Icons Among Us

Icons Among Us, released in 2009, is a riveting and deeply impactful documentary that dives into the world of contemporary jazz and searches for answers regarding the heart and soul of this musical genre as seen through the lives of its innovators and pioneers. Directed by Michael Rivoira, Lars Larson, and Peter J. Vogt, the film astonishes with its depth and veracity.

The documentary centers around the rising generation of jazz musicians at the time, lauding them not merely as experts in their field but as human beings, constantly searching for the ability to express themselves, their passions, and their unique voices through the art form. It highlights how jazz, in its complexity and nuance, has been a vehicle for these artists to communicate profound truths and ideas.

One of the film's distinguishing characteristics is its extraordinary cast, featuring some of the most revered and influential figures in contemporary jazz. Notably, these include Brian Blade, Terence Blanchard, and Ravi Coltrane. Each of these artists brings their unique perspectives, experiences, and expressions of jazz to the documentary, contributing to a multi-faceted exploration of what jazz means today.

Brian Blade, a Grammy-winning drummer, composer, and songwriter known for his diverse musical collaborations, uses his storytelling through music to establish meaningful dialogue with his audiences. In this film, he eloquently details his love for jazz and his relationship with it, emphasizing how it is woven into the very fabric of his being.

Terence Blanchard, a multi-Grammy-winning trumpeter and composer, is known for his innovative work in both jazz and film scoring. Throughout the film, he delivers heartfelt reflections on the evolution of jazz and its place in society.

Lastly, Ravi Coltrane, the son of jazz legend John Coltrane, brings a deeply personal element to the film by sharing his exploration of his own artistic identity in the context of his father's legacy. His passion for jazz not only signifies carrying on the legacy of a legendary family name but also carving a distinctive path for himself and the genre.

The film offers a diverse assortment of takes on jazz, blending interviews, live performances, and behind-the-scenes footage. The watchers are invited to witness the passion of these admired artists and their unwavering dedication to keeping jazz alive, innovative, and relevant. It delves into their personal journeys, revealing how they harness their lived experiences to breathe vivid life into their compositions.

In Icons Among Us, the directors do not shy away from the often complex discussions surrounding the true nature of jazz. Instead, they encourage open dialogue and critical thinking about jazz's place in contemporary music and its perceived incongruities. The film bravely tackles the ongoing debates within the jazz community: from the defying of genre classifications and the exploration of new sounds, to the impact of cultural and historical influences on the art form.

In essence, Icons Among Us is a movie about the evolution of jazz, its transformation through the years, and its enduring relevance and strength in the 21st century. The documentary showcases jazz as a living entity, constantly evolving and diversifying, with each musician's contribution ensuring its vitality and progression.

Beyond the music and the musicians, the film explores broader themes, discussing the dualities of creation and tradition, innovation and preservation, and the struggle between individual expression and collective responsibility. There's a blend of artistry and intellect, personal and universal, that makes it as appealing to jazz newcomers as it is to longtime enthusiasts.

In its entirety, Icons Among Us is a cinematic homage to the perpetual evolution of jazz. This insightful documentary captures the heart, soul, and perpetual evolution of jazz, as seen through the eyes of some of its most celebrated exponents in the modern age. It serves as an eye-opening journey through the landscape of contemporary jazz, demonstrating the human side of these musicians, their struggles, their dreams, and the unique language through which they articulate their lives to the world. Simply put, Icons Among Us is a must-watch for anyone interested in jazz or even the broader universe of music and art. Commanding, insightful, and abundantly honest, the film encapsulates the vibrancy of the genre and the dedicated artists keeping its flame burning brightly. It is an exceptional exploration of jazz, its icons, and the influences that have shaped its course.