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 (11–20)
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!
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!
New RagKeith Jarrett
“New Rag” is a track included on American jazz pianist Keith Jarrett’s 1968 release Somewhere Before.
The piece was released under the Keith Jarrett Trio name, and the three-person ensemble is incredibly cool.
In particular, Jarrett’s piano stands out with phrases that make full use of silence.
Rather than cramming in too many notes, the melodies blend into the overall atmosphere of the piece and seem to melt seamlessly into your body.
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.