jazzopen 2025: Ezra Collective | Jesus Molina

In the organizer's words:

Ezra Collective

Ezra Collective's forthcoming album Dance, No One's Watching is a celebration of the liberating power of dance, inspired by their travels and performances around the world in 2023. The album brings together diverse musical influences - from London's cultural diversity to global sounds such as West African highlife, Chicago house and black church music. Written and recorded during their tour, it reflects the universal joy and connection felt on dance floors around the globe.

Formed in 2012 at youth club Tomorrow's Warriors, the band has become one of the UK's most innovative music groups. They combine jazz with genres such as hip-hop, salsa, dub and reggae. Their journey has been marked by historic milestones, including winning the 2023 Mercury Prize. With guest appearances from artists such as Yazmin Lacey, Olivia Dean and Moonchild Sanelly, the album is both deeply personal and inclusive, embodying the collective spirit of the band. Dance, No One's Watching, due out Fall 2024, is a bold testament to music's ability to connect, heal and inspire.

Jesus Molina

Jesus Molina, a 27-year-old Colombian jazz pianist, vocalist and multi-instrumentalist, is a graduate of Berklee College of Music and winner of the Latin Grammy Cultural Foundation Award. His new instrumental album Selah reflects his spiritual connection to music. The ten tracks combine jazz, Latin American rhythms and influences from the Middle East. With contributions from renowned musicians such as Hubert Laws and Noel Schajris, the album showcases Molina's unique style, inspired by legends such as Oscar Peterson and Chick Corea.

Produced by Bobby Colomby at Village Studios in Los Angeles, Selah is described as a sacred and uplifting symphony. Molina's personal story includes a successful battle with obesity through a stomach reduction, which improved his musical flexibility. With plans for future crossover albums, Selah will solidify Molina's reputation as a global musical talent who combines technical virtuosity with emotional expression.