Hailing from the self-proclaimed “Portland ghetto,” inspired by Yo-Yo Ma, and hugely intrigued by music of other cultures, Esperanza Spalding will be enticing us with mesmeric vocals and captivating jazz bass this week. Her voice is smoother than marbles on glass and ripples like teardrops in bathwater, resonating and ravishing and a pure delight on the ears. She first picked up a bass around the age of fifteen and has since continuously been the youngest student, artist, and teacher at various musical academies, receiving numerous scholarships and recognition across the country from talent aficionados. Described as “uniquely feminine, injecting huge personality into her work, and extraordinarily optimistic” by a number of sources, Esperanza’s music is truly moving and inspirational. Last year alone, she won “Best New Artist” at the Grammy Awards, “Jazz Artist of the Year” at the Boston Music Awards, and her third album, Chamber Music Society, was the best selling contemporary jazz album. Credentials aside, she is a stunning performer with a huge stage presence for a tiny girl with a fluffy afro.
Esperanza Spalding performs Wednesday September 26 at the Ogden Theatre in Denver at 8pm, with tickets ranging from $35 for general admission (plus fees) to $70 for premium seating. You will not be disappointed.
Allison Cohn loves gold spray paint and nonsense. She also has a very difficult time sitting still and keeping quiet. She can often be found dancing like a fool when she isn’t hiding out in her mountain lair or gallivanting around the globe.