Emmet Cohen makes music for the people. That isn’t to say he panders or dumbs it down. Cohen is simply a pianist who puts connection at the center of his performance ethic, whether he’s burning down the bandstand, lighting up a livestream, or laying it down in the studio. He has also made a point of seeking out his jazz elders and welcoming in younger fans, all with a spirit of upbeat discovery. (There’s a reason DownBeat’s July cover story bears the headline “Emmet Cohen: Messenger of Joy.”) Cohen recently came through Philadelphia with his tour “Miles and Coltrane at 100,” and stopped by WRTI for a lively chat. Along with saxophonist Tivon Pennicott, he also performed the title suite from his new album, Universal Truth. Watch that performance on our YouTube channel, where you can also see this entire interview.
Universal Truth, with Emmet Cohen
