Newport Jazz Festival Stands Out on Saturday with Diverse Performances

The second day of the 71st Newport Jazz Festival was a vibrant showcase of music that defied simple labels. Under the clear blue sky, the legendary Dianne Reeves graced the Fort Stage with a blend of jazz standards like Fleetwood Mac’s “Dreams” and classics from the Great American Songbook. Christian McBride, the festival’s artistic director, reminded the audience not to take living titans like Reeves for granted.

Throughout the day, various sets embodied the essence of jazz. Terence Blanchard and his band delivered an atmospheric performance drawing on his rich history as a composer for screen and TV. Nubya Garcia, a young British saxophonist, brought her vibrant sound to the main stage. Drummer Marcus Gilmore paid tribute to his late grandfather, the esteemed Roy Haynes, with a stellar group featuring Kenny Garrett, Danilo Pérez, and John Patitucci.

However, the festival also ventured into uncharted territories with experimental and innovative sounds. The Fleck, Castañeda, Sánchez Trio wowed the audience with a unique blend of banjo, drums, and harp, showcasing Edmar Castañeda’s dazzling harp skills. The trio, known as the BEATrio, explored new musical frontiers and excited fans with their innovative approach.

The festival organizers acknowledged the diverse tastes of younger audiences by featuring artists like Willow Smith, whose performance infused ’90s nostalgia with a modern twist. Samm Henshaw and KNOWER added their unique sounds to the mix, captivating the crowd with their fresh performances.

Flying Lotus, the grandnephew of Alice Coltrane, brought an electrifying mix of video-game beats and funk classics, drawing the audience into an immersive dance experience. Janelle Monáe closed the festival with a funk-filled set that left the audience energized and dancing.

The Newport Jazz Festival embraced the past, present, and future of jazz, showcasing a dynamic range of styles and genres. From traditional jazz interpretations to experimental sounds, the festival’s diverse lineup captivated audiences and celebrated the spirit of musical innovation and creativity. As the sun set on a spirited Saturday, the Newport Jazz Festival once again proved why it remains the “granddaddy of all music festivals,” defying labels and pushing the boundaries of what jazz can be.