Cool jazz piano: from classic favorites to hidden gems.
Even within what we broadly call jazz, there are countless subgenres, and it’s fascinating how the sound itself changes depending on which instrument takes center stage.
As the name suggests, “jazz piano,” where the piano is the main focus, is an especially popular style of jazz in Japan.
There are many classic tunes that everyone has heard at least once, and I imagine quite a few jazz beginners start out by listening to a piano trio album.
In this article, we’ve gathered timeless tracks from across eras—including recent jazz—that feature up-tempo, cool, and stylish piano within the realm of jazz piano.
If you usually gravitate toward lyrical, slow jazz piano, this is a great chance to check out something different!
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Cool jazz piano: from classic favorites to hidden gems (1–10)
Peaceful WarriorAaron Parks
Aaron Parks, a genius pianist who debuted at 16.
His “Peaceful Warrior” is a fascinating piece that sounds cool despite using hardly any fast runs.
Its greatest appeal lies in its distinctive musicality.
The floating, tonally ambiguous phrasing evokes a refined atmosphere reminiscent of Debussy in classical music.
In Japan, fans of modern jazz artists like Hiromi Uehara will surely enjoy his music as well!
Days Of Wine & RosesOscar Peterson
The original piece is the theme song for the film of the same name composed by Henry Mancini, a giant of film music, also known in Japan by the title “Sake to Bara no Hibi” (Days of Wine and Roses).
It received high acclaim, including a Grammy Award, and is also famous as a jazz standard.
Among the many versions, the performance by the Oscar Peterson Trio—led by the “Emperor of the Keyboard” himself—is legendary in jazz history.
Backed by his exceptional technique, Peterson’s dazzling playing and irresistibly dance-inducing groove embody the very essence of jazz—simply put, it’s just plain cool.
Why not listen with a wine glass in hand and a touch of swagger?
Get HappyFREDDIE REDD
Freddie Redd, an American pianist.
His “Get Happy” is the lead track on the self-titled album released in 1958.
The charm of this piece lies in how vividly the piano touch comes across.
Even when listening to the recorded track, it feels as if a live performance is happening right in front of you—the raw power of the piano is irresistible! His mastery of dynamics is excellent, and his performance keeps you fully engaged right to the end without ever getting boring.
Cool jazz piano. From classic favorites to hidden gems (11–20)
FiveBill Evans Trio
Bill Evans, whose 1971 album Waltz for Debby is highly renowned in Japan, is an artist many know well.
His Autumn Leaves from the 1959 album Portrait in Jazz is another tune you often hear.
Among his great performances, one you shouldn’t overlook is Five.
This piece, which makes extensive use of triplets, features distinctive phrases that evoke a polyrhythmic feel, with multiple rhythms interwoven.
Despite its complex rhythms, it’s full of memorable lines—so be sure to find your own favorites!
RainRed Garland Trio
Rain, included on the 1958 album All Kinds of Weather, is a track where you can savor Red Garland’s flowing touch.
Performed by a trio with the light, walking bass of Paul Chambers and Art Taylor’s irresistibly swinging drums, it uses rapid passages without ever becoming grating—that’s part of its charm.
Along the way, there are solo spots not only for the piano but also for the bass and drums, making it a highly satisfying listen.
It’s a performance you’ll never tire of—be sure to check it out!
YesterdaysArt Tatum
Although American jazz pianist Art Tatum had a visual impairment, he captivated listeners with emotionally powerful performances that never let it hold him back.
In particular, his arrangement of Jerome Kern’s famous composition “Yesterdays,” featuring bold phrasing that makes expansive use of the keyboard, is a standout among Tatum’s works.
Be sure to listen to Art’s playing—hailed as “God” by Fats Waller, the great pianist who flourished in the first half of the 20th century!
MatrixChick Corea Trio
Chick Corea, the jazz pianist from the United States.
Beginning with his 1972 album Return to Forever, he’s well known for avant-garde pieces leaning toward fusion.
At the same time, his albums with strong early-jazz elements are not to be overlooked.
Among them, Matrix from the 1968 album Now He Sings, Now He Sobs is a must-listen.
The piano darting freely over the driving drums and bass is irresistible! The phrases deliberately sprinkled with avoid notes are fascinating as well.