It's been at least 10 years since my last Jazz fest in Jakarta. This year's Java Jazz is much bigger and better in terms of performers, organization and audience. Great to see this genre is getting wider acceptance in Indonesia, although I kinda think Peter Gontha is compromising too much by inviting a lot of R&B and other non Jazz performers to attract more paying audience. Also, its a shame that talented Indonesian artist are given the worst venues with questionable sound system while all foreign artist gets the best while not necessarily be deserving.
It was still a lot fun to be there though, with the likes of Incognito and Manhattan Transfer on stage. Plus, what concert will allow you to bring serious DSLR and shoot very close to the stage. Just make sure that your big f2.8 zooms won't bother people around you. I'll be back next year for sure!
