As the CEO of SoulandJazz.com, Brian Hurst wants to share the music he loves with the world, offering streamed programming of soul and jazz gems spanning nine decades through his website. Based in the UK, Brian will be running the British Airways Music Lounge this year, a unique listening space hosted in the Hammer Theater’s Hammer 4 venue. The Lounge will feature pared-down performances by Fest headliners, filmed in full HD and VR with audio captured by Sennheiser. Here are five of the acts Brian is looking forward to seeing this year.
ConFunkShun: “A band that initially flew under the radar in the UK at the time of their 1976 debut, they recorded great album after great album. Tracks like ‘Love’s Train’, ‘Chase Me’, and the floor-filling ‘Got to Be Enough’ were the reasons for such success and all these years on, I can’t wait to be reminded of such soulful memories.” Don’t miss their August 10 performance on the Sobrato Organization Main Stage.
Lalah Hathaway: “I own every record Donny Hathaway ever recorded. Coming from such soul royalty, it’s little wonder that his daughter Lalah would emerge to become regarded in her own right as one of the leading female voices in soul music globally, and in the process become a Grammy winner no less than five times! I eagerly await to hear what aural pleasures she has in store for us.” Catch Lalah’s performance on August 10 at the Main Stage.
Doug Beavers’ Titanes del Trombón: “Doug Beavers’ last two albums have not just been great Latin-flavoured albums, they’ve continued to highlight the incredible musicianship and creativity of the man himself and his supporting players. His career has also seen him lend his considerable trombone playing talents to cats such as Eddie Palmieri and Rosemary Clooney. Completely unmissable!” Head to the Salsa Stage on Saturday August 11 for a Latin jazz trombone extravaganza like no other.
Kool & the Gang: “As my photo suggests, I’m into my fifth decade of being a fan of Kool & The Gang. They’re as hard-working now as they ever were and have an incredible repertoire to call upon and play live. I’m hoping to hear ‘Summer Madness’ 2018 style!” Watch Kool & The Gang breathe new life into their classic hits on the Main Stage, August 12.
Jimetta Rose: “I’ve known about Jimetta for eight years now and was originally diggin’ The Barber’s Daughter album back in 2010. Fast forward to 2018 and her excellent collaboration recently with Sly5thAve – you need to check it out. I’m excited to be seeing her perform live – it’ll be my first time.” Whether it’s your first or fifth time, don’t miss Jimetta’s August 10th performance on the Boom Box Stage.