971-73 [1981], Clocktower) B+(***)
  182. T-Bone Walker/Guitar Slim/Lawyer Houston/Al King/Ray Agee/R.S. Rankin: Texas Guitar: From Dallas to L.A. (1950-64 [1972], Atlantic) B+(*)
  183. Jemeel Moondoc Quintet: Nostalgia in Times Square (1985 [1986], Soul Note) ++
  184. Jemeel Moondoc With Dennis Charles: We Don't (1981 [2003], Eremite) +
  185. Jemeel Moondoc & the Jus Grew Orchestra: Spirit House (2000, Eremite) ++
  186. Jemeel Moondoc Vtet: Revolt of the Negro Lawn Jockeys (2000 [2001], Eremite) +
  187. Jemeel Moondoc Quartet: The Astral Revelations (2016, RogueArt) +
  188. New Millennium Doo Wop Party (1954-61 [2000], Rhino) A+

August 30

  1. Joshua Abrams/Chad Taylor: Mind Maintenance (2021, Drag City) B+(***)
  2. Altin Gün: Yol (2021, ATO) B+(**)
  3. Miguel Ângelo Quarteto: Dança Dos Desastrados (2021, self-released) B+(**)
  4. Iggy Azalea: The End of an Era (2021, Bad Dreams/Empire) A-
  5. BaianaSystem: OXEAXEEXU (2021, Maquina De Louco) B+(***)
  6. Bleachers: Take the Sadness Out of Saturday Night (2021, RCA) B+(*)
  7. Dr. Mike Bogle: Let There Be Light (2021, MBP/Groove) B
  8. Alan Broadbent/London Metropolitan Strings: Broadbent Plays Brubeck (2021, Eden River) B+(*)
  9. Greg Burk/Ron Seguin/Michel Lambert: Sound Neighbors (2020, Tonos) B+(***)
  10. Greg Burk: Simple Joys (2019 [2021], Tonos) B+(*)
  11. Daniel Carter: Playfield Vol 1: Sonar (2020 [2021], Orbit577) B+(*)
  12. Daniel Carter: Playfield Vol. 2: The Middle (2020 [2021], Orbit577) B+(**)
  13. Daniel Carter: Playfield Vol. 3: After Life (2020 [2021], Orbit577) B+(*)
  14. Tom Cohen: My Take (2021, Versa Music) B+(**)
  15. Xhosa Cole Quartet: K(no)w Them, K(no)w Us (2021, Stoney Lane) B+(**)
  16. Wayne Coniglio & Scott Whitfield: Faster Friends (2021, Summit) B
  17. Jack Cooper/Jeff Tobias: Tributaries (2021, Astral Spirits) B
  18. Dave: We're All Alone in This Together (2021, Neighbourhood) A-
  19. Dominican Jazz Project: Desde Lejos (2020-21 [2021], Summit) B+(*)
  20. Emily Duff: Razor Blade Smile (2021, Mr. Mudshow Music) A-
  21. Paul Dunmall & Mark Sanders: Unity (2020 [2021], 577) B+(**)
  22. Billie Eilish: Happier Than Ever (2021, Interscope) A-
  23. Falkner Evans: Invisible Words (2021, CAP) B+(**)
  24. Orrin Evans: The Magic of Now (2021, Smoke Sessions) B+(***)
  25. Lorraine Feather: My Own Particular Life (2019-21 [2021], Relarion) B+(*)
  26. Alvin Fielder/David Drove/Jason Jackson/Damon Smith: The Very Cup of Trembling (2016 [2021], Astral Spirits) B+(***)
  27. Fire!: Defeat (2019-20 [2021], Rune Grammofon) A-
  28. Michael Foster/Ben Bennett: Contractions (2019 [2021], Astral Spirits) B+(**)
  29. Frode Gjerstad Trio + 1: Forgotten City (2018 [2020], PNL) B+(*)
  30. The Go! Team: Get Up Sequences Part One (2021, Memphis Industries) B+(***)
  31. Bob Gorry/Pete Brunelli/Peter Riccio: GoBruCcio (2021, NHIC) B+(**)
  32. Devin Gray: Melt All the Guns (2019 [2021], Rataplan) B+(**)
  33. Jared Hall: Seen on the Scene (2018 [2021], Origin) B+(**)
  34. Halsey: If I Can't Have Love, I Want Power (2021, Capitol) B+(***)
  35. Graham Haynes vs Submerged: Echolocation (2020 [2021], Burning Ambulance) A-
  36. Inawhirl: Streugebilde (2020 [2021], Trost) B+(*)
  37. Alan Jackson: Where Have You Gone (2021, EMI Nashville) B+(***)
  38. Jake Breaks: Breaksy (2021, Wide Hive) B+(*)
  39. Rodney Jordan & Christian Fabian: Conversations (2019 [2021], Spicerack) B+(**)
  40. Ka: A Martyr's Reward (2021, Iron Works) B+(***)
  41. Koma Saxo: Live (2019 [2021], We Jazz) B+(***)
  42. L.A. Cowboy: The Big Pitch (2021, Reconcile) B
  43. Marthe Lea Band: Asura (2020 [2021], Motvind) B+(*)
  44. Lean Left: Medemer (2018 [2020], PNL) A-
  45. Jeff Lederer/Sunwatcher: Eightfold Path (2020 [2021], Little(i)Music) B+(**)
  46. Gianni Lenoci: A Few Steps Beyond (2019 [2021], Amirani) B+(*)
  47. Les Filles De Illighadad: At Pioneer Works (2021, Sahel Sounds) B+(**)
  48. Lord Huron: Long Lost (2021, Republic) B
  49. Lorde: Solar Power (2021, Universal) B+(**)
  50. Los Lobos: Native Sons (2021, New West) B+(*)
  51. L'Rain: Fatigue (2021, Mexican Summer) B+(*)
  52. Michael Mantler: Coda: Orchestra Suites (2019-20 [2021], ECM) B+(**)
  53. Charlie Marie: Ramble On (2021, self-released) B+(**)
  54. Sibusiso Mash Mashiloane: Ihubo Labomdabu (2021, Unlocked Keys) B+(*)
  55. James McMurtry: The Horses and the Hounds (2021, New West) A-
  56. Brad Mehldau/Orpheus Chamber Orchestra: Variations on a Melancholy Theme (2013 [2021], Nonesuch) B
  57. Francisco Mela: MPT Trio: Volume 1 (2020 [2021], 577) B+(**)
  58. Lady Millea: I Don't Mind Missing You (2021, Reconcile) B+(*)
  59. Dave Miller Trio: The Mask-erade Is Over (2021, Summit) B+(*)
  60. Steve Million: What I Meant to Say (2019 [2021], Origin) B+(*)
  61. Roscoe Mitchell: Dots: Pieces for Percussion and Woodwinds (2021, Wide Hive) B+(**)
  62. Hedvig Mollestad Trio: Ding Dong. You're Dead. (2021, Rune Grammofon) B+(***)
  63. Ali Shaheed Muhammad & Adrian Younge: Jazz Is Dead 8: Brian Jackson (2021, Jazz Is Dead) B+(*)
  64. Nas: King's Disease II (2021, Mass Appeal) B+(*)
  65. Mankwe Ndosi and Body MemOri: Felt/Not Said (2021, Auspice NOW) B+(*)
  66. Nelly: Heartland (2021, Columbia, EP) B+(*)
  67. Calle Neumann/Ketil Gutvik/Ingebrigt Håker Flaten/Paal Nilssen-Love: New Dance (2020 [2021], PNL) B+(***)
  68. Kassa Overall: Shades of Flu 2: In These Odd Times (2021, Flu Note) B
  69. Caroline Parke: Pause and Pine (2021, self-released) B+(*)
  70. Part Chimp: Drool (2021, Wrong Speed) B
  71. Pearring Sound: Socially Distanced Duos (2020 [2021], self-released) B+(***)
  72. Ivo Perelman/Gordon Grdina/Hamin Honari: The Purity of Desire (2020 [2021], Not Two) B+(***)
  73. Portico Quartet: Terrain (2021, Gondwana) B+(*)
  74. Freddie Redd: Reminiscing (2013 [2021], Bleebop) B+(***)
  75. Riders Against the Storm: Flowers for the Living (2021, Divide and Conjure) B+(***)
  76. Trineice Robinson: All or Nothing (2021, 4RM Music Productions) B+(**)
  77. Aksel Rønning Trio: ART (2019 [2021], Øra Fonogram) B+(***)
  78. Claire Rousay: A Softer Focus (2021, American Dream) B
  79. Jaleel Shaw: Echoes (2021, self-released) B+(**)
  80. Matthew Shipp/Whit Dickey: Reels (2019 [2021], Burning Ambulance) B+(***)
  81. Kalie Shorr: I Got Here by Accident (2021, Tmwrk, EP) A-
  82. Gary Smulyan/Ronnie Cuber: Tough Baritones (2021, SteepleChase) B+(***)
  83. The Spirit of the Beehive: Entertainment, Death (2021, Saddle Creek) B
  84. Kevin Sun: <3 Bird (2021, Endectomorph Music) A-
  85. Tine Surel Lange: Works for Listening 1-10 (2021, Sofa Music) B+(**)
  86. Alfie Templeman: Forever Isn't Long Enough (2021, Chess Club) B+(**)
  87. Tinashe: 333 (2021, Tinashe Music) B+(***)
  88. Arne Torvik Trio: Northwestern Songs (2019 [2021], Losen) B+(**)
  89. Trak Trak: Sur Sur (2020, Ciclismo) A-
  90. Waterparks: Greatest Hits (2021, 300 Entertainment) B+(*)
  91. Jim Yanda: A Silent Way (2019 [2021], Corner Store Jazz, 2CD) B+(***)
  92. Young Pilgrims: We're Young Pilgrims (2021, Stoney Lane) B-
  93. Gyedu-Blay Ambolley: Simigwa (1975 [2018], Mr. Bongo) B+(***)
  94. Roy Brooks: Understanding (1970 [2021], Reel-to-Real, 2CD) B+(***)
  95. Peter Brötzmann: Love Comes Like Sour to Milk (1993 [2021], Trost, EP) B
  96. Cold Wave #1 (2017-20 [2021], Soul Jazz) B+(**)
  97. Cold Wave #2 (2015-20 [2021], Soul Jazz) A-
  98. Directions in Music: 1969 to 1973: Miles Davis, His Musicians and the Birth of a New Age of Jazz (1969-73 [2021], BGP) B+(**)
  99. Paul Dunmall/Keith Tippett/Philip Gibbs/Pete Fairclough: Onosante (2000 [2021], 577) A-
  100. Guillermo Gregorio/Damon Smith/Jerome Bryerton: Room of the Present (2007-08 [2021], Fundacja Sluchaj) B+(*)
  101. The J Ann C Trio: At Tan-Tar-A (1966 [2021], Modern Harmonic/Sundazed) B+(***)
  102. Jan & Dean: Filet of Soul Redux: The Rejected Master Recordings (1966 [2017], Omnivore) B
  103. Carl Magnus Neumann/Christian Reim Quartet: Molde International Jazz Festival 1976 (1976 [2021], Jazzaggression) B+(***)
  104. Prince: Welcome 2 America (2010 [2021], NPG/Legacy) B+(*)
  105. Christian Reim Sextet: Mona Lisa (1973 [2021], Jazzaggression) A-
  106. Amy Rigby: A One Way Ticket to My Life (1987-97 [2019], Southern Domestic) B+(***)
  107. The Rough Guide to the Roots of Jazz (1918-30 [2021], World Music Network) B+(***)
  108. Joseph Spence: Encore: Unheard Recordings of Bahamian Guitar and Singing (1965 [2021], Smithsonian/Folkways) A-
  109. Pat Thomas: The Locals Play the Music of Anthony Braxton (2006 [2021], Discus Music) A-
  110. ABC: Beauty Stab (1983, Mercury) B+(*)
  111. The Allman Brothers Band: Live at Fillmore East (1971, Capricorn) B
  112. The Allman Brothers Band: The Best of the Allman Brothers Band -- Live [20th Century Masters: The Millennium Collection] (1971 [2007], Mercury/Chronicles) B+(***)
  113. The Allman Brothers Band: The Road Goes On Forever: A Collection of Their Greatest Recordings (1969-73 [1975], Capricorn) B+(***)
  114. The Allman Brothers Band: The Best of the Allman Brothers Band [20th Century Masters: The Millennium Collection] (1969-79 [2000], Polydor) B+(***)
  115. Amadou & Mariam: Je Pense À Toi: The Best of Amadou & Mariam (1998-2002 [2005], Circular Moves/Universal Music Jazz) B+(***)
  116. Archers of Loaf: Archers of Loaf Vs. the Greatest of All Time (1994, Alias, EP) B+(**)
  117. Archers of Loaf: The Speed of Cattle (1992-94 [1996], Alias) B+(*)
  118. Archers of Loaf: Vitus Tinnitus (1997, Alias, EP) B+(**)
  119. Ashford & Simpson: So So Satisfied (1977, Warner Brothers) B+(***)
  120. Ashford & Simpson: Send It (1977, Warner Brothers) B+(**)
  121. Ashford & Simpson: Stay Free (1979, Warner Brothers) B+(*)
  122. Ashford & Simpson: Solid (1984, Capitol) B+(*)
  123. Bad Religion: All Ages (1982-94 [1995], Epitaph) B
  124. Afrika Bambaataa & Soulsonic Force: Planet Rock: The Album (1982-84 [1986], Tommy Boy) A-
  125. Billy Bang: Outline No. 12 (1982 [1983], Celluloid) B+(**)
  126. Bang on a Can: Bang on a Can Meets Kyaw Kyaw Naing (2005, Cantaloupe) A-
  127. Count Basie: The Best of Early Basie (1937-39 [1996], MCA) A
  128. Count Basie: Count Basie and His Great Vocalists (1939-50 [1993], Columbia/Legacy) A-
  129. Count Basie: Frankly Basie: Count Basie Plays the Hits of Frank Sinatra (1963 [1993], Verve) B+(*)
  130. Count Basie: Basie Jam (1973 [1975], Pablo) B+(*)
  131. Count Basie/Joe Turner: The Bosses (1973 [1974], Pablo) B+(***)
  132. Count Basie/Oscar Peterson: Count Basie Encounters Oscar Peterson: Satch and Josh (1974, Pablo) B+(**)
  133. Count Basie/Zoot Sims: Basie & Zoot (1975 [1976], Pablo) B+(***)
  134. Count Basie: Get Together (1979 [1986], Pablo) B+(***)
  135. The Bats: Compiletely Bats (1984-86 [1987], Communion) B+(**)
  136. Brown Sugar: I'm in Love With a Dreadlocks: Brown Sugar and the Birth of Lovers Rock 1977-80 (1977-80 [2018], Soul Jazz) B
  137. Dave and Ansell Collins: Double Barrel (1971, Big Tree) B+(***)
  138. Delta 5: Singles & Sessions 1979-81 (1979-81 [2006], Kill Rock Stars) A-
  139. Emily Duff: Maybe in the Morning (2017, Mod Prom) B+(***)
  140. Emily Duff: Hallelujah Hello (2019, Mr. Mudshow Music) B+(**)
  141. The Everly Brothers: Songs Our Daddy Taught Us (1958, Cadence) B+(**)
  142. Ella Fitzgerald/Count Basie/Joe Williams: One O'Clock Jump (1956-57 [1999], Verve) B+(*)
  143. Tom T. Hall: Ballad of Forty Dollars and His Other Great Songs (1969, Mercury) B+(**)
  144. Tom T. Hall: Greatest Hits, Vol. 2 (1971-75 [1975], Mercury) B+(***)
  145. Tom T. Hall: Greatest Hits: Volume I & II (1967-75 [1993], Mercury) A-
  146. Tom T. Hall: New Train Same Rider (1978, RCA Victor) B+(*)
  147. Tom T. Hall: Places I've Done Time (1978, RCA Victor) B+(***)
  148. Tom T. Hall: In Concert! Recorded Live at the Grand Ole Opry House (1979 [1983], RCA Victor) B
  149. Tom T. Hall: Saturday Morning Songs (1979, RCA Victor) B+(**)
  150. Tom T. Hall: Ol' T's in Town (1979, RCA Victor) A-
  151. Tom T. Hall: Soldier of Fortune (1980, RCA Victor) B+(*)
  152. John Hiatt: Y'All Caught?: The Ones That Got Away 1979-1985 (1979-85 [1989], Geffen) B+(***)
  153. John Hiatt: Perfectly Good Guitar (1993, A&M) B+(*)
  154. John Hiatt: The Best of John Hiatt [20th Century Masters: The Millennium Collection] (1983-93 [2003], A&M) B+(*)
  155. John Hiatt: Crossing Muddy Waters (2000, Vanguard) B+(**)
  156. John Hiatt: The Tiki Bar Is Open (2001, Vanguard) B+(***)
  157. John Hiatt & the Goners: Beneath This Gruff Exterior (2003, New West) B+(***)
  158. John Hiatt: Master of Disaster (2005, New West) B+(**)
  159. John Hiatt: Mystic Pinball (2012, New West) B+(**)
  160. Taj Mahal: The Taj Mahal Anthology: Volume 1 (1968-71 [1977], Columbia) A
  161. Taj Mahal: Recycling the Blues & Other Related Stuff (1972, Columbia) B+(*)
  162. Taj Mahal: Ooh So Good 'N Blues (1973, Columbia) A-
  163. Taj Mahal: The Hidden Treasures of Taj Mahal 1969-1973 (1969-73 [2021], Columbia/Legacy, 2CD) B+(***)
  164. Taj Mahal: The Best of Taj Mahal (1968-74 [1981], Columbia) A-
  165. Taj Mahal: An Evening of Acoustic Music (1993 [1994], Tradition & Moderne) B+(***)
  166. Taj Mahal: Best of the Private Years (1993-97 [2000], Private Music) B+(*)
  167. Taj Mahal & the Phantom Blues Band: Shoutin' in Key: Live (1998 [2000], Hannibal) B+(*)
  168. Taj Mahal: Maestro (2008, Heads Up) A-
  169. Manhattans: Greatest Hits (1973-80 [1980], Columbia) B+(**)
  170. Manhattans: Kiss and Say Goodbye: The Best of the Manhattans (1973-85 [1995], Columbia/Legacy) B+(***)
  171. Manfred Mann: The Five Faces of Manfred Mann (1964, HMV) B+(*)
  172. Manfred Mann: Mann Made (1965, HMV) C+
  173. Manfred Mann: Mann Made Hits (1964-66 [1966], HMV) B
  174. Manfred Mann: The Best of Manfred Mann: The Definitive Collection (1963-66 [1992], EMI) B
  175. Manfred Mann: As Is (1966, Fontana) B
  176. Manfred Mann: Chapter Two: The Best of the Fontana Years (1966-69 [1994], Fontana/Chronicles) B-
  177. Manfred Mann: Hit Mann! The Essential Singles 1963-1969 (1963-69 [2008], Raven) B+(**)
  178. Manfred Mann's Earth Band: Glorified Magnified (1972, Polydor) B+(*)
  179. Manfred Mann's Earth Band: Get Your Rocks Off (1973, Polydor) B+(**)
  180. Manfred Mann's Earth Band: Messin' (1973 [1998], Cohesion) B+(**)
  181. Thomas Mapfumo & the Blacks Unlimited: Mr. Music (1985, Earthworks) B+(***)
  182. Mary McCaslin: Way Out West (1973, Philo) A-
  183. Mary McCaslin: Prairie in the Sky (1975, Philo) B+(***)
  184. Mary McCaslin: Old Friends (1977, Philo) A-
  185. Mary McCaslin: Broken Promises (1994, Philo) B+(**)
  186. Mary McCaslin: Better Late Than Never (2006, Mary McCaslin Music) B+(***)
  187. Brad Mehldau/Mario Rossy/Perico Sambeat/Jordi Rossy: New York-Barcelona Crossing (1993 [1997], Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(**)
  188. Brad Mehldau/Mario Rossy/Perico Sambeat/Jordi Rossy: New York-Barcelona Crossing: Volumen 2 (1993 [1998], Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(**)
  189. Mehldau & Rossy Trio: When I Fall in Love (1993 [1994], Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(**)
  190. The Mekons: F.U.N. '90 (1990, A&M, EP) B+(*)
  191. Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes: Collector's Item: All Their Greatest Hits (1972-75 [1976], Philadelphia International) B+(***)
  192. Harold Melvin & the Blue Notes Featuring Teddy Pendergrass: Blue Notes & Ballads (1972-75 [1998], Epic/Legacy) B+(*)
  193. Ava Mendoza: Shadow Stories (2010, Resipiscent) B+(*)
  194. Ava Mendoza/Dominique Leone/Nick Tamburro: Unnatural Ways (2015, New Atlantis) B+(*)
  195. Ava Mendoza's Unnatural Ways: The Paranoia Party (2019, Sleeping Giant Glossolalia) B-
  196. Ava Mendoza/Vijay Anderson/Stephen Gauci: Studio Sessions Vol. 4 (2019, Gaucimusic, EP) B+(**)
  197. The Mighty Clouds of Joy: It's Time (1974, ABC/Dunhill) B+(***)
  198. The Mighty Clouds of Joy: The Best of the Mighty Clouds of Joy Volume 2 [20th Century Masters: The Millennium Collection] (2005-10 [2016], Motown Gospel) B
  199. [Mighty] Sparrow: King of the World (1984, B's) A-
  200. Mighty Sparrow: More Sparrow More!! (1969, Ra) A-
  201. Mighty Sparrow: Hot and Sweet (1974, Warner Bros.) A-
  202. Jackie Mittoo and the Soul Vendors: Evening Time (1968, Coxsone) A-
  203. Nas: God's Son (2002, Columbia) B+(**)
  204. Nas: Untitled (2008, Def Jam) A-
  205. Youssou N'Dour: Djamil Inédits 84-85 (1984-85 [1985], Celluloid) B+(*)
  206. Youssou N'Dour: Eyes Open (1992, Columbia) B+(***)
  207. Youssou N'Dour Et Le Super Etoile: Lii! (1996, Jololi) B+(***)
  208. Negativland: Helter Stupid (1989, SST) B-
  209. Yoko Ono: Season of Glass (1981, Geffen) B+(***)
  210. Yoko Ono Plastic Ono Band: Between My Head and the Sky (2009, Chimera) B+(*)
  211. Yoko Ono Plastic Ono Band: Take Me to the Land of Hell (2013, Chimera Music) B+(***)
  212. Pulnoc: Live at P.S. 122 (1989, bootleg) A-
  213. Pulnoc: Pulnoc (1990 [1991], Globus International) A
  214. Freddie Redd/Hampton Hawes: Piano East/Piano West (1952-55 [1985], Prestige/OJC) B+(*)
  215. Freddy Redd Trio: San Francisco Suite: For Jazz Trio (1957 (1990), Riverside/OJC) B+(**)
  216. Freddie Redd: Redd's Blues (1961 [2002], Blue Note) B+(*)
  217. Freddie Redd: Music for You (2014 [2015], SteepleChase) B+(**)
  218. Freddie Redd: With Due Respect (2014-15 [2016], SteepleChase) B+(***)
  219. Riders Against the Storm: Riders Against the Storm (2013, self-released, EP) B+(*)
  220. Riders Against the Storm: Speak the Truth (2010, self-released) B+(**)
  221. Jeannie C. Riley: Harper Valley P.T.A. (1968, Plantation) A-
  222. Jeannie C. Riley: Yearbooks and Yesterdays (1969, Plantation) B+(**)
  223. Earl Scruggs & Tom T. Hall: The Storyteller and the Banjo Man (1982, Columbia) B+(**)
  224. Jaleel Shaw: Perspective (2005, Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(***)
  225. Jaleel Shaw: Optimism (2007 [2008], Changu) B+(*)
  226. Frank Sinatra/Count Basie: Sinatra-Basie (An Historic Musical First) (1962, Reprise) A-
  227. Sly and Robbie: Sly and Robbie Present Taxi (1981, Mango) B+(***)
  228. Chris Smither: I'm a Stranger Too! (1970, Poppy) B+(**)
  229. Chris Smither: Don't It Drag On (1972, Poppy) B+(***)
  230. Chris Smither: It Ain't Easy (1984, Adelphi) B+(**)
  231. Chris Smither: Small Revelations (1996 [1997], Hightone) B+(***)
  232. Omar Souleyman: Highway to Hassake: Folk and Pop Sounds of Syria (1994-2006 [2007], Sublime Frequencies) A-
  233. Omar Souleyman: Dabke 2020: Folk and Pop Sounds of Syria (1999-2008 [2009], Sublime Frequencies) B+(***)
  234. Omar Souleyman: Jazeera Nights: Folk and Pop Sounds of Syria (1996-2009 [2010], Sublime Frequencies) B+(***)
  235. Spoonie Gee: The Godfather of Rap (1987, Tuff City) B+(**)
  236. Tinariwen: The Radio Tisdas Sessions (2000 [2002], World Village) B+(**)
  237. Tinariwen: Amassakoul (2004, World Village) B+(***)
  238. Aaron Tippin: Ultimate Aaron Tippin (1990-97 [2004], RCA Nashville/BMG Heritage) B+(***)
  239. Lobi Traoré: Ségou (1996, Cobalt) B+(***)
  240. Lobi Traoré: Rainy Season Blues (2009 [2010], Glitterbeat) B+(**)
  241. Warren Vaché: Iridescence (1981, Concord) B+(***)
  242. Virunga: Feet on Fire (1991, Stern's Africa) B+(***)
  243. Mark Feldman: Sounding Point (2020 [2021], Intakt) +
  244. Fred Frith/Ikue Mori: A Mountain Doesn't Know It's Tall (2015 [2021], Intakt) +
  245. Alexander Hawkins: Togetherness Music: For Sixteen Musicians (2020 [2021], Intakt) +
  246. Christopher Hoffman: Asp Nimbus (2020 [2021], Out of Your Head) +
  247. Punkt. Vrt. Plastik [Kaja Draksler/Petter Eldh/Christian Lillinger]: Somit (2020 [2021], Intakt) ++

July 26

  1. Snoh Aalegra: Temporary Highs in the Violet Skies (2021, ARTium/Roc Nation) B+(*)
  2. Arooj Aftab: Vulture Prince (2021, New Amsterdam) B+(*)
  3. [Ahmed]: Nights on Saturn (Communication) (2019 [2021], Astral Spirits) A-
  4. Alder Ego: III (2021, We Jazz) B+(**)
  5. Gary Allan: Ruthless (2021, EMI Nashville) B+(*)
  6. The Armed: Ultrapop (2021, Sargent House) B
  7. Michaël Attias/Simon Nabatov: Brooklyn Mischiefs (2014 [2021], Leo) B+(**)
  8. Backxwash: I Lie Here Buried With My Rings and My Dresses (2021, Ugly Hag) B+(*)
  9. Mandy Barnett: Every Star Above (2019 [2021], BMG) B
  10. Keshav Batish: Binaries in Cycle (2021, Woven Strands) B+(**)
  11. Bfb Da Packman: Fat Niggas Need Love Too (2021, The Lunch Crew) B+(**)
  12. Body Meπa: The Work Is Slow (2020 [2021], Hausu Mountain) A-
  13. Olie Brice/Binker Golding/Henry Kaiser/N.O. Moore/Eddie Prévost: The Secret Handshake With Danger: Vol. One (2020 [2021], 577) B+(*)
  14. Brockhampton: Roadrunner: New Light, New Machine (2021, Question Everything/RCA) B+(**)
  15. Burial: Chemz/Dolphin (2021, Hyperdub, EP) B+(*)
  16. Cedric Burnside: I Be Trying (2021, Single Lock) B+(**)
  17. Matt Caflisch: Runaway (2020, Fat Oak) B+(*)
  18. Jonas Cambien Trio: Nature Hath Painted the Body (2021, Clean Feed) B+(**)
  19. Pedro Carneiro & Pedro Melo Alves: Bad Company (2021, Clean Feed) B+(*)
  20. Eric Church: Heart (2021, EMI Nashville) B+(**)
  21. Eric Church: Soul (2021, EMI Nashville) B+(*)
  22. Clairo: Sling (2021, Fader/Republic) B+(*)
  23. Cloud Nothings: The Shadow I Remember (2021, Carpark) B+(**)
  24. Alex Collins/Ryan Berg/Karl Latham: Together (2020-21 [2021], Dropzonejazz) B+(**)
  25. Contour: Love Suite (2021, Good Question, EP) B+(*)
  26. Simão Costa: Beat With Out Byte (2021, Cipsela) B+(**)
  27. Sylvie Courvoisier/Ned Rothenberg/Julian Sartorius: Lockdown (2020 [2021], Clean Feed) B+(***)
  28. Rodney Crowell: Triage (2021, RC1) B+(***)
  29. Lucy Dacus: Home Video (2021, Matador) B+(**)
  30. Harold Danko: Spring Garden (2019 [2021], SteepleChase) B+(**)
  31. Desertion Trio: Numbers Maker (2019 [2021], Cuneiform) B+(***)
  32. McKinley Dixon: For My Mama and Anyone Who Look Like Her (2021, Spacebomb) B+(***)
  33. Doja Cat: Planet Her (2021, Kemosabe/RCA) B+(*)
  34. East Axis [Matthew Shipp/Allen Lowe/Gerald Cleaver/Kevin Ray]: Cool With That (2020 [2021], ESP-Disk) A-
  35. Elkka: Euphoric Melodies (2021, Technicolour, EP) B+(**)
  36. Ensemble O/Aum Grand Ensemble: Julius Eastman: Femenine (2020 [2021], Sub Rosa) B+(***)
  37. Noga Erez: Kids (2021, City Slang) B+(***)
  38. The Flatlanders: Treasure of Love (2021, Rack 'Em) B+(***)
  39. Joel Frahm: The Bright Side (2021, Anzic) B+(**)
  40. Frisque Concordance: Distinct Machinery (2017-18 [2021], Random Acoustics, 2CD) B+(***)
  41. The Front Bottoms: In Sickness & in Flames (2020, Fueled by Ramen) B+(**)
  42. Rob Frye: Exoplanet (2021, Astral Spirits) B+(***)
  43. Danilo Gallo Dark Dry Tears: A View Through a Slot (2021, Clean Feed) B+(**)
  44. Garbage: No Gods No Masters (2021, Infectious Music, 2CD) A-
  45. Justin Gerstin: Music for the Exploration of Elusive Phenomena (2020 [2021], Zabap Music) B+(***)
  46. Rhiannon Giddens With Francesco Turrisi: They're Calling Me Home (2021, Nonesuch) B+(***)
  47. Rocio Giménez López/Luciana Bass/Fermin Suarez/Rosina Scampino: Reunion En La Granja (2019 [2021], Discos ICM) B+(***)
  48. The Goon Sax: Mirror II (2021, Matador) B+(**)
  49. Tee Grizzley: Built for Whatever (2021, 300 Entertainment/Atlantic) B+(***)
  50. Grofo: Grofo (2020 [2021], Clean Feed) B+(**)
  51. Mats Gustafsson/Joachim Nordwall: Shadows of Tomorrow/The Brain Produces Electric Waves (2019-20 [2021], Astral Spirits, EP) B
  52. Danny L Harle: Harlecore (2021, Mad Decent) B+(**)
  53. Hearth: Melt (2020 [2021], Clean Feed) B+(*)
  54. John Hiatt With the Jerry Douglas Band: Leftover Feelings (2021, New West) A-
  55. Hiatus Kaiyote: Mood Valiant (2021, Brainfeeder) B+(*)
  56. Dylan Hicks: Accidental Birds (2021, Soft Launch) B+(**)
  57. Chrissie Hynde: Standing in the Doorway: Chrissie Hynde Sings Bob Dylan (2021, BMG) B+(**)
  58. Rocco John Iacovone/Tom Cabrera: Out of the Maelstrom (2020 [2021], Unseen Rain) B+(**)
  59. Rocco John Iacovone/Phil Sirois/Tom Cabrera: Synchronics (2021, Unseen Rain) B+(**)
  60. Iceage: Seek Shelter (2021, Mexican Summer) B
  61. Mikko Innanen/Stefan Pasborg/Cedric Piromalli: This Is It (2020 [2021], Clean Feed) A-
  62. Instant Composers Pool & Nieuw Amsterdams Peil: De Hondemepper (2018 [2020], ICP) A-
  63. Loraine James: Reflection (2021, Hyperdub) B+(*)
  64. Jaubi: Nafs at Peace (2021, Astigmatic) A-
  65. Anthony Joseph: The Rich Are Only Defeated When Running for Their Lives (2021, Heavenly Sweetness) A
  66. Jupiter & Okwess: Na Kozonga (2020 [2021], Everloving) B+(***)
  67. Khrysis: The Hour of Khrysis (2021, Jamla) B+(**)
  68. Amythyst Kiah: Wary + Strange (2021, Rounder) B+(*)
  69. Angélique Kidjo: Mother Nature (2021, Decca) B
  70. Kiwi Jr.: Cooler Returns (2021, Sub Pop) B+(***)
  71. John Kruth: Love Letters From the Lazaretto (2020 [2021], self-released) B+(***)
  72. Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio: I Told You So (2021, Colemine) B+(*)
  73. Luís Lopes/Lisbon Berlin Quartet: Sinister Hypnotization (2018 [2021], Clean Feed) B+(***)
  74. Lost Girls: Menneskekollektivet (2021, Smalltown Supersound) A-
  75. Low Cut Connie: Tough Cookies: The Best of the Quarantine Broadcasts (2020 [2021], Contender) B+(***)
  76. LSDXOXO: Dedicated 2 Disrespect (2021, XL, EP) B+(**)
  77. Lukah: Whe the Black Hand Touches You (2020 [2021], Raw Materials) B+(**)
  78. Marina: Ancient Dreams in a Modern Land (2021, Atlantic) A-
  79. The Mark Masters Ensemble: Masters & Baron Meet Blanton & Webster (2019 [2021], Capri) B+(***)
  80. MIKE: Disco! (2021, 10k) B+(**)
  81. Bob Mintzer & WDR Big Band Cologne: Soundscapes (2019 [2021], MCG Jazz) B+(**)
  82. Roscoe Mitchell/Mike Reed: The Ritual and the Dance (2015 [2021], Astral Spirits) B+(***)
  83. Liudas Mockunas/Arfvydad Kaziauskas: Purvs (2020 [2021], Jersika, 2LP) B+(**)
  84. The Modern Jazz Trio With Jerry Bergonzi: Straight Gonz (2021, AMM) B+(**)
  85. Modest Mouse: The Golden Casket (2021, Epic) B+(**)
  86. The Mountain Goats: Dark in Here (2021, Merge) A-
  87. Róisín Murphy: Crooked Machine (2021, Skint) B+(*)
  88. Laura Mvula: Pink Noise (2021, Atlantic) B+(*)
  89. Navy Blue: Song of Sage: Post Panic! (2020, Freedom Sounds) A-
  90. Navy Blue: Ádà Irin (2020, Freedom Sounds) B+(*)
  91. Nervous Dater: Call in the Mess (2021, Counter Intuitive) B+(**)
  92. Marius Neset: A New Dawn (2021, ACT Music) B+(*)
  93. Billy Nomates: Emergency Telephone (2020, Invada, EP) B+(***)
  94. Aaron Novik: Grounded (2020 [2021], Astral Spirits) B+(**)
  95. William Parker: Painters Winter (2020 [2021], AUM Fidelity) A-
  96. William Parker: Mayan Space Station (2020 [2021], AUM Fidelity) B+(***)
  97. Arlo Parks: Collapsed Into Sunbeams (2021, Transgressive) A-
  98. Mario Pavone/Dialect Trio + 1: Blue Vertical (2021, Out of Your Head) B+(***)
  99. Mario Pavone/The Tampa Quartet: Isabella (2021, Clean Feed) B+(***)
  100. Liz Phair: Soberish (2021, Chrysalis) B+(***)
  101. Pom Pom Squad: Death of a Cheerleader (2021, City Slang) B+(**)
  102. Powers/Rollin Duo: Strange Fortune (2021, Astral Spirits) B+(*)
  103. The Rempis Percussion Quartet: Sud Des Alpes (2019 [2021], Aerophonic) B+(***)
  104. Andrew Renfroe: Run in the Storm (2021, self-released) B+(**)
  105. Marc Ribot's Ceramic Dog: Hope (2020 [2021], Northern Spy) B+(***)
  106. Dawn Richard: Second Line (2021, Merge) B+(***)
  107. Sault: Nine (2021, Forever Living Originals) B+(***)
  108. Chris Schlarb/Chad Taylor: Time No Changes (2019 [2021], Astral Spirits/Big Ego) B+(*)
  109. J. Peter Schwalm: Aufbruch (2021, RareNoise) B+(*)
  110. Alex Sipiagin: Upstream (2020 [2021], Posi-Tone) B+(*)
  111. Skee Mask: Pool (2021, Ilian Tape) A-
  112. Slayyyter: Troubled Paradise (2021, Fader Label) B+(*)
  113. Sleater-Kinney: Path of Wellness (2021, Mom + Pop) B+(*)
  114. Slide Attack: Road Trip (2020 [2021], SACD) B+(*)
  115. Wadada Leo Smith/Douglas R. Ewart/Mike Reed: Sun Beans of Shimmering Light (2015 [2021], Astral Spirits) B+(***)
  116. Space Quartet: Directions (2019 [2021], Clean Feed) B+(**)
  117. Tele Novella: Merlynn Belle (2021, Kill Rock Stars) B+(***)
  118. Emma-Jean Thackray: Yellow (2021, Movementt/Warp) B
  119. TØRSÖ: Home Wrecked (2021, self-released, EP) B
  120. Tune-Yards: Sketchy (2021, 4AD) B
  121. Tyler, the Creator: Call Me if You Get Lost (2021, Columbia) B+(***)
  122. Luís Vicente Trio: Chanting in the Name Of (2021, Clean Feed) B+(**)
  123. Wau Wau Collectif: Yaral Sa Doom (2018 [2021], Sahel Sounds) B
  124. Faye Webster: I Know I'm Funny Haha (2021, Secretly Canadian) B+(*)
  125. Wild Up: Julius Eastman Vol. 1: Femenine (2021, New Amsterdam) B+(***)
  126. Chris Williams/Patrick Shiroishi: Sans Soleil (2021, Astral Spirits) B+(*)
  127. Sarah Wilson: Kaleidoscope (2012 [2021], Brass Tonic) B+(**)
  128. Adrian Younge & Ali Shaheed Muhammad: Jazz Is Dead 7: João Donato (2021, Jazz Is Dead, EP) B+(**)
  129. Hasaan Ibn Ali: Metaphysics: The Lost Atlantic Album (1965 [2021], Omnivore) A-
  130. Can: Live in Stuttgart 1975 (1975 [2021], Mute, 2CD) B+(***)
  131. Don Cherry: The Summer House Sessions (1968 [2021], Blank Forms Editions) B+(*)
  132. Don Cherry's New Researches: Organic Music Theatre: Festival De Jazz De Chateauvallon 1972 (1972 [2021], Blank Forms Editions) B+(*)
  133. Alice Coltrane: Live at the Berkeley Community Theater 1972 (1972 [2019], BCT) B+(**)
  134. Alice Coltrane: Kirtan: Turiya Sings (1981 [2021], Impulse!) B+(***)
  135. Miles Davis: Mercy, Miles! Live at Vienne (1991 [2021], Rhino, 2CD) B+(*)
  136. Diane Delin: Chicago Standard Time (1991 [2021], BluJazz) B+(*)
  137. Arne Domnérus Quartet: Dompan at the Savoy (1990 [2021], Phontastic) B+(**)
  138. Bill Evans: Behind the Dikes: The 1969 Netherlands Recordings (1969 [2021], Elemental Music, 2CD) A-
  139. Eyedea: Thirty Nine Lines (2001 [2021], Crushkill) B+(**)
  140. Roy Hargrove/Mulgrew Miller: In Harmony (2006-07 [2021], Resonance, 2CD) A-
  141. He's Bad! 11 Bands Decimate the Beats of Bo Diddley ([2021], Slovenly) B
  142. Indaba Is ([2021], Brownswood) B+(*)
  143. Alan Lomax's American Patchwork (1978-83 [2021], Mississippi) B+(***)
  144. Charles Mingus: Mingus at Carnegie Hall [Deluxe Edition] (1974 [2021], Atlantic, 2CD) A
  145. Nermin Niazi and Feisal Mosleh: Disco Se Aagay (1984 [2021], Discostan) B+(**)
  146. Rare.wavs Vol. 1 ([2021], Foreign Family Collective) B+(**)
  147. Scott Reeves Quintet: The Alchemist (2005 [2021], Origin) B+(**)
  148. Screamers: Demo Hollywood 1977 (1977 [2021], Super Viaduct, EP) B+(**)
  149. The Trojan Story (1961-71 [2021], Trojan, 3CD) B+(**)
  150. Shem Tupe/Justo Osala/Enos Okola: Guitar Music of Western Kenya: 45s From the Archive of Shem Tupe (1960s-70s [2021], Mississippi) B+(***)
  151. Vernacular: The Little Bird (2003 [2021], Astral Spirits) B+(***)
  152. Wallahi Le Zein! ([2021], Mississippi) B+(***)
  153. Ahmed Abdul-Malik: East Meets West (1959 [1960], RCA Victor) B+(*)
  154. Ahmed Abdul-Malik: The Music of Ahmed Abdul-Malik (1961, New Jazz) B+(***)
  155. C81 (1981, NME/Rough Trade) B+(*)
  156. Can: Landed (1975, Virgin) B+(**)
  157. Alice Coltrane: A Monastic Trio (1967-68 [1998], Impulse!) B+(**)
  158. Alice Coltrane: Ptah the El Daoud (1970, Impulse!) B+(***)
  159. Alice Coltrane: Journey in Satchidananda (1970 [1971], Impulse!) B+(**)
  160. John Hiatt: Bring the Family (1987, A&M) B+(*)
  161. John Hiatt: The Eclipse Sessions (2017 [2018], New West) B+(**)
  162. Grace Jones: Private Life: The Compass Point Sessions (1980-85 [1998], Island, 2CD) B+(***)
  163. Grace Jones: Slave to the Rhythm (1985, ZTT/Island) B-
  164. Biz Markie: I Need a Haircut (1991, Cold Chillin') B+(***)
  165. Biz Markie: Biz's Baddest Beats: The Best of Biz Markie (1987-94 [1994], Cold Chillin') B+(***)
  166. Helen Merrill: Helen Merrill (1954 [1955], Emarcy) A-
  167. Helen Merrill: Helen Merrill With Strings (1955 [1956], Emarcy) B+(***)
  168. Helen Merrill: Dream of You (1956 [1958], Emarcy) B+(**)
  169. Helen Merrill: Helen Merrill With Clifford Brown and Gil Evans (1954-56 [1990], Emarcy) B+(***)
  170. Helen Merrill: Merrill at Midnight (1957, Emarcy) B
  171. Helen Merrill: You've Got a Date With the Blues (1959 [1989], Verve) B+(**)
  172. Helen Merrill: American Country Songs (1959, Atco) B
  173. Helen Merrill/Dick Katz: The Feeling Is Mutual (1965 [1989], Emarcy) B+(***)
  174. Helen Merrill/Teddy Wilson: Helen Sings, Teddy Swings! (1970, Catalyst) B+(**)
  175. Nirvana: Sliver: The Best From the Box (1985-94 [2005], DGC) B+(*)
  176. The Rolling Stones: Rewind (1971-1984) (1971-84 [1984], Rolling Stones) A-
  177. The Rolling Stones: Sucking in the Seventies (1973-79 [1981], Rolling Stones/Virgin) B+(**)
  178. The Rolling Stones: Some Girls [Deluxe Edition] (1978 [2011], Universal Republic, 2CD) A-
  179. The Roots: Organix (1993, Remedy) B+(***)
  180. The Roots: From the Ground Up (1994, Geffen, EP) B+(**)
  181. The Roots: Do You Want More?!!!??! (1995, DGC) B+(**)
  182. The Roots: Dilla Joints (2010, self-released) B
  183. Charlie Shavers: Charlie Shavers and the Blues Singers 1938-1939 (1938-39 [1995], Timeless) B+(***)
  184. Charlie Shavers: The Last Sessions [The Definitive Black & Blue Sessions] (1970 [1999], Black & Blue) B+(*)
  185. Jinx Lennon: Liferafts for Latchicos (2019-20 [2021], Septic Tiger) 2019-20 [2021], Septic Tiger
  186. The Rolling Stones: Dirty Work (1986, Virgin) A-
  187. Sa-Roc: The Sharecropper's Daughter (2020, Rhymesayers) A-

June 28

  1. Susan Alcorn/Leila Bordreuil/Ingrid Laubrock: Bird Meets Wire (2018 [2021], Relative Pitch) B+(*)
  2. Harry Allen/Mike Karn: Milo's Illinois (2021, GAC) B+(**)
  3. Tony Allen: There Is No End (2020 [2021], Blue Note) B+(**)
  4. Aly & AJ: A Touch of the Beat Gets You Up on Your Feet Gets You Out and Then Into the Sun (2021, Aly & AJ Music) B+(*)
  5. Rodrigo Amado This Is Our Language Quartet: Let the Free Be Men (2017 [2021], Trost) A-
  6. Rebecca Angel: Just the Two of Us (2021, Timeless Grooves) B+(*)
  7. Armand Hammer & the Alchemist: Haram (2021, Backwoodz Studioz) B+(**)
  8. Ashnikko: Demidevil (2021, Parlophone, EP) B+(**)
  9. Steven Bernstein: Community Music (2020 [2021], Royal Potato Family, EP) B+(***)
  10. Bicep: Isles (2021, Ninja Tune) B+(**)
  11. Michael Bisio/Kirk Knuffke/Fred Lonberg-Holm: The Art Spirit (2018 [2021], ESP-Disk) B+(***)
  12. Black Midi: Cavalcade (2021, Rough Trade) B
  13. Namir Blade: Namir Blade Presents Aphelion's Traveling Circus (2020, Mello Music Group) B+(*)
  14. Jaimie Branch: Fly or Die Live (2021, International Anthem) A-
  15. Abraham Burton/Lucian Ban: Black Salt: Live at the Baroque Hall (2018 [2021], Sunnyside) B+(**)
  16. Chai: Wink (2021, Sub Pop) B+(**)
  17. Brian Charette: Power From the Air (2020 [2021], SteepleChase) B+(*)
  18. The Chills: Scatterbrain (2021, Fire) B+(***)
  19. J. Cole: The Off-Season (2021, Dreamville/Roc Nation) B+(*)
  20. Czarface/MF Doom: Super What? (2020 [2021], Silver Age, EP) A-
  21. Dan Dean: Fanfare for the Common Man (2017-18 [2021], Origin Classical) B-
  22. John Dikeman/Hamid Drake: Live in Chicago (2018 [2020], Doek Raw) B+(*)
  23. DJ Black Low: Uwami (2021, Awesome Tapes From Africa) A-
  24. Dopolarians: The Bond (2021, Mahakala) B+(***)
  25. Nahawa Doumbia: Kanawa (2018-20 [2021], Awesome Tapes From Africa) B+(***)
  26. Silke Eberhard Trio: Being the Up and Down (2020 [2021], Intakt) A-
  27. Robert Finley: Sharecropper's Son (2021, Easy Eye Sound) B+(***)
  28. Fire in Little Africa (2021, Motown) B+(***)
  29. Michael Formanek: Imperfect Measures (2017 [2021], Intakt) B+(**)
  30. James Francies: Purest Form (2021, Blue Note) B-
  31. Garage A Trois: Calm Down Cologne (2019 [2021], Royal Potato Family) B+(*)
  32. Sean Michael Giddings: Red Willow (2021, Origin) B+(*)
  33. Pedro Giraudo Tango Quartet: Impulso Tanguero (2021, Tiger Turn) B
  34. Girl in Red: If I Could Make It Go Quiet (2021, AWAL) B+(***)
  35. Ben Goldberg: Everything Happens to Be (2018 [2021], BAG Productions) B+(***)
  36. John Hart: Checkmate (2019 [2021], SteepleChase) B+(**)
  37. Kevin Hays/Ben Street/Billy Hart: All Things Are (2021, Smoke Sessions) B+(*)
  38. David Helbock: The New Cool (2020 [2021], ACT) B+(*)
  39. Dave Holland: Another Land (2020 [2021], Edition) B+(**)
  40. Jack Ingram/Miranda Lambert/Jon Randall: The Marfa Tapes (2021, RCA Nashville) B+(***)
  41. Japanese Breakfast: Jubilee (2021, Dead Oceans) B+(***)
  42. Cassandra Jenkins: An Overview on Phenomenal Nature (2021, Ba Da Bing) B+(**)
  43. Jonathan Karrant/Joshua White: Shadows Fall (2021, self-released) B+(*)
  44. Kuzu: The Glass Delusion (2018 [2021], Astral Spirits) B+(**)
  45. Julian Lage: Squint (2021, Blue Note) B+(**)
  46. Gabor Lesko: Earthway (2021, Creativity's Paradise Music) B
  47. The Linda Lindas: The Linda Lindas (2020, self-released, EP) B+(***)
  48. Doug Lofstrom: Music for Strings (2018-19 [2021], Origin Classical) B-
  49. L'Orange & Namir Blade: Imaginary Everything (2021, Mello Music Group) A-
  50. Andy Fairweather Low & the Low Riders: Lockdown Live (2020 [2021], Secret) B+(*)
  51. Mach-Hommy: Pray for Haiti (2021, Griselda) B+(***)
  52. Lorraina Marro: Love Is for All Time (2021, self-released) B+(**)
  53. Tobias Meinhart: The Painter (2021, Sunnyside) B+(**)
  54. Vic Mensa: I Tape (2021, Roc Nation, EP) B+(**)
  55. Mdou Moctar: Afrique Victime (2021, Matador) A-
  56. Ashley Monroe: Rosegold (2021, Mountainrose Sparrow) B
  57. Maria Muldaur With Tuba Skinny: Let's Get Happy Together (2021, Stony Plain) A-
  58. Naeem: Startisha (2020, 37d03d) A-
  59. Jason Nazary: Spring Collection (2020 [2021], We Jazz) B+(**)
  60. Larry Ochs-Donald Robinson Duo: A Civil Right (2018-19 [2021], ESP-Disk) B+(***)
  61. Genesis Owusu: Smiling With No Teeth (2021, Ourness/House Anxiety) B+(***)
  62. Evan Parker Electro-Acoustic Ensemble: Warszawa 2019 (2019 [2021], Fundacja Sluchaj) B+(***)
  63. William Parker: Trencadis: A Selection From Migration Into and Out of the Tone World (2019-20 [2021], Centering) B+(**)
  64. Jeremy Pelt: Griot: This Is Important! (2020 [2021], HighNote) B+(*)
  65. Ivo Perelman/Nate Wooley: Polarity (2020 [2021], Burning Ambulance) B+(*)
  66. Ralph Peterson: Raise Up Off Me (2020 [2021], Onyx Music) B+(**)
  67. Pluto Juice: Pluto Juice (2019 [2021], Contagious Music) B+(*)
  68. Chris Potter Circuits Trio: Sunrise Reprise (2020 [2021], Edition) B
  69. Tom Rainey Obbligato: Untucked in Hannover (2018 [2021], Intakt) B+(**)
  70. Dave Rempis/Tomeka Reid/Joshua Abrams/Tim Daisy/Tyler Damon: The Covid Tapes: Solos, Duos, & Trios (2020 [2021], Aerophonic, 2CD) A-
  71. Olivia Rodrigo: Sour (2021, Geffen) A-
  72. Samo Salamon/Hasse Poulsen: String Dancers (2020 [2021], Sazas) B+(**)
  73. Penelope Scott: Public Void (2020, Tesla's Pigeon, EP) A-
  74. Senyawa: Alkisah (2021, Burning Ambulance) B
  75. Serengeti: KDxMPC (2020, self-released, EP) B+(*)
  76. Serengeti: Curse of the Polo (2020, self-released) B+(*)
  77. Paul Silbergleit: The Hidden Standard (2018 [2021], BluJazz) B-
  78. Skyzoo: All the Brilliant Things (2021, Mello Music Group) B+(**)
  79. Ches Smith/We All Break: Path of Seven Colors (2015-20 [2021], Pyroclastic, 2CD) A-
  80. Sons of Kemet: Black to the Future (2021, Impulse!) A
  81. Chris Speed: Light Line (2018 [2021], Intakt) B+(**)
  82. Squid: Bright Green Field (2021, Warp) B+(**)
  83. Will St Peter/Steven Heffner/Steve Barnes: Honestly (2020 [2021], Origin) B+(*)
  84. St. Vincent: Daddy's Home (2021, Loma Vista) B+(**)
  85. Thomas Strønen/Ayumi Tanaka/Marthe Lea: Bayou (2018 [2021], ECM) B+(*)
  86. Jazmine Sullivan: Heaux Tales (2021, RCA) B+(*)
  87. Natsuki Tamura: Koki Solo (2020 [2021], Libra) B+(**)
  88. Too Much Joy: Mistakes Were Made (2021 People Suck Music) B+(**)
  89. The United States Air Force Band Airmen of Note: The 2021 Jazz Heritage Series (2021, self-released) B-
  90. Marta Warelis/Frank Rosaly/Aaron Lumley/John Dikeman: Sunday at De Ruimte (2020 [2021], Doek RAW) B+(***)
  91. Jennifer Wharton's Bonegasm: Not a Novelty (2020 [2021], Sunnyside) B+(**)
  92. Wolf Alice: Blue Weekend (2021, Dirty Hit) B+(**)
  93. 1971: The Year That Music Changed Everything (1971 [2021], Island) A-
  94. Duck Baker: Confabulations (1994-2017 [2021], ESP-Disk) A-
  95. Billy Bang: Lucky Man (2008 [2021], BBE, 2CD) B+(**)
  96. Gary Bartz NTU Troop: Live in Bremen 1975 (1975 [2021], Moosicus, 2CD) B+(***)
  97. Tim Berne/Chris Speed/Reid Anderson/Dave King: Broken Shadows (2018 [2021], Intakt) B+(***)
  98. Hamiet Bluiett: Bearer of the Holy Flame (1983 [2021], Strut) A-
  99. Julius Hemphill: The Boyé Multi-National Crusade for Harmony (1977-2007 [2021], New World, 7CD) A-
  100. ICP Orchestra: Plays Herbie Nichols in Nijmegen 7 May 1984 (1984 [2020], ICP) B+(***)
  101. Hailu Mergia & the Walias Band: Tezeta (1975 [2021], Awesome Tapes From Africa) B+(***)
  102. Joe Newman: Joe Newman at the Atlantic (1977 [2021], Phontastic) B+(***)
  103. Cecil Taylor Ensemble: Göttingen (1990 [2021], Fundacja Sluchaj, 2CD) B+(***)
  104. Cecil Taylor Quintet: Lifting the Bandstand (1998 [2021], Fundacja Sluchaj) A-
  105. Barney Wilen Quartet: Barney and Tete Grenoble '88 (1988 [2020], Elemental Music) B+(**)
  106. The Harry Allen-Keith Ingham Quintet: Are You Having Any Fun? A Celebration of the Music of Sammy Fain (1994, Audiophile) B+(**)
  107. Harry Allen: Tenors Anyone? (1996 [1997], BMG Novus) A-
  108. Harry Allen: Here's to Zoot (1997, BMG Novus) B+(***)
  109. Harry Allen/Randy Sandke: Turnstile: Music of the Trumpet Kings (1997 [2007], Nagel Heyer) B
  110. Harry Allen: Day Dream (1998, BMG Novus) A-
  111. Harry Allen: When I Grow Too Old to Dream (1999 [2000], BMG Novus) B+(***)
  112. Harry Allen: Once Upon a Summertime (1999, BMG Novus) B+(***)
  113. Harry Allen: Cole Porter Songbook (2001, BMG Novus) B+(***)
  114. Harry Allen: Dreamer (2001, BMG Novus) B
  115. Harry Allen: I Can See Forever (2002, BMG Novus) B+(*)
  116. Harry Allen: I Love Mancini (2002, BMG Novus) B
  117. Harry Allen: The Harry Allen Quartet (2003, self-released) A-
  118. Harry Allen/Joe Cohn: The Harry Allen & Joe Cohn Quartet (2005, self-released) B+(**)
  119. Harry Allen/Rossano Sportiello: Conversations: The Johnny Burke Songbook (2011, GAC) A-
  120. Harry Allen: Love Songs Only! (1993-2001 [2013], Nagel Heyer) B
  121. Duck Baker: There's Something for Everyone in America (1975, Kicking Mule) B+(***)
  122. Duck Baker: The King of Bongo Bong (1977, Kicking Mule) A-
  123. Duck Baker: Les Blues Du Richmond: Demos & Outtakes 1973-1979 (1973-79 [2018], Tompkins Square) B+(**)
  124. Duck Baker: Plymouth Rock: Unreleased & Rare Recordings, 1973-1979 (1973-79 [2020], Tompkins Square) B+(***)
  125. Duck Baker: Spinning Song: Duck Baker Plays the Music of Herbie Nichols (1995-96 [1996], Avant) B+(***)
  126. Duck Baker: The Roots & Branches of American Music (2009, Les Cousins) B+(**)
  127. Alan Barnes/Harry Allen: Barnestorming (2006 [2007], Woodville) B+(**)
  128. Bee Gees: Trafalgar (1971, Atco) C-
  129. Anne Briggs: Anne Briggs (1971, Topic) B+(***)
  130. James Brown: Super Bad (1970 [1971], King) B+(***)
  131. James Brown: Hot Pants (1971, Polydor) A-
  132. James Brown: There It Is (1972, Polydor) A-
  133. James Brown: Get on the Good Foot (1972, Polydor) B+(*)
  134. Carlton and the Shoes: Love Me Forever (1978, Studio One) B+(**)
  135. Carpenters: Carpenters (1971, A&M) C
  136. Dry Cleaning: Sweet Princess (2018 [2019], It's OK, EP) B+(***)
  137. Dry Cleaning: Boundary Road Snacks and Drinks (2019, It's OK, EP) B+(***)
  138. Lisle Ellis: What We Live Fo(u)r (1994 [1996], Black Saint) B+(*)
  139. Grin: Grin (1971, Spindizzy) B+(**)
  140. Grin [Nils Lofgren]: 1 + 1 (1971, Spindizzy) B+(***)
  141. Grin: All Out (1972, Spindizzy) A-
  142. Illinois Jacquet: Swing's the Thing (1957, Verve) B+(**)
  143. Illinois Jacquet: Bottoms Up: Illinois Jacquet on Prestige! (1968, Prestige) B+(***)
  144. Illinois Jacquet: The Comeback (1971 [1991], Black Lion) B+(**)
  145. Illinois Jacquet: Bottoms Up [The Definitive Black & Blue Sessions] (1974 [1997], Black & Blue) B+(**)
  146. Illinois Jacquet: God Bless My Solo [The Definitive Black & Blue Sessions] (1978 [2001], Black & Blue) B+(***)
  147. Billy Joel: Cold Spring Harbor (1971 [1983], Columbia) B
  148. Elton John: Elton John (1970, Uni) B-
  149. Elton John: Madman Across the Water (1971, Uni) B-
  150. Elton John: Don't Shoot Me I'm Only the Piano Player (1973, MCA) B
  151. Elton John: Caribou (1974, MCA) B
  152. Elton John: Elton John's Greatest Hits Volume II (1971-76 [1977], MCA) B+(**)
  153. Elton John: Elton John's Greatest Hits Volume III 1979-1987 (1979-87 [1987], Geffen) B
  154. Budd Johnson: The Chronological Budd Johnson 1944-1952 (1944-52 [2003], Classics) B+(***)
  155. Budd Johnson: French Cookin' (1963, Argo) B+(**)
  156. Budd Johnson With Joe Newman: Off the Wall (1964 [1965], Argo) B+(***)
  157. Curtis Mayfield: Curtis (1970, Curtom) A-
  158. Curtis Mayfield: Curtis/Live! (1971, Curtom) B+(***)
  159. Curtis Mayfield: Roots (1971, Curtom) A-
  160. MC5: High Time (1971, Atlantic) B+(***)
  161. MC5: Babes in Arms (1966-71 [1983], ROIR) A-
  162. Butch Miles and Friends: Cookin' (1995, Nagel Heyer) B+(***)
  163. Butch Miles and Howard Alden: Soulmates (1994 [2002], Nagel Heyer) B+(***)
  164. Jason Moran: The Armory Concert (2016, Yes) B+(*)
  165. New York Allstars: The Bix Beiderbecke Era (1993, Nagel Heyer) B+(**)
  166. The New York Allstars: We Love You, Louis! (1995 [1996], Nagel Heyer) B+(*)
  167. Joe Newman With Frank Foster: Good 'n' Groovy (1961, Prestige Swingville) B+(**)
  168. Joe Newman: I Love My Woman [The Definitive Black & Blue Sessions] (1979 [2000], Black & Blue) B+(***)
  169. Helen Reddy: Helen Reddy (1971, Capitol) B+(***)
  170. Helen Reddy: Helen Reddy's Greatest Hits (1971-75 [1975], Capitol) B+(**)
  171. Randy Sandke: Randy Sandke Meets Bix Beiderbecke (1993 [2002], Nagel Heyer) B+(**)
  172. Randy Sandke and the Buck Clayton Legacy: All the Cats Join In (1993 [1994], Nagel Heyer) B+(***)
  173. Randy Sandke and the New York Allstars: The Re-Discovered Louis and Bix (1999 [2000], Nagel Heyer) A-
  174. Gil Scott-Heron: Pieces of a Man (1971, Flying Dutchman) B+(***)
  175. Vladimir Shafranov Meets Harry Allen With Hans Backenroth/Bengt Stark: Dear Old Stockholm (2016, Venus) B+(**)
  176. Shaolin Afronauts: Flight of the Ancients (2011, Freestyle) A-
  177. Shaolin Afronauts: Quest Under Capricorn (2012, Freestyle) B+(**)
  178. Archie Shepp: Life at the Donaueschingen Music Festival (1967, SABA) B+(***)
  179. Archie Shepp: Blasé (1969, BYG) B+(***)
  180. Archie Shepp: Yasmina, a Black Woman (1969, BYG) B+(***)
  181. Archie Shepp: Poem for Malcolm (1969, BYG) B+(**)
  182. Archie Shepp: Live at the Panafrican Festival (1969 [1971], BYG) B+(***)
  183. Archie Shepp: Things Have Got to Change (1971, Impulse!) B+(*)
  184. Rossano Sportiello/Matthias Seuffert: Swingin' Duo by the Lago (2005-06 [2008], Styx) B+(*)
  185. The Stylistics: The Stylistics (1971, Avco) A-
  186. The Stylistics: The Best of the Stylistics (1971-74 [1975], Avco) B+(***)
  187. Ike & Tina Turner: River Deep Mountain High (1966 [1969], A&M) A-
  188. Ike & Tina Turner and the Ikettes: Come Together (1970, Liberty) A-
  189. Ike & Tina Turner: What You Hear Is What You Get: Live at Carnegie Hall (1971, United Artists) B+(***)
  190. Ike & Tina [Turner]: 'Nuff Said (1971, United Artists) B+(*)
  191. Allan Vaché and Harry Allen: Allan and Allen (2001 [2002], Nagel Heyer) A-
  192. What We Live: Never Was (1996 [1998], Black Saint) B+(***)
  193. What We Live: Trumpets (1996-98 [1999], Black Saint) B+(***)
  194. What We Live: Quintet for a Day (1998 [1999], New World) B+(**)
  195. Barney Wilen: Jazz Sur Seine (1958 [2000], Gitanes Jazz) A-
  196. Milford Graves/Jason Moran: Live at Big Ears (2018-20 [2021], Yes) +
  197. Jason Moran: Bangs (2016 [2017], Yes) +
  198. Jason Moran: Mass {Howl, Eon} (2017, Yes) +
  199. Jason Moran and the Bandwagon: Looks of a Lot (2017 [2018], Yes) +
  200. Jason Moran: Music for Joan Jonas (2017 [2018], Yes) ++
  201. Jason Moran: The Sound Will Tell You (2021, Yes) +
  202. What Goes On: The Songs of Lou Reed (1967-2019 [2021], Ace) ++
  203. Dry Cleaning: New Long Leg (2021, 4AD) A-

May 31

  1. Alchemy Sound Project: Afrika Love (2018 [2021], ARC) B+(**)
  2. Lina Allemano Four: Vegetables (2020 [2021], Lumo) B+(**)
  3. Rossano Baldini: Humanbeing (2020 [2021], RareNoise) B+(**)
  4. Carsie Blanton: Love & Rage (2021, So Ferocious) A-
  5. Enzo Carniel and Filippo Vignato as Silent Room: Aria (2021, Menace) B+(***)
  6. Chris Corsano & Bill Orcutt: Made Out of Sound (2020 [2021], Palilalia) B+(**)
  7. Fail Better!: The Fall (2017 [2021], JACC) B+(***)
  8. Marianne Faithfull With Warren Ellis: She Walks in Beauty (2021, BMG) B+(**)
  9. Andre Ferreri Quintetto: Numero Uno (2021, Laser) B+(**)
  10. Flow Trio With Joe McPhee: Winter Garden (2020 [2021], ESP-Disk) A-
  11. Nnenna Freelon: Time Traveler (2018-20 [2021], Origin) B+(*)
  12. David Friesen & Bob Ravenscroft: Passage (2015-20 [2021], Origin) B+(**)
  13. Satoko Fujii Tokyo Trio: Moon on the Lake (2020 [2021], Libra) B+(***)
  14. Aaron Germain: Bell Projections (2015-20 [2021], Aaron Germain Music) B+(*)
  15. Greg Germann: Tales of Time (2020 [2021], Origin) B+(**)
  16. Maria Grand: Reciprocity (2020 [2021], Biophilia) B+(***)
  17. Noah Haidu/Buster Williams/Billy Hart: Slowly: Song for Keith Jarrett (2020 [2021], Sunnyside) B+(**)
  18. Thomas Heberer/Joe Fonda/Joe Hertenstein: Remedy (2020 [2021], Fundacja Sluchaj) B+(***)
  19. Vincent Herring: Preaching to the Choir (2021, Smoke Sessions) B+(***)
  20. Brent Jensen: More Sounds of a Dry Martini (2020 [2021], Origin) B+(***)
  21. James Brandon Lewis Red Lily Quintet: Jesup Wagon (2020 [2021], Tao Forms) A-
  22. Damon Locks/Black Monument Ensemble: Now (2020 [2021], International Anthem) B+(**)
  23. Doug MacDonald: Live in Hawaii (2019 [2021], DMAC Music) B+(*)
  24. Madre Vaca: The Elements (2020 [2021], Madre Vaca) B+(*)
  25. Shawn Maxwell: Expectation & Experience (2021, Jazzline) B+(**)
  26. Simon Moullier Trio: Countdown (2020 [2021], Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(**)
  27. Natural Information Society With Evan Parker: Descension (Out of Our Constrictions) (2019 [2021], Aguirre/Eremite) B+(***)
  28. Matt Niess & the Capitol Bones: The Beat Goes On (2020 [2021], Summit) B
  29. No-No Boy: 1975 (2021, Smithsonian Folkways) A-
  30. Jeannine Otis: Into My Heart (2021, Adrielle Music/Monpolyhouse) B+(**)
  31. Keith Oxman/Frank Morelli: The Ox-Mo Incident (2019 [2021], Capri) B+(**)
  32. Evan Parker Quartet: All Knavery and Collusion (2019 [2021], Cadillac) B+(*)
  33. Nicki Parrott: If You Could Read My Mind (2021, Arbors) B+(**)
  34. Rich Pellegrin: Solitude: Solo Improvisations (2019 [2021], OA2) B+(**)
  35. Ruben Reinaldo & Kely Garcia: Acuarel (2019 [2020], Free Code) B+(***)
  36. Jeff Rosenstock: Ska Dream (2021, Polyvinyl) B+(*)
  37. Almog Sharvit: Get Up or Cry (2019 [2021], Unit) B+(*)
  38. Jen Shyu & Jade Tongue: Zero Grasses: Ritual for the Losses (2019-20 [2021], Pi) C+
  39. Greg Skaff: Polaris (2020 [2021], Smoke Sessions) B
  40. Wadada Leo Smith: Trumpet (2016 [2021], TUM, 3CD) B+(***)
  41. Wadada Leo Smith: Sacred Ceremonies (2015-16 [2021], TUM, 3CD) A-
  42. Alexa Tarantino: Firefly (2021, Posi-Tone) B+(**)
  43. Butch Thompson & Southside Aces With Charlie Devore: How Long Blues (2019 [2020], Southside Aces) B+(*)
  44. Vasco Trilla: Unmoved Mover (2020 [2021], Fundacja Sluchaj) B
  45. Uassyn: Zacharya (2019 [2021], JazzThing) B+(***)
  46. João Valinho/Luis Vicente/Marcelo dos Reis/Salvoandrea Lucifora: Light Machina (2020 [2021], Multikulti Project) B+(***)
  47. Carlos Vega: Art of the Messenger (2017 [2021], Origin) B+(**)
  48. Marta Warelis/Carlos "Zingaro"/Helena Espvall/Marcelo dos Reis: Turqoise Dream (2019 [2021], JACC) B+(**)
  49. Amber Weekes: 'Round Midnight Re-Imagined (2021, Amber Inn Productions) B+(*)
  50. Khaira Arby: Live in New York 2010 (2010 [2021], Clermont Music) A-
  51. Blue Muse ([2019], Music Maker Foundation) B+(***)
  52. Alex Chilton: A Man Called Destruction (1995 [2020], Omnivore) B+(**)
  53. Alex Chilton and Hi Rhythm Section: Boogie Shoes: Live on Beale Street (1999 [2021], Omnivore) B+(*)
  54. The Cucumbers: The Desk Drawer Tapes (1988-2005 [2021], Life Force) B+(**)
  55. Henry Franklin: The Skipper (1972 [2021], Black Jazz/Real Gone Music) B+(***)
  56. Henry Franklin: The Skipper at Home (1974, Black Jazz) B+(*)
  57. Aaron Neville: Tell It Like It Is: The Sansu Years (1968-75 [2020], HHO) B+(***)
  58. Ojoyo: Plays Safrojazz (1996 [2021], Sunnyside) B+(**)
  59. Chester Thompson: Powerhouse (1971 [2021], Black Jazz/Real Gone Music) B+(*)
  60. Steve Tintweiss and the Purple Why: Markstown (1968 [2021}, Inky Dot Media) B+(***)
  61. Khaira Arby: Tchini Tchini (2012, Clermont Music, EP) B+(***)
  62. Khaira Arby: Gossip (2015, Clermont Music) B+(***)
  63. Asleep at the Wheel: Comin' Right at Ya (1973, United Artists) A-
  64. Asleep at the Wheel: Asleep at the Wheel (1974, Columbia) B+(**)
  65. Asleep at the Wheel: Texas Gold (1975, Capitol) B+(**)
  66. Asleep at the Wheel: Wheelin' and Dealin' (1976, Capitol) B+(*)
  67. Asleep at the Wheel: The Wheel (1977, Capitol) B+(***)
  68. Asleep at the Wheel: Collision Course (1978, Capitol) B
  69. Asleep at the Wheel: Western Standard Time (1988, Columbia) B+(*)
  70. The Asylum Street Spankers: Spanker Madness (2000, Spanks-a-Lot) A-
  71. Asylum Street Spankers: Mercurial (2004, Yellow Dog) B+(***)
  72. The Asylum Street Spankers: What? And Give Up Show Biz? (2008, Yellow Dog, 2CD) B+(***)
  73. Au Pairs: Sense and Sensuality (1982, Kamera) B
  74. Average White Band: AWB (1974, Atlantic) B+(**)
  75. Eric B. & Rakim: Let the Rhythm Hit 'Em (1990, MCA) B+(***)
  76. Sam Baker: Mercy (2003 [2004], Blue Lime Stone) A-
  77. Sam Baker: Pretty World (2006 [2007], Blue Lime Stone) A-
  78. Sam Baker: Cotton (2009, Music Road) B+(***)
  79. Sam Baker: Say Grace (2013, self-released) B+(***)
  80. Sam Baker: Land of Doubt (2017, self-released) B+(*)
  81. Sam Baker: Horses and Stars (2019, self-released) B+(*)
  82. Lester Bangs and the Delinquents: Jook Savages on the Brazos (1981, Live Wire) A-
  83. Ronnie Barron: Blues Delicacies, Vol. 1 (1979 [1981], Vivid Sound) B+(***)
  84. Jorge Ben: Samba Esquema Novo (1963, Philips) B+(***)
  85. Jorge Ben: Sacundin Ben Samba (1964, Philips) B+(**)
  86. Jorge Ben: Big Ben (1965, Philips) B+(*)
  87. Jorge Ben: O Bidú: Silêncio No Brooklin (1967, Artistas Unidos) B+(***)
  88. Jorge Ben: Jorge Ben (1969, Philips) A-
  89. Jorge Ben: Negro É Lindo (1971, Philips) B+(***)
  90. Jorge Ben: A Tábua De Esmeralda (1974, Philips) B+(***)
  91. Jorge Ben: Solta O Pavão (1975, Philips) A-
  92. Jorge Ben: África Brasil (1976, Polygram) A-
  93. Jorge Ben: Tropical (1976, Mango) B
  94. Jorge Ben: Samba Nova (1970-74 [1976], Mango)
  95. Jorge Ben: Alô Alô, Como Vai? (1980, Som Livre) B+(**)
  96. Jorge Ben: Dádiva (1983, Som Livre) B+(**)
  97. Roy Brown: Hard Times (1967-68 [1973], Bluesway) A-
  98. Shirley Brown: Woman to Woman (1974, Truth) B+(**)
  99. T Bone Burnett: Trap Door (1982, Warner Brothers, EP) B+(**)
  100. T Bone Burnett: T Bone Burnett (1986, Dot) B+(**)
  101. Joe Cocker: Joe Cocker's Greatest Hits (1969-76 [1977], A&M) B+(***)
  102. Johnny Copeland: Fuel Presents an Introduction to Johnny Copeland (1961-67 [2006], Fuel 2000) B+(**)
  103. Johnny Copeland: Copeland Special (1981, Rounder) B+(***)
  104. The Cucumbers: The Cucumbers (1983, Fake Doom, EP) A-
  105. The Cucumbers: Total Vegitility (1999, Home Office) B+(**)
  106. Miles Davis: Water Babies (1967-68 [1976], Columbia) B+(**)
  107. Miles Davis: Circle in the Round (1955-70 [1979], Columbia, 2CD) B+(**)
  108. Miles Davis: The Man With the Horn (1980-81 [1981], Columbia) B+(**)
  109. Miles Davis: Star People (1982-83 [1983], Columbia) B+(***)
  110. Kimya Dawson: Hidden Vagenda (2004, K) A-
  111. Gilberto Gil: Refavela (1977, Philips) B+(***)
  112. Hakim: Talakik (2002, Mondo Melodia) B+(***)
  113. Handsome Boy Modeling School: White People (2004, Atlantic) B+(***)
  114. The Handsome Family: Odessa (1994, Carrot Top) A-
  115. The Handsome Family: Milk and Scissors (1996, Carrot Top) B+(**)
  116. The Handsome Family: Through the Trees (1997, Carrot Top) B+(**)
  117. The Handsome Family: Down in the Valley (1994-97 [1999], Independent) A-
  118. The Handsome Family: Twilight (2001, Carrot Top) B+(***)
  119. The Handsome Family: Smothered and Covered (1993-2001 [2003], Handsome Family Music) B+(**)
  120. The Handsome Family: Singing Bones (2003, Carrot Top) B+(***)
  121. Ted Hawkins: Watch Your Step (1982, Rounder) B+(***)
  122. Ted Hawkins: Happy Hour (1986, Rounder) B+(**)
  123. Henry Cow: Legend (1973, Virgin) B+(**)
  124. Henry Cow: Western Culture (1978 [1979], Broadcast) B+(***)
  125. Z.Z. Hill: The Brand New Z.Z. Hill (1971, Mankind) B+(**)
  126. Z.Z. Hill: The Complete Hill Records Collection/UA Recordings 1972-1975 (1972-75 [1996], Capitol, 2CD) B+(*)
  127. Z.Z. Hill: This Time They Told the Truth: The Columbia Years (1978-79 [1998], Columbia/Legacy) B
  128. Z.Z. Hill: Z.Z. Hill (1981, Malaco) B+(**)
  129. Z.Z. Hill: Down Home (1982, Malaco) A-
  130. Z.Z. HIll: The Rhythm & the Blues (1982, Malaco) B+(**)
  131. Z.Z. Hill: I'm a Blues Man (1983, Malaco) B+(***)
  132. Z.Z. Hill: Bluesmaster (1984, Malaco) A-
  133. Z.Z. Hill: In Memoriam 1935-1984 (1981-84 [1985], Malaco) A-
  134. Alberta Hunter: The Glory of Alberta Hunter (1982, Columbia) B+(**)
  135. The Jive Five: Here We Are! (1982, Ambient Sound) B+(**)
  136. The Jive Five: Their Greatest Hits (1961-63 [1990], Collectables) B+(**)
  137. Joy of Cooking: Castles (1972, Capitol) A-
  138. Joy of Cooking: Back to Your Heart (1968-72 [2006], Njoy, 2CD) B+(**)
  139. Mory Kanté: Sabou (2004, Riverboat) B+(***)
  140. Gladys Knight and the Pips: Greatest Hits (1967-70 [1970], Soul) B+(**)
  141. Gladys Knight & the Pips: The Definitive Collection (1967-73 [2008], Motown) B+(***)
  142. Gladys Knight & the Pips: Claudine (1974, Buddah) B+(***)
  143. Milo: A Toothpaste Suburb (2014, Hellfyre Club) B+(**)
  144. Milo: Who Told You to Think??!!?!?!?! (2017, Ruby Yacht) A-
  145. My Bloody Valentine: Isn't Anything (1988, Relativity) B
  146. My Bloody Valentine: Tremolo (1991, Sire) C+
  147. My Bloody Valentine: MBV (2013, MBV) B-
  148. The Nagel Heyer Allstars: Uptown Lowdown: A Jazz Salute to the Big Apple: Live at the 1999 JVC Festival New York (1999 [2000], Nagel Heyer) B+(***)
  149. The Naysayer: Deathwhisker (2000, Carrot Top) B+(*)
  150. The Naysayer: Pure Beauty (2002 [2003], Carrot Top, EP) B+(***)
  151. Aaron Neville: Make Me Strong (1968-75 [1986], Charly) B+(***)
  152. Aaron Neville: The Classic Aaron Neville: My Greatest Gift (1966-75 [1990], Rounder) B+(***)
  153. Aaron Neville: Hercules (1961-75 [1993], Charly) A-
  154. Aaron Neville: Orchid in the Storm (1985, Passport, EP) B+(***)
  155. Aaron Neville: Nature Boy: The Standards Album (2003, Verve) B+(*)
  156. Aaron Neville: Bring It on Home . . . The Soul Classics (2006, Burgundy) B+(**)
  157. New Order: Republic (1993, Qwest) B+(***)
  158. Nirvana: Hormoaning (1992, DGC, EP) B+(**)
  159. No-No Boy: 1942 (2018, No-No Boy) A-
  160. NRBQ: NRBQ (1969, Columbia) B+(**)
  161. NRBQ: NRBQ at Yankee Stadium (1978, Mercury) B+(*)
  162. NRBQ: Kick Me Hard (1979, Rounder/Red Rooster) B+(*)
  163. Orchestra Makassy: Agwaya (1982, Virgin) A-
  164. Orchestra Makassy: Legends of East Africa: The Original Recordings (1982 [2004], ARC Music) A-
  165. Ray Parker Jr.: The Other Woman (1982, Arista) B+(***)
  166. Parliament: Gloryhallastoopid (Or Pin the Tale on the Funky) (1979, Casablanca) B+(**)
  167. Parliament: Greatest Hits: P. Funk, Uncut Funk, the Bomb (1974-79 [1984], Casablanca) A
  168. Parliament: The Best of Parliament [20th Century Masters: The Millennium Collection] (1974-80 [2000], Mercury) A
  169. Party of One: Dead Violet Shannon (2000, Murder of All Music) B+(**)
  170. Party of One: Caught the Blast (2000-01 [2003], Fat Cat) A-
  171. Party of One: Streetside Surprise (2014, Go Johnny Go) B+(**)
  172. Pavement: Slay Tracks: 1933-1969 (1989, Treble Kicker, EP) A-
  173. Pavement: Demolition Plot J-7 (1989 [1990], Drag City, EP) B+(*)
  174. Pavement: Perfect Sound Forever (1989 [1990], Drag City, EP) B+(**)
  175. Pavement: Terror Twilight (1999, Matador) A-
  176. Johnny Paycheck: Johnny Paycheck's Greatest Hits (1972-74 [1974], Epic) B-
  177. Johnny Paycheck: Greatest Hits, Volume 2 (1975-78 [1978], Epic) B+(**)
  178. Johnny Paycheck: 16 Biggest Hits (1971-79 [1999], Epic) B+(***)
  179. Johnny Paycheck: Mr. Hag Told My Story (1981, Epic) B+(**)
  180. Pearl Jam: Ten (1991, Epic) B
  181. Pearl Jam: Yield (1998, Epic) B+(*)
  182. Teddy Pendergrass: TP (1980, Philadelphia International) B+(**)
  183. Teddy Pendergrass: Greatest Hits (1977-80 [1984], Philadelphia International) A-
  184. Teddy Pendergrass: The Essential Teddy Pendergrass (1972-84 [2007], Philadelphia International/Legacy, 2CD) B+(***)
  185. Esther Phillips: Esther Phillips Sings (1966, Atlantic) B
  186. Esther Phillips: Burnin': Live at Freddie Jett's Pied Piper, L.A. (1970, Atlantic) B+(**)
  187. Esther Phillips: Conessin' the Blues (1966-70 [1976], Atlantic) A-
  188. Esther Phillips: Black-Eyed Blues (1973, Kudu) A-
  189. Esther Phillips: The Essential Esther Phillips: The Kudu Years (1971-77 [2018], Legacy, 2CD) A-
  190. Esther Phillips: Fa-Fa-Fa (Sad Song ( 1984/New York City) 1984 [2007], Jazzwerkstatt
  191. Charlie Rich: The Legendary Sun Classics (1958-62 [2010], Charly) B+(*)
  192. Charlie Rich: The Fabulous Charlie Rich (1970, Epic) B+(***)
  193. Charlie Rich: The Best of Charlie Rich (1968-72 [1972], Epic) B+(***)
  194. Charlie Rich: Pictures and Paintings (1992, Sire) B+(***)
  195. Pete Rock & C.L. Smooth: All Souled Out (1991, Elektra, EP) B+(***)
  196. Max Romeo: Open the Iron Gate (1975 [1978], United Artists) B+(**)
  197. Diana Ross: Diana (1980, Motown) A-
  198. Doug Sahm With the Sir Douglas Quintet: Rough Edges (1969 [1973], Mercury) B+(***)
  199. Doug Sahm & the Sir Douglas Quintet: The Best of Doug Sahm & the Sir Douglas Quintet 1968-1975 (1968-75 [1990], Mercury) A-
  200. Doug Sahm: Hell of a Spell (1979 [1980], Takoma) B+(***)
  201. Doug Sahm: Juke Box Music (1989, Antone's) B+(**)
  202. Doug Sahm: The Last Real Texas Blues Band (1988-94 [1994], Antone's) B+(*)
  203. Del Shannon: Greatest Hits (1961-70 [1990], Rhino) B+(***)
  204. Del Shannon: This Is . . . Del Shannon (1961-66 [1997], Music Club) B+(***)
  205. Sir Douglas Quintet: The Best of Sir Douglas Quintet (1965-66 [1966], Tribe) B+(**)
  206. Sir Douglas Quintet: The Best of Sir Douglas Quintet . . . Plus! (1965-67 [2000], Westside) B+(**)
  207. Sir Douglas Quintet +2: Honkey Blues (1968, Smash) B
  208. Sir Douglas Quintet: Mendocino (1969, Smash) B+(**)
  209. Sir Douglas Quintet: Together After Five (1970, Smash) B+(**)
  210. Sir Douglas Quintet: 1+1+1=4 (1970, Philips) B+(*)
  211. Sir Douglas Quintet: The Return of Doug Saldaña (1971, Philips) A-
  212. Sir Douglas Quintet: The Best of the Sir Douglas Quintet (1968-71 [1980], Takoma) A-
  213. Percy Sledge: The Very Best of Percy Sledge (1966-94 [1998], Rhino) A-
  214. Spinners: Spinners (1973, Atlantic) A-
  215. Spinners: Mighty Love (1974, Atlantic) B+(**)
  216. Spinners: New and Improved (1974, Atlantic) B+(*)
  217. Spinners: Pick of the Litter (1975, Atlantic) B+(***)
  218. Spinners: Happiness Is Being With the Spinners (1976, Atlantic) B+(*)
  219. Spinners: The Best of Spinners (1972-76 [1978], Atlantic) A-
  220. Peter Stampfel: Dook of the Beatniks (1999 [2010], Piety Street Files & Archaic) B+(***)
  221. Peter + Zoë Stampfel: Ass in the Air (2010, Jolly Olga) B+(**)
  222. Steel Pulse: Reggae Greats (1978-80 [1984], Mango) B+(***)
  223. Gary Stewart: Greatest Hits (1975-81 [1981], RCA) A-
  224. Gary Stewart: The Essential Gary Stewart (1974-82 [1997], RCA) A-
  225. Gary Stewart: Live at Billy Bob's Texas (2003, Smith Music Group) A-
  226. Super Mama Djombo: Super Mama Djombo (1979 [2003], Cobiana) B+(***)
  227. Systema Solar: Systema Solar (2009 [2010], Chusma) A-
  228. Howard Tate: Howard Tate (1967 [1969], Verve) A-
  229. Howard Tate: Howard Tate's Reaction (1970, Turntable) B+(**)
  230. Howard Tate: Howard Tate (1972, Atlantic) A-
  231. Hound Dog Taylor & the House Rockers: Beware of the Dog! (1974 [1976], Alligator) A-
  232. Hound Dog Taylor & the Houserockers: Genuine Houserocking Music (1971-73 [1982], Alligator) B+(***)
  233. Johnnie Taylor: Chronicle: 20 Greatest Hits (1968-75 [1977], Fantasy) A-
  234. Irma Thomas: Sweet Soul Queen of New Orleans: The Irma Thomas Collection (1961-66 [1996], Razor & Tie) A-
  235. Butch Thompson: Butch Thompson Plays Jelly Roll Morton Solos (1968 [1996], Biograph) B+(***)
  236. Butch Thompson: Thompson Plays Joplin (1997 [1998], Daring) A-
  237. Charles Tolliver Music Inc: Live in Tokyo (1973 [1974], Strata-East) B+(**)
  238. Joshua Abrams & Natural Information Society: Mandatory Reality (2017 [2021], Eremite) +
  239. Hedvig Mollestad Trio: Ding Dong. You're Dead. (2021, Rune Grammofon) +
  240. Gilberto Gil/Jorge Ben: Gil E Jorge (1975 [1992], Verve) A-
  241. Johnny Shines: Johnny Shines (1970 [1991], Hightone) B+(**)

April 26

  1. Barry Altschul's 3Dom Factor: Long Tall Sunshine (2021, Not Two) A-
  2. The Anchoress: The Art of Losing (2021, Kscope) B+(***)
  3. Tamar Aphek: All Bets Are Off (2021, Kill Rock Stars) B+(**)
  4. Julien Baker: Little Oblivions (2021, Matador) B+(*)
  5. Yaala Ballin: Sings Irving Berlin (2021, SteepleChase LookOut) B+(***)
  6. Rahsaan Barber: Mosaic (2020 [2021], Jazz Music City, 2CD) B+(**)
  7. Jon Batiste: We Are (2020 [2021], Verve) B+(**)
  8. Benny the Butcher: The Plugs I Met 2 (2021, Black Soprano Family, EP) B+(**)
  9. John Butcher/Veryan Weston/Øyvind Stonesund/Dag Erik Kriedal Andersen: Mapless Quiet (2018 [2020], Motvind) B+(**)
  10. Cabaret Voltaire: Dekadrone (2021, Mute) B+(*)
  11. Nick Cave & Warren Ellis: Carnage (2021, AWAL) B
  12. Sarah Mary Chadwick: Me and Ennui Are Friends, Baby (2021, Ba Da Bing!) B+(**)
  13. Avishai Cohen: Two Roses (2020 [2021], Naive) B
  14. Damata: What's Damata (2021, Dugnad) B+(***)
  15. Michael Dease: Give It All You Got (2019 [2021], Posi-Tone) B+(*)
  16. Dry Cleaning: New Long Leg (2021, 4AD) B+(**)
  17. Scott DuBois: Summer Water (2021, Sunnyside) B+(**)
  18. Paul Dunmall/Percy Pursglove/Olie Brice/Jeff Williams: Palindromes (2020 [2021], West Hill) B+(***)
  19. Eminem: Music to Be Murdered By: Side B (2020, Shady/Aftermath/Interscope) B+(***)
  20. Joe Fahey: February on Ice (2021, Rough Fish) B+(***)
  21. Jared Feinman: Love Is an Obstacle (2021, West of Philly) B+(*)
  22. Focusyear Band 2021: Bosque (2021, Neuklang) B+(*)
  23. For Those I Love: For Those I Love (2019 [2021], September) B+(***)
  24. Girl in Red: Chapter 1 (2018, AWAL/Human Sounds, EP) B+(*)
  25. Girl in Red: Chapter 2 (2019, AWAL, EP) B+(*)
  26. Binker Golding/John Edwards/Steve Noble: Moon Day (2020 [2021], Byrd Out) B+(***)
  27. Frode Haltli: Avant Folk II (2021, Hubro) B+(**)
  28. Hennessy Six/Colorado Springs Youth Symphony: The Road Less Traveled (2020 [2021], Summit) B+(*)
  29. Joseph Howell Quartet: Live in Japan (2018 [2021], Summit) B+(**)
  30. Kari Ikonen: Impressions, Improvisations and Compositions (2020 [2021], Ozella) B+(***)
  31. Vijay Iyer: Uneasy (2019 [2021], ECM) B+(***)
  32. Yvette Janine Jackson: Freedom (2021, Fridman Gallery) B+(*)
  33. La Femme: Paradigmes (2021, Disque Pointu) B+(**)
  34. Charles Lloyd & the Marvels: Tone Poem (2020 [2021], Blue Note) B+(***)
  35. Joe Lovano & Dave Douglas: Soundprints: Other Worlds (2020 [2021], Greenleaf Music) B+(*)
  36. Pat Metheny: Road to the Sun (2021, BMG Modern) B
  37. Ali Shaheed Muhammad & Adrian Younge: Jazz Is Dead 4: Azymuth (2020, Jazz Is Dead, EP) B
  38. Ali Shaheed Muhammad & Adrian Younge: Jazz Is Dead 5: Doug Carn (2020, Jazz Is Dead) B+(***)
  39. Ali Shaheed Muhammad & Adrian Younge: Jazz Is Dead 6: Gary Bartz (2021, Jazz Is Dead, EP) B+(***)
  40. Nortonk: Nortonk (2020 [2021], Biophilia) B+(**)
  41. Nubiyan Twist: Freedom Fables (2021, Strut) B
  42. Dax Pierson: Nerve Bumps (A Queer Divine Dissatisfaction) (2021, Dark Entries) B+(**)
  43. R+R=Now: Live (2018 [2021], Blue Note) B
  44. Dan Rose: Last Night . . . (2017 [2021], Ride Symbol) B+(*)
  45. Dan Rose/Claudine Francois: New Leaves (2019 [2021], Ride Symbol) B+(**)
  46. Jacques Schwarz-Bart: Soné Ka-La 2: Odyssey (2020 [2021], Enja) B+(*)
  47. Irène Schweizer/Hamid Drake: Celebration (2019 [2021], Intakt) A-
  48. Serpentwithfeet: Deacon (2021, Secretly Canadian) B+(*)
  49. Skarbø Skulekorps: Dugnad (2020 [2021], Hubro) B+(**)
  50. Dr. Lonnie Smith: Breathe (2021, Blue Note) B+(**)
  51. Todd Snider: First Agnostic Church of Hope and Wonder (2021, Aimless) A-
  52. Veronica Swift: This Bitter Earth (2021, Mack Avenue) B+(***)
  53. Aki Takase/Christian Weber/Michael Griener: Auge (2019 [2021], Intakt) A-
  54. Natsuki Tamura/Satoko Fujii: Keshin (2020 [2021], Libra) B+(**)
  55. Three-Layer Cake: Stove Top (2020 [2021], RareNoise) B+(***)
  56. Thumbscrew: Never Is Enough (2019 [2021], Cuneiform) B+(***)
  57. Tony Tixier: I Am Human (2020 [2021], Whirlwind, EP) B+(*)
  58. Michael Waldrop: Time Frames (2019-20 [2021], Origin) B+(***)
  59. The Weather Station: Ignorance (2021, Fat Possum) B+(**)
  60. Rodney Whitaker: OutroSpection: The Music of Gregg Hill (2020 [2021], Origin) B+(*)
  61. Adrian Younge & Ali Shaheed Muhammad: Jazz Is Dead 3: Marcos Valle (2020, Jazz Is Dead, EP) B+(***)
  62. Miguel Zenón & Luis Perdomo: El Arte Del Bolero (2020 [2021], Miel Music) B+(***)
  63. Miguel Zenón/Ariel Bringuez/Demian Cabaud/Jordi Rossy: Law Years: The Music of Ornette Coleman (2019 [2021], Miel Music) A-
  64. Gary Lucas: The Essential Gary Lucas (1981-2020 [2021], Knitting Factory, 2CD) B+(*)
  65. Roberto Miranda's Home Music Ensemble: Live at Bing Theatre: Los Angeles, 1985 (1985 [2021], Dark Tree) B+(***)
  66. New Moon Jelly Roll Freedom Rockers: Volume 1 (2007 [2020], Stony Plain) B+(**)
  67. New Moon Jelly Roll Freedom Rockers: Volume 2 (2007 [2021], Stony Plain) B+(**)
  68. Spoon: Everything Hits at Once: The Best of Spoon (2001-19 [2019], Matador) B+(***)
  69. The White Stripes: My Sister Thanks You and I Thank You: Greatest Hits (1998-2007 [2020], Third Man) B+(***)
  70. Neil Young: Young Shakespeare (1971 [2021], Reprise) B+(**)
  71. Black Uhuru: Chill Out (1982, Mango) B+(**)
  72. Blake Babies: Innocence and Experience (1986-91 [1993], Mammoth) A-
  73. Boogie Down Productions: Sex and Violence (1992, Jive) A-
  74. The Books: The Lemon of Pink (2003, Tomlab) B+(*)
  75. The Books: Lost and Safe (2005, Tomlab) B+(***)
  76. The Books: Thought for Food (2002, Tomlab) B+(***)
  77. The Bottle Rockets: 24 Hours a Day (1997, Atlantic) B+(***)
  78. Cybotron: Enter (1983, Fantasy) B+(*)
  79. The dB's: Stands for Decibels (1981, Albion) B+(**)
  80. The DeBarges: The DeBarges (1981, Gordy) B+(**)
  81. DeBarge: All This Love (1982, Gordy) B+(***)
  82. DeBarge: Rhythm of the Night (1985, Motown) B+(*)
  83. El DeBarge: El DeBarge (1986, Gordy) B+(*)
  84. El DeBarge: Gemini (1989, Motown) B
  85. The Del-Lords: Get Tough: The Best of the Del-Lords (1984-90 [1999], Restless) B+(***)
  86. Descendents: Milo Goes to College (1982, New Alliance) B+(***)
  87. Descendents: Bonus Fat (1980-81 [1985], New Alliance, EP) B+(**)
  88. Descendents: Somery (1981-87 [1991], SST) B+(***)
  89. Lee Dorsey: Yes We Can (1970, Polydor) A-
  90. Lee Dorsey: Yes We Can . . . and Then Some (1970 [1993], Polydor) A-
  91. Lee Dorsey: Night People (1978, ABC) A-
  92. Lee Dorsey: Working in a Coal Mine: The Very Best of Lee Dorsey (1961-78 [2001], Music Club) A
  93. Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band: James Monroe H.S. Presents Dr. Buzzard's Original Savannah Band Goes to Washington (1979, Elektra) B+(***)
  94. Earth, Wind & Fire: Open Our Eyes (1974, Columbia) B+(***)
  95. The English Beat: I Just Can't Stop It (1980, IRS) A-
  96. Etoile 2000: Dakar Sound Volume 1 (1980-81 [1993], Dakar Sound) B+(***)
  97. Etoile De Dakar: Volume 3: Lay Suma Lay (1981 [1996], Sterns) A-
  98. Etoile De Dakar: Volume 5: Maléo (1981 [2009], Sterns) B+(***)
  99. Eurythmics: Greatest Hits (1982-90 [1991], Arista) B+(**)
  100. Mose Se 'Fan Fan': Belle Epoque (1970-82 [1994], RetroAfric) B+(***)
  101. Mose Fan Fan/Somo Somo/Ngobila: Hello Hello (1995, Sterns) A-
  102. Fellow Travellers: Things and Time (1993, OKra) B+(***)
  103. Fine Young Cannibals: Fine Young Cannibals (1985, IRS) B+(**)
  104. Fine Young Cannibals: The Finest: The Rare and the Remixed (1985-89 [1996], MCA) A-
  105. A Flock of Seagulls: A Flock of Seagulls (1982, Jive) B+(**)
  106. Tennessee Ernie Ford: Sixteen Tons (1949-56 [1995], Capitol) B+(**)
  107. Freestyle Fellowship: Inner City Griots (1993, 4th & B'way) B+(**)
  108. Gilberto Gil: Louvaçao (1967, Phillips) B+(**)
  109. Gilberto Gil: Gilberto Gil [Frevo Rasgado] (1968 [1998], Universal) A-
  110. Gilberto Gil: Gilberto Gil [Cérebro Eletrônico] (1969, Philips) B+(***)
  111. Gilberto Gil: Expresso 2222 (1972 [1993], Philips) B+(**)
  112. Grandaddy: Just Like the Fambly Cat (2006, V2) B+(***)
  113. Grandmaster Flash and the Furious Five: The Message (1982, Deep Beats) A-
  114. Woody Guthrie: Hard Travelin': The Asch Recordings, Vol. 3 (1944-49 [1998], Smithsonian/Folkways) A-
  115. Hamell on Trial: Big as Life (1995, Mercury) B+(*)
  116. Hamell on Trial: The Chord Is Mightier Than the Sword (1997, Mercury) B+(**)
  117. Hamell on Trial: Choochtown (1999, Such-a-Punch) B+(***)
  118. Hamell on Trial: Ed's Not Dead -- Hamell Comes Alive (2000, Such-a-Punch) B+(***)
  119. Hamell on Trial: Tough Love (2003, Righteous Babe) B+(**)
  120. Hamell on Trial: Yap (2003, Such-a-Punch) B+(**)
  121. Hamell on Trial: Rant & Roll [Live From Edinburgh: The Terrorism of Everyday Life (2007 [2008], Righteous Babe) A-
  122. Willie Headen: Blame It on the Blues (1954-60 [2006], Ace) B+(***)
  123. Justin Hinds & the Dominoes: Carry Go Bring Come: The Anthology (1963-72 [2005], Trojan, 2CD) A-
  124. Justin Hinds and the Dominoes: Jezebel (1976, Island) B+(***)
  125. Justin Hinds and the Dominoes: Just in Time (1978, Mango) A-
  126. The Itals: Early Recordings 1971-1979 (1971-79 [1987], Nighthawk) B+(*)
  127. The Itals: Give Me Power (1983, Nighthawk) B+(**)
  128. The Itals: Rasta Philosophy (1985 [1997], Nighthawk) B+(***)
  129. The Itals: Cool and Dread (1988, Nighthawk) B+(**)
  130. The Plastic People of the Universe: Apokalyptickej Pták (1976 [2017], Galén) A-
  131. Prince Lasha/Sonny Simmons/Clifford Jordan/Don Cherry: It Is Revealed (1963, Zounds) B+(**)
  132. Midi, Maxi & Efti: Midi, Maxi & Efti (1991, Columbia) B+(***)
  133. Duke Reid's Treasure Chest (1964-70 [1992], Heartbeat, 2CD) B+(**)
  134. Sonny Simmons: Staying on the Watch (1966, ESP-Disk) B+(***)
  135. Sonny Simmons: Music From the Spheres (1966, ESP-Disk) A-
  136. Sonny Simmons: Manhattan Egos (1969 [2000], Arhoolie) A-
  137. Sonny Simmons: Burning Spirits (1970 [2003], Contemporary) B+(**)
  138. Sonny Simmons: American Jungle (1995 [1997], Qwest/Warner Brothers) A-
  139. Sonny Simmons Quintet: Mixolydis (2001 [2002], Marge) B+(**)
  140. Sonny Simmons Trio: Live in Paris (2001 [2002], Arhoolie, 2CD) B+(**)
  141. Lonnie Smith: Think! (1968 [1969], Blue Note) B+(**)
  142. Lonnie Smith: Turning Point (1969, Blue Note) B+(*)
  143. Lonnie Smith: Move Your Hand (1969 [1970], Blue Note) B+(**)
  144. Lonnie Smith: Live at Club Mozambique (1970 [1995], Blue Note) B+(***)
  145. Lonnie Smith: Mama Wailer (1971, Kudu) B+(**)
  146. Lonnie Smith/Alvin Queen: Lenox and Seventh (1985 [2000], Black & Blue) B+(***)
  147. Dr. Lonnie Smith: Boogaloo to Beck: A Tribute (2003, Scuffin') B+(*)
  148. Dr. Lonnie Smith: Rise Up! (2008 [2009], Palmetto) B+(**)
  149. Spoon: Telephono (1996, Matador) A-
  150. Spoon: Gimme Fiction (2005, Merge) B+(***)
  151. Uz Jsme Doma: Hollywood (1993 [1996], Skoda) B+(**)
  152. Neil Young: Eldorado (1989, Reprise, EP) B+(**)
  153. Neil Young & Crazy Horse: Arc (1991, Reprise) B
  154. Adeena Karasick/Frank London: Salomé: Woman of Valor (2020, Nuiu Music) +
  155. DeBarge: In a Special Way (1983, Gordy) A-
  156. Etoile De Dakar: Volume 2: Thiapathioly (1980 [1994], Sterns) +(***)
  157. Woody Guthrie: Muleskinner Blues: The Asch Recordings, Vol. 2 (1944 [1997], Smithsonian/Folkways) B+(***)

March 29

  1. Albare: Albare Plays Jobim Vol. 2 (2020 [2021], Alfi) B+(*)
  2. Franco Ambrosetti Band: Lost Within You (2020 [2021], Unit) B+(**)
  3. Baker's Brew: New Works (2020 [2021], Psychosomatic, 2CD) B+(*)
  4. Nik Bärtsch: Entendre (2019 [2021], ECM) B+(**)
  5. Dan Blake: Da Fé (2019 [2021], Sunnyside) B+(**)
  6. Jakob Bro/Arve Henriksen/Jorge Rossy: Uma Elmo (2020 [2021], ECM) B
  7. Joe Chambers: Samba De Marcatu (2020 [2021], Blue Note) B
  8. Ian Charleton Big Band: A Fresh Perspective (2020 [2021], none) B+(***)
  9. Emmet Cohen: Future Stride (2021, Mack Avenue) B+(**)
  10. Cowboys & Frenchmen: Our Highway (2020 [2021], Outside In Music) B+(*)
  11. Charley Crockett: 10 for Slim: Charley Crockett Sings James Hand (2021, Son of Davy) B+(**)
  12. Lana Del Rey: Chemtrails Over the Country Club (2021, Polydor/Interscope) B+(**)
  13. The Dynamic Les DeMerle Band Featuring Bonnie Eisele: Hot Night in Venice: Live at the Venice Jazz Club (2020 [2021], Origin) B+(*)
  14. Pat Donaher: Occasionally (2020 [2021], none) B+(**)
  15. Rebecca Dumaine and the Dave Miller Trio: Someday, Someday (2020 [2021], Summit) B+(*)
  16. Yelena Eckemoff: Adventures of the Wildflower (2019 [2021], L&H Production, 2CD) B+(**)
  17. Elephant9: Arrival of the New Elders (2020 [2021], Rune Grammofon) B+(**)
  18. Yoav Eshed/Lex Korten/Massimo Biolcati/Jongkuk Kim: A Way Out (2019 [2021], Sounderscore) B+(*)
  19. Floating Points/Pharoah Sanders & the London Symphony Orchestra: Promises (2021, Luaka Bop) B+(**)
  20. Michael and Peter Formanek: Dyads (2019 [2021], Out of Your Head) A-
  21. Amit Friedman: Unconditional Love (2018 [2021], Origin) B
  22. Satoko Fujii: Hazuki: Piano Solo (2020 [2021], Libra) B+(***)
  23. Futari: Beyond (2019 [2021], Libra) B+(*)
  24. Ghetts: Conflict of Interest (2021, Warner) B+(*)
  25. Frank Gratkowski/Achim Kaufmann/Wilbert de Joode/Tony Buck: Flatbosc & Cautery (2018 [2020], NoBusiness) A-
  26. Barry Guy: Irvin's Comet (2019 [2020], NoBusiness) B+(*)
  27. George Haslam/João Madeira/Padro Catello Lopes/Mario Rua: Ajuda (2019 [2020], Slam) B+(***)
  28. The Hold Steady: Open Door Policy (2021, Positive Jams) B+(**)
  29. Chris Hopkins: Meets the Jazz Kangaroos: Live! Vol. 1 (2020, Echoes of Swing) B+(**)
  30. In Layers: Pliable (2018 [2020], FMR) B+(***)
  31. Ethan Iverson/Umbria Jazz Orchestra: Bud Powell in the 21st Century (2018 [2021], Sunnyside) B+(**)
  32. Jazz Worms: Squirmin' (2017 [2021], Capri) B+(*)
  33. Marcus Joseph: Beyond the Dome (2021, Jazz Re:freshed) B
  34. Jonathan Kane and Dave Soldier: February Meets Soldier String Quartet (2020 [2021], EEG) B+(**)
  35. Achim Kaufmann/Ignaz Schick: Altered Alchemy (2016 [2021], Zarek, 2CD) B+(**)
  36. Reza Khan: Imaginary Road (2020 [2021], Painted Music) B-
  37. Andy LaVerne: Rhapsody (2021, SteepleChase) B+(**)
  38. Mark Lewis Quartet: Naked Animals (2019-20 [2021], Audio Daddio) B+(*)
  39. Lukas Ligeti: That Which Has Remained . . . That Which Will Emerge . . . (2015 [2021], Col Legno) B+(**)
  40. Johan Lindström Septett: On the Asylum (2020 [2021], Moserobie) B+(*)
  41. Loretta Lynn: Still Woman Enough (2007-20 [2021], Legacy) A-
  42. Doug MacDonald Duo: Toluca Lake Jazz (2020 [2021], Doug MacDonald Music) B+(**)
  43. João Madeira/Hernâni Faustino: dB Duet (2020 [2021], FMR) B+(***)
  44. Shai Maestro: Human (2020 [2021], ECM) B+(*)
  45. Magnet Animals: Fake Dudes (2020 [2021], RareNoise) A-
  46. Roberto Magris & Eric Hochberg: Shuffling Ivories (2019 [2021], JMood) B+(**)
  47. Mai-Liis: Mai-Liis on Life (2019-20 [2021], OA2) B+(**)
  48. Wu Man/Kojiro Umezaki: How (2019 [2021], In a Circle) B+(*)
  49. Meridian Odyssey: Second Wave (2020 [2021], Origin) B+(*)
  50. Hafez Modirzadeh: Facets (2018-19 [2021], Pi) B+(***)
  51. Ben Monder/Tony Malaby/Tom Rainey: Live at the 55 Bar (2020 [2021], Sunnyside) B+(***)
  52. Sana Nagano: Smashing Humans (2020 [2021], 577) B+(***)
  53. Gary Negbaur: You've Got to Be Carefully Taught (2020 [2021], BluJazz) B+(*)
  54. Willie Nelson: That's Life (2021, Legacy) B
  55. Larry Newcomb Quartet: Love, Dad (2020 [2021], Essential Messenger) B+(*)
  56. Ben Patterson: Push the Limits (2020 [2021], Origin) B+(*)
  57. Charlie Porter: Hindsight (2020 [2021], OA2) B
  58. Reggie Quinerly: New York Nowhere (2020 [2021], Redefinition) B+(*)
  59. Logan Richardson: Afrofuturism (2020, WAX Industry) B
  60. Jason Ringenberg: Rhinestoned (2021, Courageous Chicken) B+(**)
  61. Schapiro 17: Human Qualities (2020 [2021], Summit) B+(**)
  62. Ignaz Schick/Oliver Steidle: Ilog2 (2020 [2021], Zarek) A-
  63. Zoe Scott: Shades of Love (2020, Zoe Scott Music) B+(*)
  64. Charlie Sepúlveda & the Turnaround: This Is Latin Jazz (2020 [2021], HighNote) B+(**)
  65. Archie Shepp & Jason Moran: Let My People Go (2017-18 [2021], Archieball) B+(***)
  66. Idit Shner: Live at the Jazz Station (2019 [2021], OA2) B+(**)
  67. Grete Skarpeid: Beyond Other Stories (2018 [2021], Origin) B+(**)
  68. Slowthai: Tyron (2021, Method) B+(*)
  69. Jim Snidero: Live at the Deer Head Inn (2020 [2021], Savant) B+(**)
  70. Peter Stampfel: Peter Stampfel's 20th Century in 100 Songs (2021, Louisiana Red Hot) B+(**)
  71. John Stowell/Dan Dean: Rain Painting (2018-20 [2021], Origin) B
  72. Steve Swell: The Center Will Hold (2019 [2020], Not Two) B+(***)
  73. Yuma Uesaka/Cat Toren/Colin Hinton: Ocelot (2019 [2021], 577) B+(***)
  74. Theo Walentiny: Looking Glass (2020 [2021], self-released) B+(*)
  75. Amber Weekes: My Romance: A Special Valentine (2020 [2021], Amber Inn Productions, EP) C
  76. Ruth Weiss: We Are Sparks in the Universe to Our Own Fire (2018 [2021], Edgetone) A-
  77. Rodney Whitaker With the Christ Church Cranbrook Choir: Cranbrook Christmas Jazz (2020 [2021], Origin) B
  78. Chris White/Lara Driscoll: Firm Roots (2020 [2021], Firm Roots) B+(**)
  79. Greg Yasinitsky Yazz Band: New Normal (2019-20 [2021], Origin) B
  80. Derek Bailey/Mototeru Takagi: Live at FarOut, Atsugi 1987 (1987 [2020], NoBusiness) B+(**)
  81. Don Cherry: Cherry Jam (1965 [2021], Gearbox, EP) B+(*)
  82. Edo Funk Explosion Vol. 1 (1980-85 [2021], Analog Africa) B+(**)
  83. Hal Galper Quintet: Live at the Berlin Philharmonic 1977 (1977 [2021], Origin, 2CD) B+(***)
  84. Allen Ginsberg's The Fall of America: A 50th Anniversary Musical Tribute (2021, Ginsberg) B+(**)
  85. Emmylou Harris and the Hot Band: Hot Night in Roslyn: 1976 Radio Broadcast Recording (1976 [2021], Hobo) B+(***)
  86. Juju: Live at 131 Prince Street (1973 [2021], Strut) A-
  87. Byard Lancaster: My Pure Joy (1992 [2021], Strut) B+(***)
  88. Charles Lloyd Quartet: Montreux Jazz Festival 1967 [Swiss Radio Days Volume 46] (1967 [2019], TCB, 2CD) B+(**)
  89. Irene Mawela: The Best of the SABC Years (1982-88 [2019], Umsakazo) B+(***)
  90. Juozas Milasius/Tomas Kulavicius/Dalius Naujokaitis/Lithuanian Young Composers Orchestra: Live at Willisau, 1993 (1993 [2020], NoBusiness) C+
  91. Now That's What I Call Music! Outlaw Country (1968-2015 [2021], NOW) B+(***)
  92. Joe Strummer: Assembly (1986-2002 [2021], Dark Horse) B+(**)
  93. Masauyki JoJo Takayanagi/Nobuyoshi Ino/Masabumi PUU Kikuchi: Live at Jazz Inn Lovely 1990 (1990 [2020], NoBusiness) B+(**)
  94. Neil Young With Crazy Horse: Way Down in the Rust Bucket (1990 [2021], Reprise, 2CD) B+(**)
  95. Bob Andy: Bob Andy's Songbook (1966-68 [1970], Studio One) A-
  96. Big Youth: Dreadlocks Dread (1975, Klik) B+(***)
  97. Big Youth: Natty Cultural Dread (1976, Trojan) B
  98. Big Youth: Hit the Road Jack (1976, Trojan) B+(*)
  99. Big Youth: Isaiah First Prophet of Old (1978, Negusa Nagast) B+(**)
  100. Big Youth: Progress (1979, Negusa Negast) A-
  101. Big Youth: A Reggae Collection (1973-80 [1992], Essex Entertainment) A-
  102. Big Youth: The Chanting Dread Inna Fine Style (1973-82 [1982], Heartbeat) B+(***)
  103. Big Youth: Live at Reggae Sunsplash (1982 [1984], Sunsplash) B+(**)
  104. Big Youth: A Luta Continua (1984 [1985], Heartbeat) B+(**)
  105. Big Youth: Manifestation (1988, Heartbeat) B+(*)
  106. Big Youth: Higher Grounds (1995, VP) B+(*)
  107. Ken Boothe: Mr. Rock Steady (1968, Studio One) B+(**)
  108. Sid Catlett: The Chronological Sid Catlett 1944-1946 (1944-46 [1997], Classics) A-
  109. Joe Chambers: The Almoravid (1971-73 [1974], Muse) B
  110. Joe Chambers: Phantom of the City (1991 [1992], Candid) B+(*)
  111. Joe Chambers: Mirrors (1998 [1999], Blue Note) B+(*)
  112. Johnny Clarke: A Ruffer Version: Johnny Clarke at King Tubby's 1974-78 (1974-78 [2002], Trojan) B+(**)
  113. Johnny Clarke: Dreader Dread (1976-1978) (1976-78 [1998], Blood & Fire) B+(***)
  114. Dillinger: CB 200 (1976, Mango) A-
  115. Phyllis Dillon: One Life to Live (1972, Trojan) B-
  116. Baby Dodds: Baby Dodds (1944-45 [1993], American Music) B+(*)
  117. Baby Dodds: Jazz A' La Creole (1946-47 [2000], GHB) B+(***)
  118. Dr. Alimantado: Best Dressed Chicken in Town (1973-76 [1978], Greensleeves) B+(***)
  119. Mikey Dread: World War III (1980, Dread at the Controls) B+(***)
  120. Mikey Dread: Pave the Way (1982, Heartbeat) B+(**)
  121. Don Drummond: Jazz Ska Attack 1964 (1964 [1999], Jet Set) B+(**)
  122. Drums Parade: From New Orleans to Swing 1937/1945 (1937-45 [1997], Jazz Archives) B+(***)
  123. Clancy Eccles: Freedom: The Anthology (1967-73 [2005], Trojan, 2CD) B+(*)
  124. Eek-a-Mouse: Wa-Do-Dem (1981 [1982], Greensleeves) B+(***)
  125. Alton Ellis: The Best of Alton Ellis (1968-69 [1969], Studio One) B+(**)
  126. Joe Gibbs & the Professionals: African Dub All-Mighty (1975, Joe Gibbs Record Globe) B+(***)
  127. Joe Gibbs & the Professionals: African Dub All-Mighty Chapter 2 (1976, Joe Gibbs Record Globe) B+(***)
  128. Joe Gibbs & the Professionals: African Dub All-Mighty Chapter 3 (1978, Joe Gibbs Record Globe) A-
  129. Joe Gibbs & the Professionals: African Dub Chapter 4 (1979, Joe Gibbs Music) B+(**)
  130. Joe Gibbs & the Professionals: African Dub Chapter Five (1984, Joe Gibbs Music) B+(**)
  131. Allen Ginsberg: Songs of Innocence and Experience (1970, MGM/Verve Forecast) B+(***)
  132. Allen Ginsberg: The Complete Songs of Innocence and Experience (1970 [2017], Omnivore, 2CD) B+(**)
  133. Marcia Griffiths: Naturally (1978, Shanachie) B+(**)
  134. The Heptones: Cool Rasta (1976, Trojan) B+(*)
  135. Keith Hudson: Pick a Dub (1974 [1994], Blood & Fire) B+(**)
  136. Keith Hudson: Rasta Communication (1978, Greensleeves)
  137. George Lewis: George Lewis and His New Orleans Stompers: Vol. 1 (1943 [1994], American Music) B+(***)
  138. George Lewis: George Lewis and His New Orleans Stompers: Vol. 2 (1943 [1994], American Music) B+(***)
  139. George Lewis: At Manny's Tavern 1949 (1949 [1994], American Music) B+(***)
  140. George Lewis: Hello Central . . . Give Me Doctor Jazz (1953 [2001], Delmark) B+(**)
  141. George Lewis: The Beverly Caverns Sessions, Vol. 2 (1953 [1996], Good Time Jazz) A-
  142. George Lewis With George Guesnon's New Orleans Band: Endless the Trek, Endless the Search (1962 [1997], American Music) A-
  143. George Lewis: At Castle Farm 1964 (1964 [2001], American Music) B+(**)
  144. A Love Electric: Son of a Hero (2014, Ropeadope) B
  145. A Love Electric: A Permanent Immigrant (2020, Imagination Demand) B+(*)
  146. The Maytals: Never Grow Old: Presenting the Maytals (1962-63 [1997], Heartbeat) B+(***)
  147. Jackie Mittoo: Now (1970, Studio One) B+(**)
  148. Prince Buster: Fabulous Greatest Hits (1964-68 [1968], Melodisc) A-
  149. Scientist: Scientist Meets the Space Invaders (1981, Greensleeves) B+(***)
  150. Scientist: Scientist Rids the World of the Evil Curse of Vampires (1981, Greensleeves) A-
  151. Scientist: Scientist Encounters Pac-Man (1982, Greensleeves) B+(**)
  152. Scientist: Scientist Wins the World Cup (1982 [2002], Greensleeves) B+(**)
  153. Scientist/Hempress Sativa: Scientist Meets Hempress Sativa in Dub (2018, Conquering Lion) B+(***)
  154. Garnet Silk: It's Growing (1992, VP) B+(**)
  155. Sizzla: Bobo Ashanti (2000, Greensleeves) B+(**)
  156. Skatalites: Ska Authentic, Vol. 1 (1967, Studio One) B+(**)
  157. Skatalites: Ska Authentic, Volume 2 (1970, Studio One) B+(***)
  158. The Upsetters: Return of Django (1969, Trojan) B+(***)
  159. The Upsetters: The Good, the Bad and the Upsetters (1970, Trojan) B+(***)
  160. U-Roy: 30 Massive Shots From Treasure Isle (1970-74 [2009], Attack) B+(**)
  161. U-Roy: Version of Wisdom (1971-74 [1990], Front Line/Virgin) A-
  162. U-Roy: The Lost Album: Right Time Rockers (1976 [1998], Sound System) A-
  163. U-Roy: Love Is Not a Gamble (1980, TR International) B+(***)
  164. U-Roy: Serious Matter (1999, Tabout 1) B+(*)
  165. Bunny Wailer: Protest (1978, Island) B
  166. Bunny Wailer: Struggle (1979, Solomonic) A-
  167. Bunny Wailer: Rock 'n' Groove (1981, Solomonic) B+(***)
  168. Bunny Wailer: Tribute (1981, Solomonic) B+(**)
  169. Bunny Wailer: Time Will Tell: A Tribute to Bob Marley (1981 [1990], Shanachie) B+(***)
  170. Bunny Wailer: Marketplace (1985, Shanachie) B+(*)
  171. Bunny Wailer: Liberation (1989, Shanachie) B+(**)
  172. Bunny Wailer: Crucial! Roots Classics (1979-82 [1994], Shanachie) A+

February 22

  1. 2nd Grade: Hit to Hit (2020, Double Double Whammy) B+(**)
  2. Jhené Aiko: Chilombo (2020, Def Jam) B+(*)
  3. Thana Alexa: Ona (2020, self-released) B+(**)
  4. Gyedu-Blay Ambolley: 11th Street, Sekondi (2019, Agogo) B+(**)
  5. Tim Berne/Matt Mitchell: Spiders (2020, Out of Your Head) A-
  6. Jake Blount: Spider Tales (2020, Free Dirt) B+(***)
  7. Busta Rhymes: Extinction Level Event 2: The Wrath of God (2020, Conglomerate/Empire) B+(*)
  8. Chika: Industry Games (2020, Warner, EP) B+(**)
  9. Common: A Beautiful Revolution [Part 1] (2020, Loma Vista) B+(***)
  10. Chris Crack: White People Love Algorithms (2020, New Deal Collectives) B+(**)
  11. Benoît Delbecq: The Weight of Light (2020 [2021], Pyroclastic) B+(**)
  12. Randal Despommier: Dio C'è (2019 [2021], Outside In Music) B
  13. Ani DiFranco: Revolutionary Love (2021, Righteous Babe) B+(**)
  14. Kevin Dixon: The Summer We All Bought Guns (2020, Covid Charlie's Demo-lution) B
  15. Che Ecru: Til Death (2020, F Plus) B+(**)
  16. Wendy Eisenberg: Auto (2020, Ba Da Bing) B+(*)
  17. Signe Emmeluth: Hi Hello I'm Signe (2020 [2021], Relative Pitch) B
  18. En Attendant Ana: Juillet (2020, Trouble in Mind) B+(**)
  19. See'J Foster: HiSonGreWings (2020, self-released) B+(**)
  20. Gabriel Garzón-Montano: Agüita (2020, Jagjaguwar) B+(*)
  21. Dana Gavanski: Yesterday Is Gone (2020, Ba Da Bing) B+(*)
  22. Dana Gavanski: Wind Songs (2020, Ba Da Bing, EP) B
  23. Beverly Glenn-Copeland: Live at Le Guess Who? 2018 (2018 [2020], Transgressive) B+(***)
  24. Goodie Mob: Survival Kit (2020, Organized Noize/Goodie Mob Worldwide) A-
  25. Conan Gray: Kid Krow (2020, Republic) B+(*)
  26. Gunna: Wunna (2020, YSL/300) B+(*)
  27. Juniper: Juniper (2020, self-released) A-
  28. Katarsis 4: Live at the Underground Water Reservoir (2019 [2020], NoBusiness) B+(*)
  29. KMRU: Peel (2020, Editions Mego) B+(*)
  30. LCSM [Likwid Continual Space Motion]: Earthbound (2020, Super-Sonic Jazz) B+(***)
  31. Joe Lovano: Trio Tapestry: Garden of Expression (2019 [2021], ECM) B
  32. Madlib: Sound Ancestors (2021, Madlib Invazion) B+(*)
  33. Maluma: Papi Juancho (2020, Sony Music Latin) B+(**)
  34. Mast: Battle Hymns of the Republic (2020 [2021], World Galaxy) B+(**)
  35. Shawn Mendes: Wonder (2020, Island) B+(*)
  36. Yoko Miwa Trio: Songs of Joy (2020 [2021], Ubuntu Music) B+(**)
  37. Moor Mother & Billy Woods: Brass (2020, Backwoodz Studioz) B+(**)
  38. Nihiloxica: Kaloli (2020, Crammed Discs) B+(**)
  39. Kassa Overall: Shades of Flu: Healthy Remixes for an Ill Moment (2020, Flu Note) B+(*)
  40. Palberta: Palberta 5000 (2021, Wharf Cat) B+(*)
  41. Tayla Parx: Coping Mechanisms (2020, Taylamade) B+(*)
  42. Penya Na Msafiri Zawose: Penya Safari E.P. (2020, On the Corner) B+(*)
  43. Real Estate: The Main Thing (2020, Domino) B+(*)
  44. RED Trio & Celebration Band: Suite 10 Years Anniversary (2018 [2020], NoBusiness, 2CD) B+(***)
  45. Roddy Ricch: Please Excuse Me for Being Antisocial (2019, Atlantic) B
  46. Roshin: Unrequited (2020, self-released) B+(*)
  47. Lingo Seini Et Son Groupe: Musique Hauka (2020, Sahel Sounds) B+(**)
  48. Shamir: Shamir (2020, self-released) B
  49. Skyzoo & Dumbo Station: The Bluest Note (2020, Tuff Kong, EP) A-
  50. Skyzoo: Milestones (2020, Mello Music Group, EP) A-
  51. Stove God Cooks: Reasonable Drought (2020, The Conglomeration Entertainment) B+(**)
  52. Thick: 5 Years Behind (2020, Epitaph) B+(**)
  53. Sabu Toyozumi/Mats Gustafsson: Hokusai (2018 [2020], NoBusiness) B+(*)
  54. Ty Dolla $ign: Featuring Ty Dolla $ign (2020, Atlantic) B
  55. Westside Gunn: Who Made the Sunshine (2020, Griselda/Shady/Interscope) B+(*)
  56. Nate Wooley/Liudas Mockunas/Barry Guy/Arkadijus Gotesmanas: NOX (2019 [2020], NoBusiness) B+(*)
  57. Matthew Wright: Locked Hybrids (2020, Relative Pitch) B
  58. YoungBoy Never Broke Again: Top (2020, Never Broke Again/Atlantic) B-
  59. Birds of Prey: The Album ([2020], Atlantic) B+(***)
  60. Billy Brooks: Windows of the World (1974 [2002], WeWantSounds) B-
  61. Beverly Glenn-Copeland: Transmissions: The Music of Beverly Glenn-Copeland (1970-2019 [2020], Transgressive) A-
  62. Honey Radar: Sing the Snow Away: The Chunklet Years (2015-18 [2020], Chunklet Industries) B+(**)
  63. Portals: A Kosmische Journey Through Outer Worlds and Inner Space ([2020], Behind the Sky) B+(***)
  64. Sam Rivers Quartet: Braids [Sam Rivers Archive Project, Volume 4] (1979 [2020], NoBusiness) A-
  65. Nancy Sinatra: Start Walkin' 1965-1976 (1965-76 [2021], Light in the Attic) B+(**)
  66. Southeast of Saturn: Michigan Shoegaze/Dream Pop/Space Rock (1990s [2020], Third Man) B+(*)
  67. Voz Di Sanicolau: Fundo De Marê Palinha (1976 [2020], Analog Africa, EP) B+(**)
  68. Mike Westbrook: Love and Understanding: Citadel/Room 315 Sweden '74 (1974 [2020], My Only Desire) A-
  69. Beverly Glenn-Copeland: Keyboard Fantasies (1986, Atlast) B+(**)
  70. SK Kakraba: Songs of Paapieye (2015, Awesome Tapes From Africa) B+(**)
  71. Playboy Tre and DJ Swatts: Goodbye America: Da Story of a Drunk Loner (2008, Last Call Entertainment) A-
  72. Playboy Tre: Liquor Store Mascot (2009, Playboy Music) A-
  73. U-Roy: Foundation Skank: 1971-1975 Rare Sides by the DJ Originator (1971-75 [2009], Sound System) B+(***)
  74. U-Roy: Dread in a Babylon (1975, Virgin) B+(**)

January 31

  1. 3unshine: We Are 3unshine (2019 [2020], Real Show) B+(**)
  2. AC/DC: Power Up (2020, Columbia) B
  3. Adulkt Life: Book of Curses (2020, What's Your Rupture?) B+(***)
  4. André Akinyele: Uniglo Boy (2020, Orange River) B+(**)
  5. Gabriel Alegria Afro-Peruvian Sextet: Social Distancing (2020 [2021], Saponegro) B+(**)
  6. Karrin Allyson Sextet: Shoulder to Shoulder: Centennial Tribute to Women's Suffrage (2019, EOne Music) B+(***)
  7. Alma: Have U Seen Her? (2020, PME) B+(**)
  8. Roo Arcus: Tumbleweed (2020, Social Family) B+(*)
  9. Callum Au/Claire Martin: Songs and Stories (2020, Stunt) B+(**)
  10. Daniel Avery: Love + Light (2020, Phantasy Sound) B+(**)
  11. Baba Zula: Hayvan Gibi (2020, Night Dreamer/Gulbara) A-
  12. Juan Pablo Balcazar: Suite Resbalosa (2018 [2020], Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(***)
  13. BbyMutha: Muthaland (2020, The Muthaboard) A-
  14. BC Camplight: Shortly After Takeoff (2020, Bella Union) B
  15. Bdrmm: Bedroom (2020, Sonic Cathedral) B+(**)
  16. Beach Bunny: Honeymoon (2020, Mom + Pop) B+(*)
  17. Beans on Toast: Knee Deep in Nostalgia (2020, Beans on Toast Music) B+(***)
  18. Beans on Toast: The Unforseeable Future (2020, Beans on Toast Music) B+(***)
  19. Belle and Sebastian: What to Look for in Summer (2019 [2020], Matador, 2CD) B+(**)
  20. Peter Bernstein: What Comes Next (2020, Smoke Sessions) B+(*)
  21. The Big Moon: Walking Like We Do (2020, Fiction) B
  22. Big Sean: Detroit 2 (2020, GOOD Music/Def Jam) B+(**)
  23. Binker and Moses: Escape the Flames (2017 [2020], Gearbox) A-
  24. Nat Birchall Meets Al Breadwinner: Tradition Disc in Dub (2020, Tradition Disc) B+(***)
  25. BlackPink: The Album (2020, YG Entertainment/Interscope) B+(**)
  26. Susie Blue and the Lonesome Fellas: Bye Bye Blues (2020, Seraphic) B+(**)
  27. The Bombpops: Death in Venice Beach (2020, Fat Wreck Chords) B+(**)
  28. James Dean Bradfield: Even in Exile (2020, Montyray) B+(*)
  29. Brandy: B7 (2020, Brand Nu/Entertainment One) B+(*)
  30. Brothers Osborne: Skeletons (2020, EMI Nashville) B+(*)
  31. Nicholas Brust: Frozen in Time (2018 [2020], Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(**)
  32. Aaron Burnett & the Big Machine: Jupiter Conjunct (2019 [2020], Fresh Sound New Talent) B
  33. Cable Ties: Far Enough (2020, Merge) B+(***)
  34. Cam: The Otherside (2020, RCA) B+(***)
  35. Peter Campbell: Old Flames Never Die (2020, self-released) B+(*)
  36. Playboi Carti: Whole Lotta Red (2020, AWGE/Interscope) B+(**)
  37. Brian Charette: Beyond Borderline (2019, SteepleChase) B+(*)
  38. Brian Charette: Like the Sun (2020, Dim Mak) B
  39. Luca Collivasone/Gianni Mimmo: Rumpus Room (2019 [2020], Amirani) B+(*)
  40. Collocutor: Continuation (2018-19 [2020], On the Corner) B+(*)
  41. Marco Colonna & Alexander Hawkins: Dolphy Underlined (2020, Fundacja Sluchaj) B+(***)
  42. A.G. Cook: Apple (2020, PC Music) B
  43. Coriky: Coriky (2020, Dischord) B+(*)
  44. Elvis Costello: Hey Clockface (2020, Concord) B-
  45. Crack Cloud: Pain Olympics (2020, Meat Machine) B+(*)
  46. John Craigie: Asterisk the Universe (2020, Zabriskie Point) A-
  47. Cut Worms: Nobody Lives Here Anymore (2020, Jagjaguwar) B+(*)
  48. Dan Ex Machina: Pity Party Animal (2020, self-released) B+(***)
  49. Dan Ex Machina: My Wife (2020, self-released) B+(**)
  50. Dan Ex Machina: Bail Shag EP (2017 [2021], self-released) B+(*)
  51. Ward Davis: Black Cats and Crows (2020, Ward Davis Music) B+(*)
  52. Dean & Britta: Quarantine Tapes (2020, Double Feature) B+(**)
  53. Deerhoof: Future Teenage Cave Artists (2020, Joyful Noise) B+(*)
  54. Deerhoof & Wadada Leo Smith: To Be Surrounded by Beautiful, Curious, Breathing, Laughing Flesh Is Enough (2020, Joyful Noise) B+(**)
  55. Deerhoof: Love-Lore (2020, Joyful Noise) B+(*)
  56. Dehd: Flower of Devotion (2020, Fire Talk) B+(*)
  57. Helena Deland: Someone New (2020, Luminelle) B+(*)
  58. Diabla Diezco: Memento Mori (2020, Mord) B+(***)
  59. Dogleg: Melee (2020, Triple Crown) B
  60. Dave Douglas: Overcome (2020, Greenleaf Music) B+(**)
  61. Drunken Kong: Where We Start (2020, Tronic) B+(***)
  62. Dueling Experts: Dueling Experts (2020, Mello Music Group) B+(***)
  63. Nick Dunston: Atlantic Extraction: Live at Threes (2020, Out of Your Head Untamed) B+(**)
  64. Dvsn: A Muse in Her Feelings (2020, OVO Sound/Warner Bros.)
  65. Steve Earle: J.T. (2021, New West) A-
  66. Empress Of: I'm Your Empress Of (2020, Terrible) B+(**)
  67. Hazel English: Wake UP! (2020, Polyvinyl) B+(*)
  68. Erasure: The Neon (2020, Mute) B
  69. Brandon Evans: The Grove (2020, Human Plastic, EP) B+(**)
  70. Eyelids: The Accidental Falls (2020, Decor) B+(*)
  71. Fantastic Negrito: Have You Lose Your ind Yet? (2020, Cooking Vinyl/Blackball Universe) B+(***)
  72. Justin Farren: Pretty Free (2020, Bad Service Badger) A-
  73. Bill Fay: Countless Branches (2020, Dead Oceans) B+(**)
  74. Laura Fell: Safe From Me (2020, Balloon Machine) B+(*)
  75. R.A.P. Ferreira: Purple Moonlight Pages (2020, Ruby Yacht) A-
  76. R.A.P. Ferreira: Bob's Son: R.A.P. Ferreira in the Garden Level Cafe of the Scallops Hotel (2021, Ruby Yacht) B+(***)
  77. Fireboy DML: Apollo (YBNL Nation/Empire) B+(*)
  78. Michael Formanek: Pre-Apocalyptic (2014 [2020], Out of Your Head) B+(***)
  79. Keeley Forsyth: Debris (2020, The Leaf Label) B
  80. The Full Salon: The Full Salon (2018 [2020], self-released) B
  81. Future Islands: As Long as You Are (2020, 4AD) B+(*)
  82. Angelica Garcia: Cha Cha Palace (2020, Spacebomb) B
  83. Melody Gardot: Sunset in the Blue (2020, Decca) B
  84. Ghetto Kumbé: Ghetto Kumbé (2020, ZZK) B+(**)
  85. A Girl Called Eddy: Been Around (2020, Elefant) B+(*)
  86. Selena Gomez: Rare (2020, Interscope) B+(**)
  87. Jerry Granelli: The Jerry Granelli Trio Plays Vince Guaraldi & Mose Allison (2020, RareNoise) B+(*)
  88. The Grasso-Ravita Jazz Ensemble: Jagged Spaces (2020 [2021], Grassvita Music) B+(*)
  89. Groupe RTD: The Dancing Devils of Djibouti (2020, Ostinato) B+(***)
  90. Guiss Guiss Bou Bess: Set Sela (2019, Helico) A-
  91. The Happy Fits: What Could Be Better (2020, The Happy Fits) B+(**)
  92. Roderick Harper: Evolving (2020 [2021], R.H.M. Entertainment) B+(*)
  93. The Henrys: Paydirt (2020, HR-2019) B+(*)
  94. HHY & the Kampala Unit: Lithium Blast (2020, Nyege Nyege Tapes) B+(*)
  95. Marquis Hill: Soul Sign (2020, Black Unlimited Music Group) B
  96. Rui Ho: Lov3 & L1ght (2020, Planet Mu) B+(**)
  97. Siul Hughes: Hueman (2020, Fake Four) B+(***)
  98. Siul Hughes: Stoopkid (2018 [2019], Fake Four) B+(**)
  99. Sierra Hull: 25 Trips (2020, Rounder) B+(**)
  100. Hum: Inlet (2020, Earth Analog) B
  101. Kelley Hurt/Chad Fowler/Christopher Parker/Bernard Santacruz/Anders Griffen: Nothing but Love: The Music of Frank Lowe (2019 [2020], Mahakala Music) B+(***)
  102. Kang Tae Hwan/Hang Hae Jin: Circle Point (2019 [2020], Dancing Butterfly) B+(**)
  103. Hwyl Nofio: Isolate (2020, Hwyl) B+(*)
  104. Illuminati Hotties: Free I.H.: This Is Not the One You've Been Waiting For (2020, self-released) B+(*)
  105. Jasmine Infiniti: Bxtch Släp (2020, New World Dysorder) B+(**)
  106. International Teachers of Pop: Pop Gossip (2020, Desolate Spools) B+(**)
  107. Ital Tek: Outland (2020, Planet Mu) B+(**)
  108. Sunny Jain: Wild Wild East (2020, Smithsonian Folkways) B+(*)
  109. Sarah Jarosz: World on the Ground (2020, Rounder) B+(***)
  110. Hermione Johnson: Tremble (2019 [2020], Relative Pitch) B+(**)
  111. Juice WRLD: Legends Never Die (2020, Grade A/Interscope) B
  112. Juniore: Un Deux Trois (2020, Le Phonographe) B+(**)
  113. Maria Kannegaard Trio: Sand I En Vik (2020, Jazzland) B+(***)
  114. The Killers: Imploding the Mirage (2020, Island) B
  115. Kiwi Jr.: Football Money (2020, Persona Non Grata) B+(**)
  116. Stephanie Lambring: Autonomy (2020, self-released) B+(**)
  117. Sonny Landreth: Blacktop Run (2020, Provogue) B+(*)
  118. Last Dream of the Morning [John Butcher/John Edwards/Mark Sanders]: Crucial Anatomy (2018 [2020], Trost) B+(**)
  119. Pak Yan Lau & Darin Gray: Trudge Lightly (2016-18 [2020], By the Bluest of Seas) B+(**)
  120. Adrianne Lenker: Instrumentals (2020, 4AD) B
  121. Dave Liebman/Randy Brecker/Marc Copland/Drew Gress/Joey Baron: Quint5t (2020, Inner Voice Jazz) B+(**)
  122. Lithics: Tower of Age (2020, Trouble in Mind) A-
  123. Lomelda: Hannah (2020, Double Double Whammy) B+(*)
  124. Lydia Loveless: Daughter (2020, Honey, You're Gonna Be Late) B+(*)
  125. Luca T. Mai: Heavenly Guide (2018 [2020], Trost) B
  126. Roc Marciano: Mt. Marci (2020, Marci) B+(*)
  127. Roc Marciano: Marcielago (2019 [2020], Marci Enterprises) B+(**)
  128. Gia Margaret: Mia Gargaret (2020, Orindal) B+(*)
  129. Branford Marsalis: Ma Rainey's Black Bottom [Original Soundtrack] (2020, Milan) B
  130. Sabir Mateen/Christopher Dell/Christian Ramond/Klaus Kugel: Creation (2012 [2020], 577) B+(***)
  131. McCarthy Trenching: Perfect Game (2020, self-released) B+(***)
  132. Melenas: Dias Raros (2020, Trouble in Mind) B+(**)
  133. Melkbelly: PITH (2020, Wax Nine/Carpark) B
  134. Metz: Atlas Vending (2020, Sub Pop) B
  135. Buddy & Julie Miller: Lockdown Songs (2020, self-released) B+(***)
  136. Blake Mills: Mutable Set (2020, New Deal/Verve) B
  137. Gianni Mimmo/Alison Blunt: Busy Butterflies (2020, Amirani) B+(**)
  138. Moby: All Visible Objects (2020, Mute) B+(*)
  139. MoE With Mette Rasmussen and Ikuro Takahasi: Painted (2019 [2020], Relative Pitch) B
  140. Kevin Morby: Sundowner (2020, Dead Oceans) B+(*)
  141. Bob Mould: Blue Hearts (2020, Merge) B+(*)
  142. Mukdad Rothenberg Lankow: In the Wake of Memories (2020, Clermont Music) A-
  143. Munson-Hicks Party Supplies: Munson-Hicks Party Supplies (2020, Soft Launch) B+(**)
  144. Keir Neuringer/Ensemble Klang: Elegies & Litanies (2019 [2020], Ensemble Klang) A-
  145. Kyle Nix: Lightning on the Mountain & Other Short Stories (2020, self-released) B+(*)
  146. Jim Noir: A.M Jazz (2019, Dook) B+(**)
  147. NZCA Lines: Pure Luxury (2020, Memphis Industries) B+(*)
  148. Okan: Espiral (2020, Lulaworld) B+(***)
  149. J.S. Ondara: Folk N' Roll, Vol. 1: Tales of Isolation (2020, Verve Forecast) B
  150. The Orielles: Disco Volador (2020, Heavenly) B+(*)
  151. Jason Palmer: The Concert: 12 Musings for Isabella (2019 [2020], Giant Step Arts, 2CD) A-
  152. Christopher Parker & Kelly Hurt: No Tears Suite (2020, Mahakala Music) B+(**)
  153. Esmé Patterson: There Will Come Soft Rains (2020, BMG) B+(**)
  154. Ivo Perelman/Matthew Shipp/Joe Morris: Shamanism (2020, Mahakala Music) A-
  155. Ivo Perelman Trio: Garden of Jewels (2020 [2021], Tao Forms) A-
  156. Chris Pitsiokos: Speak in Tongues and Hope for the Gift of Interpretation (2020, Relative Pitch) B+(*)
  157. Popcaan: Fixtape (2020, OVO Sound/Warner) B+(**)
  158. Poppy: I Disagree (2020, Sumerian) B+(*)
  159. Pottery: Welcome to Bobby's Motel (2020, PTKF) B+(*)
  160. Ratboys: Printer's Devil (2020, Topshelf) B+(*)
  161. Enrico Rava/Matthew Herbert/Giovanni Guidi: For Mario (Live) (2020, Accidental) B+(*)
  162. Raw Poetic & Damu the Fudgemunk: Moment of Change (2020, Redefinition) B+(**)
  163. Tim Ray: Excursions and Adventures (2019 [2020], Whaling City Sound) B+(*)
  164. Reciprocal Uncles [Gianni Lenoci/Gianni Mimmo]: The Whole Thing (2019 [2020], Amirani) B+(**)
  165. Soho Rezanejad: Honesty Without Compassion Is Brutality (Volume 1) (2019, Silicone) B+(*)
  166. Soho Rezanejad: Honesty Without Compassion Is Brutality (Volume 2) (2020, Silicone) B+(*)
  167. Romare: Home (2020, Ninja Tune) B+(**)
  168. Mara Rosenbloom Trio: Respiration (2020, Fresh Sound New Talent) B+(**)
  169. The Justin Rothberg Group: Hurricane Mouse (2020 [2021], self-released) B+(*)
  170. David Rothenberg: Nightingales in Berlin (2019, Terra Nova) B+(*)
  171. Ana Roxanne: Because of a Flower (2020, Kranky) B+(*)
  172. Royce Da 5'9": The Allegory (2020, EOne) B+(**)
  173. Gonzalo Rubalcaba & Aymée Nuviola: Viento Y Tiempo: Live at the Blue Note Tokyo (2019 [2020], Top Stop Music) A-
  174. Jeff Rupert/George Garzone: The Ripple (2017 [2020], Rupe Media) B+(*)
  175. Samo Salamon & Friends: Almost Alone Vol. 1 (2020, Samo) B+(***)
  176. Jeannie Seely: An American Classic (2020, Curb) B
  177. Sleaford Mods: Spare Ribs (2021, Rough Trade) B+(***)
  178. James Solace: Mind Music (2020, Hot Creations, EP) B+(**)
  179. James Solace: Setting Sun/The Light (2020, Four Thirty Two, EP) B+(**)
  180. Spanish Love Songs: Brave Faces Everyone (2020, Pure Noise) B-
  181. Special Interest: The Passion Of (2020, Thrilling Living) B+(***)
  182. Sports Team: Deep Down Happy (2020, Island) B+(***)
  183. Macie Stewart & Kia Kohl: Recipe for a Boiled Egg (2020, Astral Spirits) B+(*)
  184. Dave Stryker: Baker's Circle (2019 [2021], Strikezone) B+(***)
  185. Dougie Stu: Familiar Future (2020, Ropeadope) B
  186. Sweeping Promises: Hunger for a Way Out (2020, Feel It) A-
  187. Aki Takase/Rudi Mahall: Fifty Fifty (2018 [2019], Trouble in the East) B+(**)
  188. Teyana Taylor: The Album (2020, GOOD Music/Def Jam) B+(***)
  189. Tchami: Year Zero (2020, Conession) B+(**)
  190. Teenage Halloween: Teenage Halloween (2020, Don Giovanni) B+(*)
  191. TOC: Indoor (2019 [2020], Circum-Disc) B+(***)
  192. TOC & Dave Rempis: Closed for Safety Reasons (2019 [2020], Circum-Disc) A-
  193. Touché Amoré: Lament (2020, Epitaph) B+(**)
  194. Two Weeks Notice: A Calm, Measured Response (2020, Fake Four, EP) B+(**)
  195. Ugly Beauty: Ugly Beauty (2019 [2020], self-released) B+(*)
  196. Cristina Vane: Old Played New (2020, Blue Tip) B+(***)
  197. Cristina Vane: The Magnolia Sessions (2020, Anti-Corp) B+(**)
  198. Luke Vibert: Luke Vibert Presents Amen Andrews (2020, Hypercolour) B+(**)
  199. Luke Vibert: Luke Vibert Presents Modern Rave (2020, Hypercolour) B+(***)
  200. Luke Vibert: Luke Vibert Presents Rave Hop (2020, Hypercolour) B+(**)
  201. Rufus Wainwright: Unfollow the Rules (2020, BMG) B-
  202. Anna Webber: Rectangles (2019 [2020], Out of Your Head) B+(**)
  203. Ndabo Zulu & Umgidi Ensemble: Queen Nandi: The African Suite (2020, Mageba Music, 2CD) B+(*)
  204. BBQ With Fred Frith: Free Postmodernism/USA 1982 (1982 [2020], SÅJ) B+(**)
  205. Damily: Early Years: Madagascar Cassette Archives (1995-2002 [2020], Bongo Joe) B+(***)
  206. The Disciples: For Those Who Understand (1991-95 [2020], Partial) B+(**)
  207. Erotique New Beat (1989 [2020], Mental Groove) B+(***)
  208. Dexter Gordon: Montmartre 1964 (1964 [2020], Storyville) B+(***)
  209. Dexter Gordon: The Squirrel: Live at Montmartre Copenhagen '67 (1967 [2020], Parlophone) B+(**)
  210. Bonnie Hayes With the Wild Combo: Good Clean Fun (1982 [2020], Blixa Sounds) B+(**)
  211. Kakai Kilonzo & Les Kilimambogo Brothers: Buffalo Mountain (1975-85 [2020], No Wahala Sounds) A-
  212. Pedro Lima: Maguidala (1985 [2020], Bongo Joe) A-
  213. London Is the Place for Me 7: Calypso, Palm-Wine, Mento, Joropo, Steel & Stringband ([2019], Honest Jon's) B+(**)
  214. London Is the Place for Me 8: Lord Kitchener in England, 1948-1962 (1948-62 [2019], Honest Jon's) B+(***)
  215. Man Jumping: Jumpcut (1984 [2020], Emotional Rescue) B+(**)
  216. The Mighty Three's: Africa Shall Stretch Forth Her Hand (1978 [2020], Jah Fingers) B+(**)
  217. Jay Migliori and Dick Twardzik: Jazz Workshop Quintet: A Harvard WHRB Session (1954 [2020], Fresh Sound) B+(**)
  218. Mirah: You Think It's Like This but Really It's Like This (2000 [2020], K) B+(***)
  219. Lon Moshe & the Southern Freedom Arkestra: Love Is Where the Spirit Lies (1976-77 [2020], Strut) B+(**)
  220. New Orleans Mambo: Cuba to NOLA (1974-2019 [2020], Putumayo World Music) B+(***)
  221. Tony Oxley: February Papers (1977 [2020], Discus Music) B
  222. Sun Ra Arkestra: Egypt 1971 (1971 [2020], Strut/Art Yard, 4CD) B+(*)
  223. Sun Ra: On Jupiter (1979 [2021], Enterplanetary Koncepts) B+(***)
  224. Buddy Rich: Just in Time: The Final Recording (1986 [2019], Gearbox) B+(*)
  225. Riley: Grandma's Roadhouse (1970 [2010], Delmore Recording Society) B
  226. Max Romeo: Revelation Time (1975 [2020], 17 North Parade) B+(*)
  227. Schlippenbach & Johansson: Onkel Pös Carnegie Hall Hamburg 1978 (1978 [2021], SÅJ) A-
  228. Scorcha! Skins, Suedes and Style From the Streets 1967-1973 (1967-73 [2020], Trojan) B+(*)
  229. Phil Seymour: If You Don't Want My Love (1980-85 [2020], Sunset Blvd) B+(**)
  230. The Ibrahim Khalil Shihab Quintet: Spring (1968 [2020], Matsuli Music) A-
  231. Silkworm: In the West (1994 [2020], Comedy Minus One) B+(***)
  232. Soul Love Now: The Black Fire Records Story 1975-1993 (1975-93 [2020], Strut) B+(***)
  233. Sugar Billy: Super Duper Love (1975 [2020], Mainstream) B+(***)
  234. The Tabansi Studio Band: Vol. 3: Wakar Alhazai Kano/Mus'en Sofoa (1970s [2020], BBE) A-
  235. Keith Tippett: The Monk Watches the Eagle (2004 [2020], Discus Music) B-
  236. Turn Me Loose White Man (1900-60 [2020], Constant Sorrow, 30CD) A-
  237. Uzelli Elektro Saz (1976-1984) (1976-84 [2020], Uzelli) B+(**)
  238. Jack Wright/Michael Taylor: Kryptischgasse (2001 [2020], Right Brain, EP) B+(*)
  239. Don & Dewey: Jungle Hop (1957-64 [1991], Specialty) B+(**)
  240. Ensemble Klang: Tom Johnson: Cows, Chords & Combinations (2009 [2010], Ensemble Klang) B+(***)
  241. Group Doueh & Cheveu: Dakhla Sahara Session (2017, Born Bad) A-
  242. Bonnie Hayes With the Wild Combo: Good Clean Fun (1982, Slash) B+(***)
  243. Stan Hope: Stan Hope (1971, Mainstream) B+(**)
  244. Charles McPherson: Charles McPherson (1971, Mainstream) B+(**)
  245. Solitaire Miles: The Solitaire Miles Jazztets With Willie Perkins (2008-10 [2018], Seraphic, EP) B+(*)
  246. Solitaire Miles: Susie Blue and the Lonesome Fellas (2015, Seraphic) B+(**)
  247. Charles Mingus: Jazz in Detroit/Strata Concert Gallery/46 Selden (1973 [2018], BBE, 5CD) B+(***)
  248. Reggie Moore: Furioso (1972, Mainstream) B+(**)
  249. Prince Alla: The Best of Prince Alla (1976-79 [1981], Redemption Sounds) B+(**)
  250. Jeannie Seely: The Seely Style (1966, Monument) B
  251. Jeannie Seely: Thanks Hank! (1967, Monument) B+(*)
  252. Clark Terry & Bob Brookmeyer: The Power of Positive Swinging (1965, Mainstream) B+(***)
  253. Clark Terry/Bob Brookmeyer Quintet: Gingerbread Men (1966, Mainstream) B+(**)
  254. Clark Terry: Mumbles (1966, Mainstream) B+(**)
  255. Cristina Vane: Troubled Sleep (2017, self-released, EP) B+(**)
  256. Viktor Vaughn: Vaudeville Villain (2003, Sound-Ink) A-
  257. Ernie Wilkins and His Orchestra: Hard Mother Blues (1970, Mainstream) B+(*)
  258. Pete Yellin: Dance of Allegra (1972, Mainstream) B+(**)
  259. Tim Berne/Matt Mitchell: Spiders (2020, Out of Your Head Untamed) +
  260. Mark Helias/Tim Berne: Blood From a Stone (2020, Radiolegs) +
  261. Steve Lehman: Xenakis and the Valedictorian (2020, Pi, EP) -
  262. Roscoe Mitchell: Splatter (2017 [2020], I Dischi Di Angelica) -
  263. Neek/Blazer Sound System: NMX004: Sanctuary Mixtape (2020, Noods Radio) +
  264. Luke Norris: Northernsong (2020, Ears & Eyes) +
  265. Evan Parker/Matthew Wright/Trance Map+ [Adam Linson/John Coxon/Ashley Wales]: Crepuscle in Nickelsdorf (2017 [2019], Intakt) +
  266. David Ramirez: My Love Is a Hurricane (2020, Sweetworld) --
  267. Manuel Valera New Cuban Express Big Band: José Martí En Nueva York (2019 [2020], Greenleaf Music) +
  268. Bob Vylan: We Live Here (2020, Venn, EP) ++
  269. Dan Weiss Starebaby: Natural Selection (2020, Pi) -
  270. Hayes Carll: Alone Together Sessions (2020, Dualtone) A-
  271. Open Mike Eagle: Anime Trauma and Divorce (2020, Auto Reverse) A-
  272. Ashley McBryde: Never Will (2020, Warner Nashville) A-
  273. Young M.A: Herstory in the Making (2019, M.A Music) B+(***)