Smooth jazz is a genre of music that grew out of jazz fusion and is influenced by R&B, funk, rock, and pop music styles (separately, or, in any combination). In general, a smooth jazz track is downtempo (the most widely played tracks are in the 90–105 BPM range), layering a lead, melody-playing instrument (saxophones – especially soprano and tenor – are the most popular, with guitars a close second) over a backdrop that typically consists of programmed rhythms and various pads
and/or samples. Although many listeners and record companies group
smooth and contemporary jazz together, the genres are different. Smooth
jazz is generally considered background music, whereas "straight-ahead"
contemporary jazz is seen as demanding the listener's undivided attention. - Text from: Wikipedia-Smooth Jazz
Evolving from Fusion, but leaving behind the
energetic solos and dynamic crescendos, Smooth Jazz emphasizes its polished
side. Improvisation is also largely ignored giving argument whether the term
"Jazz"
can truly apply. High tech layering of
synthesizers and rhythm tracks give it unobtrusive and slick packaging, where
the ensemble sound matters more than individual expression. This also separates
this style from other more "live" performances. Instruments include
electric keyboards, alto or soprano sax, guitar, bass guitar and percussion.
Smooth Jazz has perhaps become the most commercially viable form of all Jazz
styles since Swing.opportunity for listeners to hear the accent of speech and the speech patterns of deaf women and men. - Text from: A Passion For Jazz
Note: Descriptions and definitions provided on this page are taken from
various sources as noted that can be found on the Internet. Jazz 98.5 does not
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