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Jazz for someone who doesn't like jazz.

I've toyed with the idea of looking into jazz. Not sure why. Not sure what I'm looking for. Maybe just something to sound good on my system. I realize jazz is a broad category but much of what I hear I have not been attracted to. Don't ask me what I've heard.
What I'd like is a recommendation of two or three albums to start with. (I know that's insane)

And since I've given next to nothing to go on I'll point out a few things that I do like that might help narrow it down some maybe.

Jazz-like stuff I do like: Steely Dan. Almost all of their stuff. Van Morrison's jazz influenced stuff like Astral Weeks.
I like blues. Delta and hill country hard core blues.

I like a wide variety of rock from heavy metal, to prog rock to classic R&B.
Does any of that help? I know this is a crazy request but if I could get some recommendations I'll at least have somewhere to start. Not looking for specific recordings yet. Just content. When I find what I like I'll research the best recordings.
Thanks for any possible advice.
George




n80

Showing 5 responses by david_ten

david_ten
5,480 posts
 
If guitar then: Mike Stern "Upside Downside"

I believe it meets the "accessibility" and some tracks the "easy listening" criteria / definition that posters have alluded to.

Start with the 'Mood Swings' track to see if it appeals to you.

(note: in case it hasn’t been previously mentioned)
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
@n80  George, I just read through this entire thread. A really interesting and good read.

I don't believe this has been mentioned directly (my apologies if I missed that)...

My advice would be to choose the musical instrument you most love (which may be guitar [???] based on the Blues selections you mention)....

and look for solo or significant leads (group leader / compositions) with that corresponding instrument within the Jazz Genre.

In other words, follow the instrument that has already hooked you.

- David.
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
@acman3  Thank you!

Since you are active on the 'Jazz for Aficionados' Thread, perhaps you (or others that have posted here) can answer the following:

One aspect that really stood out as 'Missing' in the recommendations and posts in this thread was North European / Scandinavian Jazz (~~~ the ECM artists...).

Thoughts on the reasons?  Thank you.

david_ten
5,480 posts
 
As an example, Melos (the track, also the album name) by Vassilis Tsabropoulos - a Greek Pianist, Anja Lechner - a German cellist, and U.T. Gandhi - an Italian percussionist just spun up via Roon Radio. 

It's a Decca / ECM label. It's also one of two of Vassilis' albums I have in my library. The other being Achirana, with John Marshall (British) on drums and Arild Andersen (Norwegian) on double bass. 

Both are gorgeous works, for me. 
david_ten
5,480 posts
 
@acman3  I'm not sure I can help out as it's a head scratcher for me.

I figured that perhaps the focus (primarily) on American musicians was in service of  and/or in preferred service of the OP's request and stated needs as well as for historic / origin purposes.

In general, I find the Continental Jazz scene under-represented in our forum, which may be another reason; i.e. simply a lack of interest (?).
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