Delbert Anderson and Mali Obomsawin

Occupying the cutting edge of jazz, Indigenous musicians Delbert Anderson and Mali Obomsawin bring their fresh perspectives to REDCAT with a double bill.

Navajo (Diné) jazz trumpeter Delbert Anderson is both a leader and innovator in today’s contemporary jazz scene. A Diné culture bearer, Anderson reimagines traditional melodies once sung in Diné social circles called “spinning songs,” through the language of jazz and funk. Joined at REDCAT by Robert Muller (keyboard), Evan Suiter (bass), and Khalill Brown (drums), the Delbert Anderson Quartet collaborates to provide safe havens for Diné melodies to connect with new pathways for expression.

One of GRAMMY.com’s “top ten new jazz artists to watch this year,” bassist, singer, and composer from Odanak First Nation, Mali Obomsawin will take the stage to perform pieces from her debut album, Sweet Tooth, and new works featuring: Allison Burik (reeds), Magdalena Abrego (guitar), and Evan Woodle (drums). Her touring quarter delivers a gripping and dynamic live show, which seamlessly melds chorale-like spirituals, folk melodies, and post-Albert Ayler free jazz to create a musical world all of their own.