Take Five with Keyboardist Jesse Fischer article @ All About Jazz

Meet Jesse Fischer

Known for his vibrant blend of jazz, funk, soul and folk, Jesse’s Fischer’s uplifting music features rich harmonies, intricate rhythms, and a deep understanding of groove. Catch Jesse play tracks from his recent release Resilience, re-imagined arrangements of classic ’60s/’70s jazz from his Flipped series, along with some brand new music. “Jesse Fischer plays with astounding energy; creative ideas seem to issue forth from his hands to his instruments at a geyser-like rate.” (Downbeat) Jessie is busy preparing for his upcoming October 5th performance in Hudson, New York, as part of the annual Hudson Jazz Festival that takes place on October 4-6, 2024.

Instrument:

Keyboard.

Your sound and approach to music.

I’m always searching for strong melody and an engaging groove. Besides that I try to push the boundaries of harmony and form as much as possible. Each composition is different but I would say I approach music from a mindset of curiosity and play, joy and delight, grit and light.

Your dream band

I have been so lucky to work with so many dream band members over the years! For me, the best musical partnerships are all about connection—when we can exchange energy on and off the bandstand, talk about philosophy, film, books, ideas, share food and drink together.

Favorite venue

I’ve been lucky to perform on stages around the world, some very large, some very small. I do favor smaller venues, both for acoustical and energetic reasons. My favorite “home base” is Bar LunÀtico in Brooklyn. They get everything right, consistently hitting the sweet spot of a lively but engaged audience, good acoustics, great food and drink, and book an eclectic mix of wonderful music from all over. I also love Cafe Erzulie in Brooklyn, where I had a monthly residency for the past two years.

The first jazz album I bought was: