However, the problem with Jimi compared with jazz is the classical definition of "sophisticated" (=YOUR point). Whereas jazz of the bebop variety improvises on complex chord-changes where they hit the "defining" notes of the chords (alternatively the "ADD NOTES") while still spazzing out, Hendrix practically always improvised live in a more "modal" framework. Even on the songs where you have complex changes, Redding (or Cox) frequently segued into a static framework for Jimi to improvise on. Let's just say that it is not a coincidence that Jimi continued to use the relatively "simple" songs off "Are you experienced" as a root for his improvs whereas the more complex, "sophisticated" songs off "Electric Ladyland" and "Axis..." were almost completely left behind live with a few exceptions that had the modal vibe (think "oodoo Child")...

Thus, I do not think of hendrix as sophisticated by "classic"/jazz standards. Instead, Hendrix qualities as an improviser in terms of *sophistication* largely relied on his incredible ability to manipulate sound, his sense of rhythm (as opposed to melody/harmony in the cliche, tired triumvirate defining music by squares) etc. In *that* sense. Jimi was rewally closer to free-jazzers like Ayler, Shepp or (very) late Coltrane (and note that right until the end, Coltrane was a master of scales of *all* types (arabic, indian, african as well as euro and american); Hendrix used like 3 or 4)...

The thing is that jazz like that is rarely thought of as sophisticated, sophistication in jazz is *still* somewhat defined by classical standards:progressions, rhythms in terms of note-values, pauses, triplets/whatever etc. as opposed to patterns as played by a drum etc.

Anyway, Hendrix at his best was an amazing improviser and I always cringed at people who mentioned Clapton (LOL!), Duane Allman or even Jerry Garcia (who was a masterful improviser but come on!) as relevant competitors. Sophisticated though? Nah...