Steve Smith brings his fusion jazz band Vital Information to Shanghai for a one-night performance featuring an international lineup of musicians. The show combines structured compositions with improvisation, showcasing a mix of jazz, Latin, and contemporary influences. Expect a technically driven live set centered on rhythm, collaboration, and musical interplay.

About the Performance

Steve Smith’s Vital Information brings a live performance centered on fusion jazz, combining complex rhythmic structures with improvisational elements. The group moves between composed material and spontaneous interplay, presenting a range of original works and reworked arrangements.

Led by drummer Steve Smith, the ensemble reflects a broad musical language that spans jazz fusion, Latin influences, and contemporary styles. The performance emphasizes both technical precision and creative exploration, with each musician contributing to a dynamic, evolving sound.

The lineup for the China tour includes Janek Gwizdala on bass, Manuel Valera on keyboards, and Jon Irabagon on saxophone, forming a quartet that balances structure and improvisation throughout the set.

Performers

Steve Smith (Drums)

Born in Boston, Steve Smith is a drummer, accompanist, and educator. He studied at Berklee College of Music and has performed globally for over four decades. He has collaborated with artists including Journey, Bryan Adams, Mariah Carey, Zucchero, and Jean-Luc Ponty, and has also worked with jazz musicians such as Bill Evans and Randy Brecker.

Janek Gwizdala (Bass)

A London-born bassist and producer based in the United States. He studied at the Royal Academy of Music and has been active internationally for over 25 years. He has worked with musicians such as Mike Stern, Eric Marienthal, and Bob Mintzer, and has released multiple albums as a bandleader.

Manuel Valera (Keyboards)

A Cuban-born pianist, composer, and Grammy-winning artist. Based in New York, he leads the group New Cuban Express and has received recognition for his work in Latin jazz. His projects include award-winning recordings and international touring across major venues and festivals.

Jon Irabagon (Saxophone)

A saxophonist and composer influenced by modern jazz and experimental music traditions. He won the Thelonious Monk Saxophone Competition and has received recognition from DownBeat magazine. He has performed internationally and is also active as an educator and recording artist.

Ticketing Information

April 29, 19:30

• Side Seat: 299 RMB
• Inner Seat: 399 RMB
• Inner VIP: 499 RMB (includes signed poster)
• Double Inner VIP: 999 RMB (includes dinner for two + signed poster)

April 29, 21:30

• Side Seat: 199 RMB
• Inner Seat: 299 RMB
• Inner VIP: 399 RMB (includes signed poster)
• Double Inner VIP: 799 RMB (includes drinks for two + signed poster)

Ticket Benefits

• Signed posters are available only for Inner VIP and Double Inner VIP ticket holders
• Double Inner VIP (Dinner) includes a set meal for two and two drinks
  • Meal includes: bread, chicken salad, steak and halibut, dessert
• Double Inner VIP (Drinks) includes two drinks
• Seating arrangements vary by ticket type (refer to seating plan for details)

Why Go

This performance brings together a group of internationally active musicians working within the fusion jazz genre, offering a live set that balances composition with improvisation. For those interested in rhythm-driven music and collaborative performance, it presents an opportunity to experience how different musical influences come together on stage. The two showtimes and varied ticket options also make it accessible depending on schedule and seating preference.

Seating Plan