CYRUS CHESTNUT

SMOKE JAZZ CLUB / JANUARY 21-25

Pianist Cyrus Chestnut brings his gospel-infused jazz approach to Smoke Jazz Club for a five-night engagement. A native of Baltimore, Chestnut emerged in the early 1990s through work with Betty Carter and Wynton Marsalis before establishing himself as a bandleader. Cyrus's playing draws deeply from the church music of his youth, incorporating gospel harmonies and spiritual fervor into bebop and post-bop frameworks. His touch ranges from delicate ballad interpretations to thunderous, two-handed passages that showcase his technical command. Chestnut has recorded extensively for Atlantic, Warner Brothers, and HighNote Records, exploring everything from jazz standards to classical adaptations. His performances often feature spontaneous medleys that weave together hymns, jazz classics, and original compositions. Cyrus's trio work emphasizes interactive group dynamics while highlighting his distinctive blend of sophistication and soul. These Smoke performances will likely showcase the full spectrum of his pianistic personality. LINEUP: Cyrus Chestnut – piano Dezron Douglas – bass Willie Jones III – piano with special guest Carla Cook – vocals. JZZ