MUSIC: JAZZ & BLUES
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.When the Frith Street landmark Ronnie Scott's paired Elvin Jones (right) with Stacey Kent for the coming week, the management was looking for a stark contrast. Just as John Coltrane's long-serving drummer is - even now - a human dynamo, singer Kent is possessed of as sensitive a voice as exists in modern jazz. Kent, whose third album, Let Yourself Go, is about to be released on Candid, has acquired a reputation as a tasteful and good-humoured stylist.
London's enthusiasm for Latin sounds continues to be served, with David Sanchez, the saxophonist who mixes his Caribbean heritage with a post- bop approach, appearing at the Queen Elizabeth Hall on the South Bank tomorrow. After performing on his own, he will appear with salsa singer Orlando Poleo.
Tonight and tomorrow, the startling pianist Brad Mehldau brings his short solo residency at the Pizza Express Jazz Club, Dean Street, to a close. Jessica Williams, an assured keyboard artist, should make the place swing when she takes the chair at the head of a trio for a brief residency from Friday.
More eclectic in style is Gary Crosby's Nu Troop, which features the tenor sax Denys Baptiste and pianist Alex Wilson. They perform at the Tabernacle in west London on Friday.
Female blues guitarists are rare, but that has not held back Debbie Davies. For her latest record, Tales from the Austin Motel (Shanachie), she has linked up with the rhythm section of Stevie Ray Vaughan, who was hugely popular for his intense guitar playing before his premature death. This mostly enjoyable set of shuffles evokes the Texas tradition. The Vaughan connection is even more evident on Strong Temptation (Vestige) from the much-touted youngster Sean Chambers. The album is technically proficient, but comes over as just a pyrotechnics exhibition.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments