It’s shaping up to be a fierce competition between 10 regional Jazz acts at the 3rd Annual Downtown JazzFest. We’re giving you the chance to be in the know. Wow your friends, your date, that guy at the bar next to you – anyone- with a little social chatter on the competing bands. Brush up on our previous posts, study this one and check out our Jazz previews. Come Friday you’ll be fully briefed in all things JazzFest.
Blue n’ Green play homage to the masters – and they’re not too bad themselves. Bringing classic jazz standards to life alongside modern pop song renditions and original tunes, this act is all driven by a thumping rhythm section that sizzles and snaps. Hear the wailing sax and melodic electric guitar at Pearl Street Pub, 1 Steuben Place. 
Coming to Downtown straight from Brooklyn, David Caldwell-Mason comes with an extensive performance history. From strong ties to the gospel scene, a decade on the New York Jazz Scene, and a life-long dedication to music, David creates pure, modern and accessible Jazz, hear it live at The Merry Monk at 90 N Pearl Street.
Michael Benedict has played drums and vibraphone professionally since his teenage years, toured Europe and Africa, and released two recordings to date. The Michael Benedict Jazz Vibes offer a Brazilian/Jazz sound as well a mainstream Jazz. Stop in Legends on Pearl, 84 N Pearl Street, this Friday and hear them live.
Can’t get enough Jazz? Or Downtown? Luckily we’ve got a weekend full of fun and you can customize how to spend it. Visit downtownalbany.org for great exhibits, dining, retail and more happening this weekend and every weekend.
See you Downtown.
JD
