Feel the thunder, swing, and soul of hard bop as the Charleston Jazz Festival celebrates the legacy of Art Blakey & The Jazz Messengers—one of the most influential forces in jazz history. An all-star band led by musical director and pianist Abdiel Iriarte and featuring Mark Rapp, Kevin Patton, Gavin Smith, Brett Belanger, and Josh Hoover, this group of Charleston musicians brings the energy and soul of one of jazz’s most iconic band leaders to life. This tribute concert honors Blakey’s explosive drumming, unrelenting groove, and his unmatched role as a mentor who launched generations of jazz legends.