The dreaded 'S' word in jazz

These people probably wouldn't appreciate the fact that a lot of jazz records I own are not the least bit relaxing, ha. 

I suppose everyone has their own tastes.  And everyone's tastes are developed in different ways.  So, if you like it, that's cool.  If you don't that's cool.  BUT...the thing that really kills me is when I tell people that I listen to jazz and they say something like "oh, it's so relaxing".  Or when I tell them I am a jazz musician, smooth jazz is what usually pops into their minds.  That, unfortunately, is the downside I see to it.  But it can be a good gateway for someone to appreciate music without words, however, it is seldom a gateway into discovering other genres of jazz.

the video of blue mitchell is the last track on the relevant album,. the previous tracks are cooler!

poorslyn wrote: my fave smooth jazz must be `Blue Mitchell` ,  his early 70`s Mainstream label issues were really cool but also a listening blast.

idlero wrote: It is also great for elevators and shops

I like very little smooth jazz. I think the only artist I really like in that form is Earl Klugh.

I look at 'smooth' like this........a lot of people are scared of 'Jazz'. If it is easy to listen to and accessable, then maybe it will lead the occassional bod to listen a bit more and try something a little more involved.

It'snot for me, but some of my Lee Ritenour and Dave Grusin stuff comes pretty close. 

Crunchy for me, like a bit of bounce myself. There is always a speed hump and a pothole with me Musicianship is important but I like them having a go as well with the quicker,harder and louder making it better.

I don't like smooth whiskey and I don't like smooth jazz.