Lionel Loueke gave Hartford its first taste of his trailblazing guitar-led trio Sunday at Sweet Jane's. The West African native enraptured a standing-room-only audience by blending cutting-edge jazz with traditional and popular sounds from his homeland.
“Karibu," the title tune from Loueke's new Blue Note release (which means welcome in Swahili), opened the first set in a jaunty manner. The leader sang and played several choruses before being joined by bassist Massimo Biolcati and drummer Ferenc Nemeth.
Loueke said the trio has been together for nine years; their longevity was evidenced by an almost-telepathic interplay. Each seemed to play an integral role in the music's segues.
Although his comrades hail from Europe, they share Loueke's enthusiasm for African musical styles. The three honed their craft together at Boston's Berklee College of Music.
Loueke proved a charismatic leader, beaming often as he gazed skyward and swayed to the improvisations. He wore a satiny purple tunic in celebration of his heritage.
“Karibu," the title tune from Loueke's new Blue Note release (which means welcome in Swahili), opened the first set in a jaunty manner. The leader sang and played several choruses before being joined by bassist Massimo Biolcati and drummer Ferenc Nemeth.
Loueke said the trio has been together for nine years; their longevity was evidenced by an almost-telepathic interplay. Each seemed to play an integral role in the music's segues.
Although his comrades hail from Europe, they share Loueke's enthusiasm for African musical styles. The three honed their craft together at Boston's Berklee College of Music.
Loueke proved a charismatic leader, beaming often as he gazed skyward and swayed to the improvisations. He wore a satiny purple tunic in celebration of his heritage.
For more information contact All About Jazz.
