Umbria Jazz Festival 2024

Umbria Jazz Festival
Various Venue
Perugia, Italy
July 14-20, 2024

Nestled in the picturesque city of Perugia, Umbria Jazz has become renowned for showcasing extraordinary talent and musicianship. For more than 50 years, the festival has preserved its vibrant spirit and tradition of hosting historic performances by some of jazz's most iconic figures, such as Miles Davis, Dizzy Gillespie, Sonny Rollins, Charles Mingus and Ornette Coleman, to name just a handful.

The 51st edition of Umbria Jazz was a thrilling experience, which offered a diverse lineup of acclaimed artists who ventured beyond the traditional jazz horizon. This year's headliners included Hiromi, Fatoumata Diawara, Somi, Cha Wa, Raye, Chucho Valdes, Lizz Wright, Veronica Swift, and Nile Rodgers, among others.

Over the course of 10 days, numerous concerts were held at some of Umbria's most prestigious venues, including Arena Santa Giuliana, which hosted the main headlining events, the breathtaking Teatro Morlacchi, and Sala Podiani. Additionally, outdoor performances took place in various squares and streets throughout the city center, with many concerts offered for the public to enjoy.

Teatro Morlacchi

Traditionally celebrated for its elegant neoclassical architecture, with an interior adorned with gilded balconies and a breathtakingly painted ceiling, Teatro Morlacchi is transformed into the epicenter of jazz music for Umbria Jazz, presenting an array of performances that were nothing short of extraordinary. The concert series, showcasing a spectrum of jazz' most vibrant hues, drew audiences into the theater's opulent ambiance. Each performance there highlighted the headlining musicians, who delivered their craft with a sophistication and passion that resonated deeply within the historic walls. The enthusiasm for this jazz series was palpable, with most concerts playing to sold-out crowds, an outcome both anticipated and well-deserved.

For the Morlacchi Theater concert, guitarist Kurt Rosenwinkel reunited his 1996 quartet, The Next Step, featuring saxophonist Mark Turner, drummer Jeff Ballard and bassist Ben Street. The quartet delivered a masterful performance, unraveling their artistry with a set of experimental jazz infused with romantic bossa nova hues and melancholic undertones. Over nearly two hours, the group performed Rosenwinkel's classic compositions, including the laid-back "Zhivago," which opened the set, "A Shifting Design," with its heavily rhythmic passages, and the timeless "The Next Step."

Particularly evocative was the performance by the septet Something Else! The group featured Vincent Herring on alto sax, Wayne Escoffery on tenor sax, Jeremy Pelt on trumpet, Paul Bollenback on guitar, David Kikoski on piano, Essiet Okon Essiet on double bass, and Otis Brown III on drums. Theis septet presented fresh, modern renditions of jazz classics with impeccable dynamism and cohesion, including Freddie Hubbard's "Destiny's Children," Donald Byrd's "Slow Drag, John Coltrane's "Naima," Thelonious Monk's "Round Midnight," and Joe Henderson's "Caribbean Fire Dance." The ensemble's performance was rich and dynamic, highlighting their improvisational prowess. Each member had ample opportunity to shine in solos while interacting with the rest of the band with remarkable precision.

Segueing into classic jazz, LA-based pianist Christian Sands introduced his trio with Ryan Sands on drums and bassist Jonathon S. Muir-Cotton. Known for his technical dexterity and expressive harmonies, Sands presented a set of swirling and delicate compositions, including his pieces "Be Water I" and "Be Water II," as well as works by renowned pianists such as Dave Brubeck and Erroll Garner. The trio's performance was marked by meticulous interplay, seamlessly blending a rich tapestry of harmonies with a sound that ranged from rhythmic intensity to smooth delicacy. Among the pieces performed were Brubeck's "Strange Meadowlark" and Steve Winwood's "Can't Find My Way Home." The trio's elegant sound filled the theater, creating an enchanting atmosphere that captivated the audience.

In a more experimental jazz realm, legendary Italian trumpeter Enrico Rava performed with his Fearless Five quintet, a talented ensemble with Evita Polidoro on drums, trombonist Matteo Paggi, Francesco Ponticelli on bass, and Francesco Diodati on guitar. From the very first note, the quintet enveloped the audience in a swirl of eclectic and psychedelic sounds. Paggi's phrasing and rich tone were notably prominent during his extended solos and interactions with Rava. Polidoro's drumming was equally impressive, displaying a range of techniques from syncopated beats to intricate, brushing patterns. Her outstanding and ethereal vocal performance in the song "Amnesia" further highlighted her versatile artistry.

Danilo Rea delivered an almost two-hour performance of contemporary music without pause, effortlessly transitioning between lightning-fast arpeggios and more mellow passages while offering unique renditions of Odell's "Another Love" and Coldplay's "Fix You."

Sala Podiani

The Umbria Jazz concerts at Sala Podiani were smaller and more intimate, offering a rare chance for artists to connect personally with their audience, resulting in exceptionally special performances. Located within the grandiose Palazzo Dei Priori in Perugia, Sala Podiani is a refined and elegant venue that exudes historic charm. With its vaulted ceilings and exquisite acoustics, the room fosters an atmosphere of sophistication.

Of particularly outstanding charm was Italian piano virtuoso Rita Marcotulli, who delivered an exceptionally intimate performance with class and flair. Marcotulli presented a captivating mix of original compositions and personal renditions of standards. The concert was a solo showcase, where she took the audience on a nostalgic journey, performing pieces from her discography as well as compositions from films by Pier Paolo Pasolini. She also offered her unique interpretations of works by pianist Bill Evans. The set was characterized by elegance and a light, breezy atmosphere.

French accordionist Vincent Peirani offered a blend of original compositions and inventive revivals of well-known themes, including an imaginative rendition of Simon and Garfunkel's iconic "The Sound of Silence."

Shifting towards jazz-blues guitar performances, among the most enjoyable at Podiani were those on the 18th, by Eddie and the Kids and Eleonora Strino. Eddie & the Kids delivered a captivating jazz-blues guitar set, transporting the audience to an ethereal soundscape. The following day, the Eleonora Strino Trio took the stage, offering a performance deeply influenced by Southern Italian and Spanish musical traditions.

Arena Santa Giuliana

The largest concerts at Umbria Jazz were held at Arena Santa Giuliana, featuring an eclectic array of headliners to suit all tastes and preferences. Arena Santa Giuliana is a spacious outdoor venue that combines the beauty of the surrounding landscape with a dynamic concert experience. Framed by ancient city walls and offering panoramic views of the Umbrian hills, the arena provides a stunning backdrop for large-scale performances. Its open-air setting, ample seating, and state-of-the-art sound system create an ideal environment for music lovers to enjoy unforgettable nights under the stars, whether they favor jazz, blues, rock, or world music.

Originating from New Orleans, Cha Wa delivered a fiery performance, blending vibrant funk rhythms with the festive spirit of Mardi Gras, all underpinned by impeccable musicianship. Their live set was irresistibly groovy, featuring selections from their Grammy-nominated albums Spyboy (Self Produced, 2018) and My People (Single Lock Records, 2021). Throughout the performance, the band conveyed a powerful message of freedom, deeply rooted in their music, evoking the rich legacy of New Orleans expression and the enduring joy born from generations of resilience.

Next on stage was Raye, who offered a compelling blend of class, activism and storytelling. Renowned for her exceptional talent as both a vocalist and songwriter, she commanded the stage with her strong presence. The concert centered around her album, My 21st Century Blues (Human Re Sources, 2023), with the songstress backed by an outstanding full band. During her set, Raye captivated the audience with her remarkable vocals, engaging them with stories that offered a glimpse into her world. She performed a mix of new tracks from her debut album and earlier hits, including the Amy Winehouse-inspired, rhythm-driven "The Thrill Is Gone," "Hard Out Here," and classics like "Black Mascara" and "Prada," all reimagined with a jazzy-pop twist. Her poignant renditions of "Ice Cream Man" and "Worth It" explored personal themes of body positivity and gender violence.

A standout moment of the evening was Raye's stunning interpretation of James Brown's "It's a Man's Man's Man's World," where her vocal strength, control and innate elegance were on full display, leaving the audience mesmerized. Throughout the concert, her charismatic stage presence shone as she transitioned between dynamic and slower pieces. The performance culminated in a more upbeat, dance-oriented repertoire, showcasing her versatility and skill while leading an exceptionally talented jazz band.

The evening shows at Santa Giuliana also offered performances tailored for classic jazz enthusiasts. Leading the lineup was a super quartet headlined by saxophonist Chris Potter and pianist Brad Mehldau, joined by drummer Jonathan Blake and double bassist John Patitucci. With over 20 years of experience, this quartet is one of the finest jazz acts performing today. Their outstanding cohesion was evident as they presented their new project, Eagle's Point, in a rare opportunity to witness the four artists perform together in a high-caliber, rhythmically intense set. The concert's highlight was Potter's extended solos, which carried the quartet, supported by Patitucci and Blake's syncopated basslines and drums forming the performance's solid foundation. Mehldau's groovy piano added exceptional flair, elevating the entire set with his distinctive style.

The night continued with another major show, honoring the legendary jazz pianist and composer Gil Evans. A vital figure in Umbria Jazz' history, Evans contributed to some of the festival's most memorable concerts. Although his band disbanded after his passing, Pete Levin reunited 11 original members in 2014 for a one-night-only tribute that recaptured the band's electrifying energy. A decade later, the Gil Evans Alumni Band returned to Umbria Jazz in Perugia, paying homage to their late maestro with a performance that revived the magic of those unforgettable years. The ensemble featured John Clark on French horn, Chris Hunter on alto sax, Alex Foster on tenor sax, Alex Sipiagin on trumpet, Tom Malone on trombone and baritone sax, David Taylor on bass trombone, Pete Levin on piano and electric piano, Dave Stryker on guitar, Mark Egan on bass, Danny Gottlieb on drums, and Beth Gottlieb on percussion.

The evening shows at Santa Giuliana also celebrated women's artistry, including concerts by vocalist and musician Lizz Wright and eclectic pianist Hiromi on July 16, and vocalist Somi and musician Fatoumata Diawara on July 17.

Lizz Wright's performance was characterized by a minimalist setup, and skillfully highlighted her vocal interpretations and lyrics. The set was both delicate and sophisticated, with Wright using pauses and silences to enhance her emotional delivery. Performing material from her album Shadow (Blues and Greens, 2024), Wright included pieces such as her original "Sparrow" followed by exquisite renditions of Sandy Denny's "Who Knows Where the Time Goes" and Neil Young's "Old Man." A highlight of the evening was an almost a cappella rendition of "Amazing Grace," accompanied only by guitar. This performance showcased Wright's voice resonating beautifully throughout the arena, creating a profound and memorable moment.

The second part of the night Hiromi and her project Sonicwonder, offered an exhilarating mix of heavy rhythms with jazz, funk, and rock influences. Accompanied by a stellar band including trumpeter Adam O'Farrill, bassist Hadrien Feraud, and drummer Gene Coye, Hiromi's performance was marked by a rich, expansive sound that highlighted her distinctive and innovative piano technique. The set was a vibrant showcase of original compositions and colorful arrangements that reflected her unique style and artistic vision. The concert journeyed through Hiromi's past works, characterized by powerful, eclectic, and experimental elements. In the final segment of the show, the artist paid tribute to her mentor, pianist Ahmad Jamal, who had taken her under his wing in 2009. Before starting her homage, Hiromi shared heartfelt memories of Jamal, expressing her deep admiration and sense of loss.

Particularly enchanting was Somi's performance, which was centered on honoring her East African heritage and celebrating the music and activism of iconic Miriam Makeba. Her extended vocal performance, deeply rooted in jazz, stood out as one of the most exceptional sets of the entire festival. The artist's phrasings and vocalizations paid tribute to jazz luminaries such as Nina Simone. The set was polished and elegant, yet brimming with intensity. Somi's delivery was both sophisticated and deeply engaging, showcasing her unique artistry and reverence for her musical influences.

Malian artist Fatoumata Diawara delivered a stunning and energetic performance that blended traditional West African music with elements of jazz, afrobeat, and pop. Her set was infused with a powerful message of social justice, unity and universal love. As one of the leading figures of African music, Diawara's performance was accompanied by vibrant and sophisticated Afrofuturistic visuals, including short films projected on a large screen behind her, reinforcing her themes of peace, love and freedom. A particularly memorable moment was Diawara's homage to Nina Simone, featuring an exquisitely original rendition of "Feeling Good." The combination of her evocative music and striking visual elements created an impactful and memorable experience.

For Latin jazz aficionados, July 19 was dedicated to rhythms and Cuban jazz, featuring two major figures in the genre. The night opened with legendary pianist Chucho Valdes, who delivered an exquisite performance of rhythmic piano, accompanied by a full band of wind instruments and vocalists. Valdés brought his Cuban heritage to the stage with a repertoire of classic Latin jazz pieces. On the other hand, Roberto Fonseca presented his project, La Gran Diversión, which showcased a contemporary take on Latin jazz while incorporating elements of mambo and rumba. Fonseca's set offered a blend of mellow tunes and fiery, rhythmic compositions, demonstrating his innovative approach to the genre.

On the night of July 20, jazz vocalist Veronica Swift and Nile Rodgers took the stage at Arena Santa Giuliana. Swift opened the evening with a dynamic rock-jazz performance, featuring original compositions and innovative reinterpretations of classic jazz pieces. Her energetic stage presence and precise, captivating vocal delivery were particularly notable. Rodgers followed with a stellar performance, supported by a talented band that perfectly complemented his show. Backup singers Kimberly Davis and Audrey Martells, known for their vocal dexterity and engaging stage presence, added an extra layer of flair to the performance. Rodgers took the audience on a nostalgic journey, performing hits he co-wrote with iconic artists such as David Bowie, Diana Ross, and Daft Punk, as well as classics from his band Chic. The evening was a lively celebration of music, with the entire arena joining in with enthusiasm and sing-alongs.

The 51st edition of Umbria Jazz was a triumphant celebration of the genre's evolving artistry, offering an unparalleled musical experience, right in the heart of Perugia. Over ten days, the festival masterfully blended tradition and innovation, presenting a diverse array of performances that captivated audiences across its historic venues. From the intimate elegance of Teatro Morlacchi and Sala Podiani to the grandeur of Arena Santa Giuliana, each performance underscored the festival's dedication to preserving jazz's rich legacy while embracing its future. The festival not only honored jazz legends but also highlighted the global and cross-genre influences shaping contemporary jazz. The 51st Umbria Jazz reaffirmed its status as a premier cultural event, where music's timeless beauty and boundless creativity continue to flourish.

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