What makes The Definitive Collection by Jeff Lorber notable?

The album is notable for its role in highlighting Lorber's impact on the smooth jazz genre, which saw mainstream success during the late '90s and early 2000s. It features tracks that have become staples in contemporary jazz playlists and influenced a generation of musicians seeking to blend jazz with other genres. By the time Jeff Lorber released The Definitive Collection in 2000, he had already established himself as a key figure in the crossover jazz scene since his debut in the late 1970s. This compilation served as a retrospective of his influential work, capturing his evolution as an artist after several successful albums like the critically acclaimed Water Sign from 1986.

Who is The Definitive Collection for?

The Definitive Collection works well if you're into steady grooves for relaxed evenings, vibrant soundscapes for social gatherings and gradual resolution in listening flow.

How many songs are on The Definitive Collection?

The Definitive Collection has 16 tracks, running approximately 71 minutes.

The Definitive Collection

Jeff Lorber · 2000

71 min · 16 tracks · jazz

A vibrant fusion of smooth jazz and funk, showcasing intricate melodies and rhythmic complexity throughout its lively arrangements.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Tune 88 — This track exemplifies Lorber’s signature style, combining catchy melodies with tight grooves, making it a quintessential representation of his artistic vision.
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Water Sign — As one of his most popular compositions, this piece showcases Lorber's ability to weave complex harmonies with accessible melodies, solidifying its place in jazz history.
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Fusion Juice — The energetic interplay between instruments in this track highlights Lorber's innovative approach to blending jazz with funk elements, making it a standout piece.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady grooves for relaxed evenings
vibrant soundscapes for social gatherings
gradual resolution in listening flow
rhythmic complexity for attentive ears
smooth transitions between tracks

Maybe skip if you

seeking instant gratification
prefer standalone hit singles

Where this album fits

Career context: By the time Jeff Lorber released The Definitive Collection in 2000, he had already established himself as a key figure in the crossover jazz scene since his debut in the late 1970s. This compilation served as a retrospective of his influential work, capturing his evolution as an artist after several successful albums like the critically acclaimed Water Sign from 1986.
Stylistic neighbors: Bob James· David Sanborn· Larry Carlton