The day’s fourth performance was another premiere – an encounter of two most prominent European pianists today, Kaja Draksler and Eve Risser. Both classically trained musicians committed to exploring the extremes of jazz and classical music. On the grand stage of CD’s Gallus Hall, the pianists smashed the waves of stormy clusters with silence, noise and elegant cuts. 

Written by: Marvin
Photo Domen Pal

The eagerly awaited performance by pianist Hiromi (her concert was cancelled two years ago) thrilled the packed Gallus Hall audiences. Appearing in a trio with drummer Simon Phillips and bass player Anthony Jackson, the concert experience was nearly indescribable - audaciously virtuosic, complex and supple. The rapturous and devoted music would have drifted off into the stratosphere had it not been for the force of gravity generated by the firm groove of the bass and exactly administered rock percussion bases. 

Written by: Marvin
Photo Domen Pal

Portuguese Pedro Lopes was responsible for bringing the third evening to a valid conclusion. Armed with a turntable, mixer, tapes and instruments, Lopes’ rumbling, crackling and rolling sounds made for a highly musical noise. A  sense of harmonies, chords, double bass, winds – word-stocks of new and old jazz – rose (un)controllably from the ringing and echoes of this noise. The unique music performance was followed by a traditional tasting of Portuguese culinary delights, cordially provided by Festival Artistic Co-director, Pedro Costa. 

Written by: Marvin
Photo Domen Pal