It has been two years since the International Music Festival (MIMF) invited jazz players.
This time, “Li Xiaochuan•Sound” provided a sensational experience for jazz lovers in Macau at the Taipa Houses’ Amphitheatre on Saturday.
A total of seven compositions – all written by Li – plus an encore were performed by the quintet: Li on the trumpet, Huang Jianyi on the piano, Rong Chenchu on the vibraphone, Huang Yong on the bass guitar and Xu Zhitong on the drums.
A sense of serenity flowed through Li’s smooth-jazz compositions. I am especially fond of “Harvest” to which Li had added some Chinese characteristics. Listening to smooth jazz while also being reminded of a field being harvested is a captivating experience.
Li’s extreme command on the trumpet’s dynamics was astounding – particularly when he was on a mute where his tone penetrated the combo with strength but still soothed the heart of the audience. The end of the performance became more repetitive and predictable, but the rhythm section, especially Xu on the drums, created a great chemistry which energised the whole performance until the end.
The quintet was enjoying themselves as much as the audience was enjoying their solos and performance – with each piece ending with thunderous applause.
Li Xiaochuan•Sound quintet performs at the Taipa Houses’ Amphitheatre on Saturday. – Photo: William Chan
