Two new acts for Cape Town jazz fest
DELIVERING on its promise of a festival to be remembered and celebrating its 21st milestone, the Cape Town International Jazz Festival (CTIJF) has announced two further acts who will be performing on May 3 and 4.
Coming to Cape Town are Grammynominated vocalist Gretchen Parlato along with acclaimed guitarist Lionel Loueke, who will perform their collaboration Lean In, which tells the story of 20 years of connection, inspiration and friendship between two musical soulmates.
It is their first recording together, with Lean In earning Parlato a nomination for this year’s Grammy for Best Jazz Vocal Album.
Loueke is a multi-award-winning artist and has been described by his mentor, Herby Hancock, as being a “musical painter” and praised by industry pundits as “the ultimate original who has reached levels of individual expression that most artists can only dream of”.
Individually they are exceptional performers and together they are magical, as they seamlessly blend genres and push the boundaries of musical expression.
The second act is someone who needs no introduction: award-winning virtuoso guitarist Jimmy Dludlu, whose mesmerising melodies and infectious rhythms have earned him acclaim on the global stage. With his distinctive style rooted in the fusion of jazz with traditional African rhythms and melodies, this “son of the soil” is all set to entertain festinos.
Lindsay Rhoda, head of talent at the festival, said: “Each artist on this year’s line-up brings a unique perspective and unparalleled talent to the stage, collectively embodying the spirit of creativity and innovation that has defined this festival over the years.
“Jazz is a multifaced genre, and we have a diverse audience. This year’s festival is a representation of music that will appeal to jazz aficionados and those who are just beginning with their jazz journey.”
Tickets can be purchased at Ticketmaster.