Dianne Reeves, Patrice Rushen, Christian Mcbride Big Band, and Spanish Harlem Orchestra

Dianne Reeves should need no introduction. Her long-established career has positioned herself as one of the most prominent and successful jazz singers of her time, with it not being uncommon to have the assertion that she is the 'greatest jazz singer alive.' Her extraordinary talent is best realised through her live performance, which brings her voice alive, displaying her virtuosity for the audience. Her performance at Boettcher Concert Hall in Denver was a spectacular, rousing set that was wowing on a number of levels. Her voice was so dynamic and full it filled the large concert hall with ease. The band were equally impressive, although more so when fewer instruments played as this allowed for greater clarity and their talent to shine through. The highlight was her deeply emotive rendition of Billie Holliday's "Don't Explain" which saw her come to the front of the stage and deliver a stripped-back individual performance that was spine-tingling. As well as jazz standards, Reeves also fitted in some pop songs, such as Fleetwood Mac's "Dreams." It was a memorable, timeless performance that gave further ammunition to the claim that there is no other jazz singer comparable to Reeves who is performing today. Simply stunning.

Patrice Rushen is an incredibly talented woman. From her own compositions, to the abundance of instruments she plays skilfully, right through to her work as a musical director, she is at the top of her game with every craft she tries. Seeing Rushen in concert is exciting: you never quite know what you’re going to get. Will it be an urban clarinet piece, or a R&B track singing at the keys. No matter what she performs though, you will be blown away.
The concert that I was lucky enough to see was simply magical, Rushen was on top form and blew everyone away time and time again. She started by sitting at the piano, and playing the audience through one of her new songs, which was a really special moment. On a recording, it’s difficult to appreciate the degree of her talent, but as she switches from one instrument to the next, and crosses over multiple genres, it shocks and excites.
She played through some of her older tracks acoustically, and then for the bigger soul and R&B numbers, she invited her band to the stage, who were also fantastic. It was a real showcase of raw and genuine talent, and Rushen made it personal, interacting with the audience. Definitely my favourite concert of the year so far.