Best Records of 2020

 

As an audiophile and musician, I enjoy scanning the sonic landscape for new music that is written, performed, and recorded in a manner that catches my attention.  This is a subjective list that stretches back a bit more than a year, but give some of these a listen.  They are diverse in genre, but I don’t think you will be disappointed. 

Chopin: Nocturnes  -  Bruno Rigutto  -  Aparté                      For fans of these significant works in the classical piano repertoire, Mr. Rigutto’s second take on recording these (his first was some 40-odd years ago) is graced with an intimate familiarity, nuance, and emotional insight.  I think it the best performance of the Nocturnes I’ve heard and nicely recorded to boot. 

The Women Who Raised Me  -  Kandace Springs  -  Blue Note Records                       If female jazz vocals are your cup of tea, this album is a must-hear.  Kandace’s honeyed tone and thoughtful restraint flow effortlessly in this set of covers recorded as an homage to her influences.  An all-star list of musicians and quality recording make this a winner.

Kiwanuka  -  Michael Kiwanuka  -  Polydor                             Nominated for a Grammy at the upcoming awards show, Michael Kiwanuka’s third studio release is creatively produced and a satisfying listen.  Uniquely stylized songwriting and performing are at the heart of this record.  Best experienced as a complete listen, the music truly speaks for itself.

Fear Inoculum  -  Tool  -  RCA Records                      If you don’t care for things of a progressive rock nature, you can skip this one.  However, you’d be missing out!  The musicianship on display is otherworldly, primarily on the shoulders of drummer Danny Carey.  The sound quality of this recording top-shelf, unusual for the rock genre.  A listen on an audiophile-grade system is nothing short of revelatory. 

Cheers!