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 8 responses by reubent

@n80 - Good to see you posting. Seems like I haven’t seen you on A-goN for a while. I hope all is well with you.

I’m not really much of a jazz fan, but I do like Steely Dan and I’ve heard plenty of jazz that I do enjoy (and much that I don’t enjoy!). I’ll try to post a few tunes to this thread every once in a while as something comes to mind.

@mortsnets - Mentioned Bill Frisell. I just listened to David Sanborn - "Another Hand" album a couple of nights ago. Bill Frisell plays guitar on that album and it is fantastic, but very melancholy. Probably not the right album if you are depressed. But, it sets a mood that reminds me of the times we’re living in today. Good stuff. Check out the album, starting at the beginning.

Here’s another good album to start with: Ramsey Lewis - "Wade in the Water" Fun, upbeat stuff.

One more - Jimmy Smith and Wes Montgomery - "The Dynamic Duo" Another fun one.

Have fun and enjoy.
A fun, approachable classic jazz album is The Dave Brubeck Quartet - "Time Out"

Enjoy!
@n80  - I'm happy that you are enjoying David Sanborn's - "Another Hand". I don't think it is/was a very popular album. Somehow I heard it back when it came out back in 1991. Been enjoying it ever since.

Anyone else heard this album? What do you think?
@oregonpapa  - Sorry, I was editing my post and just decided to delete it. I certainly understand what you're saying about the sound of the sax on "another Hand" when compared to a classic mono recording of sax. Valid point for sure.

I like "Another Hand" for the melancholy tone it carries throughout most of the record. A big part of that sound is Bill Frisell's guitar. Here's my favorite track on the record:

moniCa jane

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMMLcyYWZUA

All good. Enjoy the music, wherever it takes you.....
@oregonpapa  - And Yes, I did listen to the selections you provided. Thank you.
@n80 - Try this one.....

Joey DeFrancesco, featuring Houston Person - "Moonlight in Vermont"

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eTi5WA0zPD4

From Joey Defrancesco - "Live at the 5 Spot"
@oregonpapa  - I'm glad you enjoyed The Joey D. and Houston P. record. Hopefully I've redeemed myself. Am I back in the club? ;~)

BTW, I love the Hammond b3. Doesn't matter the genre of music, I just love that sound.
Not Jazz, but Robben Ford and the Blue Line - S/T is a GREAT album. Play it loud!