RIJF Minus 6 Days and Counting
I've finally made it through all of the artist listings on the RIJF site and I can't tell you how excited I am about the upcoming lineup. Some of the acts I'm most interested in are the ones that blend influences and tread on the borders of jazz. It can be tricky, dangerous even, to attempt to define what jazz is. The definition that the festival organizers have used when deciding which acts to book is a little bit broader than even my definition would be, but unlike some I'm totally cool with that.
One thing I've noticed about the crowds at previous jazz festivals is the level of interest and curiosity. People from all kinds of backgrounds coming out to hear good music no matter how well it can be defined. The yearly increase in attendance seems to prove that people are liking what they are hearing and are coming back for more. So if Rusted Root or Toots & the Maytals bring a few extra thousand listeners downtown where some percentage will perhaps get drawn into the jazz scene, what could be better?
So cheer up jazz snobs, there's plenty of jazz to go around. John Nugent and Marc Iacona have expanded the number of venues, staggered the start times, and brought in a wide variety of acts. The only complaint I have is that it is impossible to see every act that I might want to.
Comments
Hope you're able to catch Don Byron, he's one I'd not miss.
Also Trio Beyond.
Posted by: Rich C | June 4, 2007 2:59 PM
Byron's on my list. Trio Beyond is the one Eastman Theater show I was interested in, but I'm gritting my teeth and passing them up in favor of bands less known (and free) in the other venues.
Posted by: ken | June 4, 2007 7:50 PM
I used Cousin Arthur as the name because years ago a Philly vibes player named Khan Jamal played John Coltrane's "Cousin Mary" just for Kate during a big jazz project concert in Coudersport. At the time, Cousin Mary was still alive, and may still be for all I know, keeping a student musician program alive in Philadelphia.
Anyway-- I'm hoping to come to the city on Saturday with my combination of musical tastes that range from very cheap to very sophisticated. One of the must sees for me is the Cuban band Tiempo Libre and the cheap thrill is a desire to see the Shuffle Demons.
I would appreciate any hot tips -- But I come with the goal of seeing it all including the Rochester area student musicians.
With the exception of Tiempo Libre I will be seeking out the obsure gems and staying away from the big names-- although I do guarantee-- that Dave Brubeck puts on an incredible performance---- with every piece turned into a fantasia of sorts--- but I will pass on that. --So will appreciate any advice.
Best Wishes, Metzger
Posted by: Cousin Arthur | June 5, 2007 7:55 AM
The possibilities are head-clutchingly complex! So much on Saturday that is worth seeing. You could make a night out of the free shows alone. See Greg's blog for lots of good advice, plus there's also the City Newspaper's schedule and bios.
Ben and Kari will join me to hang out with the Shuffle Demons, but if Latin jazz is your thing, you'll want to at least swing by the Mambo Kings on the free East Ave stage.
I'll probably be seeing Paul Tillotson's early show and the Zanussi 5 late show. I may be able to catch some of Stephan Wrembel on Friday night so as to give you the low-down on that show.
I'm glad you're making the trip! You should stay for Sunday's shows too. We have an extra bed (and a couch, if needed).
Posted by: ken | June 5, 2007 6:33 PM
Toots and the Maytals? Go rent "The Harder They Come" if you can, to see and hear Jimmy Cliff and a couple great Maytals tunes.
Posted by: Doug | June 11, 2007 4:43 PM