JAZZ

Thursday, March 25, 2010 8:00PM

We’re kicking off The HSBC Jazz Festival with two acts that are sure to keep you coming back for more! These high energy, highly talented artists put on a live show like you’ve never seen before, and for the first time ever you can see them both on one night, on one stage! Get ready for a night of jazz that will keep the town buzzing for months to come and this is only the beginning.

SPYRO GYRA
For more than three decades, Spyro Gyra has maintained the well-deserved reputation as a viable and highly versatile creative force. Since their earliest recordings in the mid 1970s, they have taken a fresh approach to their craft by borrowing from a range of sources and distilling them into an unmistakable signature sound.

This innovative and eclectic sensibility has earned the band 10 GRAMMY nominations overall, and has fueled the sale of 11 million records — including one platinum and two gold records. In the midst of the achievements and accolades, Spyro Gyra keeps moving and grooving, having logged over 5,000 high-energy performances in their prestigious and prolific career.

JONATHAN BUTLER
Jonathan Butler has led a life few could imagine. Born under the shadow of South African apartheid and raised in poverty, Butler while still in his teens, became the first non-white artist to be played on white mainstream radio and appear on national South African television. Nelson Mandela credits Butler’s music as having inspired him during his long days of imprisonment.

He has three decades of international acclaim and has topped the Billboard charts with Contemporary Jazz, R&B, and Gospel albums. His live performances are legendary – captivating and heart stirring.