Trinidad and Tobago’s acclaimed musical ensemble Kes The Band, fronted by lead vocalist Kees Dieffenthaller, is poised to make history as the headline act at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s third annual Unity Jazz Festival on January 8-9, 2026. This prestigious engagement places the Caribbean group among an elite roster of Trinidadian performers who have graced the iconic New York venue, following in the footsteps of legendary artists including trumpeter Etienne Charles and calypso icon Slinger ‘Mighty Sparrow’ Francisco.
The band will deliver two distinctive performances across Lincoln Center’s renowned stages: a January 8 showcase at the Rose Theater followed by a January 9 appearance at The Appel Room, with both concerts scheduled from 9:30-11 PM. These performances will mark Kes’ first-ever stripped-down sets, featuring reimagined arrangements of their music catalog alongside special collaborative appearances with Charles, who will provide production support and infuse the concerts with his signature Afro-Caribbean storytelling aesthetic.
This landmark event coincides with the band’s 20th anniversary celebrations and will precede the highly anticipated release of their new single ‘Rum and Coca Cola’ on December 12. While sharing its title with Lord Invader’s 1943 classic (later popularized by The Andrews Sisters), Kes’ composition presents an entirely original narrative centered around a character named Grace and her social drinking preferences. The single was developed in collaboration with music producer Tano.
Beyond their artistic achievements, the band has demonstrated commitment to regional solidarity through their support of Jamaican recovery efforts following Hurricane Melissa’s devastation. They have actively participated in fundraising initiatives including the Jamaica Strong Benefit Concert alongside artists such as Shaggy and Inner Circle.
The Unity Jazz Festival, now in its 38th season under the theme ‘Mother Africa,’ celebrates jazz’s global connections and cross-cultural storytelling traditions. The event will feature over 20 acclaimed and emerging artists across five stages, paying tribute to legendary pianist Eddie Palmieri while highlighting the enduring influence of Afro-Caribbean musical traditions.