The Sound of Jazz Composition

"The Sound of Jazz Composition" is a playlist that explores the craft and creativity behind modern and contemporary jazz writing. From the intricate interplay of Daniel Santiago and Pedro Martins’ “Maracatu” and “Curupira Modernista” to the cool, understated swing of Adam Shulman’s “Lover? I Hardly Know Her” and “4th Street Strut,” this mix highlights the full spectrum of compositional voices in today’s jazz scene. There’s a strong thread of global influence as well, with tracks like “Brasilified” by Cliff Korman and “Gafieira” by Helio Alves weaving Latin rhythms into jazz structures.

Traditional elements find their place too—spirituals like “Just a Closer Walk With Thee” and “This Little Light of Mine” are reimagined alongside ballads, bop-inspired numbers, and genre-crossing pieces like “Chopin Meets Jobim.” There’s a balance between polished studio recordings and earthy live cuts, giving listeners a wide-angle view of how jazz composition lives both on paper and in performance. Whether it's groove-oriented tracks like “Lo-Fi So Fly” or cinematic works like “Kinjarling: I. Torndirrup National Park,” the playlist leans into variety while keeping the focus on strong writing and thoughtful arrangement.