It's That Time of Year Again: Jazz Fest 2003

Tod Smith

Columnist since 2001

He loves all music, but it's jazz that touches his soul.

Recent articles (26 total)

Published: February 24, 2003

Another Jazz Fest debut is that of Herbie Mann who brings a reunion band in for Saturday. Featuring Larry Coryell, David 'Fathead' Newman and Chuck Rainey, this is clearly an example of the Fest providing a venue for new and old favorites alike. Dr. Michael White and the Original Liberty Jazz Band honor the traditions of the music, while flutist Kent Jordan, son of Kidd, will perform. Nicholas Payton, another member of the New Orleans trumpet tradition, pushes the envelope with his group Sonic Trance.

And finally, on Sunday, the two-week run will end with New Orleans legend Pete Fountain giving traditional fans a rare Fest treat. The Crusaders reunion featuring Joe Sample, Stix Hooper and Wilton Felder appears at the jazz tent. This Houston-based group of the seventies and eighties provided some of the best soul-jazz of the genre. Terence Blanchard performs again as does educator/trumpeter Clyde Kerr, Jr., George French & the New Orleans Storyville Jazz Band and local songstress, Leah Chase.

There's more to cover than this, but choosing from this list, the jazz-lover can't go wrong. In the next issue, we'll cover some things to do and places to go outside of the fair grounds. Until next time, see you 'Round About New Orleans.

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