Nikki Giovanni . Javon Jackson . Christian McBride

In this performance, the poems of Nikki Giovanni are paired with new takes on traditional spirituals. Tenor saxophonist Javon Jackson, one of Art Blakey's Jazz Messengers, is joined by his excellent combo alongside NJPAC Jazz Advisor and bassist Christian McBride, a 16-time GRAMMY® nominee and 9-time winner. It's a treat to hear Giovanni - the esteemed writer and civil rights activist - sew her poetry into this musical quilt.