Instrumental Jazz

Instrumental jazz emerged in the early 20th century, primarily in the United States, as a musical form that prioritises improvisation and musical conversations over lyrics; though it probably started after musicians realised nobody ever really listens to the words anyway. Characterised by its free-form structure, complex melodies, and a delightful tendency for musicians to go on extended solos whilst their colleagues nod appreciatively in the background, it often sounds like a group of mates having a chinwag, but with trumpets and saxophones instead of Yorkshire accents. Some might say it’s the perfect soundtrack for sipping gin while contemplating life, or just trying to look sophisticated at a café without actually ordering anything fancy.