At first glance trombonist/vocalist Natalie Cressman and guitarist/vocalist Ian Faquini make for an unlikely duo. But within a few seconds of hearing their lustrous harmonies and graceful interplay the magic of their chemistry is readily apparent. Built on their deep knowledge of the jazz and the Brazilian songbook–Faquini was born in the capital Brasilia and moved to Berkeley as an adolescent and Cressman hails from an illustrious musical clan known for collaborations with some of Brazil’s greatest musicians–their musical partnership has earned international acclaim over the past five years. With a repertoire encompassing jazz standards, classics from the American and Brazilian songbooks, and their sophisticated original songs, the duo just released their second album Auburn Whisper, a manifestation of both their symbiotic musical partnership and resilience during unprecedented times. Written and recorded during the dark days of 2020, Auburn Whisper finds the two artists exploring a series of luxuriant soundscapes, reflecting on people and places they missed while discovering joy in the present moment.

This event will be outdoors, at Elephant in the Room patio.