The 23rd edition of the longest running jazz festival in Greece returns to Technopolis City of Athens from 26 May to 3 June, offering Athenians and visitors to the city nine days packed with live concerts and exciting encounters with some of the most talented musicians from Greece and abroad.
In the most significant edition in its history until now, this year’s Athens Jazz Festival has added two extra days for the first time, celebrating its opening and closing in the most uplifting way.
Fittingly, the first day of summer will be celebrated at the Athens Jazz Festival. On Saturday 1 June, Shake Stew from Austria will captivate us with its groovy sounds and numerous percussion instruments which – combined with rich wind instruments and hints of spiritual jazz – create a psychedelic acoustic experience. Next is the up-and-coming band Sunbörn from Denmark, betting that their ‘sunny’ instrumental music with its afro-jazz, ethnic elements and electronic touches with South American salsa hints, will make everyone dance the night away. Saturday’s live performances end with the irresistible voice of British singer Cherise. She belongs to a new generation of soul, jazz and R&B musicians from the United Kingdom who pay respect to a huge musical legacy and approach it with a fresh perspective. At the same time, she stands out with her punk temperament, authentic soul-jazz timbre and abundant self-confidence.
Cherise
The voice of British performer Cherise embodies the essence of a rising star destined to shine in her field in the years to come. With a punk twist, an authentic soul-jazz edge and abundant confidence, she has swiftly earned rave reviews from prominent music outlets during her brief time recording and performing. Cherise has also collaborated with Gregory Porter for Disney’s 2021 Christmas campaign and graced major stages worldwide, including opening for Michael Kiwanuka, Jamie Cullum and other acclaimed artists.
She is part of a new wave of talented soul, jazz and R&B musicians emerging from the UK, such as Femi Koleoso, Tom Misch and Nubya Garcia, who honour a rich musical legacy while infusing it with a fresh perspective. Cherise’s debut album, Calling, released last year, encapsulates the irresistible charm of her initial creative phase, heralding the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
For the full programme, visit the Athens Jazz Festival website.