From what I've read here I would say he not only has great knowledge of the technical aspects of music but also a deep understanding if its development and history.
No one would argue with that, but knowledge does not give one the ability to perceive jazz, which can be compared to "osmosis"; the process of gradual or unconscious assimilation of ideas, knowledge, etc.
"what she knows of the blue-blood set she learned not through birthright, not even through wealth, but through osmosis"