Caribbean music is set to shine brightly in New York when KestheBand headlines Jazz at Lincoln Center’s third annual Unity Jazz Festival, taking place on 8 and 9 January at the famous Frederick P. Rose Hall, also known as the House of Swing. The festival celebrates musical unity, global connections, and Africa’s profound influence on jazz.
Led by Trinidad and Tobago’s Kees Dieffenthaller, KestheBand brings a powerful mix of soca, calypso, soul, reggae, and island pop to one of the world’s most respected jazz stages. Their headline appearance comes during the band’s 20th anniversary celebrations, making the moment even more special for Caribbean music lovers.
For the first time, the band will present stripped-down, intimate performances, with reimagined arrangements of their well-loved music. Acclaimed Trinidadian trumpeter Etienne Charles will join KestheBand on stage, “bringing Creole Soul to the House of Swing.”
Speaking about the moment, Kees Dieffenthaller said Caribbean music has always been “a voice of resilience, rhythm, and unity”, and that sharing it on a stage like Jazz at Lincoln Center is a dream come true, a moment for Caribbean culture to stand proudly on the global stage. Etienne Charles also expressed excitement about reuniting with KestheBand and continuing their creative journey.
Beyond the music, KestheBand remains committed to uplifting the Caribbean, actively supporting relief efforts following Hurricane Melissa in Jamaica.
