Ches Smith brings radical experimental jazz to Festival Jazz Terrassa

The New York-based drummer presents his latest project Clone Row at the Nova Jazz Cava venue.

Generic image of jazz instruments under spotlights on a dark stage.
IA

Generic image of jazz instruments under spotlights on a dark stage.

Renowned drummer and composer Ches Smith performed this Thursday at the Festival Jazz Terrassa, showcasing his experimental project Clone Row at the historic Nova Jazz Cava club.

The Sacramento-born artist, now a key figure in the New York scene, presented his ninth album as a leader. Clone Row is described as a constant dialogue between composition and improvisation, featuring a unique soundscape where guitars and rhythm section oscillate between control and chaos.
Smith was joined on stage by a stellar lineup of the new American creative generation, including guitarist Mary Halvorson, Liberty Ellman, and bassist Nick Dunston. The performance highlighted the interaction between acoustic and electronic sounds, a hallmark of Smith's recent investigative work.
Throughout his career, Ches Smith has collaborated with avant-garde icons such as John Zorn and Marc Ribot. His appearance at the Terrassa festival reinforces the event's reputation for hosting the most innovative voices in contemporary jazz.