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But with rain and wind in the forecast, these acts were moved to U Street's historic Lincoln Theatre, and instead of being free, would be $15 each. For the cash-strapped college student, $45 for Saturday's three performances was hard to justify.
Then I remembered that I write for The GW Hatchet. But for the majority of students who are not a member of the college press corps., the organizers of the Duke Ellington Jazz Festival have hopefully learned a few things for the future, including scheduling the festival during a season when rain and wind are less likely, and considering the impact that a last-minute price hike would have on attendance.
That being said, Saturday's performances were nothing short of fantastic. The Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band led off the afternoon, and had the audience on their feet by the end of a set that went beyond the be-bop infused Afro-Cuban jazz style that the band is known for, ranging from mo-town to a mellow cover of the Duke's "In a Sentimental Mood." The eight-piece band, led by Sanchez on congo drums and vocals, rounded out a set of their originals with a few more covers. If the opening bass line of Dizzy Gillespie's "A Night in Tunisia," didn't get your foot tapping, their cover of Ray Charles' "One Mint Julep," might have been more your style. And in what was among the coolest moments of the day, Sanchez announced that the band had recently collaborated with Memphis soul legends Booker T & the MGs, and when they covered "Raise Your Hand," it didn't take much for the audience to comply.
The sets were divided by intervals of an hour, which left time for a walk around U Street, the neighborhood that served as the center of arts and entertainment for D.C.'s African American community during the first half of the 20th century. Once referred to as "Black Broadway," the lively neighborhood and its clubs make up a vital part of D.C. nightlife, especially the jazz scene. U Street institutions such as the Lincoln Theatre and the Bohemian Caverns, as well as newer jazz hot-spots HR-57 and Busboys & Poets all hosted events during this year's Ellington Jazz Fest.
