May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins Passes Away at 95
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
Critically acclaimed vocalist José James is among the performers scheduled to appear at BRIC JazzFest, which runs from Oct. 8–15 in Brooklyn.
(Photo: Janette Beckman)Last year saw the inaugural edition of the BRIC JazzFest, a high-energy, musical marathon that brought some of the biggest names in jazz, hip-hop and r&b to Brooklyn. After a successful maiden voyage, the festival will return to the borough for its sophomore edition, which runs from Oct. 8–15 and promises to highlight an even broader range of today’s most ambitious young artists and jazz veterans.
Conceived and curated by Jack Walsh, Diane Eber and Brice Rosenbloom, BRIC JazzFest expands this year to a full week of programming, including a new series of jazz film screenings and three days of concerts, with performances taking place simultaneously in the various spaces comprising BRIC House (647 Fulton Street, Brooklyn).
The lineup of more than 50 artists includes Julian Lage, Terrace Martin, Lisa Fischer, Taylor McFerrin & Marcus Gilmore, Ben Allison & Think Free, Harold Lopez Nussa, the Eddie Palmieri Latin Jazz Septet, Krystle Warren, David Murray Infinity Quartet, Marc Ribot Trio, Lakecia Benjamin, Soulsquad, Big Yuki and many more.
Vocalist José James, who has been called the “jazz singer for the hip-hop generation,” will bring his creative blend of jazz and soul to the fest on Oct. 14.
Four additional free concerts—which include two evening performances for all ages and two daytime concerts for 500 students from area schools—have been made possible with support from the Mayor’s Office of Media and Entertainment.
A free, two-night film series (with two giant screens in BRIC House) will feature an array of classic films that shed light on influential artists and historical moments in jazz.
Preceding the BRIC JazzFest will two free concerts, one by the Brooklyn Raga Massive (Oct. 11) and another by Colombian harpist Edmar Castañeda (Oct. 12).
Onstage, Rollins would move about restlessly, thrusting his tenor sax in the air as he blew.
May 26, 2026 11:08 AM
Sonny Rollins, the iconic saxophonist, composer and improviser whose career stretched from the origins of bebop to 21st…
“We thought it’s important that Ronin has a new statement,” said Nik Bärtsch of his band’s latest album, Spin. “The sound is differently produced, so it reflects more of who we are.”
Apr 21, 2026 10:00 AM
Nik Bärtsch cuts an imposing figure on stage. He’s unmistakable with his soul patch, shaven head and black attire.…
Dave King (left) and Reid Anderson offer insights into why The Bad Plus’ chemistry was cool, the accomplishments many and its longevity so fruitful.
May 12, 2026 11:42 AM
The scene still sticks with me. I had heard the oddball name of this new group being dropped around town, and…
How best to mark Miles Davis’ centennial? By allowing the stories to flow, and cross-discussions to happen.
May 26, 2026 10:40 AM
Editor’s Note: The iconic trumpeter, composer and bandleader Miles Davis would have turned 100 today (May 26, 2026).…
Ava Preston, a 12-time DownBeat Student Music Award winner, is currently pursuing her master’s degree in jazz voice at Juilliard.
May 12, 2026 10:00 AM
Ava Preston, from Cleveland, Ohio, was named the winner of the ninth annual Ella Fitzgerald Jazz Vocal Competition on…
