harry Wrote:
It's a very complex question, rightly parsed between "intro. to jazz" and "transition from rock to jazz" neither of which are "best of jazz." Three possible lists! What a geek paradise!
Certainly Miles and Coltrane are on all three.
For the "jazz for the rock and roller" list, I generally value In a Silent Way over the more recognized Bitches Brew. It is still astonishing beautiful and any music lover of any stripe cannot resist the majesty of its ideas, textures, and emotional intelligence.
And yes, Weather Report is sometimes reminiscent of watching Starsky and Hutch. But there are still some powerful cuts. Speaking of cheese: Jan Hammer. Didn't see Brecker Brothers mentioned. Tony Williams. Allan Holdsworth. Pat Metheny.
But I love rock and roll... and the jazz that moves most isn't fusion. Try Gene Ammons, Donald Bird, Gerry Mulligan, Art Pepper, Oliver Nelson, Bill Evans, Gil Evans... cool jazz in all its permutations... I mean I like Yo La Tengo more than Ludicris.
Yes I second the "you should post more" sentiment.. good to see you around harry
