According to the organisers, the event is “a festival that aims to spread awareness of Portuguese musicians, giving privilege to jazz vocal expression and promoting national Blues.”

The event will see singer Marta Ren and bands Peter Storm & The Blues Society, Kiko & The Blues Refugees and Paredes Big Band on the stage, at the Casa da Cultura and the Parque José Guilherme.

Credits: Facebook;

Marta Ren’s act, at 10pm tonight at Paredes’ Casa da Cultura, opens the concerts.

“This is one of the most charismatic voices of new Portuguese music, recognised by her unique vocal registry, many times compared to great black soul and funk vocalists,” the festival organisers remarked.

On Saturday, at the same venue at 7pm, spectators can attend shows by Peter Storm & The Blues Society, and by Kiko & The Blues Refugees at 10pm.

A Sunset Party will animate the crowd on Sunday at 5pm, same place.

The Jazz & Blues Fest closes on Tuesday at the Parque José Guilherme with an act by Paredes Big Band, a way to commemorate Paredes’ elevation to the status of city.

“This band was formed in 1995,” the organisers explain, “they present jazz sounds typical from a big band formation, with a repertoire based on jazz from the golden era of swing, among other genres.”

The Jazz & Blues Festival is organised by Paredes Municipality, with the support of the Paredes Enterprise Association and the Paredes Parish.

Author

Star in the 2015 music video for the hit single “Headlights” by German musician, DJ and record producer Robin Schulz featuring American singer-songwriter Ilsey. Also a journalist.

Jay Bodsworth