This Is What ECM Sounds Like in 2018

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Pianist Keith Jarrett—along with bassist Gary Peacock and drummer Jack DeJohnette—released After The Fall (ECM) in March.

(Photo: Rose Anne Jarrett)

As ECM Records wades deeper into its 49th year, the German imprint has maintained a stunning persistence of vision—in both the types of jazz projects it produces and the visual aesthetic that’s become its trademark.

But it’s tough keep up with the label’s torrent of releases, so DownBeat has put together a helpful guide to some of ECM’s recent recordings. Dig in. DB



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    In addition to his instrumental prowess, Malone was praised for his musical generosity and his singular sense of humor.

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    Benny Golson soaks in the music during a late-career performance at Chicago’s Jazz Showcase.

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    ​Harpist Brandee Younger is among the performers on the program for this year’s Hyde Park Jazz Fest in Chicago.

  • DB24_Charles_Lloyd_by_Douglas_Mason_at_New_Orleans_Jazz_Fest_copy.jpg

    “I don’t focus on the harshness of the music business,” Lloyd says. “I focus on the profundity of what we’re doing because that’s the real stuff. You can change the world with that.”

  • Herbie_Hancock_at_Sierra_at_Surf__Photo_by_Mars_Breslow_copy.JPG

    Hancock has a new project on the horizon but says he will not put it out until he’s ready.