The Rochester International Jazz Festival on Day 3 was a vibrant tapestry of music and camaraderie. The festival’s atmosphere buzzed with excitement as attendees mingled, shared stories, and eagerly anticipated the performances. The energy was palpable, and the music reflected the joyous spirit of the crowd.
Among the standout performances was the Paul Cornish Trio, whose innovative approach to jazz captivated the audience. The trio’s unique blend of post-bop and experimental jazz showcased their forward-thinking style and solidified their place in the jazz scene.
Paul Cornish Trio: A New Voice in Jazz
The Paul Cornish Trio, featuring Jonathan Pinson on drums and Vicente Archer on bass, began their set with a spoken-word introduction by Cornel West discussing John Coltrane’s force for good. This segwayed into a mesmerizing performance of rhythmic, ambient free jazz. Cornish’s original compositions, such as “Real Gs” and “Palindrome” demonstrated his creativity and mastery of the genre.
The trio’s rendition of Sonny Rollins’ “St. Thomas” was a highlight, paying tribute to the recently deceased jazz legend. The performance was spiritually potent, with the musicians melodically interwoven, creating a harmonious blend of sounds. Pinson’s breathtaking drum solo further solidified the trio’s place as a must-see act at the festival.
Arturo Sandoval: A Master of Afro-Cuban Jazz
Arturo Sandoval, a 76-year-old Cuban multi-instrumentalist with 10 Grammy Awards, brought his infectious energy to Kodak Hall. His new album, “Sangú” currently No. 1 on the jazz radio charts, showcased his charisma and down-to-earth presence. Sandoval’s nine-piece group delivered an hour of hyper danceable Afro-Cuban-inspired jazz, with two drum kits and auxiliary percussion creating a rich, rhythmic texture.
Sandoval’s interactive performance included jokes and audience engagement, such as his humorous reaction to a creaking chair. His expressive trumpet runs and joyful scatting paid tribute to jazz legends like John Birks Gillespie. The set concluded with the title track “Sangú” leaving the audience humming the melody long after the performance.
Makoto Ozone and Tommy Smith: A Dynamic Duo
Makoto Ozone and Tommy Smith, an unlikely piano and saxophone duo, showcased their collaborative synergy. Ozone’s chaotic yet controlled playing style complemented Smith’s tonal chameleon-like abilities on the saxophone. Their performance included creative pieces like “El Niño” and “Eternal Light” a Coltrane tribute that featured Smith’s saxophone resonating within the piano’s body.
The duo’s playful interaction with the audience, including a humorous response to a Beethoven ringtone, added to the enjoyment of their performance. Their dynamic and unexpected synergy resulted in sonic explorations that captivated the audience.
As the Rochester International Jazz Festival continues, attendees can look forward to more electrifying performances. Day 4 features acts like Paul Cornish, Raul Midón, and The Headhunters, promising another day of unforgettable jazz experiences.
