The Best Jazz Albums of all Time

2. Charles Mingus – Ah Um (1959)

Charles Mingus might have been a mad man with a mean temper, but he’s also a magnificent composer with a fine-tuned ear that knows how a jazz song needs to sound. Although the bass master released several incredible albums, this one solidified his status as a legendary artist with its gospel and blues influences. However, this record does require a certain state of awareness, in order to fully enjoy the tempo changes and harmonies.