The 16th annual Ventura Music Festival kicked off last weekend. Featured on Sunday was jazz legend Herbie Hancock. Performing as a trio, Hancock was joined by veteran drummer Vinnie Colaiuta and bassist Nathan East. Singer Amy Keys provided vocals for songs from Herbie’s Grammy Best Album award winning River: The Joni Letters as well as selections from his upcoming album, The Imagine Project. Due out on June 21st, the new album continues Hancock’s utilization of different guest artists for each song while also incorporating different recording locales from around the world. Along with the newer songs, Herbie and the band performed songs from his vast catalog. Highlights from the afternoon included an incredible solo piano performance of Maiden Voyage which led straight into Cantaloupe Island performed by the full band. For the encore Herbie walked on stage with his keytar and got the crowd dancing with the jazz funk classic “Chameleon”. After the concert Herbie stayed to sign autographs (including my copy of Maiden Voyage), pose for photos, and converse with fans.

Herbie Hancock @ Hollywood Bowl (Seven Decades – A Birthday Celebration) Wed 9/1

Herbie Hancock | herbiehancock.com
Ventura Music Festival | venturamusicfestival.org