The International Canarias Jazz & Más Festival, one of the most established musical events in the Islands, celebrates its 35th anniversary with an edition that began on Friday, July 3rd. The program unfolds in various municipalities and venues across Gran Canaria, Tenerife, and La Graciosa, and will extend to other islands next week, solidifying the archipelago as a hub for jazz until July 25th.
This edition features a distinguished lineup, including internationally acclaimed acts such as American groups Yellowjackets and Ghost-Note. Also participating are Madrid-based pianist Moisés P. Sánchez, a Latin Grammy nominee, and the project The Jazz Brigade, presenting its «bop for the streets» repertoire.
The festival continues its commitment to local talent, dedicating a prominent space to Canarian bands and artists. This weekend, musicians Charlie Moreno and José Vera Bello, both with extensive jazz careers, are performing. Lajalada, the project by singer-songwriter Belén Á. Doreste, accompanied by Leo Segovia, is also featured.
Gran Canaria-based saxophonist José Vera Bello presents his second album, Son de la Cueva, in a quintet format. The performance offers a sonic journey reflecting his experiences across different eras and places, providing insight into the vibrant state of the Canarian jazz scene.
Gran Canaria producer and bassist Charlie Moreno presents his project Powafunk, exploring various funk styles. Moreno describes the project as «created solely for enjoyment and dancing», featuring «two of the best voices on the current scene: Alex Delgado and Brigitte Emaga».
Charlie Moreno highlights his long-standing relationship with the festival, which gave him his first solo opportunity at age 19. He has presented all his works at the festival, always feeling supported, and considers these concerts «very special and family-oriented».
The musician emphasizes the importance of the International Canarias Jazz & Más Festival as «one of the main assets we have in the Islands» and «a great showcase for the diverse and brilliant talents of the Canary Islands».
Following the opening concerts, the festival's program will resume on Wednesday, July 8th, running uninterrupted until the weekend, with performances extending to La Palma, El Hierro, and Fuerteventura.
