Celebrating Hartford’s Jazz Legacy: Zaccai Curtis’ Grammy Nomination for Cubop Lives!
Hartford’s vibrant jazz tradition continues to thrive, and today we celebrate a monumental achievement for one of its own. Pianist and composer Zaccai Curtis has been nominated for a Grammy Award in the Best Latin Jazz Album category for his extraordinary work on Cubop Lives!
This album, available on Bandcamp here, is a vibrant tribute to the Afro-Cuban bebop tradition, showcasing Zaccai’s talent as both a composer and performer. The project was brought to life with an outstanding ensemble, including his brother Luques Curtis on bass, Willie Martinez on timbales, Camilo Molina on congas and pandera, and Reinaldo De Jesus on bongos and percussion.
Zaccai and Luques Curtis, known as the Curtis Brothers, have deep roots in Hartford’s music scene. Their musical journey began early, performing in a youth ensemble named Latin Flavor (later INSIGHT), which earned an invitation to the prestigious 2000 Havana Jazz Festival by none other than jazz legend Chucho Valdés. This early milestone cemented their place in the world of jazz and set the stage for their future successes.
Alongside their father Ted, the Curtis Brothers co-founded Truth Revolution Records, an independent label that champions innovative and diverse voices in jazz. Their work reflects a commitment to fostering creativity and pushing the boundaries of the genre, solidifying their role as leaders in the jazz community.
As someone who has had the privilege of witnessing their journey up close, this nomination feels particularly special. Zaccai and Luques performed countless times at my families former coffee shop, La Paloma Sabanera, leaving an indelible mark with their artistry. One unforgettable evening saw them as part of the Albert Rivera Quartet, with Albert Rivera on saxophone and Adam Christgau on drums.
Hartford’s jazz roots run deep. From the legendary Jackie McLean to the countless musicians who have passed through as part of the Boston-New York corridor, Hartford has long been a hub of jazz innovation. The Curtis Brothers, through their work and their label, carry this tradition forward, inspiring new generations with every note.
Let’s celebrate Zaccai Curtis’ Grammy nomination not only as an individual milestone but as a reflection of Hartford’s enduring influence on the jazz world. Congratulations to Zaccai, Luques, and everyone involved in Cubop Lives! for this remarkable achievement.