General terms:
* Modern Jazz: This is a broad term that can encompass both contemporary and more traditional styles.
* Smooth Jazz: This term often refers to a specific subgenre of contemporary jazz that focuses on mellow melodies and polished production.
* Fusion Jazz: This term describes jazz that incorporates elements from other genres, such as funk, rock, and world music.
More specific terms:
* Neo-bop: A style that draws inspiration from bebop but incorporates modern harmonies and improvisational techniques.
* Post-bop: Another term for music that emerged after the bebop era, often characterized by complex harmonies and extended improvisations.
* Jazz Funk: A genre that blends jazz improvisation with funky rhythms and grooves.
* Acid Jazz: A style that combines jazz elements with funk, soul, and electronic music.
* Jazz Rap: A genre that blends jazz instrumentation with rapping and hip-hop beats.
Ultimately, the best way to describe a specific piece of contemporary jazz music is to consider the specific elements that are present, rather than trying to label it with a single term.