Help me pick out music for a party

I have lots of experience with this sort of thing. I'd suggest no vocals to compete with the conversations unless someone specifically asks.

Ry Cooder & Manuel Galbán-Mambo Sinuendo(I think 2 tracks have vocals).

John Fahey-America

Michael Hedges-Aerial Boundaries

Miles Davis-In A Silent Way

Japancakes-If I Could See Dallas

Global Communication-76:14

Soundtrack-The Straight Story

There are tons more but these are mostly non-intrusive but engaging if you want them to be.

Tord Gustavsen Trio-Being There is fantastic...forgot that one.

Play any type of blues music. Everyone in our age category loves some good Chicago electric blues. Collections from Alligator & Blind Pig as a start.

How about Blue Note plays Stevie Wonder? Not great jazz (nor even great Stevie Wonder) but it might be an appropriate compilation for the party you describe.

Good Luck,

Marty

Van Morrison, Bonnie Raitt, John Martyn, J.J. Cale