Category: Jazz and World Music Review: Jazz and world music are two of the most diverse and dynamic genres in the history of music. These categories encompass a wide range of styles, instruments, and cultural influences that have shaped the way we listen to and appreciate music today. In this review, I will explore some of the best jazz and world music albums from the 1960s through the present day, highlighting their unique features and contributions to these genres. Herb Alpert & Hugh Masekela - Main Event (1974) Main Event is a classic collaboration between two of the most influential figures in jazz history: Herb Alpert and Hugh Masekela. This album showcases the best of both artists, blending their unique styles and influences to create a truly remarkable listening experience. From the upbeat funk of "The Joint" to the soulful balladry of "I Want You Back," Main Event is an essential addition to any jazz or world music collection. Grazing In The Grass: The Best Of Hugh Masekela (1978) Hugh Masekela was a true pioneer in the world of jazz and world music, bringing his unique blend of African rhythms and Western harmonies to audiences around the world. Grazing In The Grass is a comprehensive collection of some of his most iconic recordings, including "Bring Me My Women," "Wimoweh," and "U-Je." This album is an excellent introduction to Masekela's music for fans of both jazz and world music. '66 - '76 (1980) '66 - '76 is a compilation of recordings from the 1960s through the early 1970s, showcasing some of the most influential figures in jazz history. From Miles Davis to John Coltrane to Herbie Hancock, this album features some of the most groundbreaking and innovative music of its time. Whether you're a fan of bebop, hard bop, or fusion, '66 - '76 is an essential addition to your jazz collection. Best Of/20th Century (1985) Best Of/20th Century is a comprehensive compilation of some of the most iconic recordings from the 20th century, spanning a wide range of genres and styles. From Duke Ellington's "It Don't Mean A Thing" to Louis Armstrong's "What a Wonderful World," this album features some of the greatest musicians in history. Whether you're a fan of jazz, rock, pop, or world music, Best Of/20th Century is an excellent introduction to the best that the 20th century had to offer. Home Is Where The Music Is (1987) Home Is Where The Music Is is a collection of recordings by some of the most influential figures in jazz history, including Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holiday, and Louis Armstrong. This album showcases the best of these artists' home recordings, capturing their unique styles and influences in an intimate setting. Whether you're a fan of traditional jazz or more experimental styles, Home Is Where The Music Is is an excellent addition to your collection. Hope (1987) Hope is a powerful album by the legendary South African musician Miriam Makeba, featuring collaborations with some of the most influential figures in jazz history, including Paul Simon and Stevie Wonder. This album showcases Makeba's unique blend of traditional African music and Western harmonies, addressing themes of hope, unity, and social justice. Whether you're a fan of world music or more experimental styles, Hope is an essential addition to your collection. No Borders (1987) No Borders is a groundbreaking album by the legendary South African musician Peter Gabriel, featuring collaborations with artists from around the world. This album showcases Gabriel's unique blend of pop, rock, and world music, addressing themes of globalization, cultural diversity, and social justice. Whether you're a fan of world music or more experimental styles, No Borders is an essential addition to your collection. Greatest Hits (1987) Greatest Hits is a comprehensive compilation of some of the most iconic recordings from the 1960s through the early 1970s, spanning a wide range of genres and styles. From The Beatles to Jimi Hendrix to Led Zeppelin, this album features some of the greatest musicians in history. Whether you're a fan of rock, pop, or world music, Greatest Hits is an excellent introduction to the best that these artists had to offer. The Lasting Impressions Of Ooga Booga (1987) The Lasting Impressions Of Ooga Booga is a groundbreaking album by the legendary South African musician Paul Simon, featuring collaborations with artists from around the world. This album showcases Simon's unique blend of pop, rock, and world music, addressing themes of cultural diversity, social justice, and globalization. Whether you're a fan of world music or more experimental styles, The Lasting Impressions Of Ooga Booga is an essential addition to your collection. In conclusion, jazz and world music are two of the most diverse and dynamic genres in the history of music. These categories encompass a wide range of styles, instruments, and cultural influences that have shaped the way we listen to and appreciate music today. From Herb Alpert & Hugh Masekela's Main Event to Paul Simon's The Lasting Impressions Of Ooga Booga, these albums showcase some of the best jazz and world music from the 1960s through the present day.