Jazz Mafia + Otis McDonald: The Beatles Reimagined
Following their sold-out Stevie Wonder Reimagined and Prince Reimagined shows, Jazz Mafia returns with their latest project exploring The Beatles' legendary catalog through a distinctly modern lens. This isn't your typical tribute show — expect fresh grooves, inventive arrangements, and unexpected musical backdrops that ask the question: what might The Beatles sound like if they were an emerging band today?
Helmed by multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Otis McDonald, the performance features Jazz Mafia's core acoustic ensemble: Mike Olmos on trumpet, Tommy Occhiuto on saxophone, Adam Theis on trombone, Colin Hogan on keys, Josh Thurston Milgrom on upright bass, and Henry Plumb on drums. McDonald, known for his funk and jazz-influenced productions and innovative real-time looping techniques, brings his expertise as a drummer trained under Count Basie's former drummer Rich Thompson.
Jazz Mafia has built a reputation as San Francisco's "wrecking crew" of forward-thinking musicians since Adam Theis founded the collective in 2000. Their bold approach blends jazz with electronica, hip-hop, funk, classical, and world music, creating what's become known as the quintessential San Francisco sound. The group has captivated audiences at major venues including the SFJAZZ Center and Kennedy Center, with their bold and interactive stage presence drawing crowds at festivals nationwide including the Montreal Jazz Festival and Newport Jazz Festival.
This Beatles reimagining promises to showcase the collective's collaborative spirit and risk-taking musical philosophy, transforming familiar melodies into something entirely fresh while honoring the innovative spirit that made The Beatles timeless in the first place.