Mark F. Turner's Best Releases Of 2017

In a year filled with loss, uncertainty and numerous challenges, the following releases by these creative and talented artists repeatedly moved me while bringing something fresh to my ears. No matter what critics or doubters say, the music lives on and is as strong as ever; always colored by its diversity.

Harriet Tubman
Araminta
(Sunnyside)

Nicholas Payton
Afro-Caribbean Mixtape
(Paytone Records)

Gerald Clayton
Tributary Tales
(Motéma)

Laurent Coq
Kinship
(jazz&people)

Cecile McLorin Salvant
Dreams and Daggers
(Mack Avenue)

Nate Smith
Kinfolk: Postcards from Everywhere
(Ropeadope)

Blue Note All Stars
Our Point of View
(Blue Note)

Vinnie Sperrazza
Apocryphal: Hide Ye Idols
(Loyal Label)

The Great Harry Hillman
Tilt
(Cuneiform Records)

Mr. Jukes
God First
(Universal Music)

Kendrick Lamar
DAMN.
(Top Dawg Entertainment)