Smooth Jazz Essentials

While smooth jazz was coined as a radio format more than a specific style, the umbrella term covers a broad spectrum of laidback, slinky sounds. Its earliest progenitors emerged from the jazz-fusion movement of the ‘70s—including George Benson, Earl Klugh and Spyro Gyra—forging largely instrumental tracks with pop flair, concise arrangements and a chill vibe. The music downplays the heavy improvisation component of traditional jazz forms in favour of something more atmospheric and groove-oriented, blending ideas from R&B, Brazilian music, flamenco and funk, all with a polished, easygoing veneer.