Al Di Meola
Guitar legend Al Di Meola is coming to the Netherlands for an exclusive concert at So What's Next with the show ‘The Electric Years’! Together with his band, he will revisit classics from albums like "Land of the Midnight Sun," "Elegant Gypsy," and "Splendido Hotel." In the early 70s, Di Meola established his reputation as one of the world's best guitarists in the supergroup Return to Forever. His lightning-fast playing and melodic style made him a favorite among fans and critics alike. With albums like "Land of The Midnight Sun" and "Elegant Gypsy," he laid the foundation for the fusion genre. Di Meola's versatility is evident in his numerous albums, featuring influences from jazz, rock, fusion, Latin, Beatles covers, and traditional South American music. His success soared when he switched to acoustic guitar and collaborated with John McLaughlin and Paco de Lucia. Expect a mix of new tracks from his upcoming album "Twentyfour" and iconic songs from his ‘electric years’ during this concert.
Branford Marsalis Quartet
An icon on the saxophone: Branford Marsalis. He will play at only one festival in the Netherlands this year, and that's So What's Next! Together with his world-renowned quartet, his primary means of expression, he brings uncompromising jazz excellence. After four decades in the international spotlight, Branford Marsalis continues to expand his vision as an instrumentalist, composer, and bandleader, crossing genre boundaries with unwavering creative integrity. Marsalis' career began as a sideman with Clark Terry, Art Blakey, and his brother Wynton Marsalis, and grew through encounters with legends like Dizzy Gillespie, Miles Davis, and Herbie Hancock. He also explored other musical realms, such as his work with Sting and the innovative project "Buckshot LeFonque," which combined jazz with R&B, hip-hop, and rock 'n' roll. The recent album "The Secret Between the Shadow and the Soul" by the Branford Marsalis Quartet showcases his refined and adventurous vision. The best way to experience this legend and his fantastic band is live on stage at So What's Next!
Lakecia Benjamin
Rising star Lakecia Benjamin impresses worldwide with her jazz talent, dazzling performances, and craftsmanship. The music of the alto saxophonist is infused with funk and soul, perfectly tuned to the rhythms of the younger generation. Her debut album, "Retox," featured a set of soul and funk covers and original songs. In 2020, she released "Pursuance: The Coltranes," an acclaimed album with compositions by Alice and John Coltrane and radical reinterpretations. She shared the stage with renowned musicians like Brandee Younger, Regina Carter, Reggie Workman, Me'Shell Ndegéocello, and Dee Dee Bridgewater. In 2023, Benjamin returned with "Phoenix," an album hailed as a jazz classic that blends jazz, funky soul, R&B, and hip-hop. Featuring stars like Dianne Reeves, Georgia Ann Muldrow, Patrice Rushen, Wayne Shorter, Wallace Roney, Sonia Sanchez, and Angela Davis, the album earned her three GRAMMY nominations and worldwide acclaim. Jazzism even named Lakecia Artist of the Year! She will undoubtedly perform the new tracks from that impressive album during her set at So What's Next, which promises to be overwhelming.
Michelle David & The True-tones
New York native Michelle David began singing in a church at the age of four and joined her first group, The Mission of Love, at five. She toured with the Broadway musical ‘Mama’ and participated in theater shows like "The Sound of Motown," "Glory of Gospel," and "Mahalia." She also recorded for artists such as Diana Ross and Michael Bolton. With the True-tones, she released six gospel albums, received an Edison nomination, and garnered praise for "Truth & Soul," which was named Album of the Month on France’s FIP radio and Album of the Year on Craig Charles' BBC Radio 6 Music show. The band appeared on numerous radio and TV shows, including the national TV show during the 2022 Winter Olympics. Michelle David & The True-tones have a unique sound with groovy basslines and powerful vocals. Their new album "Brothers & Sisters" forms the basis for their soulful live shows.
Dulfer! Total Response
Tenorsaxophonist Hans Dulfer is still going strong despite recent health issues. He performed with his daughter Candy last fall at the Blue Note Club in Tokyo and plays with his new band, Total Response, at Dutch festivals and venues. Dulfer! Total Response, an all-star lineup of top Dutch musicians, has proven to be an energetic and playful unit. Hans Dulfer's saxophone sound has held a prominent place in the Dutch jazz scene for 65 years. With groups like Perikels, Reflud (Dulfer vice versa), and the Japanese breakthrough Big Boy, he has built an international reputation. In 2024, he celebrates his 84th birthday with a new band that performs new songs and arrangements of Dulfer classics, featuring his bold saxophone. Dulfer and his band will undoubtedly bring the house down at So What's Next!
Free choice of place
At all concerts during So What's Next, there is a free choice of place. Please note that reservations for a specific seat cannot be made.
Tokens
During So What's Next, payments can only be made using consumption tokens from Muziekgebouw Eindhoven. These tokens are available at various counters and can only be purchased with a debit card.
