Riverview Questions Jazz Definition on New Radio Program

Riverview music lovers can challenge their understanding of jazz with 'The Vortex: Is It Jazz?', airing Monday from 3 a.m. to 6 a.m. on 88.5 FM and wmnf.org.

The program explores music incorporating jazz elements like improvisation, complex rhythms, and unexpected harmonies, without necessarily fitting traditional jazz labels. The show's creator suggests genres serve industry professionals more than musicians driven by creative impulse.

'The Vortex doesn't provide any answers; it only asks questions,' the description states. The show features music pushing jazz's boundaries, including jazz-funk, jazz fusion, experimental jazz, and jazz rap, alongside genres borrowing jazz aesthetics.

The concept, dubbed 'blent' music by the creator, examines how distinct styles merge so seamlessly that their origins become ambiguous. Jazz serves as a starting point for this exploration.