As always we like our Cheltenham festival to feature a balance of new and familiar musicians. In 2008 we were bowled over by the artistry of Roberto Fonseca and when we knew he was returning this was a must-see concert for us.
One of the disadvantages of the Jazz Arena is that as most of the seats are on the flat you have to bob between the heads of people sitting in front of you to see much. The alternative is to sit further back in the raised area which gives you the benefit of seeing everything that happens on stage. This may not be necessary for all Jazz concerts but is is a plus for Mr Fonseca who is always active. This can just be trying to focus on his fingers as they move too quickly for your eyes to properly focus on, to see his control of a computer keyboard, presumably to re-create certain sounds from his latest CD or just to watch his inter-action with his band. I was mesmerised just watching them all constantly staring at their leader to see what he wanted them to do next. This was Jazz at its most thrilling and enthralling.
The previous concert we saw him clearly referenced his Cuban/ Bueno Vista Social Club roots. This show is far more linked to World Music. The rhythms are similar but his current band makes this journey even more accessible and enjoyable. One of the joys was the musicianship and incredible personality of Baba Sissoko on African percussion and vocals. On the few occassions you could draw your attention from the effervescent pianist it was to see this charismatic performer.
The sell-out audience thoroughly and understandably had a great time ( though a few people amazingly did rush out before the end to catch another show). This was their loss as concerts of this quality don't come around often.
This was the perfect way to end our festival. Thank you Roberto, thank you Cheltenham.
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