James Brandon Lewis & The Messthetics at City of Asylum

In a month celebrating infusion, collaboration, and unique performance, Jazz Poetry 2026 welcomes DownBeat Magazine Artist of the Year James Brandon Lewis back to City of Asylum. Lewis returns with his punk-jazz group The Messthetics, featuring Anthony Pirog on guitar, Joe Lally on bass, and Brendan Canty on drums. The evening begins with improvisational collaborations with visiting poets, followed by a brief intermission and a full set from the band. The Messthetics—formed by Fugazi bandmates Joe Lally and Brendan Canty with guitarist Anthony Pirog—blend adventurous rock textures with expansive jazz improvisation, creating a dynamic live experience alongside Lewis’s powerful saxophone work.