Recap: Makaya McCraven at The Zankel in Saratoga Springs, NY 2/17/24

February 19, 2024

2–3 minutes

Photos and Words: Rudy Lu

“Jazz shouldn’t have mandates. Jazz is not supposed to be something that sounds like jazz. For me, the word “jazz “ means, “ I dare you”-Wayne Shorter

Makaya McCraven must have heard these words when he took over 7 years to write his composition “In These Times”. He describes his music as “organic beat music”” and beat scientist. Portions of this suite were performed with a 10 member ensemble along with his other works.

The roughly hour and a half set contained complex rhythms and ideas that were concealed by a lot of melodic content.Complex rhythms and ideas to be enjoyed by all rather than an intellectual exercise was the stated goal of McCraven with many of his works. Growing up in a musical family where both his parents are musicians. He was exposed to Eastern European music as well as jazz. Having spent much of his youth, in Northhampton, MA he was exposed to many other folk traditions. These along with the influence of 20th century classical music.

Along with instruments and percussion found in jazz ensembles, there was a string quartet and the renowned jazz harpist Brandee Younger.

Photo: Rudy Lu

The music was sweeping in scale, often resembling a film score or symphonic work. The musicians were not only executing the sounds that McCraven was hearing in his head when he composed but adding their own nuances. The musicians in the band are there to inspire and challenge him.

De’Sean Jones often created the tone of the composition by his choice and use of tenor sax, flute or EWI. THe twin front end of Marquis Hill on trumpet and Gregory Ward on alto sax, pulled the band into the jazz tradition with their duets, duels and soloing. Bassist Junius Paul was generally McCraven’s musical “shadow”, giving depth to the poly rhythms as well as lending hip hop sensibility.

Those who listen to Wayne Shorter’s words were rewarded by a fine evening performance.. The next jazz event @ the Zankel is a last minute addition. Noted Brooklyn based Melanie Charles will be hosting a jam session on February 23rd. If you would like to catch this ensemble nearby, they are continuing to tour the Northeast.