The Bay Area’s jazz and Latin music scene has had a truly remarkable year, with an abundance of talented artists and unforgettable performances. From traditional jazz to modern fusion, the Bay Area has been a hub for diverse and dynamic music that has captivated audiences all year long. As we look back on the past year, let’s take a moment to celebrate some of the recorded highlights that have made 2019 a rich and unforgettable year for the Bay Area’s jazz and Latin scene.
One of the most notable releases of the year was the album “The Latin Side of Blue Note” by the Grammy-nominated percussionist, Poncho Sanchez. This album pays tribute to the iconic Blue Note Records and features a stellar lineup of musicians including Terence Blanchard, Dee Dee Bridgewater, and Joe Lovano. With its infectious rhythms and soulful melodies, this album is a must-have for any jazz or Latin music lover.
Another standout release was “The Art of the Descarga” by the Bay Area’s own John Santos. This album showcases the art of the descarga, a form of improvised jam session that originated in Cuba. Santos, a master percussionist and educator, brings together a talented group of musicians to create a vibrant and energetic album that pays homage to the roots of Latin jazz.
The Bay Area’s jazz scene was also blessed with the release of “The Window” by the legendary saxophonist, Kamasi Washington. This album, which was recorded in Oakland, is a powerful and thought-provoking masterpiece that explores themes of love, loss, and hope. With its intricate compositions and soul-stirring solos, “The Window” is a testament to Washington’s immense talent and his ability to push the boundaries of jazz.
In addition to these notable releases, the Bay Area’s jazz and Latin scene also saw some incredible live performances throughout the year. One of the most memorable was the sold-out show by the Cuban pianist, Chucho Valdés, at the SFJAZZ Center. Valdés, a living legend in the world of Latin jazz, mesmerized the audience with his virtuoso piano playing and infectious energy. It was a night that will be remembered for years to come.
Another unforgettable performance was the collaboration between the Grammy-winning jazz vocalist, Gregory Porter, and the Bay Area’s own Latin jazz ensemble, Pacific Mambo Orchestra. This dynamic and soulful collaboration brought together two different genres of music and created a magical experience for the audience. It was a true testament to the power of music to bring people together.
The Bay Area’s jazz and Latin scene also saw the rise of some promising new artists this year. One of them is the young and talented pianist, Christian Sands, who released his debut album “Facing Dragons” to critical acclaim. This album showcases Sands’ impressive skills as a composer and pianist, and it’s a testament to the bright future of jazz music.
Another rising star in the Bay Area’s jazz scene is the saxophonist, Elena Pinderhughes. At just 25 years old, Pinderhughes has already made a name for herself as a skilled musician and composer. Her debut album “Retrospect” is a beautiful blend of jazz, classical, and hip-hop influences, and it’s a testament to her versatility and creativity as an artist.
As we look back on the past year, it’s clear that the Bay Area’s jazz and Latin scene has had a rich and vibrant year. From legendary artists to rising stars, from traditional jazz to modern fusion, the Bay Area has proven to be a hub for diverse and dynamic music. We can only imagine what the future holds for this thriving music scene, but one thing is for sure – it will continue to captivate and inspire audiences for years to come.
