What are the defining characteristics and techniques of modal jazz explained?

Modal jazz is a style of jazz that focuses on using musical modes as the basis for improvisation, rather than traditional chord progressions. The defining characteristics of modal jazz include a more open and spacious sound, with a focus on creating a mood or atmosphere through the use of modal scales. Techniques commonly used in modal jazz include modal interchange, where different modes are used within a single piece, and pedal points, where a single note is sustained while the harmony changes around it.