Vincent Herring and Joan Fort

Vincent Herring, born in Kentucky and raised in California, is a renowned alto saxophonist known for blending blues-based jazz with advanced harmonics. Influenced by Cannonball Adderley, he rose to fame with Nat Adderley in the '80s. Herring has collaborated with Freddie Hubbard, Art Blakey, and the Mingus Big Band, and has released notable albums like "Scene One" and "Bird at 100." A key figure in hard bop, his work includes funk and soulful explorations.

Spanish guitarist and composer Joan Fort, based in Amsterdam, has played with talents like Jeremy Pelt and Dick Oatts. He co-led The Dam Jawn to critical acclaim, earning an Edison Jazz Award nomination. Known for performing at North Sea Jazz Festival, he's released his debut album "So Far, So Good" and played globally, from Bimhuis to Barcelona.