Opted for the Saturday lineup of this storied festival. As mentioned previously, Newport Jazz recently shed its KennyGisms ( that’s Kenny G isms, as opposed to G sperm). Made it through the gauntlet in time to catch a few tunes by drummer Makaya McCraven a young lion with an excellent band. MM is a prolific artist and producer, who NPR has called the vitality of jazz. Next up is British sax phenom Shabaka Hutchings and his group The Sons of Kemet. Hutchings, Theon Cross on tuba, and two drummers brought the frenetic racket. Hutchings is in many groups that range from rave, groove, and straight jazz. SH wore a butchers apron which was apt as he carved his solos. Had to be hot playing tuba on a high 80s sunny day. Axeman Cory Wong played next. Drums, Funky Bass, trumpet, trombone, saxes, and organ made for a funky outing. Wong is an excellent picker and was quick to point out that this is the one festival where the artist has the better view, as he gazed out on Newport bay. Bassist Esperanza Spaulding came next. She glitchily warbled through one tune and didn’t let the audience in on why the stop/starts. Covered Bowie’s Wild Is The Wind. Hutchings guested on some tasteful clarinet. Second stage had Joe Lovano Trio that should have had the legendary Jack DeJohnette on drums. Jack had Covid and missed the show. Google Lovano and then look for the muppet sax player, separated at birth. On to the inside the fort stage for singer Cecile Mclorin Salvant. Great voice, stage presence, and outfits on this young woman. Did a Kurt Weill tune, a Diane Reeves cover, and a song by Gregory Porter, excellent set. Final group on the main stage was Cory Wong and the Fearless Flyers. Wong on guitar, a dude from Wulfpeck on baritone guitar, bass, and Nate Smith on drums. After an incoherent drunken rant from a former manager, the group choogled through a good closing set. Speedy Reeling In The Years was the highlight
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