Sat Apr 18
Steve Davis’ We See All-Stars feat. Abena Koomson-Davis perform the New American Song Book
The idea for We See began with a simple concept: a fresh, free-flowing approach to modern jazz classics, brought to life by a dynamic sextet of world-class musicians. With a focus on both classic repertoire and creative freedom, We See reflects the essence of live jazz — honest, immediate, and deeply collaborative. This sense of connection is at the heart of We See, led by Steve Davis. This performance features an all-star ensemble: Eddie Henderson (trumpet), Ralph Moore (tenor saxophone), George Cables (piano), Essiet Essiet (bass), and Lewis Nash (drums).
In honor of Blues Alley’s Celebration of Ella Fitzgerald, the band will be joined by vocalist Abena Koomson-Davis. In addition to sharing the stage with such luminaries as Natalie Merchant, and Angelique Kidjo, Abena’s most recent album, “Where is Love” features collaborations with Steve Davis. Together they present a musical exploration of The New American Songbook which includes interpretations of time honored standards, reimagined classics, and new collaborations.
Bringing virtuosity and talent together with a love for the tradition, Steve Davis’ We See All-Stars featuring Abena Koomson-Davis promises to be a stellar event. While the ensemble's accolades are too many to name, below are a few notable collaborations:
STEVE DAVIS: Leading trombonist who has performed & recorded with Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers, Jackie McLean, Chick Corea, Freddie Hubbard, Benny Golson, Horace Silver, Hank Jones, Larry Willis, Harold Mabern, One For All and with big bands led by Jimmy Heath, Ron Carter, Christian McBride, Roy Hargrove & Dizzy Gillespie All-Stars.
EDDIE HENDERSON: Legendary trumpeter best known for extensive work with Herbie Hancock & Mwandishi, Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers, Benny Golson New Jazztet, Max Roach, Kenny Barron, Pharoah Sanders, McCoy Tyner, Billy Harper & The Cookers.
RALPH MOORE: Renowned tenor saxophonist born in the UK who has worked with Horace Silver, Freddie Hubbard, JJ Johnson, Cedar Walton, Roy Haynes, Ray Brown, Tom Harrell, Kevin Eubanks & Tonight Show Band.
GEORGE CABLES: Acclaimed jazz pianist & composer George Cables is best known for his iconic work with jazz greats Dexter Gordon, Freddie Hubbard, Sonny Rollins, Joe Henderson, Art Pepper, Max Roach, Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers.
ESSIET OKON ESSIET: in-demand bassist has worked with Abdullah Ibrahim, Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers, Bobby Watson & Horizon, Blue Note All-Stars, Ralph Peterson's Messenger Legacy, George Cables, Vincent Herring & Something Else and collaborations with his wife, drummer Sylvia Cuenca.
LEWIS NASH: Top jazz drummer who has played with a who's who of jazz icons including Betty Carter, Tommy Flanagan, Ron Carter, JJ Johnson, Branford Marsalis, Joe Lovano, Houston Person, Cedar Walton, Hank Jones, Ray Brown, Jimmy Heath & Dizzy Gillespie All-Stars. Founder of The Nash, Phoenix, AZ.
ABENA KOOMSON-DAVIS: Vocalist who has appeared with Natalie Merchant, Angelique Kidjo, Carly Simon, Allison Russell, Deva Mahal and founding musical director of the Resistance Revival Chorus.