After a few minutes of waiting, with a press badge around my neck, here I am strolling through the aisles of the NJF site, my notebook and pen in hand. First evening, first artists, and already this NJF promises to be exceptional.
Kris Bower opens the festivities at 7:30 p.m. on the TDV stage: a large audience, a crowd of photographers, and a Kris Bower inhabited by the music. His fingers glide over the piano, and here we are, transported into his world. A world that swings, a world of musical journeys. This guy is talented. No singing but a highly appreciable jazz melody. The audience remains shy, savoring too, and applause resonates at the end of each piece. A beautiful performance that makes me want to listen to this talented pianist whom I did not know until now. A great discovery, and indescribable emotions.
It’s time for me to head to the Village for the presentation of the Ferret Trophy to Richard Galliano, whom we will meet at the end of the evening at TDV, by Monsieur Estrosi. A speech that only our mayor knows the secret of. Many elected officials are present. The emotion is palpable here too.
Crossing the site from one end to the other to get to l’espace Massena where Patrice is expected. Punctual on stage, Patrice sets the stage on fire in two minutes and takes the audience with him on reggae notes that don’t go unnoticed. You’re compelled to tap to the rhythm and even find yourself dancing. This artist overflows with energy, his musicians are not left behind. The atmosphere here is crazier than at TDV, needless to say, there are three times as many people too.
Cécile McLorin Savant pierces me with her voice. This lady is remarkable. Goosebumps take over me. The emotions are vivid, intense, and indescribable. The TDV is almost silent. Listening to Cécile McLorin is a unique experience, a strange sensation that’s hard to recover from.
The great Ben L’oncle Soul, spotted in the aisles incognito, is about to take the Massena stage. The audience, younger than that of TDV, is impatient and eagerly waiting. The wait won’t be long, and something happens between him and the audience. An osmosis. L’oncle’s soul is contagious. A pure moment of joy. He is a man of the stage.
The time comes to go listen to Richard Galliano and the Nice Jazz Orchestra. TDV is sold out, the orchestra is top-notch, the atmosphere is calm, ears wide open. From the first notes, the invitation to travel is engaged. A journey to the land of dreams and softness. I am speechless, motionless, letting myself be carried away completely.
Unfortunately, I cannot stay much longer, I am expected at Masséna for the reception of the very great Keziah Jones, the inventor of BluFunck. A moment to live, a crowded and enthusiastic audience. Shouts, hands raised, people dancing here and there. This end of the evening is marked by celebration and good humor.
A first evening where I admit having felt some emotions listening to these six artists. A very beautiful lineup. Top-notch organization. People are happy to be here. Some prefer to listen to the artists comfortably seated, lying on the lawns of gardens, others opt for benches, others can’t stop dancing in the aisles and on the public space.
The dining area delights the public. The queues never diminish. Ice cream cones are wildly successful.
In short, a beautiful evening, a warm atmosphere, and smiles on every face. How lovely it is to see people happy.
Bérangère BERRIAUX
