As it has so many times over the past 100 years, the legendary Cervantes' Masterpiece Ballroom became the epicenter of jazz and funk fusion on Friday night, as a stellar lineup of musicians gathered to pay tribute to one of the genre’s greatest visionaries: Herbie Hancock. Long before Cervantes’ earned its reputation as one of Denver’s premier venues for jam bands, hip-hop, and electronic music, the space had a profound legacy rooted in Jazz excellence. Situated in the historic Five Points neighborhood, the venue’s past is deeply intertwined with the flourishing African American jazz community that blossomed during the 1930s, '40s, and '50s. Five Points became an arts sanctuary—a vibrant hub for culture and creativity—earning the neighborhood its nickname as the "Harlem of the West." Iconic venues like Cervantes’—then known as Casino Cabaret—became the epicenter of jazz in Denver during Five Points’ cultural renaissance, with jazz greats such as Billie Holiday, Duke Ellington, and Miles Davis all contributing to the club’s historic legacy.
Friday night’s show, a celebration of Hancock's groundbreaking contributions to jazz and beyond, was a musical feast featuring some of Colorado’s finest talents — Dave Watts, Garret Sayers, and Joey Porter of The Motet, Adam “Shmeeans” Smirnoff of Lettuce, and Dominic Lalli of Big Gigantic. The evening proved to be a high-energy exploration of Herbie Hancock's vast catalog, delivered with a fresh, contemporary twist that brought both devotion and innovation to the stage. Each musician brought their unique touch to the familiar compositions, ensuring the performance was not just a tribute, but an energetic reinvention of Hancock’s timeless sounds. The mix of jazz improvisation, tight grooves, and electronic infusions was a direct reflection of Hancock’s own fusion of genres that has spanned decades.
Dave Watts, a dynamo behind the drum kit, brought an undeniable rhythm and intensity to the performance. Watts’ touch on the drums made intricate grooves look effortless, while his ability to push and pull the band through the dynamic shifts in the music was nothing short of mesmerizing. He and bassist Garret Sayers formed the rhythmic backbone of the night, locking in tight and deep on Hancock’s famous funk-driven pieces. Sayers, known for his funky, fluid bass lines, displayed a deep understanding of Hancock's groove-centric approach, effortlessly switching between complex jazz rhythms and danceable bass runs. Together, they created a foundation that anchored the performance while allowing the other musicians to soar.
Joey Porter, a keyboardist whose talents range from classic funk to electronic experimentation, stole the show. His interpretation of Hancock’s virtuosic keyboard work was striking, balancing between homage and modern-day flair. From the electric keyboard textures reminiscent of Hancock's fusion era to more ambient and atmospheric sounds, Porter channeled the full spectrum of Hancock’s keyboard artistry. His solos, rich with complex harmonies and intricate runs, were a joy to behold, as he seamlessly integrated Hancock's pioneering approach with his own signature style.
Perhaps the most captivating of all was Dominic Lalli of Big Gigantic, whose tone layered perfectly in between Watts, Sayers, Smirnoff, and Porter, bringing a hypnotic element to the performance. Lalli, known for his electrifying live electronic shows with Big Gigantic, was able to show off his chops in the jazz realm, showcasing his versatility in genres and taking Hancock’s sax-driven pieces into new territories. Lalli is a master of blending jazz improvisation, pairing creative improvisation with funk-driven melodies, and pushing the boundaries of the groove while maintaining the essence of Hancock’s innovative spirit.
The setlist was a carefully curated journey through Hancock's storied career, featuring compositions from his electric period as well as some of his more traditional jazz standards. One of Hancock’s most distinctive contributions to jazz was his pioneering work in jazz-funk, especially through his Head Hunters album. The audience was treated to funk-laden renditions of "Chameleon" and "Actual Proof," both of which showcased the musicians' tight, groove-driven approach. These iconic tracks were given fresh life, with elongated jams that emphasized the improvisational nature of the music. Meanwhile, tunes like "Cantaloupe Island" and "Watermelon Man" brought a more laid-back, soulful vibe to the stage, with moments of lush melodic interplay and lighthearted rhythms.
The chemistry between the band was undeniable, with each member playing off the others, trading licks, rhythms, and melodies in a way that felt effortless and spontaneous. Throughout the show, the audience could feel the mutual respect these musicians had for Hancock’s legacy, but also the joy they derived from pushing the boundaries of his music into new, exciting realms. What makes Dave Watts, Garret Sayers, Joey Porter, Adam "Shmeeans" Smirnoff, and Dominic Lalli stand out is their mastery of their respective instruments, their deep-rooted understanding of the genres they play, and their ability to push musical boundaries. These musicians have built not only a sound but an identity for Denver’s music scene, and their impact extends far beyond the city limits. It’s a true testament to the pure musicianship that runs through the veins of Denver, a city built on creativity, art, and culture. Watts, Sayers, Porter, Smirnoff, and Lalli not only help define Denver’s modern sound, but their collective contributions have also elevated the city’s national and global reputation in the music world.
