Branford Marsalis and Dianne Reeves shine in Coltrane

Branford Marsalis and Dianne Reeves pay tribute to John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman, breathing new life into classic jazz ballads. Their performance showcases exceptional craftsmanship, though true freedom in their music emerges only towards the end. Reeves captivates with her clear voice and theatrical style, while Marsalis alternates between soprano and tenor sax, focusing on melody and emotion. The concert features a mix of slower ballads and faster bebop numbers, with pianist Joey Calderazzo shining throughout. The latter part of the concert allows for more improvisation and virtuosity, providing a refreshing contrast to the earlier, more restrained performances.