This week promises a vibrant musical landscape, featuring an eclectic mix of genres from avant-garde jazz to Latin rhythms. Fans can enjoy a series of enriching performances that highlight both established artists and emerging talents.
Among the highlights is Karl Evangelista’s ensemble, which will perform at Solar Myth on Friday and Saturday. Evangelista, a guitarist from the Bay Area, has emerged as a key figure in the avant-garde music scene. He emphasizes a liberated approach to music, stating, “Our project argues that Free Music is aspirational in character.” His ideals are brought to life through an intergenerational band that includes jazz legends Bobby Bradford and Andrew Cyrille.
Bradford and Cyrille have both made significant contributions to Evangelista’s recent projects, showcasing the interplay of experience and innovation. Joining them are Luke Stewart on bass, William Roper on tuba, and Rei Scampavia on piano, adding layers of depth and creativity.
Evangelista’s Filipino-American background enriches his musical narratives. The Filipino word “bukas,” meaning both “tomorrow” and “open,” encapsulates the spirit of his music, which embraces the potential of the unknown.
Music enthusiasts can catch this impressive group performing on July 18 and 19 at 8 p.m. at Solar Myth, located at 1131 South Broad Street. Tickets are priced at $40 in advance and $45 on the day of the show.
On Wednesday, Bobby Zankel brings his talents to the Black Squirrel Club with a tribute titled “Remembering John Coltrane.” He leads his ensemble, the Wonderful Sound Six, through fresh arrangements that reflect Coltrane’s revolutionary influence on jazz. This performance features familiar collaborators including pianist Sumi Tonooka, drummer Pheeroan akLaff, and bassist Lee Smith, alongside emerging tenor saxophonist Bryan Rogers.
The event is set for July 16 at 8 p.m. at the Black Squirrel Club located at 1049 Sarah Street, with a sliding scale ticket price of $10 to $20, making it accessible for jazz fans of all backgrounds.
Another notable event is set for Thursday in Atlantic City with Arturo O’Farrill and his Afro Latin Jazz Ensemble. Earlier this year, O’Farrill released an album titled Mundoagua: Celebrating Carla Bley, which highlights his innovative approach to jazz. This week, he will deliver a free concert as part of the “Jazz on the Beach” series in Kennedy Plaza.
The performance begins at 7 p.m. on July 17, and will serve as a platform for showcasing the vibrant sounds of Afro Latin Jazz, with an opening set by the Gina Roche Quintet.
On Friday, Conjunto Philadelphia takes the stage at Chris’ Jazz Cafe to celebrate the rhythms of pre-revolutionary Cuba, featuring genres such as bolero, cha-cha-chá, and són. Their self-titled debut album from 2019 continues to resonate with audiences, drawing upon rich cultural traditions.
Performances will occur at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m. on July 18, at Chris’ Jazz Cafe, 1421 Sansom Street. Tickets are available for $25, along with dinner packages ranging from $95 to $115.
Rounding out the week’s festivities is the Lancaster Avenue Jazz & Arts Festival on Saturday at Saunders Park Greene. This free community event emphasizes the importance of music and fellowship, featuring a variety of food trucks, a children’s village, and craft vendors.
The festival will showcase headliner V. Shayne Frederick, known for his deep baritone and elegant stage presence, alongside spoken-word poet Ursula Rucker and dynamic drummer Nazir Ebo. Saxophonist Chris Oatts will perform with the Pretty Big Band, providing an array of engaging performances.
This week’s lineup exemplifies the breadth of musical talent and the power of community connection through jazz and arts, ensuring that there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
image source from：wrti
