MONTY ALEXANDER

JAZZ FORUM ARTS / JANUARY 15-16

Jamaican-born pianist Monty Alexander brings his distinctive Caribbean-influenced jazz style to Jazz Forum Arts for two evenings. Over his six-decade career, Alexander has developed a unique approach that seamlessly blends bebop traditions with reggae rhythms and calypso melodies. Monty's interpretations of American songbook standards often feature unexpected rhythmic shifts and island-inspired reharmonizations. His left hand frequently channels the bass patterns of reggae while his right hand maintains the melodic sophistication of modern jazz piano. Alexander has performed with jazz luminaries including Ray Brown, Milt Jackson, and Frank Sinatra, while also collaborating with reggae artists like Sly Dunbar and Robbie Shakespeare. His repertoire spans from Duke Ellington compositions to Bob Marley songs, all filtered through his distinctive pianistic voice. These performances will likely showcase both aspects of Monty's musical identity, offering audiences a journey through jazz history with a Caribbean perspective.  JZZ