Books Sounds

Blue Note: Uncompromising Expression: The Finest in Jazz Since 1939 by Richard Havers

Blue Note: Uncompromising Expression: The Finest in Jazz Since 1939 by Richard Havers
Blue Note: Uncompromising Expression: The Finest in Jazz Since 1939 by Richard Havers
Note that I independently write and research everything in this article. But it may contain affiliate links.

If you are looking for something cool for the coffee table, not to mention an interesting read, check out Blue Note: Uncompromising Expression: The Finest in Jazz Since 1939 by Richard Havers.

The book has been released to commemorate the 75th anniversary of the eternally hip jazz label. The book traces the evolution of jazz from boogie woogie and swing through bebop, funk, fusion and more.

Blue Note: Uncompromising Expression: The Finest in Jazz Since 1939 by Richard Havers
Blue Note: Uncompromising Expression: The Finest in Jazz Since 1939 by Richard Havers

But as you can see, it’s more than that. It is also a lesson in cool, thanks in part to the photography of co-founder Francis Wolff and the cover designs of Reid Miles, not to mention the hipsters who were behind the music.

The book features very best photographs, covers, and ephemera from the archives, including never-before-published material, all of which emphasises just why it is such a giant on both jazz, as well as art and design.

Blue Note: Uncompromising Expression: The Finest in Jazz Since 1939 by Richard Havers
Blue Note: Uncompromising Expression: The Finest in Jazz Since 1939 by Richard Havers

The 400-page hardback book is available through Thames and Hudson, selling for £31.20.

Find out more at the Amazon website

Blue Note: Uncompromising Expression: The Finest in Jazz Since 1939 by Richard Havers
Blue Note: Uncompromising Expression: The Finest in Jazz Since 1939 by Richard Havers

Also, as you can see from the bottom image, there is also a Blue Note Uncompromising Expression Singles Collection box set via Decca, which looks every bit as cool as the book. You can find details of that here

Blue Note: Uncompromising Expression: The Finest in Jazz Since 1939 by Richard Havers
Blue Note: Uncompromising Expression: The Finest in Jazz Since 1939 by Richard Havers
Love Modculture? If you enjoy what you read or have benefitted from it and want to help with the ever-increasing costs of the site and newsletter, you can always buy me a coffee at Ko-Fi. Every penny is helpful and appreciated.

Leave a Comment

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

*