Is It A Crime To Enjoy Too Much Good Music???

Talk about a whirlwind week of great music that I had the good fortune to experience. The 90 Miles project featuring three young jazz giants: vibraphonist Stefon Harris, saxophonist David Sanchez and trumpeter Christian Scott played an inspiring and exciting set at Yoshis, Oakland. Not only did they play at the top of their respective game with imagination, fire and energy but their distinctive styles and personalities made watching them a lot of fun. I followed watching that phenomenal show with the rare appearance of Sade plus another headliner that opened for her, John Legend at Oakland’s Oracle Arena this past Friday night. Sade was in splendid voice, looking beautiful in gorgeous dresses and genuinely happy to be performing on stage. Backed by a tight band led by her three original partners: guitarist/saxophonist Stuart Matthewman, bassist Paul Denman and keyboardist Andrew Hale, Sade soared through her classic material as well as her newer songs. I found the newer material moodier and darker although I loved the stunning start of her show with “Soldier Of Love”. John Legend was a crowd pleaser with his sexy, soulful voice, presence and performance. He was eye candy for the ladies and a dynamic entertainer who knows how to work an audience.