What is true about modal jazz tunes?

Modal jazz tunes are characterized by their reliance on musical modes rather than defined chord progressions. In this style, the focus shifts from chord changes to scales or modes which allows for greater improvisational freedom. Musicians often explore a single mode or scale over longer durations, making the harmonic structure less rigid. This contrasts with more traditional forms of jazz that rely heavily on complex chord progressions and predictable structures like the 12-bar blues format. The use of modes allows artists to create a different kind of tension and resolution within the music, emphasizing melody and improvisation over typical harmonic movements. Hence, the assertion that modal jazz typically does not have chord progressions is accurate and highlights its distinctive style.