Hiromi
Last night, we went to see Hiromi, a 26 year old Japanese pianist in her trio with a bass player and drummer.
I have never seen a pianist with more chops, her technical skill is unparalleled. As well as her command of every idiom of jazz from stride to classic bebop to modern improvisation to her own blend of the folksy, classical, and ethnic with jazz.
Just simply mind-blowing.
Joe Zawinul Syndicate
Last night Michelle and I went with some friends to see Joe Zawinul.
It ranks easily as one of the best musical performances I’ve ever seen. Bass player from Cameroon, guitarist from Brazil, percussionist from Rio, drummer from Brooklyn, singer Sabine Kabongo from Belgium… a fusion of Brazilian, African, American jazz, Austrian folk tunage, truly world music. Incredible grooves. Amazing!
I hung out with the bassist, Etienne Mbappe, for a whole break, in the courtyard… he said he developed his style independently of Jaco, only heard Jaco for the first time several years prior.
Here is a review/interview: