This exploration delves into the development of jazz in Hà N i under communist rule, where it was initially viewed as the "music of the enemy" and "ideologically decadent." After vanishing in 1954 post-First Indochina War, jazz reemerged in the public sphere following the Cold War, establishing Hà N i as a vibrant jazz hub with a comprehensive program at the national conservatoire. Through interviews with key figures in the jazz scene, the text highlights the sociocultural interactions between musicians and larger political forces, illustrating jazz's evolution into a respected art form on par with classical music. Ethnographic sketches reveal how Vietnamese musicians learn and perform jazz while nurturing the scene, offering insights into its growth in a challenging environment. The narrative uncovers the nuances that enable Vietnamese jazz musicians to navigate the intersections of music and politics, framing their journey not as resistance but as a realization of artistic expression. The book is structured into several sections, including discussions on the nascent discography, live performances, and the impact of war and revolution on music, ultimately providing a comprehensive view of Hà N i's jazz landscape.
