Adjectives associated with Jazz:
Sound & Style:
* Improvisational
* Syncopated
* Swinging
* Melodic
* Harmonic
* Rhythmic
* Grooving
* Energetic
* Upbeat
* Soulful
* Passionate
* Expressive
* Spontaneous
* Intricate
* Sophisticated
* Jazzy (obvious, but still apt!)
Feelings & Atmosphere:
* Joyful
* Optimistic
* Relaxed
* Romantic
* Reflective
* Ethereal
* Mysterious
* Moody
* Bluesy
* Gritty
* Raw
Other:
* American
* African American
* Modern
* Traditional
* Classic
* Contemporary
* Underground
Verbs associated with Jazz:
Sound & Performance:
* Improvise
* Swing
* Groove
* Scat
* Solo
* Jam
* Play (with a specific jazz style: "play bebop," "play blues," etc.)
* Bop
* Slide
* Bend
* Stretch (referring to melody or phrasing)
Feelings & Atmosphere:
* Sway (as in "sway to the music")
* Relax
* Escape (from the everyday)
* Reflect
* Meditate (referring to a more contemplative type of jazz)
Other:
* Develop (referring to a jazz style or musician's skill)
* Evolve
* Influence
* Inspire
Examples:
* "The band played a soulful and passionate rendition of 'My Funny Valentine.'"
* "The saxophonist improvised a spontaneous and energetic solo."
* "The pianist grooved on the syncopated rhythm of the tune."
* "The music swayed and relaxed the audience."
These are just a few examples, and the specific words you choose will depend on the particular style of jazz you are describing.