CAMILA CORTINA TRIO / BRYAN MARTINEZ & HACHA Y MACHETE

DJANGO / AUGUST 4

This double bill showcases Django's Afro-Caribbean and Latin jazz programming. Pianist Camila Cortina opens the evening with her trio, bringing Cuban-inflected harmonies and rhythmic sensibilities to the piano-jazz tradition. Camila's approach balances lyrical improvisation with the syncopated pulse of her heritage, creating music that swings while remaining rooted in Caribbean melodic traditions. The late set shifts energy as percussionist Bryan Martinez leads Hacha y Machete, a group built around groove and polyrhythmic intensity. Bryan's ensemble pushes further into percussion-driven territory, where the drums and congas don't merely accompany but drive the conversation. The contrast between sets – Camila's piano-centered lyricism followed by Bryan's rhythmic fire – illustrates the breadth within Latin jazz, from intimate reflection to communal celebration. Two bands, one evening, both demonstrating that the downtown jazz scene extends well beyond the conventional horn-quartet format.  JZZ