2023-05-30 Hardly Raining
Hermeto Pascoal
Brazilian avant-garde jazz legend Hermeto Pascoal performed at the Neptune Theatre on May 30, 2023. The 86-year-old composer and multi-instrumentalist sang, and played keys and melodica. His band included André Marques (piano), Ajurinã Zwarg (drums, percussion), Fabio Pascoal (percussion), Itiberê Zwarg (bass), and Jota P. (saxophones, flute).
The group played catchy Brazilian melodies, punctuated by complex polyrhythms, sung passages, rapidly flourishing instrumental solos, and some audience participation. They used a table full of unconventional auxiliary percussion instruments—kitchen items, a wooden shoe, and even rubber squeaky toys—characteristic of Pascoal’s style. Attended in force by members of Seattle’s jazz and Brazilian communities, the show was near capacity and well-received.
Jovino Santos Neto Quinteto
Brazilian-born pianist and bandleader Jovino Santos Neto kicked off the evening with his Quinteto. The popular Seattle-based group featured Ben Thomas (vibraphone), Tim Carey (bass), Jeff Busch (percussion), and Mark Ivester (drums). After a lively percussion break in the final number, the set concluded with a standing ovation—a rarity for an opening act, although not for one that is often a headliner.
A mentee of Pascoal, Santos Neto performed with his group for 15 years. Santos Neto was a guest throughout most of Pascoal’s set, and their affection and familiar musical interaction were highlights of the evening. The Quinteto returned for a crowd-pleasing encore.
Jazz is Dead sponsored the show. The Los Angeles record label and concert promoter seeks to present legacy jazz artists to new audiences. Co-founder Adrian Younge emceed and spun records between sets.
Pascoal announced that he had composed several tunes while in Seattle, which he said would stay at the Neptune Theatre. Pascoal continues his U.S. west-coast tour through June 8, and plays several European dates in July.
Gallery: Hermeto Pascoal, & Jovino Santos Neto Quinteto
