[Autumn Jazz] Classic and Popular Jazz Songs to Enjoy in the Fall

You Only Live TwiceBill Frisell

Bill Frisell – You Only Live Twice (Pseudo Video)

This is a track from American jazz guitarist Bill Frisell’s 2015 album When You Wish Upon a Star, hailing from Baltimore.

It’s a gem where his gentle, beautifully toned guitar—imbued with folk and country sensibilities—intertwines with Petra Haden’s tender vocals.

PriestessBilly Harper

Priestess

This is a track from the 1977 album “Love On The Sudan” by Billy Harper, a jazz saxophonist from Houston, USA.

His free and powerful playing is overwhelming, and the intricate, unconventional song structure creates a unique world of its own.

Five Spot After DarkCurtis Fuller

Curtis Fuller – ‘Five Spot After Dark’ (1959) Original not Remix

This is a minor blues composed by saxophonist Benny Golson, named after the New York jazz club Five Spot Café.

New York’s 9th Street, where the café was located, is home to venues like the Cotton Club and the Village Vanguard, and it continues to thrive as a center of New York jazz.

Room 335Larry Carlton

Larry Carlton – Room 335

This is a signature piece by Larry Carlton, a jazz-fusion guitarist from California, USA.

His performances with Steely Dan are also highly acclaimed, and he is regarded as one of the leading guitarists in jazz fusion.

He has been remarkably active in blues and rock as well, and his fiery, cool guitar playing has captured the hearts of many fans.

Lulu’s Back In TownThelonious Monk

Lulu’s Back In Town – Thelonious Monk

This is a track from the 1964 album “It’s Monk’s Time” by Thelonious Monk, a jazz pianist from North Carolina, USA.

Thanks to his distinctive improvisation, even standards that might otherwise turn out polished bear his unmistakable stamp.

He is a giant of the jazz world, on par with Miles Davis and John Coltrane.

Early AutumnAnita O’Day

Early Autumn

It’s a piece that Ralph Burns wrote for Woody Herman’s band in the 1940s, with Stan Getz taking the solo part—his cool solo became a hot topic at the time.

Later, Johnny Mercer added melancholic, autumnal lyrics.

Autumn LeavesBill Evans

Autumn Leaves

This is a track from jazz pianist Bill Evans, who hails from New Jersey, USA, included on his 1959 album “Portrait in Jazz.” As a leading figure of modern jazz, his beautiful touch on the piano and richly colored arrangements remain timeless.

The piece is “Autumn Leaves,” a famed chanson that is also celebrated as a jazz standard.