berlioz, also known as Jasper Attlee or Ted Jasper, graced Boston on Valentine’s Day at the intimate venue of Brighton Music Hall. The room was filled with his fans who were eager to experience Attlee’s live fusion of jazz and house. Upon arrival, one could sense the anticipation that charged the room. Those lucky enough to secure his merch held onto it tight as the late arrivers admired the distinct album art for his latest EP “jazz is for ordinary people” from afar – an image where the counter form of the vibrant colored brush strokes creates a subtle illustration of two intertwined individuals.

People that had secured their drinks from the bar filled the gaps within the crowd. As we collectively settled and waited for the show to begin, conversations of various languages could be heard while music played softly over the speakers. My instincts of it being a good night was affirmed when I heard the distinct bassline of a Cleo Sol song.

The prominent and powerful bass remained true once berlioz took the stage, cued by red and green lights shining outwards to the crowd. He was accompanied by 2x Grammy-nominated bassist Sharay Reed, Grammy award-winning keys player R.C. Williams, and arguably the showstopper of the night, the prodigious Matt Carrillo on saxophone. These three helped bring beriloz’s unique sound to life as they infiltrated the room with their passionate and melodious tunes. Reed brought groovy basslines that had the crowd dancing while Carrillo serenaded the crowd with his sultry saxophone. Williams created the magic with his keys and berlioz conducted and blended the band together, seamlessly adding in the rest of the track from his Macbook and deck. Attlee’s kind voice rang out a few times throughout the show as he thanked the crowd and introduced the band. He was even generous enough to perform an encore where he shared a few new, unreleased tracks.

Overall, Attlee brought an incredible and moving energy to Boston through his set – the music was infectious and inspiring. The ensemble complimented each other as they shifted around remarkable solos, while also coming together to build the magic of berlioz’s tracks and create a playful atmosphere. One could see after a show like this why Attlee has dubbed his work as “if Matisse made house music” – both exemplify strong intuition for creating art that flows and inspires. I couldn’t think of a better way to spend the day of love than being in a room full of people sharing love for berlioz’s ability to marry two very different genres of music – a truly beautiful experience.

Maya Patel