Newport Jazz Festival 2024: Classic jazz and new beats – Day 2 recap and photos

Day two at the 2024 Newport Jazz Festival saw a continuation of a trend that began on Day one. That trend saw both new and veteran acts bringing their A-game to the historic happening at Fort Adams State Park. The 70th annual festival saw another banner day, with rising stars blending in brilliantly alongside several worthy masters.

Strong sets from Newport first-timers Riley Mulherkar, Theo Crocker, and pianist/vocalist Nicole Zuraitis set the tone for a day of inspired music. Golden, Brown, and Delicious, a power trio comprised of Mark Whitfield, Robert Hurst and Jeff “Tain” Watts brought some heat behind the guitar-wielding antics of Whitfield early on. Drummer Johnathan Blake was a force behind his kit and the funky grooves of Stanley Clarke provided a late afternoon wake up call.

By mid-afternoon, chairs were removed from the Quad Stage inside the fort as the Quad Stage was turned into a mosh pit for sets from Acid Jazz is Dead and Thievery Corporation, who shared an inspiring, high-energy set. A jazz-inspired set from punk pioneer Elvis Costello, and a strong closing set from Dinner Party rounded out a great day of music at the fort. Day three awaits!

Check out some pictures from day two of the 2024 Newport Jazz Festival below from WUN Lifestyle Editor Ken Abrams.