Jazz Legends and Rising Stars Alike: Eddie Gomez and Michael Mayo to Perform in South Korea

South Korea is set to host two significant jazz events, featuring a legend of the genre and a rising star vocalist. Bassist Eddie Gomez, celebrated for his 11-year tenure with the Bill Evans Trio, will visit next month, followed by a solo performance from vocalist Michael Mayo in October.

Gomez, 82, will perform with his trio, featuring Stefan Karlsson on piano and Steve Prutsman on drums, at the Various Jazz Club in Daegu on the 18th and at the Seongsu Art Hall in Seoul on the 19th. This tour marks 60 years since Gomez first met jazz piano icon Bill Evans. His performances will include key repertoire from the Evans Trio, such as "Nardis" and "My Foolish Heart," alongside Gomez's own compositions and a tribute to Miles Davis with "Solar."

“

I had more than a week to study the draw, and that was good for me.

Michael Mayo, a vocalist recognized by the Grammy Awards, will present his first solo concert in Seoul on October 17th at the YES24 Wonder Rook Hall. Having previously appeared at the Seoul Jazz Festival, Mayo will perform a full 90-minute set with his band, including Andrew Friedmann on piano/keyboards, Nick Campbell on bass, and Robin Baytas on drums.

“

So, I was anticipating, and I knew very well what he was going to do. This is part of the preparation I did, and it paid off.

Mayo, 34, is known for his dynamic blend of jazz, gospel, R&B, and neo-soul. He uniquely utilizes vocal effects and loop stations to layer his voice, treating it as an instrument. His second album, 'Fly,' earned him nominations for Best Jazz Vocal Album and Best Jazz Performance at the 68th Grammy Awards for the track '4,' which reinterprets a jazz standard with a contemporary sensibility.

These upcoming concerts offer audiences a chance to experience the rich history and evolving future of jazz, from the foundational artistry of Gomez to the innovative sounds of Mayo.

“

I hope I can maintain this standard for the next match.