Ottawa Jazzfest 2026 Day 2 FT. BADBADNOTGOOD

A rainy second day wasn’t going to get in the way of festivalgoers having a great time. Throughout the evening, crowds moved between stages under umbrellas and rain jackets, gathering for a lineup that showcased everything from soulful blues and brass-driven celebrations to one of Canada’s most acclaimed modern jazz groups. By night’s end, the rain felt like little more than part of the atmosphere.

Angelique Francis Band

Opening the evening on the OLG Main Stage was the Angelique Francis Band, bringing warmth and soul to an otherwise damp evening. Francis wasted no time establishing a groove, stepping out with a deep, funky bassline that immediately drew the crowd in. Backed by a full band featuring horns, keys, guitar, and family harmonies, her performance blended blues, soul, jazz, and rock into a sound that felt both timeless and fresh.

The rain may have lingered overhead, but the energy coming from the stage never faltered. Rich vocals, tight musicianship, and powerful arrangements transformed the festival grounds into a celebration, providing the perfect start to Day 2.

Big Smoke Brass

Over at the Elgin Street Stage, Big Smoke Brass turned a rainy evening into a full-blown party. The Toronto-based instrumental ensemble quickly packed the tent, filling the space with infectious energy and a sound that demanded movement. Equal parts precision and fun, their brass-driven performance had the audience dancing from the first note.

A standout moment came with their cover of Tears for Fears, which drew one of the night’s biggest reactions and showcased the band’s ability to transform familiar songs into something uniquely their own. With two members hailing from Barrhaven, the performance carried a local connection that wasn’t lost on the audience. By the end of the set, Big Smoke Brass had proven that instrumental music can be every bit as exciting as any rock show.

BADBADNOTGOOD

As the night progressed, crowds gathered at the OLG Main Stage for Toronto jazz innovators BADBADNOTGOOD. Despite the continued rain, the audience remained fully committed, and the band rewarded that dedication with a performance overflowing with energy.

Known for pushing the boundaries between jazz, hip-hop, soul, and electronic music, BADBADNOTGOOD brought their signature genre-defying approach to Ottawa. The group’s chemistry was evident throughout the set, with each member contributing to a sound that felt both expansive and tightly connected. A hometown moment arrived when bassist Chester Hansen acknowledged returning to Ottawa, adding a personal touch to an already enthusiastic reception.

The addition of dual percussion created an irresistible groove that carried through the performance, transforming much of the festival grounds into a dance floor. At one point, the band had the crowd singing melodies back to the stage, creating one of the evening’s most memorable moments and reinforcing the connection between performer and audience.

Rain continued to fall, but no one seemed interested in leaving. Instead, BADBADNOTGOOD leaned into the atmosphere, delivering a set that felt celebratory, immersive, and uniquely suited to a festival known for embracing musical exploration.

Closing

From Angelique Francis’ soulful grooves to Big Smoke Brass’ high-energy brass party and BADBADNOTGOOD’s boundary-pushing headlining set, Day 2 highlighted the diversity that has made Ottawa Jazz Festival a summer staple for 46 years. Rain may have been a constant presence throughout the evening, but so was the music, and in the end, that was all anyone seemed to notice.