Born in the small town of Hahira, Georgia, in January 1980, Lizz Wright grew up with music filling every room and corridor, so it was no great shock when she established herself as a voice to be reckoned with. Years of choral singing led to the release of “Salt” in 2003, a record that rocketed to the upper echelons of the Billboard Contemporary Jazz charts and made it clear that a new star was born. Wright has gone from strength to strength in the 21 years since, and her Zagreb show promises to be one of the highlights of the year.
Another name that is coming to Zagreb this spring as part of the city’s annual Jazz Festival is Roberto Fonseca (23.04), and music lovers of all shapes and sizes are excited. It isn’t difficult to understand why. Fonseca’s record output is tremendous (his works have been featured in major movies), but the live show is another thing entirely. Here, Fonseca’s work shines brightest.
Rumour has it that he was all about the drums before moving to the piano at the age of 8, and we’re inclined to say he made the right choice. One of the most electric jazz pianists in the world today, Fonseca’s work pays homage to his Cuban roots without shutting the door to other influences, creating an exciting new sound that is as much about the soul as it is about the hips. This is Afro-Cuban jazz with an undeniable classical flourish. Or maybe that should be classical music with an Afro-Cuban jazz flourish? Either way, it is fantastic. We can’t wait.
10. 3. Lizz Wright, Kino SC, Zagreb. Tickets: entrio.hr
23. 4. Roberto Fonseca Quartet, Kerempuh Theatre. Tickets: kazalistekerempuh.hr
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