When Cindy Blackman took the stage at Birdland Jazz Club in New York City, it was more than just another night of live music—it was a homecoming of sorts for one of the most versatile drummers in modern music. Known for her powerful performances with Santana, Cindy used a brief hiatus from the band's Oneness Tour with Counting Crows to revisit her jazz roots during a week-long residency at the iconic Birdland.
With Santana off the road until July 12th, when the tour would resume, Cindy assembled a powerhouse ensemble that brought the legendary club to life. The band featured Aurélien Budynek on guitar, Felix Pastorius on bass, Zaccai Curtis on piano, and JD Allen on saxophone. Together, they created a sound that was both innovative and deeply rooted in jazz tradition.
The choice of musicians for this residency was anything but ordinary. Aurélien Budynek’s guitar work added a modern edge, blending seamlessly with Felix Pastorius’ groove-heavy bass lines. Zaccai Curtis on piano provided a rich harmonic foundation, while JD Allen’s saxophone added layers of depth and emotion. But it was Cindy herself who commanded the room, her drumming a powerful yet nuanced force that tied the entire ensemble together.
Throughout the residency, Cindy led the band through a diverse setlist that spanned traditional jazz standards, original compositions, and unexpected covers. The performances were a testament to her versatility as a drummer and a musician. Whether driving a hard-swinging number or exploring more avant-garde territory, Cindy’s playing was a masterclass in rhythm and expression.
The residency wasn’t just a showcase for Cindy’s technical prowess; it was also an opportunity to connect with her audience on a more intimate level. The setting of Birdland Jazz Club, with its rich history and close quarters, allowed for an exchange of energy between the musicians and the crowd that’s hard to find in larger venues.
For Cindy, this residency was a return to the jazz world that shaped her early career. Before becoming a rock icon with Lenny Kravitz and later Santana, Cindy was a respected figure in the jazz scene, known for her work with legends like Jackie McLean and Pharoah Sanders. At Birdland, she demonstrated that her love for jazz is as vibrant as ever, blending it with the rock and funk influences that have defined her career in recent years.
Photos: Ehud Lazin
As the Birdland residency concluded, Cindy prepared to rejoin Santana and Counting Crows for the continuation of their Oneness Tour. Starting on July 12th, the tour would once again see Cindy behind the kit, driving the band’s legendary sound with her unmatched energy and skill.
This brief but unforgettable residency at Birdland was a reminder of Cindy Blackman’s extraordinary range as a musician. Whether in a jazz club or an arena, her ability to transcend genres and connect with audiences is a rare gift. Fans at Birdland were treated to something truly special—an artist at the peak of her powers, celebrating the music that has been the heartbeat of her remarkable career.
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