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C. Andrew Hovan's Best Albums of 2023

By C. Andrew Hovan
December 22, 2023
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Even as it seems the media has yet again touted music this year that seems to stray from the tradition, there's still a wealth of artists issuing viable music that looks ahead while also respecting jazz's deep legacy. Furthermore, the vinyl renaissance continues to bring us troves of unearthed gems along with old favorites dressed in new clothing. With a taste towards those artists practicing the mainstream jazz vernacular, here are my choices for favorite releases from 2023. The first half dozen focuses on new music, while the second half is reserved for historical releases and reissues.

Jim Snidero

saxophone, alto
b.1958

" data-original-title="" title="">Jim Snidero
Far Far Away
Savant

Joe Farnsworth

drums
b.1968

" data-original-title="" title="">Joe Farnsworth
In What Direction Are You Headed?
Smoke Sessions

John Scofield

guitar
b.1951

" data-original-title="" title="">John Scofield
Uncle John's Band
ECM

John Hart

guitar
b.1961

" data-original-title="" title="">John Hart
Resonance
SteepleChase

Jim Rotondi

trumpet
1962 - 2024

" data-original-title="" title="">Jim Rotondi
Over Here
Criss Cross Jazz

Steve Smith and Vital Information

band / ensemble / orchestra

" data-original-title="" title="">Steve Smith and Vital Information
Time Flies
Wounded Bird

Charles Mingus

bass, acoustic
1922 - 1979

" data-original-title="" title="">Charles Mingus
Changes: The Complete 1970s Atlantic Recordings
Rhino

McCoy Tyner

piano
1938 - 2020

" data-original-title="" title="">McCoy Tyner
Extensions
Blue Note Tone Poet

Jack Wilson

piano
1936 - 2007

" data-original-title="" title="">Jack Wilson
Easterly Winds
Blue Note Tone Poet

Big John Patton

organ, Hammond B3
1935 - 2002

" data-original-title="" title="">Big John Patton
Let 'Em Roll
Blue Note Tone Poet

Wes Montgomery

guitar
1923 - 1968

" data-original-title="" title="">Wes Montgomery
The Complete Full House Recordings
Craft Recordings

Cal Tjader

vibraphone
1925 - 1982

" data-original-title="" title="">Cal Tjader
Catch the Groove
Jazz Detective

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