Keith Jarrett's European Quartet: Innocence

It just so happens that two of the most poignant jazz ballads—in my opinion—were released in the same year. I'm not talking about throw-back masterpieces, such as Thelonious Monk's "Round Midnight" or Horace Silver's "Lonely Woman." Rather, they are Keith Jarrett's "Innocence" and Egberto Gismonti's "Palhaço," both originally issued in 1980. What makes these pieces stand out are their simple melodies; harmonic progressions with pop, not bebop, sensibilities; unexpected key modulations; and the nuanced musicianship of the supporting bands. Norwegian alto saxophonist, Jan Garbarek, lends his haunting tone to both pieces.

Choosing the preferred "Play This!" is a tough call, but the selection goes to "Innocence"—the version on Personal Mountains—because no one can touch Keith Jarrett's musicality on piano. His introduction takes you on a quiet journey from the first notes. Enjoy both pieces front-to-back or jump right into the "Innocence" head lead-in at 2:03.