Since I went to university at a music school named for a famous jazz artist, I am often asked if I actually like jazz. The answer is long and complicated, but the short version is: No. I think jazz is typically a lot of fun to play, but not much fun to listen to.
So then, it’s a pleasant surprise when I run across some jazz I really dig. Nearly all of the album Continuo by Israeli bassist Avishai Cohen is a pretty top notch and frequently keeps a melody in sight. Here is the track Arava, which is particularly good. Check it out even if you’ve given up on jazz.