Another San Jose Jazz “discovery” is the dynamic saxophonist, composer Kamasi Washington, who recently released a 3-disc opus appropriately titled, THE EPIC (Brainfeeder).
I caught up with Washington and the West Coast Get Down at the historic California Theatre, where the collective showcased new music by bassists Miles Mosley, drummers Lyndon Rochelle and Tony Austin, keyboardist, Brandon Coleman, vocalist Patrice Quinn, pianist Cameron Graves, trombonist Ryan Porter, trumpeter Igmar Thomas and flutist, Richie Washington.
The collective is a visual and aural feast. Also, it transcends cultural boundaries, conventional genres and dispels notions of what a “jazz band,” should or shouldn’t be.
The music comes from deep down. Also, from years of cultivating an instinctive “language” that encompasses elements of Gospel, West Coast funk, jazz, and R&B. The sound is soulful, powerful and intense, and best experienced in a live setting.
For a “taste” of Kamasi Washington check out THE EPIC and a slew of upcoming recordings that features members of the collective as leaders.
http://www.kamasiwashington.com/
Photos: Tomas Peña (with the exception of the California Theatre).
