L.A. SPEAK

Jazz jargon: terms from a world famous for its cryptic language.

ax n. any horn or woodwind; most commonly used to describe saxophones, trumpets or trombones. “Hey, grab your ax and let’s get this gig going.”

bleat v . to make rhythmic grunting noises in sync with one’s playing. “Hampton was famous for bleating during his solos.”

burn v . to perform an improvised solo that’s significantly better than that of another member of your ensemble. “Man, did you guys hear the way Dex burned Eddie on that last number?” Syn. cut.

Jacuzzi jazz n. derisive term for highly commercial, pop-influenced music of artists like, say, Kenny G.

royalty riff n . something recorded purely for commercial reasons. “His last CD was a real royalty riff. “

salsafied adj . jazz with a Latin twist.