Lafayette Gilchrist & the New Volcanoes

Lafayette Gilchrist is an American jazz pianist and composer, originally from Washington DC, but living in Baltimore since age 17. He began playing the piano quite by chance when he happened to enter an unlocked music room in college and sat down at a piano to see what might happen. What happened was quite good. He has played with many great musicians and has had a long association with saxophonist David Murray, with whom he has toured internationally. Lafayette leads an octet/nonet called the New Volcanoes, a smaller ensemble called the Sonic Tripmasters, and a trio called Inside Out (with bassist Michael Formanek and drummer Eric Kennedy).

According to NPR, Lafayette's "two-handed piano . . . has techno and minimalism behind it. It's not just about the notes; it's also about the waves in which they come, and the troughs in between.”

Lafayette says "I'm always seeking a dialogue between popular rhythms and the improvising process. For me to make personal music, I have to come out of the music I grew up with and love, and that's hip-hop and go-go.”

Lafayette has released 15 albums as leader including an album of solo piano called “Now,” released in 2020. His latest album, released in 2025, is “Move With Love.”

The band on Saturday features Lafayette on keyboards, Leo Maxey on trumpet, Shaquim Muldrow on tenor sax, Christian Hizon on trombone, Alana Amore Colvin on guitar, Anthony Blue Jenkins on bass, Charles Wilson on drums and Bashi Rose on percussion.

• Doors open: 6:30 pm
• Show 7 pm
• All tickets: $20
• Address: 6914 4th St. NW DC
• Parties of 4 or more can reserve a table for an additional $25. Send a request to [email protected]
• Minors are welcome but must be accompanied by parent or guardian.
• Free street parking, no food or drink minimum, no charge to stay for second set.