Montreal is dreadfully cold most of the year, but in summertime the living is easy, the vibe is friendly, and the city comes together for 10 glorious days of incredible music each year.
Devoted jazz lovers from all over the world congregate at the Festival International de Jazz de Montréal (FIJM). FIJM (www.montrealjazzfest.com) is one of the most recognized, popular, and largest jazz festivals in the world. Since its inception 29 years ago, it has always been worth writing home about. Some of most talked about shows this year were Leonard Cohen, Aretha Franklin, James Carter, McCoy Tyner, and Brad Mehldau.
One of the most highly anticipated concerts was the long-awaited festival debut of singer, composer, and lyricist Abbey Lincoln. Billed as "the last of the great jazz divas," she exceeded expectations with her unforgettably moving performance at the Theatre Maisonneuve.
At 77 years of age, Lincoln looked thin and frail, barely able to hold the microphone and remaining seated during solos. Yet every word was as gripping as ever before, particularly thanks to the poetic artistry of her original songs. I highly recommend her latest recording, Abbey Sings Abbey now available on the Verve jazz label.
It's always a thrill to see fellow musicians get the respect they deserve. The crowd went crazy for Quebec's own cellist Claude Lamothe as he delivered a masterful program of originals accompanied by electric bass. Using primarily classical harmony, jazz rhythms and rock sensibilities, Lamothe has invented an exciting style all his own. His skills are impeccable as a composer, soloist, and band leader.
This is music delivered with wondrous passion and intensity. Lamothe's latest recording on Analekta records is entitled Vivace, but do try to see this guy LIVE. It must be noted that this divine concert took place in one of the festival's most spectacular venues—the intimate Gesù, located in the basement of a historic church.
If you are ever planning on attending this festival, remember that it isn't imperative to spend money on ticketed shows. FIJM is legendary for closing off major streets downtown in order to accommodate 10 free outdoor stages. This year, the most spectacular of such shows that I experienced was by Toronto's Mr. Something Something, an eclectic fusion group inspired by the rhythms of Nigeria, Sénégal, Mali, and Ghana.
In order to attract visitors, the FIJM offers JAZZITUP packages for those interested in making a getaway out of it without spending a fortune. Valued at $197 CDN per person, the package that I sampled included two nights and breakfast at the three-star Daulphin Hotel, two tickets to the Gesù, one festival T-shirt, a shoulder bag, and promotional coupons.
Ori Dagan is a jazz musician and writer based in Toronto, Canada.