Sep 3, 2026 10:44 AM
In Memoriam: Cassandra Wilson, 1955–2026
Cassandra Wilson, a singer, songwriter and producer who was one of the most acclaimed and successful jazz vocalists of…
Pianist Christian Sands is set to release Be Water on July 17.
(Photo: Anna Webber)Despite Christian Sands’ clear affinity for Erroll Garner, the pianist’s upcoming release, Be Water, depicts an artist moving well beyond the confines of the jazz tradition.
Expanding on his 2018 album, Facing Dragons, Sands again taps saxophonist Marcus Strickland for assistance on “Drive,” a tune off the upcoming album that premieres below. While the pair clearly are working in a 21st-century mode, a solo from guitarist Marvin Sewell helps the ensemble push toward the edge of genre.
“‘Drive’ is about ambition. It’s about being determined on wherever you’re going,” Sands said. “It’s also about the journey itself, the moves one makes to get to a goal. It’s self-reflection, it’s aspiration, intention and purpose.”
Be Water is set for release through the Mack Avenue label on July 17. DB
Correction: A previous version of this story misstated the release date of Be Water. DownBeat regrets the error.
Wilson’s ability to connect to audiences helped her to win two Grammy awards and multiple other accolades. She was named an NEA Jazz Master in 2022.
Sep 3, 2026 10:44 AM
Cassandra Wilson, a singer, songwriter and producer who was one of the most acclaimed and successful jazz vocalists of…
“The love from the jazz and music community restored my faith in humanity,” Walia wrote in an online post upon his release from detention at an ICE facility.
Aug 18, 2026 2:15 PM
Indian jazz guitarist and composer Pritesh Walia has been released after being unexpectedly detained by ICE and taken…
Percussionist Poncho Sanchez was among the artists scheduled to perform at the now-canceled inaugural LA Jazz Festival.
Aug 11, 2026 12:53 PM
The inaugural LA Jazz Festival, originally scheduled to run Aug. 7–23 with dozens of events across Los Angeles’…
Bertoncini was a specialist and advocate for the nylon-string acoustic guitar, turning down high-profile opportunities that were unsuited to the sound and techniques that he used with that instrument.
Sep 1, 2026 11:06 AM
Gene Bertoncini, an esteemed jazz guitarist, composer, arranger and educator, died Aug. 29 at the Lillian Booth Actors…
A solo concert by saxophonist Joshua Redman will close the first night of the Hyde Park Jazz Festival on Sept. 26.
Sep 22, 2026 12:26 PM
The Hyde Park Jazz Festival will take place for the 20th time on the final weekend of September 2026. Beginning half…
