MonoNeon – Indy Jazz Fest 2024
Bassist MonoNeon and his quartet performed two sold out shows at The Jazz Kitchen in their return engagement with Indy Jazz Fest on September 27, 2024. I’m not certain the implications, but on both occasions, under the Indy Jazz Fest banner, the lights went out. The Jazz Kitchen staff jumped into action, bringing out dozens of electric table candles to help. This time it was the remnants of Helene that turned the club and much of College Avenue dark for about 20 minutes before the lights were back on and the music continued!
MonoNeon is perhaps best known as the last bassist to have work with Prince before his untimely death. But as Prince saw the artistry in MonoNeon’s playing, many of the festivals I’ve been to this year also recognized the creativity and appeal of his music and included the band on their 2024 lineup.
With bright color clothing and a signature sock on his guitar, MonoNeon (Dywane Thomas Jr.) is uniquely identifiable, defining his own originality both musically and visually for his fans. As Indy Jazz Fest designed its lineup to appeal to diverse audiences, this night nods to the music future and the new generation that will be carrying the torch forward.
All photography ©2024 Mark Sheldon
For more on MonoNeon, go here https://www.mononeon.com/
For more on Indy Jazz Fest, go here https://www.indyjazzfest.net/
For more of Mark's photos, go here https://www.instagram.com/marksheldonpix/
*Photographer Mark Sheldon is on the Board of Directors of The Indianapolis Jazz Foundation which produces Indy Jazz Fest.
