Renowned jazz vocalist Natalie de Jager – back from taking the New York jazz scene by storm – is bringing the sounds of the Big Apple to the Brisbane Jazz Club for one night of extraordinary music.
Natalie is one of Brisbane’s top home-grown jazz talents and has been performing in New York at iconic locations like the legendary Birdland jazz club throughout the American winter, braving the snowstorms to sing alongside international stars like Jane Monheit, Julie Gold and Christine Lavin.
“I witnessed a lot of collaboration between artists in New York, creating new and exciting performances for audiences. I’m excited to bring that energy to Brisbane.” Here Natalie shares her favourite moments from her American adventure.
1. East Midtown in a blizzard. New York was hit with 26 inches of snow in January. Roads and subways were closed so the people took to the streets! Snow angels and snow fights: an incredible experience.
2. Sledding in Central Park. After the blizzard the snow was perfect for sledding. The stores ran out of sleds so we used a cardboard box. On fresh snow we flew down the hill like a rollercoaster!
3. Birdland Jazz Club. Highlights were seeing Kurt Elling - his scatting is perfection; Mack Avenue Superband - sax solos were sublime; and Jeff Lorber Band - so funkified I couldn’t sit still. And I even sang there about six times: a total thrill.
4. The Uncommons - Board Games Cafe. The name says it all. All-you-can-play board games AND coffee? Yes please. This is my type of heaven.
5. Late night diners. Many nights we would drop into the local diner for a drink, dessert and a game of cards: sometimes well past midnight. Service is always fantastic because the waiters want their tips.
Natalie de Jager will be joined by local blues songstress Sarah Collyer at the Brisbane Jazz Club 17 April.
