Jazz is an art form that has a history of occasionally spawning pop stars. Think of Louis Armstrong and Nat King Cole, and more recently, Diana Krall and Harry Connick Jr. Young jazz star Michael Kaeshammer is on a path to enjoy such exalted popular status with the release of his latest CD, Days Like These. |
| Days Like These documents the musician's latest incarnation in a decade-long professional career, ranging from the teenage prodigy's boogie woogie piano roots, to a deeply influential infatuation with New Orleans' groove-addled funk, to his current CD showcase of budding vocal talent and surprisingly mature songwriting skill. The handsome, boyish keyboard wonder still tears up the piano on a series of fleet-fingered, eclectic instrumentals. But, more impressive, his phenomenal keyboard technique now serves as singular, expressive punctuation to a canon of well-crafted originals and clever versions of songs by reggae star Jimmy Cliff, blues great Willie Dixon, and folk legend Ewan McColl. Michael even brings new life to well-worn standards like St. James Infirmary and I Found a New Baby. Kaeshammer's polished, but warm live shows pack concert halls across North America and Europe. Spiking his onstage patter with a droll, but quick-witted humour, the young pianist is a consummate entertainer. This year, on top of his own headline concerts, he did a national co-headline tour with Harry Manx followed by a 20 date theatre tour as Colin James' special guest where he earned a standing ovation at every show, sometimes as early as the second number. This summer he's touring with Holly Cole on her tour of Canadian jazz festivals, and in the fall he's scheduled to play intimate theatres in Canada, Europe and the U.S. |
| Michael Kaeshammer 3:00 p.m. to 3:45 p.m. |
| Main Stage - Bell Stage Harmony Square |
