Sunset Series
Sept, 09 - 19 2025
The show is live all around town. Your seat awaits.
Indy Jazz Fest is excited to once again feature a collection of performers from international stars to Indy-based treasures,” said Indy Jazz Fest Director David Allee. “We strive to program a wide selection of styles under the ‘jazz’ umbrella, appealing to many demographics throughout the community, and encourage people to use this opportunity to experience perennial favorites and explore new sounds.”
Kenny Garrett
One of the most important alto saxophonists of his era, Kenny Garrett’s explosive live performances are grounded in post-bop mastery, spiritual depth, and global influence. A former member of Miles Davis’s band, his decades-spanning solo work is both innovative and deeply rooted in jazz tradition.
Charlie & The Tropicales
This electrifying collaboration brings together the Latin heat of Charlie & The Tropicales with the GRAMMY-winning vocalist and violinist Mireya Ramos (Flor de Toloache). Expect a high-energy celebration of Afro-Caribbean rhythms, salsa, and Latin soul that will turn the night into a tropical block party.
Sam Fribush Organ Jam
Sam brings an electrifying energy to the Hammond B3, blending old soul and youthful spirit. Known for his heartfelt groove and inventive flow, Fribush leads this dynamic organ jam joined by Rob Dixon and Richard “Sleepy” Floyd—uniting Indy’s finest for a night of soulful improvisation, rich textures, and unstoppable rhythm.
Naptown Sound
A celebration of Indy’s rich jazz legacy, Naptown Sound brings together an all-star lineup of Indiana’s top musicians. This electrifying collective delivers a hometown mix of groove, grit, and soul—bridging tradition with fresh energy. It’s the sound of Indianapolis, bold and proud.
Jazz Meets Samba - An Afro Brazilian Journey feat. Magary Lord, Juliana Ribeiro, & Lasana Kazembe
IU Africana Studies presents an exciting evening exploring intersections of sound, celebrating the Afro-Brazilian roots of samba with electrifying musicians Juliana Ribeiro and Magary Lord, accompanied by the Rob Dixon Quintet. The evening also features a dynamic performance of artistry and healing through spoken word and jazz, with Emmy Award-winning poet Lasana D. Kazembe and his ensemble, Watu Wazuri. Expect an evening filled with energy, passion, cultural insight, and artistic improvisation.
Indianapolis Jazz Collective
The Indianapolis Jazz Collective is an all-star group of the city’s finest jazz musicians. Led by Indy Jazz Fest Artistic Director Rob Dixon, the collective often features special guest soloists and notable figures in the jazz world. They curate unique collaborations, and in the past, have included artists such as Bobby Watson, Stefon Harris, and Randy Brecker.
Brandee Younger
Trailblazing harpist Brandee Younger redefines what the harp can do. Blending classical mastery with jazz, soul, and hip-hop, she’s collaborated with artists from Ravi Coltrane to Lauryn Hill. Her Grammy-nominated work weaves elegance and edge into a genre-defying experience.
Gunhild Carling
Presented by The Cabaret
Swedish jazz powerhouse Gunhild Carling is a true one-woman show—singer, dancer, multi-instrumentalist, and vintage jazz revivalist. With fiery trombone solos and Charleston flair, her shows are a whirlwind of talent and old-school swing with modern sass.
Lisa Fischer
A GRAMMY-winning vocalist whose extraordinary voice has graced stages with the Rolling Stones, Luther Vandross, and Tina Turner. After decades as a sought-after backup singer, Fischer stepped into the spotlight with her soulful solo artistry—blending jazz, gospel, rock, and classical influences. Her performances are unforgettable, intimate, and transcendent.
Keyon Harrold
A virtuoso trumpeter and social voice of his generation, Keyon Harrold blends jazz, R&B, and hip-hop into a signature sound praised by NPR and Rolling Stone. Known for his work on Miles Ahead and collaborations with Common, Beyoncé, and Gregory Porter, he delivers raw emotion with every note.