Rhythm Future Quartet Performs on Shelter Island

Shelter Island Friends of Music continues its 2025 season with a high-energy performance by the acclaimed Rhythm Future Quartet on Saturday, September 20, at 6 p.m. at the Shelter Island Presbyterian Church. The group will perform an arresting blend of Hot Club of France styled swing jazz, Brazilian and Eastern European idioms, and original compositions with hints of classical music. A post-concert reception with the artists will follow the performance.

Founded by award-winning violinist Jason Anick, the Rhythm Future Quartet has a straightforward agenda: to keep the spirit of Gypsy jazz alive while propelling it into the modern era. Named for a Django Reinhardt tune, the quartet performs dynamic and lyrical arrangements of both Gypsy jazz standards and original compositions that draw upon diverse international rhythms and musical idioms. Their performances honor the tradition of the classic Hot Club of France while creating a fresh, contemporary sound that is uniquely their own.

The ensemble features Anick alongside guitarist M O’Rourke, guitarist Henry Acker, and bassist Greg Loughman. Together, this virtuosic foursome brings an arresting blend of dazzling technique, improvisational brilliance, and irresistible swing.

Their latest album, “Rhythm Future Quartet and Friends,” features collaborations with renowned artists including singer Cyrille Aimée, Brazil’s Hamilton de Holanda and guitarist Stochelo Rosenberg. The recording, praised by JazzTimes Magazine as “packed to the gills with feeling and consistently dynamic, full of virtuosity and swing,” reflects the ensemble’s ever-evolving artistry and global reach. Online, their performances have captured millions of listeners worldwide, with their version of Django’s “Minor Swing” surpassing 11 million views on YouTube.

Admission to the concert is free, abut donations are appreciated to support future concerts. Shelter Island Presbyterian Church is at 32 North Ferry Road, Shelter Island. For information, visit sifriendsofmusic.org.