Place Masséna hosts the musical event celebrating its twenty-first anniversary. A crowd, perfect weather, artists in sync with their instruments, an electrifying atmosphere… The festival got off to an ideal start.
At 7:30 PM, Fred d’Oelsnitz opened the lineup of artists set to celebrate jazz until Sunday. Accompanied by François Gallix on bass and Stéphane Foucher on drums, the pianist took his place in front of a Théâtre de Verdure that was gradually filling up completely. Both young and retired attendees were present, proof that jazz has become more accessible.
Throughout the pieces, the piano sets the pace: sometimes speeding up, sometimes slowing down to better rise into higher notes. Fred d’Oelsnitz appears to play with his eyes closed, his hands swirling and moving back and forth, while François Gallix’s hands rapidly tighten and loosen the strings of his bass. The latter stands out from the trio: with a red cap firmly on his head, he’s the only one standing on stage, moving actively to manipulate his imposing instrument. His enjoyment is evident on his face and echoed in the audience’s applause.
A “slightly” different style on the Masséna stage
Suddenly, a cannon shot rings out in the air. It’s not noon, but 8 PM. To understand the source of the distant noise, head to the Masséna stage and a whole other world with the New Yorkers of Too Many Zooz. Light and smoke shows, powerful bass, and a dancing crowd make up the second concert of the evening. The group is presented as having “unshakeable energy,” and it’s easy to believe! Saxophonist Leo P unleashes his enthusiasm, jumping, spinning around with his horn, or running across the stage. Incessantly. He rouses the crowd, urging them to move more, which they gladly do.
The tracks follow one another, each person’s ears receiving a true sonic explosion. The saxophone wails while the drum, played by King of Sludge, makes bodies vibrate. Trumpeter Matt Doe stands out with his instrument in one hand… and a can in the other. Or perhaps a cigarette he lights off to the side. But rest assured, his trumpet’s roars show that he belongs to the group. Even when Matt Doe occasionally sings snippets resembling incantations, expect a sonic fireworks display. Leo P gives it his all until the very last moment, having won over the audience long ago with his energetic stage presence.
The cheers concluding the show attest to the enjoyment of a large crowd present in force. The festival has only been underway for 90 minutes, and it’s difficult to start off on better footing.
