Stirring basslines, satisfying piano medleys and warm cello chords serenaded a sold-out venue as the Saint Lucia Jazz and Arts Festival ushered in its main stage programme on Tuesday, May 5.
The first edition of Pure Jazz, featuring female headliners, was warmly received. The counterpart featuring male main acts is scheduled for this Thursday at the same venue, The Pavilion on the Ramp in Rodney Bay.
As the room filled up, Camille Charlemagne was first to take the stage. Poised and perfect in an opening act, with a performance easy on the ears and eyes, Charlemagne set the tone for the evening.
Performing to a now-warmed crowd, Leandra Modeste showcased exquisite vocals. Her powerful yet fluid runs, supported by a seasoned band, not only drew resounding applause, but continue to engrave the name of this Vieux Fort talent as one of Saint Lucia’s best.
By the time Chantal Esdelle & Moyenne took to the stage, The Pavilion was full. With an intricately layered blend of piano, pan, bass and drums, accented by chant-like vocals, the group created a spellbinding set that held the audience in quiet captivation before earning well-deserved applause.
Esperanza Spalding closed the night, taking the stage with a presence that radiated joy and graceful musicality. She moved seamlessly between instruments, pairing her signature honeyed vocals with a playful style that has long distinguished her on the international jazz scene.
In all, Pure Jazz offered a stellar introduction to the festival’s main stage programme. Ladies in Concert set a precedent, suggesting a compelling climax could be on the horizon if this momentum continues as the festival unfolds.
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