This year's Syracuse Jazz Fest, in its 37th year, took place June 21–25. The highlights of the fest would be the fact that two well-known and beloved bands, Tower of Power and Spyra Gyro, and Legendary artists Herbie Hancock and Gladys Knight performed as headliners the last two nights to very large crowds. Energetic Live Shows: Tower of Power's Stage Presence If you've ever had the pleasure of attending a Tower of Power concert, you know that they bring the house down with their energetic live performances. Their stage presence is unmatched, and their infectious energy is contagious. From the first note to the last, Tower of Power delivered a memorable experience that left fans wanting more. Their ability to engage the crowd and create a party-like atmosphere is a testament to their status as one of the premier live acts in the jazz-funk genre.

At the age of 83, Herbie Hancock continues to evolve and remain relevant in the ever-changing landscape of music. He collaborates with younger artists, infusing their work with his seasoned expertise. Hancock's ability to adapt and embrace new sounds allows him to stay at the forefront of innovation. As he continues to push boundaries and explore new musical territories, Herbie Hancock remains an iconic figure in the jazz world, inspiring both seasoned musicians and emerging talents alike.

Spyra Gyro Jazz Fusion is still an incredibly dynamic and expressive genre that allows each artist to develop their own unique sound. With its combination of complex rhythms and improvisation, Spyra Gyro Jazz Fusion creates a sound that is both intense and captivating.

As a trailblazer and pioneer, Gladys Knight has inspired and paved the way for future generations of artists. Her unwavering passion, resilience, and commitment to her craft serve as a shining example of what can be achieved with talent and perseverance. Her audience showed up at this performance—one of the largest crowds ever that I've seen in Clinton Square in 30 years. She looked and sounded wonderful; everyone was really into the atmosphere she created, with her beauty and voice proving she's still a force in the industry.

Click Here to see the images from the show.

Review & Photo Credit: C.Schilling