HARMONY

Photos by Brittany NO FOMO

Jazz in its true form.

You buy a ticket knowing it’s going to be good, but not knowing exactly what to expect. In its improvisational masterpiece, Kamasi Washington on the saxophone led a band of some of the most talented musicians: double drums, double keys, and double brass. Singer Patrice Quinn got swept away into the music, in usual fashion, singing inspiring lyrics and beautiful tones, forming an instrument with her vocals. Tracks blended into elongated solos, for a whirlwind of perfectly layered melodies – some recognizable from Kamasi’s 17-song opus The Epic, latest 6-song release Harmony of Difference, and other songs didn’t need a name as you lost yourself in the music.

Kamasi proudly introduced his dad Rickey to the stage, like in many past performances, who led out on the flute with Kamasi’s humble appreciation. Throughout the night, the two united harmonizing in love.

Later in the set, Washington announced that he loves collaboration and is going to invite two very talented people to the stage who he’s never played with before – him meeting them the same time as the audience. The talent? Pedal steel guitarist Robert Randolph (going on tour with his Family Band next month) and keyboardist John Medeski (better known as Medeski Martin & Wood). Randolph’s solo went seamlessly into Medeski’s time in the spotlight that all came together with Kamasi’s band improving their way into a soul-warming groove.