It’s not only Dave Holland and The Bad Plus that are getting people flocking to the Montreal Jazz Fest this year; it’s the surprising amount of jazz being performed. In years past, many stellar artists of blues, salsa, funk and even flamenco were featured prominently on the bills, with some well-known jazz artists performing here and there. This year, musicians – jazz musicians – from all over the world and here in Montreal are packing a year’s worth of live jazz into just twelve days.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of FIJM and they’ve pulled out all the stops. Important jazz artists are coming to town as usual, though in much greater numbers, and any jazz-loving Montrealer worth her salt likely already has tickets to a few shows. If you, like one of my colleagues, took one look at the calendar and blanched at the choice, take my advice: go and see Bill Frisell or The Bad Plus. In the swathe of incredible musicians coming to town, these are innovators who have created their own individual sounds and styles that simply aren’t heard from any other artists. Just don’t be surprised when you find yourself wanting to check out some of the free shows afterwards.
The free shows are really what the festival is supposed to be all about. Jazz itself is often viewed as elitist and incomprehensible to audiences, and the scene can be seen as closed and unwelcoming to new artists. Thus, even in years when the jazz menu was slimmed down to accommodate more groove and world music, the fact that our streets opened up to one and all, free of charge to hear musicians at the top of their game, made it worthwhile. This year’s big free show is the inimitable Stevie Wonder, who will perform twice on the mainstage at Scene General Motors to kick things off tonight. If you’re more into those harder to find but ever so impressive local musicians, I suggest Samuel Blais on July 12th.
You don’t need to be in the know to appreciate good music when you hear it. Bill Frisell is well-known for his innovative compositional style and incredible chops. His folk-blues-soul-influenced music is accessible to newcomers and those who are already passionate about jazz guitar. This year he’s performing with a quartet on July 8th at Theatre Jean-Duceppe (PDA). His group this year include his long-time collaborator, Ron Miles, on trumpet.
Fans of contemporary jazz with a completely new sound will need to see The Bad Plus. This trio fearlessly innovates the format of compositions with frenetic, maddening arcs that leave listeners happily amazed and ready for more. Expect to hear original songs and a few familiar tunes rearranged around the piano, bass and drums of three stellar musicians. They’ll be in the new space, l’Astral, tonight, and for Canada Day tomorrow.
Listen to samples from all artists and buy your tickets at the FIJM website, www.montrealjazzfest.com.
