Grammy-nominated saxophonist and jazz visionary Kamasi Washington once again demonstrated his ability to blur genres and push musical boundaries with his powerful NPR Tiny Desk Concert performance. In the intimate setting of NPR Music’s offices, Washington and his ensemble, including his father Rickey Washington, delivered a masterclass in modern spiritual jazz, playing selections from three of his celebrated albums.
Washington’s Tiny Desk set opened with “Lesanu”, an intricate and uplifting track that set the tone for the musical journey that followed. With a lineup featuring his father on flute and soprano saxophone, longtime collaborators Miles Mosley on bass, Ryan Porter on trombone, Brandon Coleman on keys, Tony Austin on drums, DJ Battlecat on the decks and percussion, and Patrice Quinn on vocals, the group’s chemistry was undeniable.
Washington’s set also included “Street Fighter Mas”, a funky, swaggering tune featuring West Coast hip-hop pioneer DJ Battlecat, who mixed in a live sample of Kendrick Lamar’s shoutout to Kamasi (“Keep a horn on me / that Kamasi”).
Rounding out the set were “The Rhythm Changes” and “Asha The First”, two tracks that showcased Washington’s knack for creating music that is both accessible and deeply complex. Patrice Quinn’s soulful vocals on “The Rhythm Changes” added an ethereal layer to the performance, elevating the emotional depth of the song.
Watch Kamasi Washington perform an NPR Tiny Desk Concert below. Washington will head to Europe in March for the Fearless Movement Europe Tour. For a list of dates and ticketing details, head here.
Kamasi Washington – NPR Tiny Desk Concert