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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
tubegroover
2,320 posts
 
Jazz covers a genre over the entire 20th century. What you really need is a course in the appreciation of the evolution and the important artists through the years. Someone recommended the PBS series "Jazz" a 10 part anthology of jazz by Ken Burns. I couldn't agree more. This is the place to start IMO. Many excellent recommendations but an appreciation of the genre will reward you with how American culture during the 20th century was reflected in this uniquely American contribution to music.
klimt
164 posts
 
Also the Smithsonian Collection of Jazz is a great introduction as well.


n80 OP
2,107 posts
 
@tubegroover I’ve watched the first five episodes of Jazz and I’m enjoying them.

@andresb I’m familiar with Albert King, Buddy Guy and Hooker. I consider them blues guys but I suppose there is some overlap.

Been listening to Metheny but I get a "new age" vibe from some of his stuff that I’m not into.
Will look into some of the guitar and bass guys you recommended.

@klimt I’ll listen to that Sarah Vaughn album. I’m not much into female vocals but I bet my wife will like it.
n80 OP
2,107 posts
 
Okay, now I’ll make a recommendation for folks new to jazz who are into rock and blues:

Robben Ford’s The Sun Room with Bill Evans (sax player, not the other one), Keith Carlock and James Genus. Maybe more blues that jazz. I don’t know. Guitar heavy. I like it a lot. Seems well produced as well.


I know Keith Carlock for his work on Steely Dan’s Two Against Nature which is brilliant and one of the best produced albums I’ve ever heard. He is also an instructor on Drumeo which is an online drum instruction site. I’ve watched several of his classes.

Apologies (and thanks) if someone else already recommended this album.
n80 OP
2,107 posts
 
@andresb is the one who mentioned Robben Ford. Thanks andres.
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