The 2018 Hyde Park Jazz Festival celebrates tradition and innovation in its diverse bill
By Izzy Yellen
September 21, 2018
In its 12th year, the Hyde Park Jazz Festival continues to program a diverse lineup of jazz artists. Over the course of the two days, the event will showcase over 30 acts at various venues in Hyde Park while embracing countless styles, traditions, and innovations. Though there are plenty of big names on the bill—including Ravi Coltrane with Brandee Younger, Jason Moran (paying tribute to Willie Pickens and Muhal Richard Abrams), Christian Scott aTunde Adjuah, and Dee Alexander—the fest puts emphasis on giants in niche scenes. Two of the most eclectic, not-to-be-missed sets are an ensemble performance led by Mike Reed, “The City Was Yellow: The Chicago Suite,” and a solo set from Ben LaMar Gay.