Trumpeter Jonathan Powell's new Latin jazz group, Mambo Jazz Party, blends the vibrant energy of Latin jazz with the intricate textures of modern electric jazz. Drawing from his 20-year career as a freelance trumpet player in the heart of New York City’s salsa and Latin jazz scene, Powell crafts an irresistible fusion of rhythm, groove, and infectious energy. At its core, the driving pulse of the campana (cowbell) propels the music forward, instantly captivating listeners and making it impossible not to move.
With two decades of experience as a sideman for Latin jazz icons such as Eddie Palmieri, Arturo O’Farrill, Miguel Zenón, Oscar Hernández, the Spanish Harlem Orchestra, and Tito Puente Jr., Powell leads a dynamic, rotating 18-piece ensemble. This collective celebrates the exhilarating rhythms of Mambo and Latin jazz, while blending them with the sounds of modern electric jazz, creating a party atmosphere that's both timeless and contemporary.
The inspiration for Mambo Jazz Party began with a conversation Powell had with a bongocero (conga player) during a masterclass. The bongocero shared the simple yet profound truth that “when you hear the bongocero switch to the campana, you know it’s party time.” This revelation resonated deeply with Powell and became the guiding principle for the project. As Powell explains, “I’ve always loved the montuno/descarga section where the band steps beyond the written notes and simply lets the energy and the party unfold.”
The name Mambo Jazz Party reflects Powell’s mission to capture that spirit of celebration and joy that is so central to salsa and mambo music. Rooted in the rich traditions of Latin jazz and Mambo, Powell pays homage to the legends with whom he’s had the honor to perform, both through authentic performances and thoughtful song selections. Yet, he also brings a modern edge, drawing inspiration from the electric jazz fusion of artists like Chick Corea, Return to Forever, Headhunters, Weather Report, Kneebody, Snarky Puppy, and Thundercat. Powell also incorporates the sonic textures of the tabla, a connection to the Carnatic music he studied as a teen, and the contemporary harmonic concepts of crossover jazz artists, allowing him to push the genre into new territory.
With Mambo Jazz Party, Jonathan Powell has created a unique musical landscape where artistry, energy, and boundless creativity converge in a whirlwind of sound. No matter how intricate, simple, artistic, or rooted in tradition any moment may feel, Powell ensures that every note is infused with the unmistakable sense that—no matter what—you’re always in the midst of a party.
The Bandwagon Summer Series is a family-friendly outdoor cultural performance series running from May through September. Performances including a diverse group of musical styles will take place at ballfields, farms, and parks throughout Putney, Brattleboro, and Bellows Falls. Kids under 12 always get in for free, and a dedicated play area will be available at all shows. Refreshments are sold onsite, including the return of the hugely popular Barr Hill cocktails, and food from Smokin' Bowls, 802 Soul Kitchen, or Putney General Store. Bring a picnic and a blanket or fold-up chair to enjoy our concerts.
