FIGAT7TH DOWNTOWN FESTIVAL WRAPS FIRST ANNUAL SUMMER FETE WITH SOUL, JAZZ AND HIP HOP FEATURING JOSÉ JAMES & CAROLYN MALACHI

Friday, August 2, 2013, Los Angeles — Hundreds of enthusiastic music lovers flocked to FIGat7th in downtown Los Angeles, California, to experience the closing night of the final free summer concert of the inaugural FIGat7th Downtown Festival. 

“For us music is freedom,” declared Grammy nominated songstress, Carolyn Malachi.  Known for her unique blending of modern jazz, hip hop and spoken word, Malachi, along with headliner and internationally acclaimed vocalist José James provided an eclectic musical experience that shifted easily between styles.

A self-described “jazz baby” (her great-grandfather was the legendary pianist John Malachi), Carolyn sang the Cole Porter standard “Love For Sale” as well as her own poetic compositions including “All Right,” an ode to strong, capable women and a positive affirmation rolled into one.

“Baby, don’t you worry.  We can sort out your day together.  Come and lay your burdens down on my bed,” she sang before breaking into an unexpected rap that reassured her beloved of her unfailing devotion as well as her boundless confidence.  With her warm personality, flow and upbeat manner, Malachi reminded the audience that she dreams big and encouraged them to do the same.

Panamanian-American singer, José James displayed a similar swag for moving between genres, along with his talented ensemble of musicians, trumpet player Takuya Kuroda, bassist Solomon Dorsey, keyboard player Kris Bowers and drummer Richard Spaven.  The Blue Notes recording artist has established himself as a trail blazer on both the jazz and hip-hop scene. Performing selections from his recent album, “No Beginning, No End,” James prides himself on not being confined to any particular type of music genre.  His influences range from R&B to pop and his sensual voice is equally at home crooning romantic ballads or bluesy dance tunes.

The festivities were proceeded by a happy hour and capped off by an after party at the TASTE Lounge, located in the bottom level of FIGat7th, where DJ Juice and bar sponsor Sapporo Beer kept the crowd moving and grooving until late into the evening.

Presented by Brookfield Office Properties, FIGat7th Downtown Festival is produced by Arts Brookfield and will return in 2014 with another eclectic music lineup to appeal to a broad array of cultural consumers looking for a great experience in the heart of Downtown LA.