The month end will bring in some cool jazz at the NCPA. Featuring some of biggest names in Jazz, this festival showcases a variety of Cuban, European, Latin and mainstream jazz.

Renowned jazz musicians such as James Carter, Doris Levin and Helen Sung with their compositions will sustain Mumbai’s title as the ‘Jazz Capital’ of the country.

Here is a lowdown on what to expect:

November 28, 2014

Doris Lavin quintet 

Also known as the Cuban spitfire, vocalist Doris Lavin brings an animated blend of salsa, son and timba.

Cuban singer Doris Lavin was hailed by trumpeter Lazaro Herrera as one of the timeless Soneras to sing salsa, putting her in such vaulted company as Celia Cruz & La Lupe. After establishing herself in Cuba, Lavin relocated to Italy in ‘96, which did nothing to lessen her busy touring schedule. She has performed with Gonalo Rubalcaba, Felix Valoy & the Conjunto Folklorico Naciónal De Cuba. A self-titled debut album ft. Alix Perez was released in 2003.

Helen Sung Quartet

Pianist Sung cut her teeth with legends Wayne Shorter, Clark Terry and Ron Carter. Wynton Marsalis named her in “Who’s the next jazz musician to watch”. Pianist/composer Helen Sung has spent most of her life in two distinct worlds. A classical student from a young age who transitioned to jazz in her early twenties, she understands the limitless range and potential of the piano in a way that few specialists in either genre can. In addition, as the daughter of Chinese immigrants, Sung embodies two diverse cultures and has discovered a musical voice and identity that are true to both - and more importantly, true to her.

November 29, 2014

Yuri Honing Quartet

Yuri Honing started his own Trio in 1990, with bassist Tony Overwater & drummer Joost Lijbaart. The absence of a chordal instrument in the band gives the threesome great harmonic freedom. Honing had his first major success in 1996 with his album Star Tracks, which comprised recordings of pop songs as an alternative to the American Songbook. The album was a hit in Europe.

 di  Martino Quartet

Noted for his versatility on piano, John has performed and recorded with great artists like Joe Lovano, James Moody and Kenny Burrell.

John was a student of Lennie Tristano & Don Sebesky. He has performed everywhere from Carnegie Hall to China. John di Martino was a long time member of the Ray Barretto’s "New World Spirit” He is a featured pianist and arranger on several recordings including the Grammy nominated, CD "Contact” (Blue Note Records).

November 30, 2014

The James Carter Organtrio 

James Carter is the world’s most admired tenor saxophonist of his generation. He is a master of the entire range from sopranino to bass saxophone.

James Carter is a powerhouse musician and one of the most admired saxophonists of his generation, garnering plaudits for his role in helping to propel jazz full tilt into the future over the past twenty-five years. His music is fueled by deep respect and intimate knowledge of the jazz tradition.

Carlos Bica & Azul

Bassist Carlos Bica’s band will provide a zany romp through a vast musical landscape.

Double bass player and composer, Carlos Bica, is one of the most prolific and innovative sound artists of Portugal. Known for his lyrical tone on the double bass, Bica has the rare ability to write melodies that essentially are songs without words, haunting and unforgettable.  "Both a remarkable composer and musician who knows how to mix his folkloric, lyrical roots with any modern style he encounters"(Double Bassist)