The mere existence of the 41st season of The Folly Jazz Series is reason to celebrate. Without a proper jazz festival during the past five years and the termination of the American Jazz Museum’s Jammin’ at the Gem presentations several years ago, the Folly Jazz Series represents a reliable oasis for jazz fans thirsty for performances by touring musicians.
New York Voices with The Kansas City Jazz Orchestra
October 14, 2022
Grade: C-
The Kansas City Jazz Orchestra seems to be in the midst of a resurgence. Yet the big band’s momentum is hindered by the pairing with the kitschy New York Voices. A collaboration with a representative of the latest wave of cliché-free vocalists exemplified by Cécile McLorin Salvant would have resulted in a very different grade.
Keiko Matsui
November 4, 2022
Grade: C+
Smooth jazz remains the most commercially viable form of jazz. Keiko Matsui has been at the vanguard of the genre since the release of her debut solo album 25 years ago. Ticket sales for the popular keyboardist’s concert might help subsidize the series’ less accessible bookings.
Miguel Zenón Quartet
January 20, 2023
Grade: A-
In addition to being an avid Charlie Parker devotee, the brilliant saxophonist Miguel Zenón is an enthusiastic proponent of the popular music of his native Puerto Rico. Caveat: only 50 people attended Zenón’s 2014 show at the Blue Room. The Folly Theater was half-empty for his 2018 appearance with the all-star SFJazz Collective.
Hermon Mehari Quartet
February 18, 2023
Grade: A-
Since moving to Europe, the one-time Kansas Citian Hermon Mehari has developed into one of the most exciting young innovators in jazz. Should the trumpeter play with the dazzling imagination displayed in his recent work rather than reverting to conventional bop, his concert could be a contender for the show of the year.
Oleta Adams
March 11, 2023
Grade: B+
The warm voice of Oleta Adams embodies the best aspects of her hometown of Kansas City. Each of the Parade of Hearts sculptures around the metropolis should be equipped with an internal speaker playing her heartwarming 1988 hit “Get Here.” Adams’ music is a sophisticated blend of pop, soul, gospel and jazz.
Tia Fuller Quintet
April 22, 2023
Grade: B
The form of jazz favored by the native Coloradan Tia Fuller is closely aligned with the sound associated with Kansas City’s most prominent jazz venues. The fervent swing the saxophonist is likely to exhibit will please habitués of the Blue Room and Green Lady Lounge.
Anat Cohen Quartetinho
May 5, 2023
Grade: B+
The truly global jazz clarinetist Anat Cohen is probably best known for her membership in the all-star band Artemis but her Brazilian-oriented group Quartetinho promises to bring a fresh sound to Kansas City. Caveat: Cohen’s concert at the Gem Theater in 2018 drew 200 people.