What is the best modern jazz album of the 21st century?

Jazz didn't die — it evolved. From Kamasi Washington's epic fusion to Robert Glasper's R&B crossover and Thundercat's electric grooves, 21st-century jazz is richer and more diverse than ever. Which modern album gets your vote?

1

The Epic

Kamasi Washington's three-hour 2015 debut — spiritual jazz reborn for a new generation.

2

We Like It Here

Snarky Puppy's 2014 live fusion album — tight, joyful, virtuosic.

3

Makaya McCraven - Universal Beings

Makaya McCraven's 2018 improvisation-to-production masterpiece spanning four cities.

4

Nubya Garcia - Source

Nubya Garcia's 2020 debut — the heart of London's new jazz scene.

5

Vijay Iyer Trio - Historicity

Vijay Iyer Trio's genre-spanning 2009 standard-bearer for 21st-century piano trio jazz.

6

BADBADNOTGOOD - IV

BADBADNOTGOOD's 2016 jazz-hip-hop hybrid featuring Sam Herring and Kaytranada.

7

Flying Lotus - You're Dead!

Flying Lotus's 2014 psychedelic jazz-electronic odyssey with Kendrick Lamar and Herbie Hancock.

8

Mary Halvorson - Meltframe

Mary Halvorson's 2015 solo guitar album — avant-garde jazz guitar's most original voice.

9

Ambrose Akinmusire - When the Heart Emerges Glistening

Ambrose Akinmusire's 2011 Blue Note debut announced a major new trumpet voice.

10

Thundercat - Drunk

Thundercat's 2017 bass-virtuoso masterpiece — funk, jazz, and pop colliding.

11

Shabaka and the Ancestors - Wisdom of Elders

Shabaka Hutchings's 2016 album with South African musicians — urgent, essential, spiritual.

12

Esperanza Spalding - Chamber Music Society

Esperanza Spalding's 2010 Grammy-winning bass-led masterwork blending jazz and classical.