Monty Alexander

Don't write off Monty Alexander because he's 70. He plays better than ever. And he has a number of top-notch sidemen with him. This is a more Jamaican-inflected show than the others I've seen (I saw him a few times before this). Too bad there was nowhere to dance.

An amazing performer, his performance always deliver above expectation wonderful birthday party

Great to see Monty on his 70th birthday tour, no one, mixes jazz and reggae, ska etc., like him. beautiful musicianship that celebrates his island and America's music. For my taste there was a bit too much reggae from the "guest stars" and not enough jazz from Monty, but it was a good night. First time we'd been to the newly refurbished Howard Theatre and it's wonderful, you can feel the history, but with a modern feel. The service was a bit iffy (slow at times and two wrong orders. Food is the usual variable fare for a music venue, but the two ladies in our party both recommended the burger. Big portions. The toilets are way down stairs though, don't leave it to the last minute!

Monty Alexander is a brilliant, talented jazz pianist. His annual visits to Blues Alley are hugely enjoyable. When we learned by chance from his web site that he would be at the Howard Theater we rushed to buy tickets. The event was poorly publicized and we thought we'd be in for a great treat. That was not to be. Instead of being focused on Monty, the show spotlighted three Jamaican reggae singers - none of them, alas, approaching the great Bob Marley. Monty was reduced to backstopping them. He also did not bring his usual sidemen but rather a larger collection of players, including, of all things, a keyboardist. What was that about? Thisshow was part of his 70th birthday celebration tour, and he can do what he wants, but I hope he doesn't do it again.

Such a great event!! My husband and i had a wonderful time

It was a fun evening of ratting performers directed by the incomparable Monty Alexander. I particularly loved the jazz renditions of No Woman, No Pride (Cry?) and Hurricane because of the two drummers on kit making incredibly complex rhythms. Three different reggae singers, with a separate reggae drummer, added variety and range. Definitely a party.

show went above and beyond my expectations...Monty brought his scheduled friends along, and then some...it was a wonderful musical experience and I am very happy that I was able to be a part of it, even though I was just an audience member! Happy Birthday, Monty!

I have known and seen Monty for close to 40 years and this celebration of his legacy and respect was over due and well deserved. An amazing event. If you didnt smile, you have ok soul. M

Simply awesome and amazing performance. Stuff was friendly and helpful too.