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Albums of 1956

The records from 1956 that made our lists.

  1. 1
    Pithecanthropus ErectusCharles Mingus

    Pithecanthropus Erectus

    Charles Mingus · 1956 · Jazz

    An early, ambitious peak of programmatic jazz and collective fire. Bold and influential. A landmark.

  2. 2
    Ellington at NewportDuke Ellington

    Ellington at Newport

    Duke Ellington · 1956 · Jazz

    The electrifying live comeback that revived Ellington's career. Thrilling and historic. One of the great live jazz records.

  3. 3
    Ella and LouisElla Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong

    Ella and Louis

    Ella Fitzgerald & Louis Armstrong · 1956 · Jazz

    A warm, effortless pairing of two jazz giants on standards. Charming and timeless. A beloved record.

  4. 4
    Saxophone ColossusSonny Rollins

    Saxophone Colossus

    Sonny Rollins · 1956 · Jazz

    A definitive hard-bop statement, melodic and muscular, home to the calypso 'St. Thomas'. Effortlessly inventive. One of the great tenor records.