KALI RODRIGUEZ-PEÑA 11.29.18
PERSONNEL
Trumpet: Kali Rodriguez-Peña
Tenor Saxophone: Kazemde George
Drums: Zack O'Farrill
Bass: Jose "Bam Bam" Rodriguez
Piano: Gabriel Chakarji
The Kali Rodriguez-Peña quintet paid tribute to the legendary Dizzy Gillespie with two sets of pure fire, full throttle from start to finish. These gifted players have all been playing together for some time, but are all relatively young in terms of the genre as a whole, which is very exciting! One can only imagine them ushering in a new generation of jazz virtuosity. It was evident to the audience that the band was having as much fun (if not more), than all of us. Collectively and individually, each were all standouts. and I am reticent to name individual names, but drummer Zack O'Farrill (son of jazz great Arturo O'Farrill) was outstanding, and pianist Gabriel Chakarji's playing was technically amazing. Watching him move and vibe on the bench was a real treat. He was full of gleeful energy... wowing the rest of the band with his craft. The band's skillful improvisation was just a blast to witness.
Kali Rodriguez-Peña & Kazemde George cooling their heels before a truly magnificent set.
The brass making their presence felt.
Stage right for bassist "Bam Bam" Rodriguez's solo.
Tenor Saxophonist Kazemde George.
Pianist Gabriel Chakarji: Of all the shows I've witnessed in this series, I've yet to see one play as freely and as animated. Truly a pleasure to observe.
Kali Rodriguez-Pena's playing was round, full and vibrant. A brilliant rising star.
Feelin' it.
Zack O'Farrill in percussive bliss. This cat just oozes with groove.
The youth movement: this band is special.
T.J. with the band, joined by the legendary Arturo O'Farrill in attendance for son Zack's incredible performance.