António Sánchez’s group dominated the stage on the first day of the 2016 edition of the Funchal Jazz Festival.
The evening was a pleasant one, ideal for a glass of gin or any other refreshing beverage while waiting for the opening concerto f the 2016 edition of the Funchal jazz Festival.
While some people were still finding their seats, the Fred Hersch Trio took the stage ‘Floating’ (the name of the first piece they played). In a calm rhythm that reminded one of a ballad, they played one song after another, the highlights being The Beatles’ ‘for no one’ and the disquieting ‘Serpent of Time’. Playing together with Fred Hersch were Jon Hérbert (bass) and Eric McPherson (drums).
A little after 11: 00 p.m. it was the turn of António Sánchez & Migration to rise to the stage. Antóio Sánchez started by saying how ‘amazing it is to be on this beautiful’ island and finished by thanking the Madeiran people for their hospitality. The concert was a real adventure! Their songs came from ‘The Meridian Suite’ album, a non-stop piece played with no interruptions, in a single breath. Inspired in classical music this suite has five movements in an attempt by António Sánchez to ‘create a musical romance’. The result was an explosion of energy, specially when John Escreet was dominating the Rhodes piano and Seamus Blake was exploring the EWI, or, as some spectators called it, the ‘weirdophone’ (weird saxophone!). Joining them were Matt Brewer on the bass and electric bass, and the voice of Thana Alexa. António Dánchez, on his end, had a seamless display on the drums and confirmed why he is considered one of the best drummers of our time.
The second evening of the Funchal Jazz Festival will have Maria João & Mário Laginha at 9:30 p.m. Their group comprises Maria João (voice), Mário Laginha (piano), João Frade (accordion), Bernardo Moreira (bass) and Alexandre Frazão (drums). At 10:30 p.m., the stage will belong to Rudresh Mahanthappa Bird Call, with Adam O’Farril (trumpet), Rudresh Mahanthappa (high sax), Bobby Avey (piano), Thomson Kneeland (bass) and Rudy Royston (drums).
As with the previous day, jazz does not end at Parque de Santa Catarina. The SCAT Music Club is host to the concerts’ afterhours with a jam session by the Ricardo Toscano Trio, comprising Ricard Toscano (high sax), João Pedro Coelho (piano), Romeu Tristão (bass) and João Pereira (drums).
The one day ticket costs 15 euros while the three day pass sells for 30 euros. Tickets can be bought at the event’s venue. Children aged 12 and under have free entrance.
We remind you that Essential subscribers hold special advantages for this event. Have a look at the complete program here.
