Jazz, once deemed a nostalgic echo of the past, is experiencing a resounding revival in the dynamic spectrum of musical genres worldwide. In recent times, a remarkable resurgence has graced the genre. Artists seamlessly infuse jazz into diverse musical styles, drawing in younger audiences who are rediscovering its enduring allure. Amidst the ever-evolving musical landscape, jazz stands as a steadfast presence, continually renewing itself and retaining its relevance across eras.
Emerging in the early 20th century in New Orleans, jazz transcended borders, establishing its presence worldwide. Presently, its pulsating core resonates prominently across South Africa. South African jazz offers an immersive journey intertwining identity, history, and spirit. Why should one listen? It blends indigenous rhythms, African melodies, and global influences. A new wave of artists pushes boundaries, infusing jazz with Afrobeat, gospel, and traditional South African sounds, crafting a unique musical panorama. Notable figures like Nduduzo Makhathini and Thandiswa Mazwai embody the sounds of South Africa.
The Japanese jazz scene, often overlooked, weaves an intricate tapestry of invention, tradition, and cultural fusion that enthrals from the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene vistas of Kyoto. What’s the allure? It's a harmonious fusion of heritage and modernity, seamlessly blending the rhythmic cadences of traditional Japanese music with jazz's improvisational flexibility, resulting in a diverse and unique genre.
No exploration of Japanese jazz would be complete without recognising the trailblazing artist Nujabes. A maverick in the jazz realm, Nujabes, a creative Japanese producer and DJ, transcended genre norms by melding electronic ambient, hip-hop, and jazz elements. His pioneering work significantly contributed to the birth of jazz hop, as exemplified in tracks like ‘The Final View’ and his contributions to Samurai Champloo.
Looking closer to home, the iconic Ronnie Scott’s in Soho stands as the quintessential venue to immerse oneself in this music. Acts like Irene Serra, The Jive Aces, and OHIG grace its stage regularly, with weekly events spotlighting emerging artists. Gazing into the future of London’s jazz scene, artists like Emma-Jean Thackeray, who seamlessly merges electronic and jazz, embody a unique musical style. Unmissable events, such as ‘Cross the Tracks’ in Herne Hill, offer a glimpse into emerging talents like Nubya Garcia, whose debut masterpiece marries Afrobeats and experimental sounds, paving the way for an exhilarating new genre.
Written by Drew Johnson