If you love live music, hidden gems and high‑energy performances, tonight’s edition of the All Things Considered Live program is an absolute must. This week we’re diving into the spectacular world of live recordings from across the country—featuring cuts from the Newport Folk Festival, SXSW (South by Southwest), the iconic 9:30 Club in Washington, DC, and many more.
🎶 Why This Show Matters
Thanks to the partnership of NPR Music, you’ll hear exclusive live performances and recordings captured at legendary venues and festivals. These aren’t just studio takes—they’re sweaty, raw, in‑the‑moment musical journeys. You’ll experience the crowd, the ambience, the tension of live artistry.
- Discover new favorites before they blow up.
- Relive unforgettable festival moments you may have missed.
- Enjoy premium sound and intimate performances—right from home.
Tonight’s Feature: Harry Connick Jr. at the Newport Jazz Festival (October 12, 2004)
Tonight we’re rolling back the clock to one of jazz’s memorable live sets: Harry Connick Jr.’s performance at the Newport Jazz Festival in 2004, recorded live in Newport, Rhode Island.
- From the first chords of “The Other Hours”, Connick commands the stage with his smooth vocals and precise piano.
- He glides through the swing‑era flavour of “What a Waste,” the quirky storytelling of “Oh, My Dear (Someone’s Gone Wrong),” and the frenetic funk of “Do Dat Thing.”
- The closer, “Take Advantage,” seals a set that balances classic jazz traditions with modern sensibilities, all delivered with his signature charm.
If you’ve never witnessed Harry Connick Jr. live in this setting, tonight’s show offers the perfect opportunity—it’s a front‑row seat to history.
What Makes It Special for JAMFest Readers
Here at JAMFest, we chronicle the culture of live performance, from festivals and showcases to underground gigs and major venues. This edition of All Things Considered Live intersects perfectly with our mission:
- Long‑form music journalism meets the live‑show experience.
- We link the big festivals (Folk, Jazz, SXSW) with smaller venues (9:30 Club) that feed the live‑music ecosystem.
- It’s about the thrill of discovery, the shared memory of a live event—and tonight you don’t need a ticket or crowds.
Tune In & What to Look For
- Listen for the dynamic interplay between Connick and his band—especially how they pivot from swing rhythms to full‑on improvisation.
- Notice the atmospheric commentary: Newport’s coastal breeze, the festival audience, the stage lights—all captured in audio.
- Reflect on how a live set like this still resonates—almost two decades later—because the energy is timeless.
Closing Thoughts
Whether you’re a jazz purist or simply love great live music, tonight’s show is for you. It’s a reminder that the essence of performance isn’t just the song—it’s the moment, the audience, the live transmission of art. At JAMFest, we believe that vibe matters—and tonight, it’s coming into your living room.
Don’t miss it. Turn on All Things Considered Live, press play, and let the music take you to Newport 2004—even if only for an hour.