For many Chinese jazz is something distant which is only heard in some quiet bars or American films. But last night at the Workers' Gymnasium in Beijing, Nora Jones, one of the most popular jazz pop artists in the US, brought the genre closer to the audience. 

Multiple Grammy Award winner Nora Jones seduced Beijing last night as the first stop on her China tour. Known as more a small venue act, Nora Jones and her "Handsome Band," had the very large Worker's Stadium to contend with. But low lighting, amped up acoustics and Nora's light banter with the crowd in between songs made the very big setting feel surprisingly intimate.

The little over one hour set included old crowd favorites such as Don't Know Why and Come Away With Me. The mood was a bit slow and sleepy, understandably considering the jazzy melodies, but everyone in a while Nora livened things with more upbeat songs such as Creeping In to which the crowd clapped along.

After Nora said "xie xie" to the audience, the majority of fans remained in their seats waiting expectantly. Their patience was paid off as Ms. Jones stepped back on stage to play three more final songs.

The audience was composed largely of foreign fans but it was also quite clear that Nora had a significant local fan base as well. And for some of the locals who only know Nora from her albums, the live experience was something different. Here is Lucy from Beijing.

Mike, from the US was also impressed with the show.

Nora Jones now heads for Shanghai. She will be playing there tomorrow night at the Changning Stadium.

(CRI March 8, 2005)