The cool jazz sounds of Manchester and Bavaria!

My friend Duncan, that's him in the groovy red shirt, says that Matthew Halsall's new album is the best British jazz record in 25 years. I've heard Mr Halsall's previous outings and I'm sure he's right. Duncan doesn't get this sort of thing wrong. He's introduced me to lots of fine music over the years.

Here for all you cool cats out there in Jazzville, are Duncan's top jazz albums of 2011 so far. The comments are his: nicked from The Word's website where he is a lively contributor.

Not up to date with the Bavarian chamber jazz scene? You soon will be! Groovy!

Cooper's Best of 2011
1. Matthew Halsall - "On the Go"
Gondwana Records of Manchester does it again. This may be the best British jazz album of the past 25 years.


2. Eple Trio: "In the Clearing/In the Cavern"
The iciest ambient chamber jazz from Norway. Hard to track down, but worth it.


3. Ketil Björnstad & Svante Henrysson: "Night song"
Stately Piano/cello duets from veteran Norwegian/Swedish pairing.


4. Storms/Nocturnes: "Via"
Top-notch drummerless UK/US trio featuring the incredible Tim Garland on saxes.


5. Paolo Fresu, A Filetta Corsican Voices and Daniele di Bonaventura: "Mistico Mediterraneo"
Italian trumpet and accordeon with Corsican polyphonic chanting - entrancing.


6. Kit Downes Trio: "Quiet Tiger"
I love James Allsopp's bass clarinet on this.


7. Francis Drake: "Stories"
Top Bavarian chamber jazz trio doing their thing. Nice!


Check them all out on Yooftube, jazzfans!