JazzInk

Denny Malmberg and Charmin Michelle-- Fireside Pizza closes soon for renovations!

© Andrea Canter

(Covering two weeks of great Twin Cities music.)

No matter when I plan to be out of town, I can be sure that I will miss some great jazz. March is no exception. This weekend we have some savvy visitors and stellar locals, from Arne Fogel at Parma, and What Would Monk Do at the Black Dog to younger trailblazers at Jazz Central (Peter Vircks) and The Nicollet (Foreign Motion) as well as Doug Little's Charanga Tropicale at 2 venues, to an annual visit from Chris Botti with the Minnesota Orchestra and a rare visit from Pete Christlieb with the JazzMN Orchestra, setting the stage for the next big weekend when Reynold Philipsek releases another CD (Jazz @ St Barneys), Dave Hagedorn brings his quartet to Jazz at Studio Z, and the Illicit Sextet bang it out at the Black Dog.

Big Gigs, Two Weeks

Arne Fogel

Friday, March 13. Who says Friday the 13th is unlucky? Not in the local jazz world. Sit back, relax with a glass of wine, some pasta or calamari, finish with a cannolli and let Arne Fogelentertain you at Parma 8200! While Arne sings (and informs), Chris Lomheim and Steve Pikal will keep the beat going and grand style.

On the Bridge Series at Jazz Central, hear saxophonist Peter Vircks, co-founder of the popular Moveable Feast and long-time associate of Nachito Herrera, Yohannes Tona and Kevin Washington. He brings in the same quartet that recorded the highly regarded What You Believe Is True, with keyboardist Brian Ziemniak, bassist Ron Evaniuk, and drummer Kevin Washington.

Cory Wong, Foreign Motion

About ten minutes from Jazz Central and starting enough later, Friday Night Jazz at the Nicollet features another stellar quartet, Foreign Motion. The band came together on a whim, but their debut recording (In Flight) and recent gigs indicate this will be a long-lasting, sophisticated ensemble that should draw its audience from a wide swath of fans of modern improvised music, from fusion fanciers to post-bop modernists. Led by accomplished guitarist Cory Wong, Foreign Motion includes Kevin Gastonguay, Yohannes Tona and Petar Janjic.

Charanga Tropicale

Friday-Saturday, March 13-14. Getting ready for their trip to Cuba in June, where they will be the first North American band to play the Festival of Danzon, Doug Little's Charanga Tropicale holds a salsa fest this weekend at two venues. Friday they're at The Bedlam in St. Paul; Sunday they're on stage at The Cedar. The shows include numerous guests including Salsa del Soul and Salsabrosa.

Kenny Horst, WWMD

Saturday, March 14. What would have happened if eccentric genius Thelonious Monk had encountered four of the best Twin Cities jazzmen? Trumpeter Steve Kenny, pianist Peter Schimke, bassist Billy Peterson and drummer Kenny Horst first asked that question in 2010 at the Artists Quarter, and the quartet has gathered together more often over the past six months. Tonight, Saturday Night Jazz at the Black Dog welcomes What Would Monk Do, with Chris Bates taking over for Peterson. The early set brings in rising local star trumpeter Noah Ophoven-Baldwin with pals Joe Strachan on keys and Miguel Hurtado on drums.

Jazz MN Orchestra

Sunday, March 15. The JazzMN Orchestra truly needs no guest artists given its own depth of talent. Nevertheless, Doug Snapp and company manage to find perfect guest artists that mesh well with the band. This afternoon, tenor sax titan Pete Christlieb joins JazzMN, along with guest vocalist Michele Denise Michaels. All the fun and music will be heard at JazzMN's home hall, the Hopkins High School Auditorium.

KFAI's Larry Englund

KFAI'sannual fundraiser takes place in the not-really-open-yet Vieux Carré in the lower level of the Hamm Building, hosted by deejay Larry Englund and featuring three hot bands-- the Maurice Jacox Trio, Zack Lozier Trio, and New Sound Underground. The cover is a $10 donation but of course they will be happy to take more!

Monday, March 16. There's only two weeks left to hear Charmin Michelle and Denny Malmberg at Fireside Pizza before the venue closes for a few months for renovations. So grab a pie and enjoy some swinging classics while you can. (Fireside is open through the end of the month; Charmin and Denny perform every Monday and Wednesday through this week and on March 23, Denny will have a guest on March 25.)

Tommy Bruce

Tommy Brucelaunched his jazz singing career late but he's going strong, including tonight when he is on stage at Crooner's Lounge. There's a Chet Bakerish quality to his voice... perfect for happy hour or late into the night.

Tuesday, March 17. Big bands rule tonight! At Crooner's Lounge, the original charts of the Acme Jazz Companymesh with the vocals of Arne Fogel. At Jazz Central, it's the monthly installment of the Explosion Big Band, led by Doug Haining and Scott Agster. Both bands sport the area's top big band specialists.

Pete Whitman

Wednesday, March 18.Pete Whitman brings a new quintet into Jazz Central for "new music" night - and with this line-up, you can count on new and exciting sounds: Chris Lomheim on piano, Jay Young on bass, Dave Schmalenberger on drums and Chris Olson on guitar. Over in southwest Minneapolis, the Zacc Harris Trio livens up the evening at Cafe Maude.

Thursday, March 19. The apple does not fall far.... Coming up from Iowa to sing at Jazz Central, Harmonic Convergence is based out of the School for Music Vocations, and the sextet is directed by a guy with a familiar name -- Lucas Mattson. Yep, Phil Mattson is his dad. So you know this will be a very classy vocal jazz affair.

Jake Baldwin

Friday, March 20. The Bridge Series at Jazz Central tonight welcomes "home" guitarist/composer Luke Polipnick, now based in Omaha. His trio this evening ensures creative music-making, with Adam Linz on bass and Cory Healey on drums. They're done in plenty of time to make it over to The Nicollet to hear the Jake Baldwin Quintet. He's one of the area's youngest bandleaders, but trumpeter Jake approaches the music like a veteran, as do his cohorts--saxophonist Nelson Devereaux, pianist Joe Strachan, bassist Ryan Hayes and drummer Lars-Erik Larson.

Anthony Cox

There's an explosive double-header at the Icehouse tonight-- and the late start (10 pm) means you can head a little south from The Nicollet or Jazz Central and make it in time. The first set at the Icehouse brings visitors Ben Goldberg (clarinet), Michael Coleman (piano) and Hamir Atwal (drums) performing as Invisible Guy, followed by a largely local quartet of Paul Metzger, Mike Lewis, Anthony Cox and JT Bates. In the first set, you’ll hear snatches of bebop, klezmer and modern jazz blended together by a trio that allows the melody to cut through to the truth, always leaving room for personal expression from three master improvisers, based in New York on now touring the Midwest. The second set similarly offers master improvisers traveling a path with unexpected and unplanned twists and turns. This is a night for adventurous ears.

Over in St Paul, there are more adventures tonight as the Donald Washington Trio returns to the Black Dog. The ever-exciting saxophonist teams up with Doan Brian Rosseler and Davu Seru, long-standing collaborators.

“Together Again” with Debbie Duncan, Bruce Henry and Gwen Matthews will benefit We Care Performing Arts” – raising money to send lower income kids to a four-day summer music camp. Held at Lincoln School Auditorium in North Minneapolis, tickets $30 in advance or $35 at the door. Info at 612-529-8923.

And if you happen to be near New Ulm tonight, note the Atlantis Quartet takes their joyful mayhem on the road, appearing at the Grand Kabaret. Worth a drive.

Dave Hagedorn

Saturday, March 21. Abundant choices! Jazz at Studio Z returns with the Dave Hagedorn/Zacc Harris Quintet saluting the collaboration of Milt Jackson and Wes Montgomery. Joining the master vibraphonist and prolific guitarist will be pianist Bryan Nichols, bassist Chris Bates, and drummer Cory Healey. Dave leads an open workshop at 6:00 before the 7 pm concert. Come early and enjoy both. And stay late too -- a late show follows with percussionist Scotty Hory's Signs of New Vitality, a collection of pieces that celebrate the uplifting energy of travel.With guest artists Bethany Gonella and Trent Baarspul.

Steve Kenny, Illicit Sextet

Right around the corner, it's Saturday Night at the Black Dog, with the Illicit Sextet headlining the action -- Steve Kenny, Paul Harper, Dave Roos, Chris Lomheim, Tom Pieper, and Nathan Norman playing all-original music. The opening band is a trio of Jeff King, Charles Fletcher and Eron Woods.

Reynold Philipsek

Jazz @St. Barneys (St Barnabas Church) has been putting great jazz on stage in Plymouth for a long time, and tonight's show serves as the CD release for an artist who has been putting out recordings for a long time -- guitarist Reynold Philipsek. One of the region's most prolific composers as well as a busy performer, Reynold will release Quintessence, a set of mostly solo versions of new and older tunes. For this concert, Reynold places the first set solo, then brings on pals Michael Bissonnette and Matt Senjem for some trio magic.

Francisco Mela

It was billed as Nachito Herrerra and Friendsat the Dakota tonight, but there's an extra special friend coming. Newly appointed Artistic Director and amazing drummer Francisco Mela is back in town for the weekend, and will join Nachito and other friends for a Cuban jazz party. (Mela and his new ensemble headline the festival on June 27th with guest Nicholas Payton.)

Zacc Harris

Monday, March 23. JT's Jazz Implosion at the Icehouse tonight features the Zacc Harris Quartet--guitarist Zacc with pals Bryan Nichols, Chris Bates and JT Bates. This late evening series is always a winner and tonight is as good as it gets.

Steve Tyrell

Monday-Tuesday, March 23-24. The Dakota welcomes the return of jazzy/pop vocalist, producer and Grammy winner Steve Tyrell.His hits like “The Way You Look Tonight,” “The Simple Life,” “Crush on You” and “The Sunny Side of the Street”could make lovers of enemies. His new That Lovin' Feeling celebrates what he calls the Great American Songbook 2 --rock era classics by legendary songwriters. If Sinatra was still with us, he'd be singing these songs.

Levi Schwartzberg

Wednesday, March 25. Although usually dominated by veterans, the Wednesday night "new music" series at Jazz Central also has featured "new musicians" -- some of the young and new-on-the-scene artists who are providing some of the most exciting jazz in the area. Tonight the bandstand will be turned over to such an ensemble led by keyboard/vibraphone monster Levi Schwartzberg, in his first year at the U of M. His band includes high school seniors Aidan Sponheim on trumpet, Peter Goggin on sax, and Charlie Lincoln on bass, and recent Roosevelt grad Ben Oni on drums. The future of jazz shines in their music.

Reminder-- this is probably the last night to hear Charmin Michelle and Denny Malmberg (or anyone else) at Fireside Pizza til renovations are completed in June!

Delfeayo Marsalis

Wednesday-Thursday, March 25-26. This was supposed to be two nights at the Dakota with the Last Southern Gentleman tour, the father-son project of Delfeayo and Ellis Marsalis. That's still the case for Wednesday night, but Ellis apparently had something else to do and will be replaced by NOLA pianist Davell Crawford on Thursday night. The tour is in support of the same-named recording, the first performing project of trombonist Delfeayo paired with dad, pianist Ellis. How this works without Ellis is anyone's guess, but for certain there will be lots of virtuosic music both nights.

Thursday, March 26. The masterful strings of Pavel Janey and Gary Schulte are on display tonight at the Black Dog.

Sarah Greer

In what might seem to be a more unusual pairing, vocalists Sarah Greer and Maryann Sullivan team up at Jazz Central for a night of songs "From Classic to Contemporary," moving from the likes of Peggy Lee and BIllie Holiday through The Beatles, Cyndy Lauper and some of Sarah's originals.

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities -- check out calendars at Jazz Police, KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You, as well as here on the blog. More jazz to tickle your ears:

Friday, March 13. Irv Williams and Steve Blons, happy hour at the Dakota; Todd Harper and Aaron Kerr, happy hour at the Black Dog; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske in the Lobby Bar, Saint Paul Hotel; Katia Cardenas Birthday Bash at Mattie's on Main; Bobby Commodore Birthday Party with Ashley Commodore, Late Night at the Dakota; Andrew Walesch and 7 Cats Swing Band at Crooner's Lounge; Tim Sparks and Marcus Wise, dinner sets at the Icehouse; Kronick Quintet at Golden's Deli; Charmin Michelle/Denny Malmberg/Ray Siegel at the Cellar at Scusi; Glen Helgesen and Gary Schulte at 318 Cafe

Saturday, March 14. JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske in the Lobby Bar, Saint Paul Hotel; Benny Weinbeck Trio at Parma 8200; Andrew Walesch and 7 Cats Swing Band at Crooner's Lounge; Bryan Nichols and James Buckley, dinner sets at the Icehouse

Sunday, March 15. Patty and the Buttons, brunch at the Aster; Robert Everest, brunch at Maria's; Larry Dunsmore, Jazz Brunch at Crooner's Lounge; Zacc Harris Trio at the Riverview Wine Bar; Cafe Accordion Quartet at the Tapestry Folkdance Center

Monday, March 16. Joe Mayo at Jazz Central; Sofia Rei at the Dakota; BZ3 Trio at The Narrows Saloon; JT Bates B-3 Organ Trio with Kevin Gastonguay and Zacc Harris at the Icehouse

Tuesday, March 17. Mia Dorr, happy hour at Crooner's Lounge; Cafe Accordion at Loring Pasta Bar; Patty and the Buttons at Cafe Maude; River City Jazz Orchestra at Minnesota Music Cafe

Wednesday, March 18. Debbie Duncan Quartet at Crooners Lounge; Charmin Michelle and Denny Malmberg at Fireside Pizza; John Devine and Friends at Loring Pasta Bar; Bossa Jazz Quartet (Daniel Williams, Samuel De Moraes Altamir Coehlho and Kent Mortimer) at the Tangiers

Thursday, March 19. Big Band Swing Night at Wabasha Street Caves

Friday, March 20. Irv Williams and Steve Blons, happy hour at the Dakota; Todd Harper, happy hour at the Black Dog; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske in the Lobby Bar, Saint Paul Hotel; Vicky Mountain at Parma 8200; Mia Dorr and the Debbie Duncan Quartet at Crooners Lounge; John Paulson with Swing, Inc. at Signatures (Winona); Bryan Nichols and James Buckley, dinner sets at the Icehouse; Randy Sabien and the Fiddlehead Band with Pat Donahue and Judi Vinar at The Cedar; Jazz Crew (student jam) at Jazz Central (late set)

Saturday, March 21. Charmin & Shapira at Midtown Global Market (12:30 pm); JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske in the Lobby Bar, Saint Paul Hotel; Benny Weinbeck Trio at Parma 8200; Maurice Jacox Trio at Normandy Kitchen; Kronick Quintet at NOLA Bistro (Osseo)

Sunday, March 22. Patty and the Buttons, brunch at the Aster; Robert Everest, brunch at Maria's; Larry Dunsmore, jazz brunch at Crooners Lounge; Zacc Harris Trio at Riverview Wine Bar; Jerry O'Hagan Orchestra with Charmin Michelle at Cinema Ballroom

Monday, March 23. Charmin Michelle and Denny Malmberg at Fireside Pizza; B3 Organ Trio at the Narrows Saloon; Scott Agster at Jazz Central

Tuesday, March 24. Cafe Accordion at Loring Pasta Bar; McNally Smith Live at 5 with Dave Stanoch at McNally Smith College of Music; Twin Cities Latin Jazz Orchestra at Jazz Central

Wednesday, March 25. Charmin Michelle and Bill Duna at The Marsh; Denny Malmberg and guest, last gig at Fireside Pizza til June!

Tom Ashworth (Fireside Five)

Thursday, March 26. Arne Fogel at Hell's Kitchen; Swingbeat Big Band at Wabasha Street Caves; Fireside Five and Friends at Underground Music Café; JT Bates at Khyber Pass Cafe'

Coming Soon!

. March 27, How Birds Work at The Nicollet

. March 27, Phil Aaron Quartet at Jazz Central
. March 27, Connie Olson at Parma 8200
. March 28, Charmin Michelle, Denny Malmberg and Jim Chenoweth at the Mason Jar

. March 28, Dakota Combo followed by Daley/Brattain Report at the Black Dog
. March 28, Sidewalk Cafe at the 318 Cafe'

. March 29, Joel Shapira solo guitar at the Black Dog

. March 29, Tierney Sutton and Mark Summer at the Dakota

. March 30, Doan Brian Roessler with Bob Bowman and Matt Otto at Jazz Central

. March 31, Eliane Elias Trio at the Dakota

. March 31, Adam Meckler Orchestra at Jazz Central

. April 1, Rebirth Brass Band at the Dakota

. April 1, Schimke/Epstein/Cox at Jazz Central

. April 2, Chris Potter Quartet at the Dakota

. April 3, Mancrush at The Nicollet

. April 3, Dean Magraw and Steven Hobert at Jazz Central

. April 4, Pete Snell Trio/Steve Kenny Quartet at the Black Dog
. April 5, Connie Evingson with Jon Weber, Jazz at the Jungle (Theater)

. April 11, Solomon Parham Group/Paul Harper Show and Tell at the Black Dog

. April 12, Anat Cohen Quartet at the Dakota

. April 16, Anthony Cox and Jeremy Walker, "Rage of Achilles" at Orchestra Hall (Target Atrium)

. April 16, Bettye LaVette at the Dakota

. April 17, Ann Hampton Callaway at Orchestra Hall

. April 17, Patty Peterson and Friends at the Dakota

. April 18, Jay Young's Lyric Factory at the Dakota

. April 18, Lucia Sarmiento Group/Reid Kennedy Trio at the Black Dog

. April 19, Chris Thomson Quartet CD Release at the Icehouse

. April 19, Soul Cafe at Hennepin Ave Methodist Church

. April 21, Eden Prairie High School Jazz Band with John Raymond at EPHS

. April 22, Danilo Perez at the Dakota

. April 24, Tuck and Patti at the Dakota

. April 24, Endeavors followed by the Dakota Combo at Jazz Central

. April 25, JazzMN Orchestra with Bob Mintzer at Hopkins l High School Auditorium

. April 25, Jon Wood CD Release/Mancrush at the Black Dog

. April 25-26, Irv Williams, Legends concert at The Capri

. April 26, KBEM's Jazz Noir at Vieux Carré

. April 26, Nellie McKay at the Dakota

. April 29-30, Madeleine Peyroux at the Dakota

. May 2, Jason Moran and Robert Glasper at the Walker

. May 8, Ron Miles with the Atrium Jazz Ensemble at Orchestra Hall (Target Atrium)

. May 9, PipJazz "Women in Jazz" -- afternoon workshop and evening concert at The Bedlam

. May 11, Tim Berne's Snake Oil at the Icehouse

. May 27-28, Rachelle Ferrell at the Dakota

. June 3, Steve Smith and Vital Information, NYC Edition at the Dakota

. June 22, Kurt Elling at the Dakota

. June 23-24, Cecile McLorin Salvant at the Dakota

. June 25-27, Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Mears Park and beyond (Dr John, Potter/Holland/Louke/Harland Quartet, Francisco Mela with Nicholas Payton, Araya-Orta Quartet with Othello Mollineaux, Marquis Hill Blacktet)

. July 2-4, Iowa City Jazz Festival (Charles Lloyd, Dave Douglas, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Julian Lage, Brian Charette, Atlantis Quartet, Becca Stevens, COLOSSUS, Dakota Combo)


Chris Potter Quartet -- Rescheduled for April 2 at the Dakota! And he will be at the 2015 Twin Cities Jazz Festival in June.

Young guns -- The Dakota Combo at the Black Dog, March 28

© Andrea Canter

It's always good to return to the Twin Cities and one of the nation's most vibrant (and accessible) jazz scenes. And there's lots for all local jazz fans to enjoy in the coming week -- some of our favorite veterans (and youngest stars) on stages from The Nicollet and Jazz Central across the river to the Black Dog as well as around the metro from Bloomington to Fridley; an impressive list of visitors from the Preservation Hall Jazz Band at Orchestra Hall to Tierney Sutton, Eliane Elias and Chris Potter all coming into the Dakota. And if you happen to be in London this weekend, don't miss a chance to hear our own Maud Hixson! That should be something for everyone, everywhere.

Big Gigs This Week

Phil Aaron

Friday, March 27. Longtime bandleader and favorite sideman Phil Aaron brings a quartet into Jazz Central for the weekly Bridge Series. The Chicago-born pianist spends his days scoring for film and television, and his nights tinkling the keys for a wide range of local projects, from vocalists like Lucia Newell to exciting ensembles like the Phil Hey Quartet and Tom Ashworth's new Fireside Five. He's joined tonight by Zacc Harris, Matt Peterson and Jay Epstein. Students from the acclaimed UW-Eau Claire Jazz program put on a jam for the late night show.

How Birds Work-- Horst and Bates

A favorite ensemble at the Artists Quarter for a decade, How Birds Work seldom flies these days but they land on the Friday Night Jazz at The Nicollet series tonight. Join Peter Schimke, Dean Granros, Chris Bates and Kenny Horst as they take flight, soaring with post bop wonders and original works.

Preservation Hall Jazz Band

At Orchestra Hall, the almost annual visit from the legendary Preservation Hall Jazz Band will appeal to fans of more traditional jazz as well as anyone who likes some foot-stomping, brass-heavy swinging fun. There's an open rehearsal at 6 pm requiring prior but free registration (contact Orchestra Hall).

Dakota Combo

Saturday, March 28. It's another double-header with young hotshots followed by veteran statesmen as Saturday Night at the Black Dog continues. Start out with the high school ensemble, the Dakota Combo, an octet of amazingly talented teens playing surprising covers and sophisticated original works. Directed by Adam Linz, the Combo boasts some of the busiest young artists in town-- you'll find Charlie Lincoln, Aidan Sponheim and Peter Goggin on the bandstand at Jazz Central and beyond.

Dave Brattain

After a short break, the vets take over as the Daley-Brattain Report makes its Black Dog debut. In addition to guitarist Kevin Daley and saxophonist Dave Brattain, the Report includes bassist Bruce Heine and drummer Dave Stanoch. This is a new band but the musicians have earned their stripes many times over.

What will Charmin Michelle and Denny Malmberg do for the next few months while Fireside Pizza undergoes a face lift? Play elsewhere, of course! Tonight they bring in bassist Jim Chenoweth for a gig at the Mason Jar in Eagan. And stay tuned for more!

Maud Hixson and Rick Carlson

And attention any readers within driving distance of London, UK. Minnesota songbird Maud Hixson and pianist/husband Rick Carlson bring wits to the Brits! Making her debut at Crazy Coqs, Maude reprises her "Skyscraper Wits" show-- celebrating the songwriting "wits" of Mercer, Coward, Hart, Porter and more, along with a special appearance by UK star singer Claire Martin in a tribute to mutual friend, the late pianist Sir Richard Rodney Bennett. Housed within the Brasserie Zedel, Crazy Coqs is dubbed "London's most exquisite cabaret venue." Don't get too comfortable, Maude, we miss you back home.

Jana Nyberg and Adam Meckler

Sunday, March 29. There might not be a lot more opportunities to hear Jana Nyberg before she takes a little "maternity leave" so consider brunch at Hell's Kitchen today and enjoy the Jana Nyberg Group-- Adam Meckler, Thomas Nordlund, Matt Peterson and Andres Crovetti. Pop with a jazz sensibility, jazz with a pop sheen, and it's all musically and personally entertaining.

Tierney Sutton

The Dakota welcomes the return of another songbird, Tierney Sutton, in the fine company of Turtle Island Quartet cellist Mark Summer and French guitarist Serge Merlaud. After wowing the Dakota audience last summer, Sutton and Summer are back with the music of Joni Mitchell, Sutton even out-Joni-ing some of the original tunes which she covered on her 2014 release, After Blue.

Bob Bowman

Monday, March 30. It's a special bass night at Jazz Central, as local hero Doan Brian Roessler and Kansas City titan Bob Bowman share the Featured Artist spotlight. They will be supported by Peter Schimke on piano, Marc Anderson on percussion and Kansas-based saxophonist Matt Otto. Roessler is often heard in the company of Nathan Hanson, Davu Seru and other top improvising musicians; Bowman has long associations with pianist Laura Caviani and vocalist Karrin Allyson, and was in town a few months ago to perform with Laura and a short time later, with Allyson.

Jake Baldwin (Drones Band)

Another special night-- JT's Jazz Implosion at the Icehouse features two sets presented by Six Families via a state arts grant, which means there is no cover tonight. First set --International Novelty Gamelan; second set--Drone Band's "Meditations on Hypnosis" with Jake Baldwin and Noah Ophoven-Baldwin on trumpets, Evan Clark on tuba, Cole Pulice on saxophone, Jim Pfeffer on bass and Cory Healey on drums.

Tuesday, March 31. Popular Brazilian pianist/vocalist Eliane Elias brings her trio to the Dakota in support of her latest recording, Made in Brazil-- set for official release today on Concord. Serving as producer, composer, lyricist, arranger, keyboardist and vocalist, Elias uncovers her Brazilian roots in exquisite fashion.

Pete Hennig (Atlantis Quartet)

Brazilian music also figures into a double header at the Icehouse tonight, with the instrumental band DIBIGODE offering rock/jazz/folk sounds blended with Brazilian rhythms. They're followed by all-American modern jazz artists, the Atlantis Quartet-- Zacc Harris, Brandon Wozniak, Chris Bates and Pete Hennig.

Adam Meckler Orchestra

Like the recent "good old days," the Adam Meckler Orchestra returns to Jazz Central for the open fifth Tuesday of the month. The AMO most recently performed at the 2015 Winter Jazz Festival at Studio Z. The space will be tighter at Jazz Central but the music will soar just as high.

Anthony Cox

Wednesday, April 1. Every first Wednesday, Anthony Cox brings his Continuum Series to Jazz Central. Tonight, he features Peter Schimke and Jay Epstein, as well as his own bass and cello, exploring the concept and possibilities of the trio format. Special guest Sarah Greer joins in on vocals.

Downtown at the Dakota, the Rebirth Brass Band returns with it unique brand of New Orleans funk. The first brass band to win a Grammy (2012 "Best Regional Roots Album"), RRB released Move Your Bodylast year and promises to inspire you to move yours!

Connie Evingson

Connie Evingson continues her monthly Jazz in the Lounge at the Minneapolis Woman's Club, but tonight she has a handful of guests-- Patty and the Buttons. A frequent collaborator with area and international hot club ensembles, Connie will be right at home with Patrick Harison's accordion and his swinging cohorts (Dean Harrington and Mark Kreitzer on guitars, Keith Boyles on bass, Tony Balluff on clarinet).

Chris Potter

Thursday, April 2. Barring blizzards or tsunamis, tonight is the long-awaited-rescheduled visit from the Chris Potter Underground Quartet, scheduled and rescheduled for early February at the Dakota only to be wiped out by one of the season's worst East Coast storms. They're blowing in from the West this time. Saxophonist Potter is one of the most lauded performers and composers of his generation; his quartet tonight will include guitarist Adam Rogers, bassist Fima Ephron and drummer Nate Smith.

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities -- check out calendars at Jazz Police, KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You, as well as here on the blog. More jazz to tickle your ears:

Friday, March 27. Todd Harper, happy hour at the Black Dog; Irv Williams and Steve Blons, happy hour at the Dakota; Connie Olson at Parma 8200; John Paulson with Swing, Inc. at Signatures (Winona); Jake Hanson and James Buckley, dinner sets at the Icehouse; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske in the Lobby Bar (Saint Paul Hotel); Barbara Meyer at the Black Dog

Saturday, March 28. Benny Weinbeck Trio at Parma 8200; JoAnn Funk in the Lobby Bar (Saint Paul Hotel); Tim Sparks and James Buckley, dinner sets at the Icehouse; Pavel Jany's Talking Strings at Loring Pasta Bar; Sidewalk Cafe at 318 Cafe

Sunday, March 29. Patty and the Buttons, brunch at the Aster Cafe; Robert Everest, brunch at Maria's; Jazz Jam and Brunch at Crooners' Lounge; Dean Magraw and Joe Schwen at Oak Center General Store (Lake City, MN at 3 pm); Joel Shapira solo guitar at the Black Dog (4 pm); Zacc Harris Trio at Riverview Wine Bar; Century Jazz Ensemble at Jethro's Charhouse (St Paul); St Cloud State University Jazz Buffet at Ruth Grant Recital Hall (St Cloud State U)

Joel Shapira

Tuesday, March 31. Jason Weismann, happy hour at Crooners Lounge; Cafe Accordion at Loring Pasta Bar; Joel Shapira at Underground Music Cafe'; Jacob Hanson and James Buckley at Cafe Maude

Wednesday, April 1. Connie Evingson with Patty and the Buttons at the Minneapolis Woman's Club; Andrew Walesch Quartet at Crooners Lounge; Zack Lozier Three at the 331 Club; Parisota Hot Club at The Tangiers

Thursday, April 2. Acme Jazz Company at Crooners Lounge; Vocal Jazz Night at Jazz Central; Moonlight Serenaders at Wabasha Street Caves; Marc Anderson/Michelle Kinney/Carla Vagle at Khyber Pass; BDP at Day Block Brewing Co

Coming Soon!

. April 3, Mancrush at The Nicollet

. April 3, Maud Hixson at Parma 8200

. April 3, Dean Magraw and Steven Hobert at Jazz Central

. April 4, Pete Snell Trio/Steve Kenny Quartet at the Black Dog

. April 6, Davu Seru/Brandon Wozniak/Chris Bates at the Icehouse

. April 10, Patty Peterson at Parma 8200

. April 11, Solomon Parham Group/Paul Harper Show and Tell at the Black Dog

. April 11, Charanga Tropicale at Studio Z

. April 12, Anat Cohen Quartet at the Dakota

. April 13, Javi Santiago Trio at Crooners Lounge

. April 13, Chris Cunningham's Fall of the House of Usher at the Icehouse
. April 14, Robben Ford at The Cedar Cultural Center

. April 16, Anthony Cox and Jeremy Walker, "Rage of Achilles" at Orchestra Hall (Target Atrium)

. April 16, Bettye LaVette at the Dakota
. April 16, Charlie Hunter and Bobby Previte at James J Hill Library (Real Phonic Radio Hour)

. April 17, Javi Santiago Quartet at The Nicollet

. April 17, Ann Hampton Callaway at Orchestra Hall

. April 17, Thomas Bruce at Parma 8200

. April 17, Patty Peterson and Friends at the Dakota

. April 18, Jay Young's Lyric Factory at the Dakota

. April 18, Lucia Sarmiento Group/Reid Kennedy Trio at the Black Dog

. April 19, Chris Thomson Quartet CD Release at the Icehouse

. April 19, Soul Cafe at Hennepin Ave Methodist Church

. April 21, Eden Prairie High School Jazz Band with John Raymond at EPHS

. April 22, Danilo Perez at the Dakota

. April 24, Tuck and Patti at the Dakota

. April 24, Arne Fogel at Parma 8200

. April 24, Endeavors followed by the Dakota Combo at Jazz Central

. April 25, JazzMN Orchestra with Bob Mintzer at Hopkins l High School Auditorium

. April 25, Jon Wood CD Release/Mancrush at the Black Dog

. April 25-26, Irv Williams, Legends concert at The Capri

. April 26, KBEM's Jazz Noir at Vieux Carré

. April 26, Nellie McKay at the Dakota

. April 29-30, Madeleine Peyroux at the Dakota

. May 2, Jason Moran and Robert Glasper at the Walker

. May 8, Ron Miles with the Atrium Jazz Ensemble at Orchestra Hall (Target Atrium)

. May 9, PipJazz "Women in Jazz" -- afternoon workshop and evening concert at The Bedlam

. May 11, Tim Berne's Snake Oil at the Icehouse

. May 27-28, Rachelle Ferrell at the Dakota

. June 3, Steve Smith and Vital Information, NYC Edition at the Dakota

. June 22, Kurt Elling at the Dakota
. June 23, Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue at the Cabooze

. June 23-24, Cecile McLorin Salvant at the Dakota

. June 25-27, Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Mears Park and beyond (Dr John, Potter/Holland/Louke/Harland Quartet, Francisco Mela with Nicholas Payton, Araya-Orta Quartet, Marquis Hill Blacktet)

. July 2-4, Iowa City Jazz Festival (Charles Lloyd, Dave Douglas, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Julian Lage, Brian Charette, Atlantis Quartet, Becca Stevens, COLOSSUS, Dakota Combo)

Anat Cohen returns to the Dakota on April 12

The Larry McDonough Quintet returns with a salute to Chet Baker, at the Dakota on April 9

© Andrea Canter

Seems that the Star Tribune only intermittently recognizes music beyond Pop these days, but rest assured, jazz is alive and well, if mostly in small venues in the Twin Cities. Intimate spaces have considerable merit for this music! Take this weekend for example -- Maud Hixson singing at Parma, Dean Magraw and Steven Hobert dueling at Jazz Central, Mancrush at The Nicollet, Steve Kenny Quartet at the Black Dog, Connie Evingson and Jon Weber at The Jungle, and Easter Brunch/Easter Night shows at the Dakota.

Big Gigs This Week

Maud Hixson

Friday, April 3. Back from her London cabaret debut, songbird Maud Hixsonjoins Rick Carlson and Gordy Johnson for a night of relaxing in the burbs at Parma 8200. Pasta, wine, and Maud Hixson-- a perfect way to end the week.

Dean Magraw

A new duo takes the stage at Jazz Central as guitar hero Dean Magrawmixed it up with pianist/accordionist Steven Hobert. They're a generation apart but of similar eclectic, inventive bents which should ensure an evening of unpredictable delights. Stick around for the late show with the U of M Jazz Combofeaturing amazing young vibraphonist Levi Schwartzberg, who has become a common sight at Jazz Central in the past year. Over at The Nicollet, Mancrush takes the Friday Night Jazz at The Nicollet slot, featuring a quartet of hip improvisers led by drummer Lars-Erik Larson, with Brandon Wozniak, Bryan Nichols and Zacc Harris.

Debbie Duncan

Saturday, April 4. If you have not yet checked out the new Crooners Lounge, tonight offers a great opportunity to enjoy a great dining experience while being entertained by the one and only Debbie Duncan. Crooners took over the old Shorewood in Fridley and is offering music every night, Sunday Brunch, and every happy hour. Debbie of course offers her trademark swing, scat, sass and anything else musical and soulful. (She's back there on Wednesday!)

Steve Kenny

Saturday Night Jazz at the Black Dog continues full blast: The opening set features saxophonist Pete Snell backed by Phil Aaron and Jim Chenoweth; the prime time set brings back the Steve Kenny Quartet, featuring renowned percussionist Babatunde Lea, along with Brandon Wozniak and Chris Bates. Good thing the Black Dog has high ceilings! Come early, tables go fast.

Connie Evingson

Sunday, April 5. It's a holiday but that only means festive music all day! At the Dakota, you can enjoy brunch with the swinging Twin Cities Hot Club, or dinner or dessert with the magnificent voice of Robert Robinson. And you have two chances to enjoy the interaction between vocalist Connie Evingson and pianist Jon Weber at the Jungle (late afternoon and evening shows). Minneapolis-based Connie and New York-based Jon first collaborated about three years ago and ever since, keep finding new reasons to get together and explore the Great American Songbook and beyond.

Davu Seru

Monday, April 6. JT's Jazz Implosion brings amazing improvised music to the Icehouse every Monday. Tonight features the collaborative inventions of Davu Seru, Brandon Wozniak and Chris Bates. Think of this as our slice of the New York improv scene. Just as late with a better chance at a parking space.

Over at Jazz Central, saxophonist Andrew Schwandt makes his debut on the Featured Artist series. The Minnesota native started his career in show bands on cruise ships. His current activities include Story City, Steeling Dan, Kolaberate, Big Walter Smith, and Fuzzy Math.

Maryann Sullivan and Corner Jazz

Tuesday, April 7. It's the first Tuesday which means Dean Magraw and Davu Seru are entertaining at the Black Dog, and anything can happen! The swing is more predictable but the entertainment just as fun at The Nicollet when Maryann Sullivan and Corner Jazz take the stage. Expect at least a few swing dancers to whirl around while Maryann and company take you back with some golden jazz oldies.

Chris Bates and Doan Brian Roessler

Wednesday, April 8. Last winter, Chris Bates organized a Bass Summit at Jazz Central, just a handful of bassists and a handful of drummers, usually at least two or three of each simultaneously. It was so much fun that Bates is bringing it back tonight as a Spring Cleaning Bass Bash with Cody McKinney, Charles Fletcher, Casey O'Brien, and Doan Brian Roessler joining Chris on the bass line, and drummers Cory Healey, Greg Schutte and Martin Dosh behind the drumset(s).

Dave Singley

If you missed Maud Hixson at Parma, try tonight at the Dakota when she reunites with guitarist Dave Singley and bassist Keith Boyles. These cats can swing, and you never know what new gem Maud has unearthed from the back pages of the Great American Songbook.

Larry McDonough

Thursday, April 9. Ace pianist and vocalist Larry McDonough put on a tribute to Chet Baker last fall at Jazz Central, packing the space beyond code. So tonight he brings it all back to the larger Dakota, still boasting his quartet (Richard Terrill, Greg Stinson, Dean White) augmented by trumpeter Steve Kenny. The show title says it all, “Chet - The Beautiful Music and Tragic Life of Singing Trumpeter Chet Baker."

Charmin and Shapira

Another vocal jazz night with a different vibe, singer/songwriter Barbara Meyer and pianist/vocal coach/arranger Phil Mattson pair up at Jazz Central for a reprise of their recent CD release honoring the music of Harold Arlen. And yet another duo, Charmin Michelle and Joel Shapira bring Charmin and Shapira to the Black Dog for a swinging night of intimate song.

More Jazz Everywhere!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities -- check out calendars at Jazz Police, KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You, as well as here on the blog. More jazz to tickle your ears:

Friday, April 3. Irv Williams and Steve Blons, Happy Hour at the Dakota; Jason Weisman, Happy Hour at Crooners Lounge; Todd Harper, Happy Hour at the Black Dog; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske in the Lobby Bar (Saint Paul Hotel); Tim Sparks and James Buckley, dinner sets at the Icehouse; Wayne Krantz at the Dakota; Larry Dunsmore Trio at Crooners' Lounge; Tim Patrick and his Blue Eyed Band at the Eagles Aerie Club

Saturday, April 4. Jason Weisman, Happy Hour at Crooners Lounge; Talking Strings at Loring Pasta Bar; Pig's Eye Jass Band at Eagles Aerie Club; Sophia Shorai at Hell's Kitchen; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske in the Lobby Bar (Saint Paul Hotel); Benny Weinbeck Trio at Parma 8200; Robert Everest at Cine Global Party at St. Anthony Main

Sunday, April 5. Patty and the Buttons, Swing Brunch at the Aster Cafe; Jazz Jam and Brunch at Crooners Lounge; Mill City Hot Club, brunch at Hell's Kitchen; Zacc Harris Trio at Riverview Wine Bar

Tuesday, April 7. Cafe Accordion at Loring Pasta Bar; Bill Simonsen Orchestra at Jazz Central

Arne Fogel

Wednesday, April 8. Debbie Duncan at Crooners Lounge; Bossa Jazz Quartet at The Tangiers; Acme Jazz Company with Arne Fogel at Crooners Lounge; MATRA at the Black Dog

Thursday, April 9. Minnesota Jazz Orchestra at Wabasha Street Caves; Jason and the Q at Hell's Kitchen; Southside Aces at Eagles Aerie Club; Ambient Hardware Trumpet Trio at Khyber Pass

Coming Soon!

. April 10, Patty Peterson at Parma 8200

. April 10, Gravatt/Wozniak/Harris/Evaniuk at Jazz Central

. April 11, Solomon Parham Group/Paul Harper Show and Tell at the Black Dog

. April 11, Charanga Tropicale at Studio Z

. April 11, Skruffians at Jazz Central
. April 11, Live Webcast, Cecile McLorin Salvant, Jazz at Lincoln Center, at Pillsbury House

. April 12, Fuzzy Math at the Black Dog

. April 12, Anat Cohen Quartet at the Dakota

. April 13, Javi Santiago Trio at Crooners Lounge

. April 13, Chris Cunningham's Fall of the House of Usher at the Icehouse

. April 14, Cedar Avenue Big Band at Jazz Central

. April 14, Framework at the Black Dog

. April 15, McNally Smith X-Tet at Jazz Central

. April 16, Anthony Cox and Jeremy Walker, "Rage of Achilles" at Orchestra Hall (Target Atrium)

. April 16, Bettye LaVette at the Dakota

. April 16, Charmin & Shapira at Jazz Central

. April 17, Javi Santiago Quartet at The Nicollet

. April 17, Ann Hampton Callaway at Orchestra Hall

. April 17, Thomas Bruce at Parma 8200

. April 17, Patty Peterson and Friends at the Dakota

. April 17, Cory Healey's Beautiful Sunshine Band at Jazz Central

. April 18, Jay Young's Lyric Factory at the Dakota

. April 18, Lucia Sarmiento Group; Granros/Akeda/Evaniuk/Kenny at the Black Dog

. April 19, Chris Thomson Quartet CD Release at the Icehouse

. April 19, Soul Cafe at Hennepin Ave Methodist Church

. April 21, Eden Prairie High School Jazz Band with John Raymond at EPHS

. April 22, Danilo Perez at the Dakota
. April 22, Butch Thompson, Axel Zwingenberger and Lila Ammons at Studio Z

. April 24, Tuck and Patti at the Dakota

. April 24, Arne Fogel at Parma 8200

. April 24, Endeavors followed by the Dakota Combo at Jazz Central

. April 25, JazzMN Orchestra with Bob Mintzer at Hopkins l High School Auditorium

. April 25, Jon Wood CD Release/Mancrush at the Black Dog

. April 25-26, Irv Williams, Legends concert at The Capri

. April 26, KBEM's Jazz Noir at Vieux Carré

. April 26, Nellie McKay at the Dakota

. April 29-30, Madeleine Peyroux at the Dakota

. May 2, Jason Moran and Robert Glasper at the Walker

. May 2, Adam Kohlker with the Good Vibes Trio at Jazz Central

. May 8, Ron Miles with the Atrium Jazz Ensemble at Orchestra Hall (Target Atrium)

. May 9, PipJazz "Women in Jazz" -- afternoon workshop and evening concert at The Bedlam
. May 9, Ancia Saxophone Quartet at Studio Z

. May 11, Tim Berne's Snake Oil at the Icehouse
. May 16, Eric Gravatt and Dean Magraw, Jazz at Studio Z

. May 27-28, Rachelle Ferrell at the Dakota

. June 3, Steve Smith and Vital Information, NYC Edition at the Dakota

. June 22, Kurt Elling at the Dakota

. June 23-24, Cecile McLorin Salvant at the Dakota

. June 25-27, Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Mears Park and beyond (Dr John, Potter/Holland/Louke/Harland Quartet, Francisco Mela with Nicholas Payton, Araya-Orta Quartet, Marquis Hill Blacktet)

. July 2-4, Iowa City Jazz Festival (Charles Lloyd, Dave Douglas, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Julian Lage, Brian Charette, Atlantis Quartet, Becca Stevens, COLOSSUS, Dakota Combo)

Anat Cohen and her Quartet bring choro and more to the Dakota, April 12

Anat Cohen brings her quartet and Brazilian ensemble to the Dakota, April 12

© Andrea Canter

The weather is predicted to take a turn for the better this weekend, days are getting longer, and the birds seem happier. Maybe spring is jumping up after all! Come rain or come shine, there's definitely a lot of warm jazz in the air, from the veteran Eric Kamau Gravatt's quartet at Jazz Central to the rich salsa flavors of Charanga Tropical at Studio Z, another corps of vets headed by Paul Harper at the Black Dog, a welcome return visit from the high-flying clarinetist Anat Cohen, and the premiere of a collaborative work from Jeremy Walker and Anthony Cox in the Target Atrium at Orchestra Hall. Things are going to warm up-- put on your jazzy face!

Big Gigs This Week

Patty Peterson

Friday, April 10.Patty Petersonsings all over town, from bars to clubs to big event spaces, but perhaps the best way to enjoy her warm R&B tinged vocals is in an intimate space like the lounge at Parma 8200. With Chris Lomheim on piano and Mark Weisburg on bass, this might be the most personal opportunity to enjoy Patty.

Eric Gravatt

The Bridge Series at Jazz Central welcomes back Weather Report alum Eric Kamau Gravatt and his quartet with Brandon Wozniak, Ron Evaniuk and Zacc Harris. With Gravatt you can be sure of 3 things-- the music will keep you on full alert, there will be some spellbinding drum solos, and the gig will start on time! Note that the Bridge Series will start at 7pm -- and starting next week, Friday Night Jazz at the Nicollet will move back to 9 pm, increasing the opportunity to enjoy a double-header Friday along the Minneapolis "jazz corridor."

Doug Little

Saturday, April 11. Jazz at Studio Z is into its fourth season, curated by Zacc Harris and supported with grants from the state arts board and Legacy Fund. Tonight's installment brings Doug Little's Charanga Tropical to the Studio Z stage, warming up in more ways than one for their unprecented invitation to perform at the Danzon Festival in Havana this summer. CT is a quintet stretched to include additional percussion and a string trio (violin, viola). Before the concert at 7 pm, Doug and company will conduct an open workshop (5:30 pm) on the rhythms and dance forms of traditional Cuban music.

Solomon Parham

Over at the Black Dog, the Saturday night series continues with an opening set from young trumpeter Solomon Parham, featuring ace percussionist Babatunde Lee. Back in prime time, saxophonist Paul Harper returns with his renamed Show and Tell ensemble, with Charlie Riddle on bass, Nathan Norman on drums, and Mike Cramer on guitar. It's bebop for 21st century listeners. And yes, if you attend Jazz at Studio Z, you can get down the street to the Black Dog in plenty of time to catch the final set with Paul Harper.

Cecile McLorin Salvant

If you really want to avoid a crowded club or bar, but hear one of the most exciting talents in the country, reserve a spot at the Pillsbury House for a live screening of Jazz at Lincoln Center featuring Cecile McLorin Salvant. Pillsbury House in South Minneapolis has been scheduling live webcasts of JALC events this season, and the show tonight is bound to be one of the most memorable. This is a free event but reserved tickets are needed to ensure a seat.

Anat Cohen

Sunday, April 12. Poll-topping clarinetist Anat Cohen is no stranger to the Twin Cities, previously appearing in 2010 at the Dakota with her Benny Goodman project and a few months later with her touring quartet, and moving over to the Dakota with fellow clarinetist Evan Christopher when the 2012 Orchestra Hall lockout pre-empted a clarinet summit. An Israeli native long intrigued by the folk traditions of Brazil, Anat assembled a group of Brazlian musicians (accordion, 7-string guitar, pandeiro) and after some acclaimed gigs, brought her Choro Aventuroso into the studio, along with her longstanding quartet and key guests. She's now touring in celebration of the new recording, Luminosa. There will be Brazilian fare, traditional and reimagined, as well as original music and perhaps a Flying Lotus tune. On this gig, she's joined by long-time pianist Jason Lindner, bassist Linda Oh and drummer Adam Cruz.

Javi Santiago

Monday, April 13. Crooners Lounge continues to bring top local artists to the north burbs. Tonight, the Javi Santiago Trio entertains from happy hour through the evening. The young New York-based pianist has taken an extended leave from the Big Apple, hanging out back home in the Twin Cities and playing a lot of gigs. Tonight he teams up with long-time cohort, drummer Miguel Hurtado, and veteran bassist James Buckley.

Frank Morgan

Tuesday, April 14. The Minneapolis-St Paul International Film Festival is underway, and tonight jazz fans can attend the screening of the documentary, The Sound of Redemption, about the life and music of the late Frank Morganat St. Anthony Main Theaters.

Chris Olson, Framework

For live music, you can't miss with Framework at the Black Dog. This is the monthly Chris Olson Project, and the guitarist invited pals Chris Bates and Jay Epstein to come in tonight as the long-running trio. Inventive, accessible and always satisfying. In between their sets, Olson will turn some of his students loose on the music of Herbie Hancock.

Jeremy Walker

Thursday, April 16. Tonight's installment of Jazz in the Target Atrium at Orchestra Hall features the world premiere of "The Rage of Achilles," a multi-faceted work composed by Jeremy Walker and Anthony Cox. As noted on the Orchestra Hall website, "ancient poetry meets classical voice and jazz instrumentation..." with the voices of MPR's Tesfa Wondemagegnehu and opera singers Seth and Angela Keaton melding with the Atrium Jazz Ensemble (Jeremy Walker, Anthony Cox, Brandon Wozniak and Tim Zhorne.

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities -- check out calendars at Jazz Police, KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You, as well as here on the blog. More jazz to tickle your ears:

Friday, April 10. Irv Williams, happy hour at the Dakota; Todd Harper, happy hour at the Black Dog; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske in the Lobby Bar (Saint Paul Hotel); John Paulson at Signatures (Winona); Bryan Nichols and James Buckley, dinner sets at the Icehouse; Nachito Herrera Trio at the Dakota; Classic Big Band and the Nostalgics at Bloomington KC Hall; North Central University "College Night" at Jazz Central

Saturday, April 11. Nathan Hanson and Doan Brian Roessler duo, free at the Hosmer Library (Minneapolis, 2 pm); Pavel Jany's Talking Strings at the Loring Pasta Bar; Paula Lammers with the Winwood Trio at the Mason Jar; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske in the Lobby Bar (Saint Paul Hotel); Benny Weinbeck Trio at Parma 8200; Jake Hanson and James Buckley, dinner sets at the Icehouse; The Skruffians at Jazz Central

Zack Lozier

Sunday, April 12. Patty and the Buttons, brunch at the Aster; Larry Dunsmore, brunch at Crooners Lounge; Fuzzy Math at the Black Dog (4 pm); Zack Lozier Three at the Underground Music Café; Zacc Harris Trio at Riverview Wine Bar; Jerry O'Hagan Orchestra with Charmin Michelle at Cinema Ballroom

Monday, April 13. Jason Weismann at Jazz Central; Chris Cunningham's Fall of the House of Usher at the Icehouse

Tuesday, April 14. Cafe Accordion at Loring Pasta Bar; Nova Jazz Orchestra at the Minnesota Music Café; Cedar Avenue Big Band at Jazz Central; Vinnie Rose Trio at Crooners Lounge

Wednesday, April 15. Debbie Duncan at Lake Harriet Spiritual Community; Sophia Shorai at the Dakota; Zacc Harris Trio at Cafe Maude; Century Jazz Ensemble at Minnesota Music Cafe; Lila Ammons at The Tangiers; Jake Hanson and Friends at Barbette; Wolverines Trio at Hell's Kitchen; Charlie Hunter and Bobby Previte, Realphonic Radio Hour at James J Hill Center; McNally Smith X-Tet at Jazz Central

Thursday, April 16. Charmin and Shapira at Jazz Central; Beasley's Big Band at Wabasha Street Caves

Coming Soon!

. April 17, Javi Santiago Quartet at The Nicollet

. April 17, Ann Hampton Callaway at Orchestra Hall

. April 17, Patty Peterson and Friends at the Dakota

. April 17, Cory Healey's Beautiful Sunshine Band at Jazz Central

. April 17, One World Consort with JP Jofre at Studio Z

. April 17, Donald Washington Quartet at the Black Dog

. April 17-18, Eau Claire Jazz Festival with New York Voices and Terell Stafford

. April 18, Jay Young's Lyric Factory at the Dakota

. April 18, Lucia Sarmiento Group; Granros/Akeda/Evaniuk/Kenny at the Black Dog

. April 18, UW River Falls Jazz Ensemble with JP Jofre at William Abbott Concert Hall, UW-RF

. April 19, Chris Thomson Quartet CD Release at the Icehouse

. April 19, One World Consort with JP Jofre, William Abbott Concert Hall at UW-River Falls

. April 21, Eden Prairie High School Jazz Band with John Raymond at EPHS

. April 22, Danilo Perez at the Dakota

. April 23, Fireside Five at Underground Music Cafe

. April 24, Tuck and Patti at the Dakota

. April 24, Arne Fogel at Parma 8200

. April 24, Endeavors followed by the Dakota Combo at Jazz Central

. April 24, James Wallace Quartet at The Nicollet
. April 24, Yeti Steady and Ramtrak at Public Kitchen (St Paul)

. April 25, JazzMN Orchestra with Bob Mintzer at Hopkins l High School Auditorium

. April 25, Jon Wood CD Release/Mancrush at the Black Dog

. April 25-26, Irv Williams, Legends concert at The Capri

. April 26, KBEM's Jazz Noir at Vieux Carré

. April 26, Nellie McKay at the Dakota

. April 29-30, Madeleine Peyroux at the Dakota

. April 30, Thomas Bruce at Parma 8200

. May 1, Patty Peterson with Steve Cole, Ricky Peterson at the Icehouse

. May 1, Framework at The Nicollet

. May 2, Jason Moran and Robert Glasper at the Walker

. May 2, Adam Kohlker with the Good Vibes Trio at Jazz Central

. May 2, Dave Brattain Quartet/DD7 at the Black Dog

. May 8, Ron Miles with the Atrium Jazz Ensemble at Orchestra Hall (Target Atrium)

. May 9, PipJazz "Women in Jazz" -- afternoon workshop and evening concert at The Bedlam

. May 9, Joe Mayo/Cory Healey's Beautiful Sunshine Band at the Black Dog

. May 10, Soul Cafe' at Hennepin Avenue Methodist Church

. May 11, Tim Berne's Snake Oil at the Icehouse

. May 22, Chris Lomheim Trio at The Nicollet

. May 27-28, Rachelle Ferrell at the Dakota

. June 3, Steve Smith and Vital Information, NYC Edition at the Dakota

. June 16, Ticket to Brazil, Jazz in the Library at SunRay Library (St Paul)

. June 17, Good Vibes Trio, Jazz in the Library at Hamline Library (St Paul)

. June 21, Francisco Mela, Jazz in the Library at St Paul Central Library

. June 22, Kurt Elling at the Dakota

. June 23-24, Cecile McLorin Salvant at the Dakota

. June 25-27, Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Mears Park and beyond (Dr John, Potter/Holland/Louke/Harland Quartet, Francisco Mela with Nicholas Payton, Araya-Orta Quartet, Marquis Hill Blacktet)

. July 2-4, Iowa City Jazz Festival (Charles Lloyd, Dave Douglas, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Julian Lage, Brian Charette, Atlantis Quartet, Becca Stevens, COLOSSUS, Dakota Combo)

John Raymond comes home to Minnesota and a special night at Eden Prairie High School, April 21

Danilo Perez, Coming to the Dakota on April 22

© Andrea Canter

It's a whirlwind of jazz starting Friday night and swirling through the week, from some impossible choices over the weekend, highly anticipated visiting artists, old favorites and emerging talents, as well as a preview of a new venue in an old haunt.

Big Gigs This Week

Cory Healey

Friday, April 17.Cory Healey's Beautiful Sunshine Band blends young emerging talents with still-young veterans, and the quintet promises to be one of region's leading voices of modern jazz. The University of Northern Iowa alum has only been in town about a year but Cory wasted no time becoming an in-demand drummer and bandleader. At Jazz Central, he's joined by two exquisite horns--Brandon Wozniak's tenor sax and Jake Baldwin's wily trumpet; Zacc Harris' adventurous guitar; and Erik Fratzke's unpredictable bass.

Javi Santiago

About ten minutes down the street at The Nicollet, a favorite son brings a sterling quartet to the bandstand for the Friday Night Jazz series. Pianist Javi Santiago, already a ten+-year veteran of local stages despite his youth, rounds up Zacc Harris, Yohannes Tona, and long-time cohort Miguel Hurtado for some original music (Javi is prolific!) and inventive arrangements. Note the series has moved to a 9 pm start time -- making doubleheaders with the not-far Jazz Central realistic.

Ann Hampton Callaway

At Orchestra Hall, the focus is on the music of Barbra Streisand as filtered through cabaret and stage sensation Ann Hampton Callaway, performing with the Minnesota Orchestra. A perennial award-winner, Callaway is always entertaining, and tonight she tackles one of her most significant sources of inspiration.

Dave Milne

Last spring, Dave Milne's One World Consort presented an Earth Day concert of the music of Fred Sturm. Now the hybrid jazz/classical ensemble celebrates Earth Day at Studio Z with special guest artist, bandoneon expert J.P. Jofre. (The concert will be repeated on Sunday at the University of Wisconsin-River Falls.)

It's the first night of the Eau Claire Jazz Festival, with headliners New York Voices. Often compared to the Manhattan Transfer, NYV is known for its tight harmonies and inventive arrangements. They perform at the State Theater along with ensembles from the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire's award-winning jazz program.

Terell Stafford

Saturday, April 18.Eau Claire Jazz Festival continues today, with the headliner concert in the evening featuring trumpet king Terell Staffordwith Cuban transplant pianist Nachito Herrera. Held at the Eau Claire Memorial High School Auditorium, again jazz ensembles from UW-EC will perform as well.

Returning to the Twin Cities for the first time since the death of founding member Tim Hauser, The Manhattan Transfer will introduce Minnesota audiences to Trist Curless at the Hopkins Center for the Arts.

Lucia Sarmiento

Saturday Night at the Black Dog presents the up-and-coming talents of McNally Smith students Lucia Sarmiento and cohorts. From Lima, Peru, Lucia led a fiery ensemble at last year's Twin Cities Jazz Festival on the Youth Stage, but she belongs on the main stage. Tonight her band opens for a veteran quartet with Dean Granros, Steve Kenny, Ron Evaniuk and Alden Ikeda, just back from a performance at the Eau Claire festival. This series makes it easy to complete a doubleheader without moving the car!

Gary Schulte (Gypsy Mania)

Performing in the tradition of the French hot clubs, Gypsy Maniareturns to Jazz @ St. Barneys (St Barnabas Lutheran Church in Plymouth). Their three previous performances at St. Barney's “have dazzled our audiences. The remarkable technical facility of each of the players is matched only by the sheer energy and exuberance of the ensemble's performance," said St. Barnabas Center for the Arts Director Jeff Whitmill. "We're always excited when they return." Mania includes violinist Gary Schulte, guitarists Glen Helgeson and Reynold Philipsek, and bassist Matt Senjem, all long-time devotees to hot club swing.

Jay Young

At the Dakota, bassist Jay Young returns with his Lyric Factory. After their successful tributes to Stevie Wonder and Michael Jackson, the band now celebrates Herbie Hancock and Earth, Wind and Fire. Jay always assembles the hottest talents-- pianist Thom West, bassist Ian Young, violinist Ernest Bisong, drummer Kevin Washington, and vocalists Michelle Denise Michaels, Sarah Greer and Libby Turner Opanga.

Chris Thomson

Sunday, April 19. It's too rare that we hear saxophonist Chris Thomson in a leading role. Tonight Chris and his Quartet celebrate the release of his CD, Empathy, at the Icehouse (5 pm). The instrumentation lends itself to some unusual journeys-- tenor sax, accordion (Patrick Harison), bass (James Buckley) and drums (Martin Dosh)--and harmonies, sort of Hot Club Meets Avant Garde, and it is a much more interesting, and melodic, blend than that would suggest.

Monday, April 20. Pianist and educator at North Central College, Peter Shu is the featured artist at Jazz Central, with cohorts Gary Denbow on sax, Tom Lewis on bass and Kevin Mills on drums. Classically trained, Shu honed his jazz chops with the best-- Bobby Peterson, Mary Louise Knutson and Nachito Herrera. He brings his NCC jazz students into Jazz Central at least monthly.

John Raymond

Tuesday, April 21. It's been about a decade since a very young John Raymond introduced the Twin Cities to his trumpet talents and bandleading finesse. A few degrees and bands later, John returns from his home base in New York to adjudicate the Eau Claire Jazz Festival, lead clinics at Eden Prairie High School, and perform with his New York quartet in an evening concert in the high school auditorium. His talented crew includes American Piano Competition winner Sullivan Fortner, bassist Rick Rosato, and drummer Jay Sawyer.

Arne Fogel

If you have not made it out to Crooners's Lounge yet, here is a good excuse to venture to the north burbs -- the Acme Jazz Company with Arne Fogel. With some of the area's most inventive big band charts, Acme is the perfect foil for a real crooner, Arne. The music space at the renovated Shorewood is plenty big for a large ensemble and vocalist, the atmosphere somewhere between 70s lounge and 50s night club, and the menu has something for everyone--much like the music.

Danilo Perez

Wednesday, April 22. Panamanian pianist Danilo Perez is as known for his long-standing work with the Wayne Shorter Quartet as for his own bands and compositions. His Panama 500 celebrates 500 years of the first permanent European settlement in the New World (in Panama).Founder and Artistic Director of the Panama Jazz Festival, Perez is also Artistic Director of the Berklee Global Jazz Institute in Boston’s Berklee College of Music. With his trio, Perez last visited Minnesota for the 2011 Twin Cities Jazz Festival. He's again joined by drummer Adam Cruz (just in town last week with Anat Cohen), along with bassist Ben Street.

Axel Zwingenberger and Lila Ammons

At Studio Z, trad pianist Butch Thompson joins German counterpart/boogie woogie expert Axel Zwingenberger with vocalist Lila Ammons for a night of "early jazz, classic boogie woogie and the blues." Lila and Axel formed a partnership some years ago, stemming from Lila's interest in the music of grandfather Albert Ammons, and they have extensively toured Europe.

LA saxophonist Tom Luer, who has significant ties to the Twin Cities (U of M) and Wisconsin (UW-EC), joins Chris Olson, Chris Bates and JT Bates tonight for some "new music" at Jazz Central.

Thursday, April 23. Jazz Central's Vocal Jazz Night presents the mighty fine duo of Rhonda Laurie and Phil Mattson. The Great American Songbook typically is their source.

Tom Ashworth

In Falcon Heights, the Underground Music Cafe presents Tom Ashworth's Fireside Five, typically featuring Brian Grivna, Phil Aaron, Gordy Johnson and Phil Hey, and usually with some topnotch guests. The band will be taking some time off soon, so this is a great time to check it out in a cozy setting.

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities -- check out calendars at Jazz Police, KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You, as well as here on the blog. More jazz to tickle your ears:

Friday, April 17. Irv Williams and Steve Blons, happy hour at the Dakota; Todd Harper Quartet, happy hour at the Black Dog; Patty Peterson and Friends at the Dakota; Thomas Bruce at Parma 8200; Donald Washington Quartet at the Black Dog; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske in the Lobby Bar (St Paul Hotel); Bryan Nichols and James Buckley, dinner sets at the Icehouse; Sheridan Zuther at Crooners' Lounge; John Paulson with Swing, Inc. at Signatures (Winona, MN); Jazz Crew (jam) at Jazz Central

Sheridan Zuther

Saturday, April 18. Zack Lozier 3 at Harriet Brewing Tap Room (5 pm); Benny Weinbeck Trio at Parma 8200; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske in the Lobby Bar (St Paul Hotel); Talking Strings at Loring Pasta Bar; Tim Patrick and Blue-eye Trio at Hell's Kitchen; Tim Sparks and James Buckley, dinner sets at the Icehouse; Debbie Duncan Quartet at Crooners' Lounge; "Border Music" with David Hidalgo and Mark Ribot at The Cedar; Twin Cities Cabaret Artists Network monthly salon at the Town House Bar

Sunday, April 19. Patty and the Buttons, brunch at the Aster; Robert Everest, brunch at Maria's; Jerry O'Hagan Orchestra with Charmin Michelle at the Lakesie Ballroom (Glenwood, MN); Zacc Harris Trio at the Riverview Wine Bar; Emily Bear Trio at the Dakota; Southside Big Band at Edinborough Park; Jazz Brunch at Crooners; Lounge

Monday, April 20. McNally Smith Spring Jazz Recitals at the Amsterdam; JT's Jazz Implosion at the Icehouse; Dorothy Doring at Crooners' Lounge

Tuesday, April 21. Patty and the Buttons at Cafe Maude; Park Evans/Ben Abrahamson/Nicholas Champeau acoustic guitar trio at the Black Dog; Explosion Big Band at Jazz Central; River City Jazz Orchestra at the Minnesota Music Cafe

Wednesday, April 22. Debbie Duncan at Crooners' Lounge; Riverside Swing Band at The Tangiers

Thursday, April 23. Minnesota State University Mankato, Jazz Ensembles Spring Concert at Halling Hall, MSU; Cartwright-Kinney-Lewis at Khyber Pass Cafe

Coming Soon!

. April 24, Tuck and Patti at the Dakota

. April 24, Arne Fogel at Parma 8200

. April 24, Endeavors followed by the Dakota Combo at Jazz Central

. April 24, James Wallace Quartet at The Nicollet
. April 24, JazzFly with Dorothy Doring at Golden's Deli

. April 25, JazzMN Orchestra with Bob Mintzer at Hopkins l High School Auditorium

. April 25, Jon Wood CD Release/Mancrush at the Black Dog
. April 25, Katia Cardenas and Joe Strachan, Public Kitchen (St Paul)
. April 25, Julius Collins and Ginger Commodore, Tribute to Stevie Wonder at the Dakota

. April 25-26, Irv Williams, Legends concert at The Capri

. April 26, KBEM's Jazz Noir at Vieux Carré

. April 26, Nellie McKay at the Dakota
. April 28, Paul Renz Quartet at Crooners' Lounge

. April 29-30, Madeleine Peyroux at the Dakota

. April 30, Thomas Bruce at Parma 8200

. May 1, Patty Peterson with Steve Cole, Ricky Peterson at the Icehouse

. May 1, Framework at The Nicollet

. May 2, Jason Moran and Robert Glasper at the Walker

. May 2, Adam Kohlker with the Good Vibes Trio at Jazz Central

. May 2, Dave Brattain Quartet/DD7 at the Black Dog
. May 4, Michael O'Brien at the Icehouse
. May 5, Paul Renz Quartet at the Aster

. May 8, Ron Miles with the Atrium Jazz Ensemble at Orchestra Hall (Target Atrium)

. May 10, Soul Cafe' at Hennepin Avenue Methodist Church

. May 11, Tim Berne's Snake Oil at the Icehouse
. May 14, JazzMN Orchestra at Chanhassan Dinner Theater
. May 20, Todd Clouser's A Love Electric at the Turf Club

. May 22, Chris Lomheim Trio at The Nicollet

. May 27-28, Rachelle Ferrell at the Dakota
. May 31-June 1, Lisa Fischer at the Dakota

. June 3, Steve Smith and Vital Information, NYC Edition at the Dakota

. June 16, Ticket to Brazil, Jazz in the Library at SunRay Library (St Paul)

. June 17, Good Vibes Trio, Jazz in the Library at Hamline Library (St Paul)

. June 21, Francisco Mela Trio, Jazz in the Library at St Paul Central Library

. June 22, Kurt Elling at the Dakota

. June 23-24, Cecile McLorin Salvant at the Dakota

. June 25-27, Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Mears Park and beyond (Dr John, Potter/Holland/Louke/Harland Quartet, Francisco Mela with Nicholas Payton, Araya-Orta Quartet, Marquis Hill Blacktet)
. June 30, Francois Rabbath at Benson Great Hall, Bethel University

. June 30-July 1, Charles Lloyd Quartet at the Dakota

. July 2-4, Iowa City Jazz Festival (Charles Lloyd, Dave Douglas, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Julian Lage, Brian Charette, Atlantis Quartet, Becca Stevens, COLOSSUS, Dakota Combo)

. August 7, Larry Coryell and Bombay Jazz at the Dakota

Irv Williams, "Legends" at the Capri Theater, April 25-26

© Andrea Canter

The Saint Paul Art Crawl will bring extra crowds to Lowertown this weekend; jazz in the neighborhood and nearby will keep the artful vibe going long after dark. Jazz and the return of our spring weather will add to the warming trend throughout the metro as well, with weekend visits from Tuck & Patti, Bob Mintzer and Nellie McKay; the third installment of the KBEM Jazz Noir radio show providing a sneak preview of Vieux Carré; a true "Legends" concert at the Capri with Irv Williams and Debbie Duncan; another local legend (Jimmie Wallace) at The Nicollet; nights of young and even younger lions at Jazz Central and the Black Dog; and local celebrations of International Jazz Day (April 30).

Big Gigs This Week

Tuck & Patti

Friday, April 24. Together performing (as well as life partners) for three decades, the vocal/guitar jazz duo Tuck (Andress) and Patti (Cathcart)met at an audition in Las Vegas, began performing as a duo in California in 1981, and now have fifteen albums and a world of fans to their credit. With Tuck on guitar and Patti as vocalist/composer/arranger, the pair have forged a partnership unequaled in modern music, applying a simple formula: Says Tuck, “Patti writes and arranges; I am just the orchestra.” With his six strings, Tuck indeed conjures a symphony. The duo returns to the Dakota for one night.

Jake Baldwin, Nelson Devereaux (Endeavors)

Young and younger--that's the line-up tonight at Jazz Central as Endeavors hits at 7 on the Bridge Series, followed by the Dakota Combo at about 9:30. Actually the Dakota Combo has ties to both bands. About two years ago, a band of young emerging talents dubbed themselves Courageous Endeavors and quickly became one of the most exciting on the Twin Cities jazz scene, and released their debut CD, Prototype, in summer 2014. The band (Nelson Devereaux, Joe Strachan, Brian Courage and Miguel Hurtado) went on hiatus when Courage moved to New York last fall, but now has reformed as simply Endeavors, with bassist Ryan Hayes replacing Courage and adding another horn, trumpeter Jake Baldwin.

Dakota Combo

In their high school days, Baldwin and Strachan played together in the Dakota Combo, an audition-only ensemble of the region's top high school jazz artists, and a collaboration among the MacPhail Center for Music and Dakota Foundation for Jazz Education. The 9th edition of the Dakota Combo performs their annual spring gig tonight, showcasing chops as performers and composers under the direction of Adam Linz.

Jimmie Wallace

Steve Kenny's Friday Night Jazz at The Nicollet welcomes one of the living legends of Twin Cities jazz when saxophonist James (Jimmie) Wallacetakes the bandstand with his veteran team of Kenny on FLUMPET™, Ron Evaniuk on bass, and Alden Akeda on drums. "Jimmy-apolis" still plays around town with the Capri Big Band and Cornbread Harris, as well bringing his own bands into such spots as the Red Stag.

Jon Wood

Saturday, April 25. At the Black Dog, the Saturday Night Jazz series boasts a "young lions" night of its own. Music kicks off at 7 with a celebration of three recordings from young guitar master Jon Wood. Whether playing at Jazz Central or in a Minnesota Guitar Society sponsored master class, Jon's diverse mix of classical, jazz, and pop music (along with an occasional pinch of Latin, blue grass, blues, and R & B, and flamenco) appeals to diverse audiences. His three recordings include his original jazz compositions (Far From Home), a solo classical guitar album (Chitarra Sonata), and a live album of Jon's band "Iron Chops" (Iron Chops Live at Jazz Central). Helping him celebrate at the Black Dog will be his Iron Chops ensemble, featuring Dave Brattain (tenor and soprano sax), Javi Santiago (piano), Graydon Peterson (bass), and Dave Schmalenberger (drums).

Lars-Erik Larson (Mancrush)

In the prime time slot, Mancrush returns with leader Lars-Erik Larson (drums) and cohorts Brandon Wozniak (sax), Zacc Harris (guitar) and Bryan Nichols (piano). With rapidly growing audience from the Black Dog to Icehouse, Mancrush plays everything from folk tunes to Bartok, as well as Larson's eclectic original compositions.

Katia Cardenas

Continuing the theme of young talents, the intriguing duo of Katia Cardenas and Joe Strachan perform at a new venue for music, Public Kitchen across from Mears Park in St Paul. Vocalist Katia has only been hitting the local stages for the past year or so, but is building her audience fast with her appealing blend of the great songbooks' repertoire and more contemporary fare. Pianist Joe Strachan is largely known for his contributions to such modern jazz projects as Endeavors, Jake Baldwin's quartets, the Adam Meckler Orchestra, etc, and promises to offer exciting accompaniment to Katia's vocals. As for the Public Kitchen-- this elegant Lowertown space is worth a visit for the kitchen alone.

JazzMN Orchestra

Veterans take over in Hopkins as the JazzMN Orchestra closes out its season with a very special guest, Yellowjackets saxman Bob Mintzer. Minnesota's answer to the Village Vanguard Orchestra, JazzMN will feature music from Mintzer's current project, the "Bob Mintzer R & Big Band," including the works of Sly Stone, the Isley Brothers, Sam & Dave, and James Brown. In the guest vocalist slot, Patty Peterson makes a welcome return to JazzMN, paying tribute to recently departed jazz giants Clark Terry, Buddy DeFranco and Lew Soloff.

Irv Williams

Saturday-Sunday, April 25-26. The popular Legends Series continues at the Capri Theater this weekend, with a Saturday evening and Sunday matinee performance of "Saxy Smooth," featuring two favorite living legends of Minnesota jazz, saxophonist Irv Williams and vocalist Debbie Duncan. Notes Capri Artistic Director for the Legends series, Dennis Spears, “Irv Williams is not only a Minnesota legend. He is known nationally and internationally as ‘Mister Smooth.’ One toot from his horn and you will know why. Paired with Debbie Duncan on vocals, this will be one saxy treat!” Adding to fun the will be Irv's happy hour partner Steve Blons (guitar) along with Jay Young (bass) and Nathan Norman (drums). Call it "Saxy, Smooth, and Sassy!"

Sunday, April 26. Been wanting a peak at the new Hamm Building space, Vieux Carré? Tonight you can get a preview as well as enjoy the third installment of the KBEM project Jazz Noir. An original radio drama series complete with live voice actors and musicians in front of a live audience, it's just like in the early days of radio. For this third episode, Morning Follows Night, playwrights Christina Ham, Dominic Orlando and Josh Wilder were commissioned to explore the rich Minneapolis jazz club scene between 1946 and 1956. The playwrights collaborated with composers/jazz musicians Chris Bates, Steven Hobert and Solomon Parham, who perform their original jazz music score for the drama. Shows at 5 and 8 pm, with the later show broadcast live on KBEM 88.5 fm.

Nellie Mckay

And she's hard to classify, but who cares? Singer, pianost, ukulele player, songwriter, comedienne -- Nellie McKay can wear all those hats simultaneously, whether channeling Doris Day or tackling modern pop. She's back at the Dakota for one night of musical fun.

Doug Haining

Monday, April 27. Multi-reed expert Doug Haining is so often leading the band--Explosion Big Band, Twin Cities 7--that we seldom get a chance to enjoy hearing him in the spotlight. On the Featured Artist series at Jazz Central, Doug gets to shine, be it on tenor or alto sax, clarinet or flute. Or maybe all of the above.

Over at the Icehouse (which coincidentally gets underway about the time Jazz Central cools off), JT's Jazz Implosion implodes with the energy of Brandon Wozniak, Bryan Nichols, and JT Bates himself.

Paul Renz

Tuesday, April 28. Veteran guitarist Paul Renz brings his quartet to a new venue when he takes the stage at Crooners Lounge. One of the busiest jazz educators in town, Renz spends less time on the bandstand but will be heard more in coming weeks. His musical partner in the quartet is renowned flautist Anders Bostrom, an old pal from Berklee College of Music days who appears on several of Paul's recordings.

Ben Abrahamson

Wednesday, April 29. There are few musicians in town with the eclectic resume of young guitarist, Ben Abrahamson, who fills the "new music" slot at Jazz Central tonight with two other guitar talents -- Park Evans and Nick Champeau-- as the Acoustic Trio. There should be a hearty dose of flamenco and Brazilian beats.

At The Nicollet, the eclectic FireFly Forest project from Steven Hobert (accordion) takes the stage, with Sarah Larsson (vocals, French Horn, percussion), Kathleen Hobert (voals, tap dance, percussion), Kevin Row (bass), Jeff Schraw (percussion), Nathan Eliot (guitar) and Natalie Locke (percussion). Not sure how they will all fit on that stage but it will be a musical feast.

Madeleine Peyroux

Wednesday-Thursday, April 29-30. Her career has progressed in a bit of a jagged fashion but vocalist Madeleine Peyrouxhas released some highly praised albums lately. She's back at the Dakota in time to celebrate International Jazz Day and some swinging songs.

Thursday, April 30 -- International Jazz Day! Sponsored by UNESCO, this is a global celebration. In Minnesota, IJD events have been registered by the Dakota (Madeleine Peyroux), Jazz Central (Debbie Duncan), and the Black Dog (TBA). The Dakota is offering a special opportunity to view a live webcast of the IJD official global concert in Paris, with Tony Bennett, Herbie Hancock, Stevie Wonder and more, with a package including lunch with Peyroux or just a viewing ticket of the broadcast which is set for 11:30 am. See the Dakotawebsite for more info and tickets.

Debbie Duncan

This might be the first time Debbie Duncan has performed at Jazz Central, and you could not ask for a better show to honor International Jazz Day than Minnesota's "First Lady of Song." Debbie had a chance to sit in with the Delfeayo Marsalis band at the Dakota last month and she fit the music as if it had been arranged just for her. You know it will be a night of not only great vocal jazz but crack-up entertainment as well.

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities -- check out calendars at Jazz Police, KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You, as well as here on the blog. More jazz to tickle your ears:

Friday-Sunday, April 24-26. Zeitgeist Early Music Festival at Studio Z

Friday, April 24. Irv Williams and Steve Blons, Happy Hour at the Dakota; Todd Harper, happy hour at the Black Dog; The Riverside Trio at Crooners' Lounge; John Paulson with Swing, Inc. at Signatures (Winona); Arne Fogel at Parma 8200; Jake Hanson and James Buckley, dinner sets at the Icehouse; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske in the Lobby Bar (Saint Paul Hotel); Charmin Michelle with the Ray Siegl Trio at Scusi; Optimum Trajectory at the Underground Music Cafe

Milo Fine

Saturday, April 25. Debbie Duncan, brunch at Hell's Kitchen; Davu Seru with Milo Fine at Schmidt Artists Lofts (noon); Charmin & Shapira at Midtown Global Market (12:30 pm); Augsburg Jazz Ensembles at Famous Dave's Uptown (4 pm); GST at Hell's Kitchen; Talking Strings at Loring Pasta Bar; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske in the Lobby Bar (Saint Paul Hotel); Benny Weinbeck Trio at Parma 8200; Julius Collins and Ginger Commodore at the Dakota; Paula Lammers Trio at the Mason Jar; Southside Aces at Eagles Aerie Club; Sheridan Zuther at Crooners' Lounge; John Penny Trio at Scratch Bar and Grill; Trent Baarspul Trio, late set at Public Kitchen

Sunday, April 26. Patty and the Buttons, brunch at the Aster; Robert Everest, brunch at Maria's; Jazz Brunch at Crooners' Lounge; Joel Shapira, solo guitar at the Black Dog (3 pm); Jerry O'Hagan Orchestra with Charmin Michelle at Cinema Ballroom; Zacc Harris Trio at Riverview Wine Bar

Monday, April 27. Maurice Jacox Trio at Crooners Lounge

Tuesday, April 28. Cafe Accordion at Loring Pasta Bar; Twin Cities Latin Jazz Orchestra at Jazz Central; Northwestern University (MN) spring jazz concert at Marantha Hall, Northwestern University; Eric Leeds and Paul Peterson at the Icehouse

Wednesday, April 29. Andrew Walesch Quartet at Crooners Lounge; North Hennepin Community College Jazz Band, spring concert at NHCC Fine Arts Building; Parisota Hot Club at The Tangiers; The Neighborhood Jazz Trio at Barbette

Thursday, April 30. University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, Jazz I with Jamey Simmons at Gantner Concert Hall, UW-EC; Jerry O'Hagan Orchestra with Charmin Michelle at Wabasha Street Caves; Mia Dorr at Crooners Lounge

Coming Soon!

. May 1, Patty Peterson with Steve Cole, Ricky Peterson at the Icehouse

. May 1, Framework at The Nicollet

. May 2, Jason Moran and Robert Glasper at the Walker

. May 2, Adam Kohlker with the Good Vibes Trio at Jazz Central

. May 2, Dave Brattain Quartet/DD7 at the Black Dog

. May 8, Ron Miles with the Atrium Jazz Ensemble at Orchestra Hall (Target Atrium)

. May 8, Presidential Flow (Mayo, Brattain, Nair, Evans, Granowski) at The Nicollet

. May 9, Joe Mayo/Cory Healey's Beautiful Sunshine Band at the Black Dog

. May 10, Soul Cafe' at Hennepin Avenue Methodist Church

. May 11, Tim Berne's Snake Oil at the Icehouse

. May 15, Minnesota Youth Jazz Band at The Nicollet

. May 16, Headspace followed by the Paul Renz Quartet at the Black Dog

. May 22, Chris Lomheim Trio at The Nicollet

. May 23, Central Standard Time followed by Firebell at the Black Dog

. May 27-28, Rachelle Ferrell at the Dakota

. May 29, Bottomless Pit at The Nicollet

. May 30, Dave Martin Trio followed by the Atlantis Quartet at the Black Dog

. June 2, Tim Reis Rolling Stones Project at the Dakota

. June 3, Steve Smith and Vital Information, NYC Edition at the Dakota

. June 5, Paul Harper's Show and Tell at The Nicollet

. June 6, Lulu's Playground followed by The Five at the Black Dog

. June 12, Tommy Bentz Quartet at The Nicollet

. June 13, Will Schmid Trio followed by the Graydon Peterson Quartet

. June 16, Ticket to Brazil, Jazz in the Library at SunRay Library (St Paul)

. June 17, Good Vibes Trio, Jazz in the Library at Hamline Library (St Paul)

. June 19, The Dakota Combo followed by Dean Granros' Tall Tales at The Nicollet

. June 20, John Penny/Jay Epstein Duo followed by the Phil Hey Quartet at the Black Dog

. June 21, Francisco Mela Trio, Jazz in the Library at St Paul Central Library

. June 22, Kurt Elling at the Dakota

. June 23-24, Cecile McLorin Salvant at the Dakota

. June 25-27, Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Mears Park and beyond (Dr John, Potter/Holland/Louke/Harland Quartet, Francisco Mela with Nicholas Payton, Araya-Orta Quartet, Marquis Hill Blacktet)

. June 28, John Pizzarelli at the Dakota

. June 30-July 1, Charles Lloyd Quartet at the Dakota

. July 2-4, Iowa City Jazz Festival (Charles Lloyd, Dave Douglas, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Julian Lage, Brian Charette, Atlantis Quartet, Becca Stevens, COLOSSUS, Dakota Combo)

. August 7, George Brooks/ Larry Coryell and Bombay Jazz, Studio Z

Jason Moran joins Robert Glasper at the Walker, May 2nd

Jason Moran and Robert Glasper together at the Walker Art Center on May 2nd

© Andrea Canter

Green leaves, crab apple blossoms, tulips and a good be-bop riff-- you have to love spring in Minnesota, once it gets here. Can't use the weather as an excuse these days-- it isn't too cold, there's no snow and ice, and it isn't too hot yet! Take your ears out for a spin: Some veteran ensembles at The Nicollet and Black Dog, young lions and a visiting New Yorker at Jazz Central, a visiting duo of piano titans at the Walker -- it's a jazz lovers weekend. The work week kicks off with homecoming gigs (sort of) for Minnesota bassists at the Icehouse.

Big Gigs This Week

Javi Santiago

Friday, May 1. Youth rules tonight at Jazz Central, as the Javi Santiago Quartet takes its place on the Bridge Series. With 20-somethings Javi on piano and Cory Healey on drums, the youthful "old-timers" Zacc Harris (guitar) and Cody McKinney (bass) will have to keep them in line! Special "welcome back" to Cody who finished studies at the New School in New York this winter. Stick around for some even younger talents as the late show features the U of M Jazz Combodirected by Phil Hey.

Framework

Down the street, Friday Night Jazz at the Nicollet features the venue debut of Framework, the string trio that brings together three inventive improvisers in Chris Olson (guitar), Chris Bates (bass) and Jay Epstein (drums). Longtime favorites at the Artists Quarter, the band has found new audiences at Jazz Central and the Black Dog, fueling their sets with covers of Coltrane, Shorter and Coleman, as well as their own compositions.

Patty Peterson

And just a few blocks down at the Icehouse, Patty Peterson and Friends rocks the old bricks with special friend Steve Cole on sax and brother Ricky Peterson on keys and vocals. The music will definitely lean toward smooth, but no one melds jazz, R&B and smooth better than Patty and her pals. With the usual suspects--Paul Peterson, Jason Peterson DeLaire, Billy Franze and Bobby Vandell.

Robert Glasper & Jason Moran (photo WBGO)

Saturday, May 2. What might be billed as one of the biggest jazz nights of 2015 in the Twin Cities, the Walker Art Center presents a dazzling piano duo-- McArthur "Genius Grant" recipient Jason Moran and Grammy-winner Robert Glasper. Old pals from Houston, they've been touring in honor of Blue Note Records 75th anniversary, offering music that touches on the roots of jazz as well as their collaborative improvisations. Moran is no stranger to the Walker, having presented commissioned works several times in the past decade, and has appeared as a member of Charles Lloyd's Quartet at the Dakota; Glasper has not been in town for a while but his recent exploits with his electrified Robert Glasper Experience should intrigue-- this is an acoustic show at the Walker. First show sold out so a 10:30 late set was added.

Good Vibes Trio

At Jazz Central, it's also a special Saturday night as Chris Bates' Good Vibes Trio (with Dave Hagedorn and Phil Hey) welcomes New York-based tenor saxophonist Adam Kolker. In addition to earning a couple Grammys working with Ray Baretto, Adam has perfomed with the Village Vanguard Orchestra, Fred Hersch, the Maria Schneider Orchestra, Bruce Barth, Judi Silvano and more, and has led groups with the likes of John Abercrombie and Billy Hart.

Anthony Cox

Saturday Night Jazz at the Black Dog kicks off with a band led by sax veteran Dave Brattain with drummer Mac Santiago. The prime time set features Anthony Cox's DD7 -- that's a two or three-horn band depending on Mike Lewis's schedule. Lewis is not on tonight, but with Brandon Wozniak and Steve Kenny, there's plenty of horn power, fueled by bassist Cox and drummer JT Bates.

Sunday, May 3. Make it campus jazz day! The Century Jazz Ensemble holds its annual Swing Into Spring concert mid-afternoon on the Century College campus. The long-running ensemble includes alums of the Century College jazz program and faculty. Later in the afternoon, in Northfield, Adam Kolker (see Saturday at Jazz Central) is the special guest with St. Olaf Jazz Ensembles II and III on the St. Olaf campus. Come evening, you can enjoy the U of M Jazz Ensembles I and II in a salute to Big Bands at Ted Mann.

Michael O'Brien

Monday, May 4. At the Icehouse, JT's Jazz Implosion brings a favorite son back to the Twin Cities. New York-based bassist Michael O'Brien is just visiting, but he's here for a week or so, starting tonight with a formidable ensemble including Zacc Harris, Jake Baldwin, Brandon Wozniak and JT Bates himself. (Catch Michael next Friday at Jazz Central.)

Maryann Sullivan and Jim Chenoweth

Tuesday, May 5. You can count on a swinging good time whenever Maryann Sullivan and Corner Jazz are on the band stand, and tonight that good time is at The Nicollet. The band will barely fit on the stage-- bassist Jim Chenoweth, drummer Nathan Norman, trombonist Dave Graf, and pianist Andrew Walesch-- who very well might join Maryann on vocals.

It will be a different sort of good time, but good nonetheless, when Coloring Time featuring Cody McKinney takes the stage at the Icehouse. Quoting their press, "Coloring Time is a musical accident waiting to happen, so to speak. Instrumentalists Casey O’Brien (bass), Graham O’Brien (drums), John Keston (keys), Robert Mulrennen (guitar) and Jon Davis (reeds) pave nebulous jazzways on which vocalist/MCs Joe Horton, Kristoff Krane and Adam Svec race headlong to rapture and epiphany." Special guest, bassist Cody McKinney, is back in town after completing studies at the New School in New York, and he is wasting no time returning to the heart of the Twin Cities music community.

Lila Ammons

Wednesday, May 6.Lila Ammons has royal jazz roots -- grandfather Albert Ammons of boogie-woogie fame, uncle Gene Ammons, bebop tenor titan. And she has a stunning voice that is equally comfortable on a jazz ballad and a boogie-woogie blues. Often touring in Europe, she's around this spring and singing with local royalty-- pianist Thom West, bassist Tom Lewis, and drummer Nathan Norman, tonight at Crooner's Lounge.

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities -- check out calendars at Jazz Police, KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You, as well as here on the blog. More jazz to tickle your ears:

Friday, May 1. Irv Williams, happy hour at the Dakota; Todd Harper's Piano Fridays at the Black Dog; Andrew Walesch at Parma 8200; John Paulson with Swing, Inc. at Signatures (Winona); Twin Cities Latin Jazz Orchestra and the Anoka-Ramsey Community College Jazz Band at ARCC Performing Arts Center; Matra at the Black Dog; Infinite Variety Band at Crooner's Lounge

Saturday, May 2. Charmin & Shapira, Midtown Global Market (12:30 pm); Lila Ammons, 3 pm at Club Saragota (Duluth); Talking Strings at Loring Pasta Bar; Zacc Harris and Phil Aaron, dinner sets at the Icehouse; Benny Weinbeck Trio at Parma 8200; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske in the Lobby Bar, Saint Paul Hotel; Paula Lammers with Mary Louise Knutson and Nuhjume at Antonello Hall, MacPhail Center for Music; Seven Cats Swing Band at Crooners' Lounge

Sunday, May 3. Patty and the Buttons, brunch at the Aster; Robert Everest, brunch at Maria's; Jazz Brunch at Crooners' Lounge; Zacc Harris Trio at the Riverview Wine Bar

Paula Lammers

Monday, May 4. Scott Agster at Jazz Central; Paula Lammers at Crooners' Lounge

Tuesday, May 5. Cafe Accordion at Loring Pasta Bar; Dean Magraw and Davu Seru at the Black Dog; Brio Brass at Edinborough Indoor Amphitheater; Bill Simenson Orchestra at Jazz Central; Robert Everest at Crooners' Lounge

Wednesday, May 6. Connie Evingson with Chris Lomheim, Terry Burns and Dave Karr at the Minneapolis Woman's Club; John Penny Trio at Scratch Bar & Grill; Wolverines Trio at Hell's Kitchen; Anthony Cox at Jazz Central; Three Faces at Lake & Irving

Thursday, May 7. Benny Weinbeck, Wayzata Lunds & Byerly's; Moonlight Serenaders at Wabasha Street Caves; Normandale Community College Jazz Band at Lorenz Fine Arts Auditorium (NCC); Joel Shapira at Hell's Kitchen

Coming Soon!

. May 8, Ron Miles with the Atrium Jazz Ensemble at Orchestra Hall (Target Atrium)

. May 8, Presidential Flow (Mayo, Brattain, Nair, Evans, Granowski) at The Nicollet

. May 8, Joel Shapira Trio at Parma 8200

. May 9, Joe Mayo/Cory Healey's Beautiful Sunshine Band at the Black Dog

. May 10, Southside Aces (brunch), Prudence Johnson and Dan Chouinard (evening) at the Dakota

. May 10, Soul Cafe' at Hennepin Avenue Methodist Church
. May 10, Paul Renz Quartet at the Aster Cafe

. May 11, Tim Berne's Snake Oil at the Icehouse

. May 12, Vicky Mountain at The Nicollet

. May 13, Casey O'Brien Quartet at Jazz Central

. May 15, Minnesota Youth Jazz Band at The Nicollet

. May 15, Michael O'Brien Quartet at Jazz Central

. May 15, Maud Hixson at Parma 8200

. May 16, Headspace followed by the Paul Renz Quartet at the Black Dog

. May 22, Chris Lomheim Trio at The Nicollet

. May 22, Travis Anderson Trio at Parma 8200

. May 23, Central Standard Time followed by Firebell at the Black Dog

. May 27-28, Rachelle Ferrell at the Dakota

. May 29, Bottomless Pit at The Nicollet

. May 29, Connie Evingson at Parma 8200

. May 30, Dave Martin Trio followed by the Atlantis Quartet at the Black Dog

. June 2, Tim Reis Rolling Stones Project at the Dakota

. June 3, Steve Smith and Vital Information, NYC Edition at the Dakota

. June 5, Paul Harper's Show and Tell at The Nicollet

. June 6, Lulu's Playground followed by The Five at the Black Dog

. June 12, Tommy Bentz Quartet at The Nicollet

. June 13, Will Schmid Trio followed by the Graydon Peterson Quartet

. June 16, Ticket to Brazil, Jazz in the Library at SunRay Library (St Paul)

. June 17, Good Vibes Trio, Jazz in the Library at Hamline Library (St Paul)

. June 19, The Dakota Combo followed by Dean Granros' Tall Tales at The Nicollet

. June 20, John Penny/Jay Epstein Duo followed by the Phil Hey Quartet at the Black Dog

. June 21, Francisco Mela Trio, Jazz in the Library at St Paul Central Library

. June 22, Kurt Elling at the Dakota

. June 23-24, Cecile McLorin Salvant at the Dakota

. June 25-27, Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Mears Park and beyond (Dr John, Potter/Holland/Louke/Harland Quartet, Francisco Mela with Nicholas Payton, Araya-Orta Quartet, Marquis Hill Blacktet)

. June 28, John Pizzarelli at the Dakota

. June 30-July 1, Charles Lloyd Quartet at the Dakota

. July 2-4, Iowa City Jazz Festival (Charles Lloyd, Dave Douglas, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Julian Lage, Brian Charette, Atlantis Quartet, Becca Stevens, COLOSSUS, Dakota Combo)

. August 6, George Brooks with Larry Coryell and Bombay Jazz at the Dakota

Tim Berne's Snake Oil - coming to the Icehouse, May 11

Red Planet -- at Jazz Central on May 8

© Andrea Canter

Some jazz giants visit this week (Tim Berne, Horacio "El Negro" Hernandez), and the weekend is filled with veterans and rising stars across the metro. Spring is here, and we're warming up for big sounds this summer.

Big Gigs This Week

Dean Magraw

Friday, May 8. A Twin Cities favorite for the past decade, Red Planetplays less often these days but with no less intensity. Dean Magraw, Chris Bates and Jay Epstein invigorate Jazz Central Studios on the Bridge Series, now starting at 7 pm. Don't worry about dinner, Vanessa Lopez will turn up about 8 pm with her almost nightly treats.

Joel Shapira

Virtuosic guitarist Joel Shapira plays at Parma 8200 on a rare instrumental Friday. Nothing beats some inventive guitar trio music to melt away the stress of the week!

Ron Miles

A late night treat at Orchestra Hall tonight (10:30 pm) is the finale of the new Jazz in the Target Atrium series curated by Jeremy Walker. Following the orchestra's concert earlier in the evening, the Target Atrium welcomes Denver-based trumpeter Ron Miles with the Atrium ensemble, featuring Bryan Nichols, Anthony Cox and JT Bates. Miles is a long-time cohort of Bill Frisell as well as an accomplished leader, composer and educator.

Cory Healey

Saturday, May 9. The weekly double-header at the Black Dog brings young saxophonist Joe Mayo and company to start off the evening with a bang, followed by another young bandleader, drummer Cory Healey and his Beautiful Sunshine Band. Usually with two horns, tonight the Sunshine will be delivered as a quartet with Jake Baldwin, Zacc Harris and Erik Fratzke.

Dave Karr

Over at the Icehouse, you could not ask for a more sublime duo than Bryan Nichols and Dave Karr. A few generations apart, Bryan (piano) and Dave (sax) nevertheless find a lot of common ground musically, and it's really hard to beat free music at this level accompanied by some of the most inventive dining options in the area.

Tony Balluff (Southside Aces)

Sunday, May 10. The Dakota offers two stunning options for Mothers Day -- brunch with the Southside Aces, dinner or whatever with Prudence Johnson and Dan Chouinard. The Aces are a top-notch New Orleans swing band headed by Tony Balluff; Prudence and Dan are a velvety voice/piano team celebrating the release of their new Gershwin. Their special guest tonight is ragtime piano magician Butch Thompson.

Steve Blons, Soul Cafe'

Another option for Mothers Day, and anyone else who likes some exquisitely rendered straight-ahead jazz melded with modern poetry is Soul Café, once a monthly event and now performing a few times each year at their home base, the Hennepin Avenue United Methodist Church. Led by guitarist Steve Blons, the current configuration includes Dave Graf on trombone, Brad Holden on sax, and Darryl Boudreaux on percussion, with guest readers adding the poetic touches. Of tonight's concert, dubbed "Breathing Lessons," Steve says, "It's Spring and Minnesotans are feeling giddy. Yet, while the weight of winter may finally be lifting, the world can still feel heavy on our shoulders. Breathing helps. Beauty helps. Lighten your load relaxing with an hour of jazz and poetry. Rest in the images and the music. Re-attune to the natural rhythms of breath and heartbeat."

Tim Berne

Monday, May 11. Once in a while, JT Bates turns his Jazz Implosion into an international jazz explosion! Tonight, he welcomes avant garde saxophonist Tim Berne and his Snake Oil ensemble to the Icehouse for a night of gleeful mayhem. Snake Oil, which just released a new album on ECM (You've Been Watching Me), includes clarinetist Oscar Noriega, pianist Matt Mitchell, and drummer/percussionist Ches Smith. This band will transform the Icehouse into an inferno.

At the Dakota, Cuban pianist Nachito Herrera departs from his usual weekend gigs to bring "Back to Cuba" to the stage, featuring Grammy winners drummer, Horacio "El Negro" Hernandez and bassist José Armando Gola, and vocalist Mirdalys Herrera.

Nachito Herrera

Tuesday, May 12. Vocalist Vicky Mountainhas been gigging more lately, and we're all the better for it. Tonight she invites us all to put on our swing dance shoes at The Nicollet, aided and abetted by guitarist Dave Martin and bassist Jim Chenoweth.

Wednesday, May 13. Former Minnesotan, NY-based saxophonist Nick Videendrops into the Icehouse, where he will play with three of our best-- Bryan Nichols, Chris Bates and Cory Healey. Among his credits, Nick has played with Superpower Horns, including a recording session with Beyonce'. Expect a jazzier version of Nick at the Icehouse.

At Jazz Central, "new music" night, Secret Stash house bassist Casey O'Brien brings in his Ghost Dance project with fellow improvisers Nathan Hanson on sax and Davu Seru on percussion. The original compositions, in the words of MPR's David Cazares, yields "sounds that dance in the air."

Adam Linz

Thursday, May 14. Possibly the least likely jazz venue in the metro -- Khyber Pass Cafe in St. Paul sports improvised music every Thursday night. Tonight marks the return of Le Percheron, a cross-generational project headed by bassist Adam Linz, along with a troupe of modern experimenters including saxophonist Brandon Wozniak, vibes master Levi Schwartzberg, and drummer Cory Healey. Enjoy experimental music and some small plates from the kitchen!

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities -- check out calendars at Jazz Police, KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You, as well as here on the blog. More jazz to tickle your ears:

Friday, May 8. Irv Williams and Mary Louise Knutson, happy hour at the Dakota; Todd Harper Piano Fridays at the Black Dog; Eastside at Hell's Kitchen; Zacc Harris and James Buckley, dinner sets at the Icehouse; Larry Dunsmore and Sheridan Zuther at Crooners Lounge; Trio Brasiliero with Pavel Jany and Natania Kamin at the Cedar Cultural Center; Classic Big Band & the Nostalgics Quartet at Bloomington KC Hall

Sheridan Zuther

Saturday, May 9. Talking Strings at Loring Pasta Bar; Benny Weinbeck Trio at Parma 8200; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske in the Lobby Bar, Saint Paul Hotel; Nujume with Paula Lammers Quartet, Antonello Hall at MacPhail Center for Music; Pippi Ardennia's PipJazz Improv Night at the Bedlam Lowertown

Sunday, May 10. Swing Brunch with Patty and the Buttons at the Aster; Jazz Jam and Brunch at Crooners Lounge; Mothers' Day Big Band Blowout at the Como Dockside Pavilion; Fuzzy Math at the Black Dog; Jerry O'Hagan Orchestra with Charmin Michelle at Cinema Ballroom; Zacc Harris Trio at Riverview Wine Bar; Zack Lozier Three at Underground Music Cafe; Paul Renz at the Aster

Monday, May 11. Ray Covington and Bob Johnston at Crooners Lounge; Evan Benidt at Jazz Central

Tuesday, May 12. 7 Cats Swing Band at Crooners Lounge; Cafe Accordion at Loring Pasta Bar; Chris Olsen and Kevin Daley, duets at the Black Dog; Nova Jazz Orchestra at Minnesota Music Cafe; Cedar Ave Big Band at Jazz Central

Wednesday, May 13. Lila Ammons Trio at the Tangiers

Thursday, May 14. Fuzzy Math at Hell's Kitchen; JazzMN Orchestra with Patty Peterson at Chanhassan Fireside Theater

Coming Soon!

. May 15, Minnesota Youth Jazz Band at The Nicollet

. May 15, Michael O'Brien Quartet at Jazz Central

. May 15, Maud Hixson at Parma 8200

. May 16, Headspace followed by the Paul Renz Quartet at the Black Dog

. May 20, Todd Clouser's A Love Electric at the Turf Club.

. May 20, Pete Whitman's Ageless Quartet at Jazz Central

. May 22, Chris Lomheim Trio at The Nicollet

. May 22, Travis Anderson Trio at Parma 8200

. May 22, Kristin Sponcia Quartet at Jazz Central

. May 23, Central Standard Time followed by Firebell at the Black Dog

. May 25, David Martin at Jazz Central

. May 27, Pat Kuehn Quartet at Jazz Central

. May 27-28, Rachelle Ferrell at the Dakota

. May 29, Bottomless Pit at The Nicollet

. May 29, Connie Evingson at Parma 8200

. May 30, Dave Martin Trio followed by the Atlantis Quartet at the Black Dog

. June 2, Tim Reis Rolling Stones Project at the Dakota

. June 3, Steve Smith and Vital Information, NYC Edition at the Dakota

. June 4, Phil Mattson Group at Jazz Central

. June 5, Paul Harper's Show and Tell at The Nicollet

. June 6, Lulu's Playground followed by The Five at the Black Dog

. June 12, Tommy Bentz Quartet at The Nicollet

. June 13, Will Schmid Trio followed by the Graydon Peterson Quartet

. June 16, Ticket to Brazil, Jazz in the Library at SunRay Library (St Paul)

. June 17, Good Vibes Trio, Jazz in the Library at Hamline Library (St Paul)

. June 19, The Dakota Combo followed by Dean Granros' Tall Tales at The Nicollet

. June 20, John Penny/Jay Epstein Duo followed by the Phil Hey Quartet at the Black Dog

. June 21, Francisco Mela Trio, Jazz in the Library at St Paul Central Library

. June 22, Kurt Elling at the Dakota

. June 23-24, Cecile McLorin Salvant at the Dakota

. June 25-27, Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Mears Park and beyond (Dr John, Potter/Holland/Louke/Harland Quartet, Francisco Mela with Nicholas Payton, Araya-Orta Quartet, Marquis Hill Blacktet)

. June 28, John Pizzarelli at the Dakota

. June 30-July 1, Charles Lloyd Quartet at the Dakota

. July 2-4, Iowa City Jazz Festival (Charles Lloyd, Dave Douglas, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Julian Lage, Brian Charette, Atlantis Quartet, Becca Stevens, COLOSSUS, Dakota Combo)

. August 6, George Brooks with Larry Coryell and Bombay Jazz at the Dakota

Michael O'Brien at Jazz Central, May 15th

Eric Gravatt and Dean Magraw (Saturday at Studio Z)

© Andrea Canter

In Northeast Minneapolis, it's Art-a-Whirl weekend. In the Twin Cities metro area, it might be dubbed Jazz-a-Whirl. Actually that title might fit every weekend here. This weekend is the final gig for former resident bassist Michael O'Brien's current visit, a CD release for JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske's "Jazz in the Lobby Bar," a "comeback" of sorts for veteran guitarist Paul Renz, a grand finale for Jazz at Studio Z's fourth season with Eric Gravatt and Dean Magraw, an evening with Maud Hixson at Parma, and an evening at the Dakota with the king of rag and stride piano, Butch Thompson. The whirl continues into the week, with a Monday showdown of two volcanic drummers at the Icehouse (JT Bates and Dave King) and a Wednesday night homecoming at the Turf Club for Todd Clouser and A Love Electric. It's just mid-May but we are already feeling some summer heat!

Big Gigs This Week

Michael O'Brien

Friday, May 15. New York bassist and former Twin Citian Michael O'Brien has been in town for a couple weeks, and he finishes off his performance at Jazz Central tonight with his "Triage" ensemble, featuring pianist Chris Lomheim and drummer Jay Epstein. The trio played their inaugural gig two years ago at the Artists Quarter-- it's been too long between gigs for such elegant music.

JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske turn the Lobby Bar of the Saint Paul Hotel into an intimate jazz club every weekend (September-May). Tonight they celebrate their seven-year collaboration with the release of Jazz in the Lobby Bar, adding in pals Nathan Norman, Pete Whitman and Richard Kriehn as they recreate the weekly gig in the hotel's larger Promenade Ballroom. The arrangements perfectly display JoAnn's unique phrasing and interpretative sense, as well as Jeff's ability to comp as well as serve as a second voice.

At Parma 8200, another notable songbird, Maud Hixson, draws from an uncommon songlist supported by pianist/husband Rick Carlson and bassist Gordy Johnson.

Eric Gravatt

Saturday, May 16.Zacc Harris brings his fourth annual Jazz at Studio Z season to a close with the daunting duo of Eric Kamau Gravatt and Dean Magraw. About a year ago the two veterans released Fire on the Nile, and the fire just keeps burning. They'll kickoff the evening with a free public master class. Emphasis on "master."

Paul Renz

Down the hill at the Black Dog, an old favorite from the Artists Quarter resurfaces as Headspace plays the opening set. Also resurfacing after bicep surgery, guitarist Paul Renz and his quartet take the stage for the second part of "Saturday Night Jazz at the Black Dog," in the company of special guest, flautist Anders Bostrom. Renz is jumpstarting his new ensemble, with Wes Ruelle on piano, Jonathan Thomas on bass, andJessie Lesmeister on drums.

Butch Thompson

Sunday, May 17. Two Sundays in a row with Butch Thompson at the Dakota? Last week, Thompson was a special guest with Prudence Johnson and Dan Chouinard; tonight it's his show as the ragtime and stride piano/clarinet veteran helps swing the night away.

Katia Cardenas

Monday, May 18. One of the bright young lights on the local jazz scene, vocalist Katia Cardenas brings sophistication (and a bit of Ella?) to Foodie Night at the Dakota. Her repertoire is evolving to encompass not only the Great American Songbook but her own spin on more contemporary fare.

Dave King

At the Icehouse, JT's Jazz Implosion tonight features Real Bulls--a drum duel with JT and Dave King. More like Raging Bulls!

Tuesday, May 19. Hot club guitar stylist Stephane Wremble returns to the Dakota, going beyond Django and infusing his music with everything from blues to flamenco to rock.

Todd Clouser

Wednesday, May 20. Minnesota native guitarist/composer Todd Clouser has been spending most of his time in Mexico lately where he has initiated some innovative music education programs while honing his composition and vocal chops. His A Love Electric band has evolved into a more rock-oriented ensemble with a firm jazz foundation. He's back in town this week, bringing his current edition of ALE to the Turf Club.

Billed as Boomers vs Millennials, a quartet of Pete Whitman, Jay Young (the Boomers), Javi Santiago and Miguel Hurtado (the Millennials) will really be a collaborative effort, not a war, as the cross-generational talents merge at Jazz Central.

Martha Alkins

Thursday, May 21. The weekly vocal jazz night at Jazz Central features a newer talent, Martha Alkins, who presents "Generations of Jazz" -- songs from the 20s to the 70s, backed by pianist Ian Carleton and bassist Graydon Peterson.

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities -- check out calendars at Jazz Police, KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You, as well as here on the blog. More jazz to tickle your ears:

Friday, May 15. Irv Williams and Mary Louise Knutson, happy hour at the Dakota; Todd Harper Piano Fridays at the Black Dog; Tim Sparks and James Buckley, dinner sets at the Icehouse; Vinnie Rose Trio at Crooners Lounge; Donald Washington Quartet at the Black Dog; Minnesota Youth Jazz Band at The Nicollet (7:30 pm)

Saturday, May 16. Art-a-Whirl music: Charlie Lincoln Group at Elias Metal Studio; Fall of the House of Usher at Broadway and Central NE; Talking Strings at Loring Pasta Bar; Benny Weinbeck Trio at Parma 8200; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske in the Lobby Bar (Saint Paul Hotel); Nick Videen Quartet at Cambridge High School; Patty Peterson and Friends at Crooners Lounge; Paula Lammers Trio at the Mason Jar; Charmin Michelle at the St. Cloud Eagle's Aerie Club; Maurice Jacox Trio at the Normandy Kitchen; Twin Cities Cabaret Artists Network monthly salon at the Town House

Sunday, May 17. Charmin Michelle with Rick Carlson at Seward Co-op; Patty and the Buttons at the Aster; Robert Everest at Maria's; Jazz Brunch at Crooners Lounge; Zacc Harris Trio at the Riverview Wine Bar; Minnesota Youth Jazz Bands spring concert at McNally Smith (Mid Level and Jazz III)

Monday, May 18. Adam Rossmiller at Jazz Central

MYJB

Tuesday, May 19. Cafe Accordion at Loring Pasta Bar; Acme Jazz Company with Arne Fogel at Crooners Lounge; Explosion Big Band at Jazz Central; Patty and the Buttons at Cafe Maude; River City Jazz Orchestra at Minnesota Music Cafe; Minnesota Youth Jazz Bands spring concert at Famous Dave's Uptown (North Metro Honor Band)

Wednesday, May 20. Stu Blu and Friends at Lake Harriet Spiritual Community; Zacc Harris Trio at Cafe Maude; Andrew Walesch at Crooners Lounge; River City Jazz Orchestra at Como Dockside; Minnesota Youth Jazz Bands spring concert at McNally Smith (Jazz I and II)

Thursday, May 21. Third Thursday (Joe Damman, Scott Fultz, Davu Seru) at Khyber Pass Cafe

Coming Soon!

. May 22, Chris Lomheim Trio at The Nicollet

. May 22, Travis Anderson Trio at Parma 8200

. May 22, Kristin Sponcia Quartet at Jazz Central

. May 23, Central Standard Time followed by Firebell at the Black Dog

. May 24, Ginger Commodore and Friends at the Dakota

. May 25, David Martin at Jazz Central

. May 26, David Torn (solo) at The Cedar

. May 27, Pat Kuehn Quartet at Jazz Central

. May 27-28, Rachelle Ferrell at the Dakota

. May 29, Bottomless Pit at The Nicollet

. May 29, Connie Evingson at Parma 8200

. May 30, Dave Martin Trio followed by the Atlantis Quartet at the Black Dog

. June 1, Dean Granros' Tall Tales, CD Release at the Icehouse

. June 2, Tim Reis Rolling Stones Project at the Dakota

. June 3, Steve Smith and Vital Information, NYC Edition at the Dakota

. June 4, Phil Mattson Group at Jazz Central

. June 5, Paul Harper's Show and Tell at The Nicollet

. June 6, Lulu's Playground followed by The Five at the Black Dog

. June 12, Tommy Bentz Quartet at The Nicollet

. June 13, Will Schmid Trio followed by the Graydon Peterson Quartet

. June 16, Ticket to Brazil, Jazz in the Library at SunRay Library (St Paul)

. June 17, Chris Bates' Good Vibes Trio, Jazz in the Library at Hamline Library (St Paul)

. June 19, The Dakota Combo followed by Dean Granros' Tall Tales at The Nicollet

. June 19, Bill Frisell at the Dakota

. June 20, John Penny/Jay Epstein Duo followed by the Phil Hey Quartet at the Black Dog

. June 21, Francisco Mela Trio, Jazz in the Library at St Paul Central Library

. June 22, Kurt Elling at the Dakota

. June 23-24, Cecile McLorin Salvant at the Dakota

. June 25-27, Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Mears Park and beyond (Dr John, Potter/Holland/Louke/Harland Quartet, Francisco Mela with Nicholas Payton, Araya-Orta Quartet, Marquis Hill Blacktet)

. June 28, John Pizzarelli at the Dakota

. June 29, Becca Stevens at the Dakota

. June 30-July 1, Charles Lloyd Quartet at the Dakota

. July 2-4, Iowa City Jazz Festival (Charles Lloyd, Dave Douglas, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Julian Lage, Brian Charette, Atlantis Quartet, Becca Stevens, COLOSSUS, Dakota Combo)

. July 5, Vincinius Cantauria at the Dakota

. July 12, Edina Jazz Fest at Centennial Lakes Park

. July 18, PipJazz at The Bedlam

. July 23, John Raymond Quartet with Billy Hart at the Dakota

. August 6, George Brooks with Larry Coryell and Bombay Jazz at the Dakota

. September 7-8, Victor Wooten at the Dakota

Chris Lomheim Trio (at The Nicollet May 22)

Firebell (Park Evans, Graydon Peterson and Jay Epstein) -- Saturday Night Jazz at the Black Dog

© Andrea Canter

Seems we were just shivering and complaining about our cool spring, and here it is, Memorial Day Weekend and (finally) some warm sunshine. New challenges await, of course, like getting the garden planted, summer vacation reservations confirmed, and-- figuring out how to contend with parking and crowds as the Saints new ballpark opens in Lowertown -- scene of some of the area's most inventive jazz in recent months. This weekend will be the first big test of "baseball meets improvised music", with a Saints home game getting underway Saturday at the same time as gigs at the Black Dog and Studio Z; a new, late night improvised music series at Public Kitchen on Friday might actually benefit as an after-game destination--for those already in the area. Plan accordingly!

Big Gigs This Week

Chris Lomheim

Friday, May 22. At The Nicollet, the Chris Lomheim Trio debuts on the Friday Night Jazz series. Any fan of piano jazz should be familiar with the elegant Mr. Lomheim, whose Evanescent touch graces whatever he's playing, be it original compositions from his recent Timelines recording or standards from bebop and beyond. With Gordy Johnson and bass and Reid Kennedy on drums, Chris promises an evening of joyful jazz.

Travis Anderson

Piano trio jazz is also on the menu at Parma 8200, where the Travis Anderson Trio(Steve Pikal, Nathan Norman) swings through a rare instrumental Friday night. And I mean swing.

Kristin Sponcia

Tonight at Jazz Central, former McNally Smith faculty Kristin Sponcia plays her first of two gigs within a week, while on break from graduate studies at the University of Illinois (Champaign). On the Bridge Series, it's the quartet with Kristin on piano and vocals, backed by Mike Krajewski (guitar), Graydon Peterson (bass) and Dave Schmalenberger (drums). (See Thursday below for Kristin's gig on the Vocal Jazz series.)

Pawan Benjamin

Following at 9:30, Jazz Central hosts a fundraising concert to support communities damaged by earthquakes in Nepal. Music will be provided by an explosive young trio featuring Javi Santiago on piano, Miguel Hurtado on drums, and visiting Milwaukee-born saxophonist Pawan Benjamin. Pawan first met Javi and Miguel in New York where he can Miguel were classmates at the Manhattan School of Music; this is not Pawan's first visit to Jazz Central, where he hopes to raise funds to help his family's village, among others.

Kevin Gastonguay

A new addition to music in Lowertown is Public Kitchen & Bar, just off Mears Park and offering a 10 pm show of improvised music on Fridays in the lower level lounge. Tonight, Gastonguay (Kevin) + Markworth (Kameron) + Schmidt (Zach) ), a new piano/bass/drum trio, do the honors.

Jay Epstein, Firebell

Saturday, May 23. Lowertown jazz and improvised music will test the impact of baseball tonight. At the Black Dog--which could be jammed earlier with pre-game traffic, the Saturday Night Jazz series continues with the usual double-header: Opening will be the cross-generation antics of Central StandardTime, featuring teen bass master Charlie Lincoln with Steve Kenny, Sten Johnson, Dave Roos and Dennis Glaus. At 8:30, catch a couple sets with Firebell-- a veteran guitar trio with Park Evans, Graydon Peterson and Jay Epstein. Expect a lot of original material from their new CD, Impossible Vacation.

At Studio Z, the Twin Cities epicenter for new music, it's a rare double piano trio configuration with Chris Granias and Carei Thomas on the grands. Billed as "new improvisations for two pianos and assorted instruments," there is no one better to handle "assorted instruments" than Douglas Ewart, playing multiple reeds and percussion, including is home-made instruments.

Connie Evingson

You can avoid parking dilemmas and head for the Aster at St. Anthony Main where songbird Connie Evingson will swing for the rafters with Patty and the Buttons. Notes Connie,"I always have a great time singing with Patty & the Buttons, and the bohemian vibe of the Aster Cafe makes it especially fun!" Patty (aka Patrick Harison) and his "buttons" (accordion)--with Tony Balluff, Mark Kreitzer and Keith Boyles -- swing and sway in a mix of New Orleans, hot club, and 1920s beats.

Ginger Commodore

Sunday, May 24. Back one more time by popular demand-- Ginger Commodore and Julius Collinsreprise "A Night of Wonder", their tribute to the great Stevie Wonder, at the Dakota. These two amazing vocalists are joined byDonnie La Marca (keys), Art Haynes (bass),Troy Norton (guitar), Bobby Commodore (drums),Daryl Boudreaux (percussion), and Ashley Commodore, Geoff & Chreese Jones (vocals).

David Martin

Monday, May 25. End your holiday weekend with some virtuosic guitar from David Martin, in the spotlight at Jazz Central. He's joined by bassist Jim Chenoweth and drummer Joel Arpin.

Tuesday, May 26.Guitarist/composer David Torn returns to the Twin Cities for a solo show at The Cedar. Known for his melding of acoustic and electronic elements and particularly his use of loops, Torn was here at the Walker back in 2007 with his Presenz ensemble. Now he's touring in support of his new solo effort on ECM,Only Sky.

Larry McDonough

Larry McDonoughand friends reprise their Chet Baker tribute, first heard at Jazz Central last winter and now an encore at the Dakota. McDonough handles the singing Chet (as well as piano), while Steve Kenny takes on the trumpet role, with superb backing from Paul Peterson on saxes, Greg Stinson on Bass, Dean White on drums, and former WCCO anchor Don Shelby reading poetry about Baker and Bill Evans, written by regular McDonough cohort and saxophonist, Richard Terrill.

Rachelle Ferrell

Wednesday-Thursday, May 27-28.“The songwriter translates emotion into words. The singer's job is to translate the words back into emotion." So said vocalist Rachelle Ferrell, and she lives these words whenever she's on stage. Returning to the Dakota for two nights, Ferrell is a singular force. She has a six-octave range and can sing in “whistle register” like Minnie Riperton; studied voice, piano and violin in her youth and attended the Berklee College of Music; sang back up to Lou Rawls, Patti LaBelle, Vanessa Wiliams and George Duke. While her popularity has ebbed and flowed, she was largely beneath the jazz scene’s radar until recently. Dakota owner Lowell Pickett mentioned that there were no words to describe her. Maybe that’s true. Or maybe all words describe her.

Phil Mattson

Thursday, May 28. The second of Kristin Sponcia's Jazz Central gigs in the past week (see Friday), tonight the spotlight is on her skills as a vocalist, with Phil Mattson handling the piano duties. Which is only fitting as Kristin was a member of the Phil Mattson Singers when she was a Twin Cities resident.

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities -- check out calendars at Jazz Police, KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You, as well as here on the blog. More jazz to tickle your ears:

Friday, May 22. Irv Williams and Steve Blons, happy hour at the Dakota; Todd Harper Piano Fridays at the Black Dog; Debbie Duncan at Hell's Kitchen; Bryan Nichols and James Buckley, dinner sets at the Icehouse; Dave Ziffer at Ingredients Cafe; Optimum Trajectory at Underground Music Cafe; BZ3 Organ Trio at the Black Dog; Jello Slave at the Aster

Saturday, May 23. Benny Weinbeck Trio at Parma 8200; Sophia Shorai at Hell's Kitchen; Talking Strings at Loring Pasta Bar; Debbie Duncan Quartet at Crooners' Lounge; Zacc Harris Trio at Merlin's Rest Pub

Sunday, May 24. Patty and the Buttons, brunch at the Aster; Robert Everest, brunch at Maria's; Jazz Brunch at Crooners' Lounge; Joel Shapira, solo guitar at the Black Dog (4 pm); Zacc Harris Trio at Riverview Wine Bar; T Collective at the Icehouse

Monday, May 25. JT's Jazz Implosion at the Icehouse

Tuesday, May 26. Cafe Accordion Orchestra at Loring Pasta Bar; Twin Cities Latin Jazz Orchestra at Jazz Central; Maud Hixson with the Wolverines Trio at Hell's Kitchen

Debbie Duncan

Wednesday, May 27. Charmin Michelle at The Marsh; Retro Swing Sister at Eagles Aerie Club; Debbie Duncan Quartet at Crooners Lounge; Pat Kuehn Trio at Jazz Central; Lila Ammons Trio at The Tangiers

Thursday, May 28. Wes Ruelle Trio at Hell's Kitchen; Dave Ziffer at the Underground Music Cafe

Coming Soon!

. May 29, Bottomless Pit at The Nicollet

. May 29, Connie Evingson at Parma 8200

. May 30, Dave Martin Trio followed by the Atlantis Quartet at the Black Dog

. June 1, Dean Granros' Tall Tales, CD Release at the Icehouse

. June 2, Tim Reis Rolling Stones Project at the Dakota

. June 3, Steve Smith and Vital Information, NYC Edition at the Dakota

. June 4, Phil Mattson Group at Jazz Central

. June 5, Paul Harper's Show and Tell at The Nicollet

. June 6, Lulu's Playground followed by The Five at the Black Dog

. June 12, Tommy Bentz Quartet at The Nicollet

. June 13, Will Schmid Trio followed by the Graydon Peterson Quartet

. June 16, Ticket to Brazil, Jazz in the Library at Sun Ray Library (St Paul)

. June 17, Chris Bates' Good Vibes Trio, Jazz in the Library at Hamline Library (St Paul)

. June 19, The Dakota Combo followed by Dean Granros' Tall Tales at The Nicollet

. June 19, Bill Frisell at the Dakota

. June 20, John Penny/Jay Epstein Duo followed by the Phil Hey Quartet at the Black Dog

. June 21, Francisco Mela Trio, Jazz in the Library at St Paul Central Library

. June 22, Kurt Elling at the Dakota

. June 23-24, Cecile McLorin Salvant at the Dakota

. June 25-27, Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Mears Park and beyond (Dr John, Potter/Holland/Louke/Harland Quartet, Francisco Mela with Nicholas Payton, Araya-Orta Quartet, Marquis Hill Blacktet)

. June 28, John Pizzarelli at the Dakota

. June 29, Becca Stevens at the Dakota

. June 30-July 1, Charles Lloyd Quartet at the Dakota

. July 2-4, Iowa City Jazz Festival (Charles Lloyd, Dave Douglas, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Julian Lage, Brian Charette, Atlantis Quartet, Becca Stevens, COLOSSUS, Dakota Combo)

. July 5, Vinicius Cantauria at the Dakota

. July 12, Edina Jazz Fest at Centennial Lakes Park

. July 18, PipJazz at The Bedlam

. July 19, Midtown Global Market Music Festival

. July 23, John Raymond Quartet with Billy Hart at the Dakota

. August 6, George Brooks with Larry Coryell and Bombay Jazz at the Dakota

. September 7-8, Victor Wooten at the Dakota

Dean Granros' Tall Tales -- CD Release on June 1 at the Black Dog

With a shiny new McKnight Fellowship, Atlantis Quartet plays the Black Dog Saturday night

© Andrea Canter

There's what might be dubbed a mini-jazz fest in St. Paul's Lowertown this weekend-- warming up the neighborhood for the Twin Cities Jazz Festival, only 4 weeks away! (And with no Saints home game, parking should be "normal".) The coming week also brings a parade of stars into the Dakota, offering an alternative to the Rolling Stones on June 3 while putting Stones'"backups" on the jazz club stage. The week also brings the debut release from Dean Granros' new band, Tall Tales and a new voice/guitar duo from veterans Sarah Greer and John Penny. Better tighten your seat belts, this week will be a whirlwind of music.

Big Gigs This Week

A few years back -- The Jackson brothers

Friday, May 29. Just run up and down a two-block stretch of East 4th Street tonight! You can support young artists and have a great time doing it at The Bedlam, where rap/hip-hop band Heiruspecs again teams up with St. Paul Central High School in a fundraiser for scholarships to support students heading to higher education and careers in the arts. Joining the music performances will be the Byzantine Sextet, a St. Paul-based jazz band headed by Central alum/Augsburg student DeVante and brother/U of Manitoba student DeCarlo Jackson, with former scholarship recipient and Central alum Edmund Catlin, South High graduating senior Charlie Lincoln, Hill-Murray alum John Blanda and Central alum Evan Slack.

Charlie Lincoln

Down the street at the Black Dog, a unique double-header starts off with the core rhythm team of the dark and edgy Fall of the House of Usherensemble--that's Chris Cunningham on guitar, Chris Bates on bass and Greg Schutte on drums, joined by guests Michelle Kinney (cello), Nathan Hanson (saxes) and Ivan Cunningham (saxes). Stay for the late round with the young talents of Charlie Lincoln's Physical Memory Dump, with Peter Goggin on alto sax and Joey Hayes on drums. (Seems Charlie will also be running from the Bedlam to the Black Dog!)

Doug Haining

On the other side of the river, talents runs equally deep with two bands of veterans two hours and a few miles apart. At Jazz Central, Doug Haining revives his Cannonball Collective. The band first came together a few years ago at the Artists Quarter to celebrate the music of Cannonball Adderley. Now performing on the 7 pm Bridge Series, Haining brings back Zack Lozier (trumpet), Keith Boyles (bass) and Mac Santiago (drums), along with young upstart Joe Strachan on piano.

Bottomless Pit

On Steve Kenny's Friday Night Jazz at The Nicollet series, Joel Shapira's new Bottomless Pit takes over the bandstand, featuring stalwart jazzers Pete Whitman, Tom Lewis and Eric Kamau Gravatt levitating the works of Coltrane, Coleman, Shorter and more.

Connie Evingson

For your vocal pleasures, Connie Evingson (with Rick Carlson, Gordy Johnson and Dave Karr) brings you music from her wide range of influences and projects, from standards to The Beatles to hot club swing to Dave Frishberg, in the cozy lounge of Parma 8200 in Bloomington. Wine, pasta, cannoli, Connie. Perfect ingredients for Friday night chill-out.

Zacc Harris, Atlantis Qt

Saturday, May 30. Just announced as 2015 recipients of a $25,000 McKnight Musicians Fellowship, the Atlantis Quartet (Zacc Harris, Brandon Wozniak, Chris Bates, Pete Hennig) will be flying higher than ever when they play the headline slot at the Black Dog. They're also warming up for two back-to-back festival gigs, June 27 at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival and July 4 at the Iowa City Jazz Festival. Starting out the evening is another veteran ensemble headed by guitar monster David Martin, with pals Chris Bates and Pete Hennig warming up for their set with Atlantis.

At Pama 8200, the Benny Weinbeck Trio has been providing elegant piano trio jazz for the past few years, every Saturday night in the bar/lounge. Pianist Benny's long-standing trio cohorts, Gordy Johnson and Phil Hey, have their own longstanding partnership, including a couple years backing vocalist Stacy Kent. Communication is seamless and that's reflected in the music.

Walker West students at the TC Jazz Fest

Sunday, May 31. Where will the next young hotshots in local (or perhaps national) jazz come from? Walker West Music Academy invites us to find out at their annual Rev. Carl Walker/Grant West Honors Recital in their new performance space (4 pm). Performances feature Walker West's graduating high school seniors and other up-and-coming talents of the Academy. WWMA has long served as a breeding ground for future pro musicians and educators, especially those who ultimately pursue careers in jazz, and their faculty sports some of the area's top jazz artists, including Peter Leggett, Solomon and Aja Parham, Kevin Washington and more.

Orchestra for Ants

The Aster Cafe at St. Anthony Main offers a unique and historic setting for music (and food!). Tonight, hear the Orchestra for Ants, which suggests busy electronics but is self-described as 'outlaw-jazzmenco.' The Ants are three accomplished guitarists with diverse music backgrounds and chops---leader Ben Abrahamson (Lulu's Playground) who gravitates toward flamenco, Brazilian and 12-string; Park Evans (Firebell), master of "jazz shred comedy," and Nick Champeau, "cowboy casual." It's jazz, flamenco, swing and more. Definitely fun and surely musical.

The outdoor band concert season is underway at the Lake Harriet bandshell, and tonight features the popular Brazilian jazz ensemble, Ticket to Brasil, headed by guitarist Pavel Jany. Lake Harriet leaves room for dancing, which will be encouraged.

Tall Tales

Monday, June 1. For all of his 40+ years in local jazz and improvised music with such landmark bands as The Whole Earth Rainbow Band, Kamanari, Curlew and How Birds Work, guitar master Dean Granros has a relatively small discography in his own name and no recordings that feature his gnarly compositions. With his new quartet and self-titled CD (Tall Tales), Dean corrects that omission, and does so convincingly. Join Dean, Zacc Harris, Chris Bates and Jay Epstein tonight at the Icehouse as they celebrate the CD's release on Shifting Paradigm Records. You get a copy of the CD with your $12 admission. It's definitely worth minor parking hassles for the CD alone.

Peter Schimke

Earlier in the evening (e.g., you can make this gig and get to the Icehouse before Tall Tales gets underway), the spotlight is turned on pianist Peter Schimke at Jazz Central. An integral part of many ensembles (How Birds Work, Mississippi, Estaire Godinez, Irv Williams), Peter seldom gets the recognition his talent deserves.

Dean Magraw

Tuesday, June 2.It's the "first Tuesday" which means Dean Magraw and Davu Seru at the Black Dog. Often there's a guest artist as well, but the duo alone is indendiary-- Magraw the master of all genres on guitar, Seru both performer and scholar of African percussion.

The Rolling Stones roll into town for a blowout tomorrow night at TCF Bank Stadium, and in their wake the Dakota has booked two nights with "20 Steps to Stardom" star vocalist/Stones back-up singer Lisa Fischer (Sunday-Monday) and one gig--tonight-- with Stones' (and former Allman Brothers Band) saxman Tim Ries and Stones vocalist Bernard Fowler in a band dubbed Band 2. Rounding out the band will be local heavyweights Cory Wong, Gary Raynor and Kevin Washington.

Steve Smith

Wednesday, June 3. If you are not headed to TCF Bank Stadium to hear the Stones tonight, you can nevertheless get high on music and particularly jazz percussion at the Dakota with Steve Smith and Vital Information, NYC Edition. Recently named #1 fusion drummer by Modern Drummer's Readers Poll, Smith has assembled a Big Apple cast including keyboardist Mark Soskin (Sonny Rollins/Herbie Mann), alto saxophonist Andy Fusco (Buddy Rich/Mel Lewis), guitarist Vinny Valentino (Jimmy McGriff/Bill Evans), and bassist Baron Browne (Jean-Luc Ponty/Billy Cobham). With this line-up, Smith combines the talents of his three working bands--jazz-rock ensemble Vital Information, his Buddy Rich alumni project Buddy's Buddies, and his legends tribute band, Jazz Legacy.

John Penny

At Jazz Central, two veterans of the local jazz scene debut their duo on the studio's "new music" night. Vocalist Sarah M. Greer is known for tackling more avant garde projects as well as providing instruction to those interested in modern approaches to jazz singing; guitarist/composer (and sometimes vocalist) John Penny is a prolific writer who has performed recently with Jay Epstein and Anthony Cox.

Connie Evingson again! First Wednesdays are reserved for "Jazz in the Lounge" at the Minneapolis Woman's Club, and Connie's guests tonight include a formidable trio of Chris Lomheim, Dean Magraw and Dave Karr. Open to public consumption.

Phil Mattson Singers

Thursday, June 4. At Jazz Central, the Phil Mattson Singers return for Vocal Jazz Night, bringing with them a thick book of songs with sophisticated arrangements from director, pianist and voice coach Phil Mattson. This is our local version of Manhattan Transfer. Over in Falcon Heights (St Paul), new University of Northern Colorado grad, bassist Ted Olsen, brings his quintet to the folksy digs of the Underground Music Cafe.

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities -- check out calendars at Jazz Police, KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You, as well as here on the blog. More jazz to tickle your ears:

Friday May 29. Irv Williams and Steve Blons, happy hour at the Dakota; Todd Harper Piano Fridays with the Harper, Nair, Leipold Trio at the Black Dog (5-7 pm); Bryan Nichols and James Buckley, dinner sets at the Icehouse; the Zacc Harris Group at Hell's Kitchen; River City Jazz Orchestra at Minnehaha Park Bandshell

Saturday, May 30. Mill City Hot Club, brunch at Hell's Kitchen; Parisota Hot Club at Crooners; Scatting Workshop with Sarah Greer at Jazz Central (1:30 pm); Talking Strings at Loring Pasta Bar; Jake Hanson and James Buckley, dinner sets at the Icehouse; Tom Lieberman at the Aster; Vinnie Rose at Ole Piper Inn (Blaine)

Sunday, May 31. Patty and the Buttons, brunch at the Aster; Robert Everest, brunch at Maria's; Jazz Brunch at Crooners; Carleton College Jazz Band Concert at the Concert Hall, Carleton College; Zacc Harris Trio at Riverview Wine Bar; Lisa Fischer at the Dakota (sold-out); Adam Meckler's Student Combos at Jazz Central; T-Collective at the Icehouse

Monday, June 1. Capri Big Band at Como Dockside; Jazz on the Prairie Big Band at Lake Harriet Bandshell; Milo Fine & Benjamin Mansavage at

Tuesday, June 2. Cafe Accordion Orchestra at Loring Pasta Bar; Maryann Sullivan's Corner Jazz at The Nicollet; Bill Simenson Orchestra at Jazz Central; Coloring Time (LOTT and Joey Van Phillips) at the Icehouse

Maryann Sullivan and Corner Jazz

Wednesday, June 3. Vinnie Rose followed by Andrew Walesch at Crooners; Wolverines Trio at Hell's Kitchen; Southside Big Band at Como Dockside;

Thursday, June 4. Gypsia Mania Hot Club Quartet at Hell's Kitchen; Moonlight Serenaders at Wabasha Street Caves; Claudia Schmidt and Dean Magraw at Gingko Coffee House; Vinnie Rose at Adagio Pizza Factory

Coming Soon!

. June 5, Paul Harper's Show and Tell at The Nicollet

. June 5, Dean Sorenson Sextet at Jazz Central

. June 6, Ted Olsen Group followed by The Five at the Black Dog
. June 6, Vector Families (aka Dave King's PBR Street Gang) at Studio Z

. June 7, Jazz on the Prairie Big Band Festival at Staring Lake (Eden Prairie)

. June 8, Chris Bates' Good Vibes Trio at the Icehouse

. June 10, Charmin & Shapira and Friends at the Dakota

. June 11, Dorothy Doring and Donald Thomas at Jazz Central

. June 11, Le Percheron at Khyber Pass Cafe

. June 12, Tommy Bentz Quartet at The Nicollet

. June 13, Will Schmid Trio followed by the Graydon Peterson Quartet

. June 14, Charanga Tropical at Lake Harriet Bandshell

. June 15, Bryan Nichols' We Are Many at the Icehouse

. June 16, Ticket to Brazil, Jazz in the Library at Sun Ray Library (St Paul)

. June 17, Chris Bates' Good Vibes Trio, Jazz in the Library at Hamline Library (St Paul)

. June 19, The Dakota Combo followed by Dean Granros' Tall Tales at The Nicollet

. June 19, Bill Frisell Trio with Tony Scherr and Rudy Royston at the Dakota

. June 20, John Penny/Jay Epstein Duo followed by the Phil Hey Quartet at the Black Dog
. June 20, Next Generation Showcase, Jazz at Studio Z

. June 21, Francisco Mela Trio, Jazz in the Library at St Paul Central Library

. June 22, Kurt Elling at the Dakota

. June 23-24, Cecile McLorin Salvant at the Dakota

. June 25-27, Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Mears Park and beyond (Dr John, Potter/Holland/Louke/Harland Quartet, Francisco Mela with Nicholas Payton, Araya-Orta Quartet, Marquis Hill Blacktet)

. June 28, John Pizzarelli at the Dakota

. June 29, Becca Stevens at the Dakota
. June 30, Francois Rabbath, Benson Great Hall (Bethel College)

. June 30-July 1, Charles Lloyd Quartet at the Dakota

. July 2-4, Iowa City Jazz Festival (Charles Lloyd, Dave Douglas, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Julian Lage, Brian Charette, Atlantis Quartet, Becca Stevens, COLOSSUS, Dakota Combo)

. July 5, Vinicius Cantauria at the Dakota

. July 12, Edina Jazz Fest at Centennial Lakes Park

. July 18, PipJazz at The Bedlam

. July 19, Midtown Global Market Music Festival

. July 23, John Raymond Quartet at the Dakota

. August 6, George Brooks with Larry Coryell and Bombay Jazz at the Dakota

. September 7-8, Victor Wooten at the Dakota

Chris Bates' Good Vibes Trio at the Icehouse, June 8

Dave Karr, appearing Saturday at the Black Dog with The Five

© Andrea Canter

Another weekend of hard-to-decide choices for live jazz followed by a week of local favorites. Summer is here, and our festival countdown stands at three weeks... actually less counting some popular pre-fest gigs starting June 16. (We'll preview those starting next week!) This weekend some beloved veterans and young lions share the attention, and in some cases, the stage. (What? No jazz is listed in the Strib for the "big gigs" this week? Good thing you are reading this!)

Big Gigs This Week

Dean Sorenson

Friday, June 5. Trombonist, arranger and above all, jazz educator Dean Sorensonis seldom heard outside of the U of M jazz program, making tonight's sextet gig at Jazz Central (8:30 pm) a rare treat. Dean's resume includes playing and arranging for the Glen Miller Orchestra and authoring a stack of books and materials aimed at jazz students and their instructors, as well as heading the jazz studies program at the University of Minnesota where he has helped launch careers of many of our top area musicians. But tonight it is all about performance, and Dean has quite a crew of colleagues--Steve Kenny (trumpet), Dave Milne (tenor saxophone), Chris Lomheim (piano), Tom Lewis (bass) and Phil Hey (drums). Come down to Jazz Central earlier for a 7 pm set featuring McNally Smith guitar student Julian Manzara and trumpeter Robert Reeve.

Paul Harper

Over at The Nicollet, veteran saxophonist Paul Harperbrings in his Show and Tell quartet (9 pm), with guitarist Mike Cramer, bassist Charlie Riddle and drummer/ Illicit Sextet collaborator Nathan Norman. If you have not ventured into The Nicollet yet, the Friday night jazz series curated by Steve Kenny is a good starting point for music in this south-of-downtown neighborhood along the north end of Eat Street. There's beer, wine, espresso and cafe goodies and ample space to relax while listening to some of the area's finest jazz artists.

Irv Williams and Steve Blons

And if you want to kickoff the evening with some Happy Hour fun, Irv Williams and Steve Blons usually hold court on the Dakota's patio in nice weather. Between Irv and Steve, there's at least 150 years of jazz (Irv accounting for a lot of those years!), and this sax/guitar duo is as suave and sublime as it gets. How perfect for a Friday night prelude!

Dave King

Saturday, June 6. It's another Saint's home game Saturday night, but you don't want to miss Lowertown jazz of this caliber. Take the Green Line LRT or drive in early and find parking (check out Union Depot Garage) -- deciding where to go should be your only dilemma. Jazz at Studio Z welcomes the band formerly known as Dave King's PBR Street Gang, now dubbed the Vector Families. Don't ask. Just enjoy some of the region's most inventive modern music as created by Bad Plus/Happy Apple drummer King, sax legend-in-the-making Brandon Wozniak, working guitar legend Dean Granros, and internationally acclaimed bassist/cellist Anthony Cox. They'll present a 6 pm (free) master class followed by the concert at 7 pm. Expect to hear music from their upcoming debut recording.

Ted Olsen

Overlapping the first part of the evening and just a block away, Saturday Night at the Black Dog presents two bands covering about four generations. Opening (7 pm) will be he Ted Olsen Group, led by recent University of Northern Colorado grad, bassist Ted Olsen, backed by an ensemble of slightly older young lions, including saxophonist Joe Mayo and drummer Miguel Hurtado.

Kenny Horst, The Five

Prime time (8:30 pm) features a band that has been around a long time yet seldom heard, The Five. Headed by 80-something sax icon Dave Karr, and with young bassist Ryan Hays the only musician under 50, the rest of The Five include Steve Kenny, Mikkel Romstad and Kenny Horst. Bebop never sounded so good!

Arne Fogel

In downtown Minneapolis, Arne goes to Hell! Arne Fogel, that is, crooning his way through Hades at Hell's Kitchen (6 pm) with a swinging trio of Rick Carlson, Steve Pikal and Dick Bortolussi.

Bend in the River Big Band

Sunday, June 7. Fans of Big Band have a festival all their own, with the 25th annual Minnesota Festival of Jazz on the Prairie (2-8 pm),hosted by the Jazz on the Prairie Big Band at Staring Lake Park in Eden Prairie. The line-up this year, in addition to the host big band, includes Just Friends Big Band, Acme Jazz Company, Bend in the River Big Band, Good News Big Band, and the River City Jazz Orchestra.

Dave Hagedorn, Good Vibes Trio

Monday, June 8. JT's Jazz Implosion series at the Icehouse presents the ever-elegant creativity of the Chris Bates' Good Vibes Trio, with masters-of-their-axes Dave Hagedorn on vibes and Phil Hey on drums. Always worth staying up to hear (9:30 pm start), with original compositions and interesting arrangements.

Tuesday, June 9. At least for the month of June, The Nicollet is presenting Swing Tuesdays (7:30 pm), and tonight the swingers are Doug Haining and the Twin Cities 7,surely the most swinging "little big band" in town. The swing dance community tends to follow such bands from one end of the metro to the other, so either bring your dancing shoes or sit close to the wall!

Chris Olson

Across town to Lowertown, it's Second Tuesday, aka Chris Olson Project at the Black Dog (7 pm). Guitarist Chris usually has one or two guests to join him making some merry mayhem.

Wednesday, June 10. At the Dakota, one of Foodie Night's favorites returns-- Charmin and Shapira and Friends (7 pm). An extension of the ever-popular voice/guitar duo Charmin (Michelle) and (Joel) Shapira, this quintet covers standard, bossa and more with a lot of panache and a fair amount of fun as well. "Friends" include saxophonist Paul Harper, bassist Tom Lewis and drummer Nathan Norman.

Chris Bates

Chris Bates' monthly Magica Improvisado at Jazz Central brings together a trio of fellow improvisers (guitarist Chris Olson and drummer Adrian Suarez) to reconsider the music of Jimi Hendrix, the Bee Gees, Neil Young, Elvis Costello, Lennon & McCartney and more (8:30 pm).

Levi Schwartzberg

Thursday, June 11. Avant garde jazz at an Afghani cafe? For more than a year now, Khyber Pass Cafe in St Paul has presented unique improvising ensembles on Thursday nights. Tonight is a double header (9 pm) with some overlapping personnel, with the Levi Schwartzberg Quintet sharing the night with Adam Linz's Le Percheronensemble. Young vibes talent Levi, just starting his second year at the U of M, is the common denominator. His quintet includes recent high school grads and alums of the Dakota Combo -- Aidan Sponheim, Peter Goggin, Charlie Lincoln and Benjamin Beyene. Le Percheron, in addition to Linz and Schwartzberg, includes saxophonist Brandon Wozniak and trumpeter (and frequent Khyber Pass artist) Noah Ophoven-Baldwin.

Dorothy Doring

On totally different notes (or planets), Dorothy Doring and Donald Thomas pair up for Vocal Jazz Night at Jazz Central (7:30 pm). Dorothy's range covers it all from jazz standards to pop and blues, while Donald's deep voice offers equal facility and tonal contrast. A long-standing duo appealing to a broad audience.

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities -- check out calendars at Jazz Police, KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You, as well as here on the blog. More jazz to tickle your ears:

Friday, June 5. Todd Harper Piano Fridays (with Nathan Hanson), early eve at the Black Dog; Bryan Nichols and James Buckley, dinner sets at the Icehouse; Katie Gearty at Parma 8200; Tim Patrick and his Blue Eyed Band at Minnehaha Falls Park bandshell; Classic Big Band and the Nostalgics at Bloomington KC Hall

Saturday, June 6. Robert Everest, brunch at Maria's; Charmin and Shapira at Midtown Global Market (12:30 pm); Talking Strings at Loring Pasta Bar; Benny Weinbeck Trio at Parma 8200; Pig's Eye Jass Band at Eagle's Aerie Club; Zacc Harris and Matt Peterson, dinner sets at the Icehouse

Sunday, June 7. Robert Everest, Brunch at Maria's; Patty and the Buttons, brunch at the Aster; Robert Everest, brunch at Maria's; Jazz Brunch at Crooners Lounge; Zacc Harris Trio at the Riverview

Zacc Harris

Monday, June 8. Minneapolis Police Swing Band at Como Dockside; Southside Big Band at Centennial Lakes Park; Eric Wangensteen at Jazz Central

Tuesday, June 9. Nova Jazz Orchestra at Minnesota Music Cafe; Cedar Avenue Big Band at Jazz Central; Cafe Accordion at Loring Pasta Bar

Wednesday, June 10. Debbie Duncan at Crooners Lounge; Good News Big Band at Centennial Lakes Park; Twin Cities Mobile Jazz Project at Powderhorn Park

Thursday, June 11. Joel Shapira at Hell's Kitchen; Benny Weinbeck and Gordy Johnson at Parma 8200; Minnesota Jazz Orchestra, swing dance at Wabasha Street Caves; Foreign Motion at the Icehouse

Coming Soon!

. June 12, Tommy Bentz Quartet at The Nicollet

. June 13, Will Schmid Trio followed by the Graydon Peterson Quartet
. June 13, Twin Cities Mobile Jazz Project at Lake Harriet Bandshell

. June 14, Charanga Tropical at Lake Harriet Bandshell

. June 15, Bryan Nichols' We Are Many at the Icehouse

. June 16, Ticket to Brazil, Jazz in the Library at Sun Ray Library (St Paul)

. June 16, Pete Whitman X-Tet at Jazz Central

. June 17, Chris Bates' Good Vibes Trio, Jazz in the Library at Hamline Library (St Paul)

. June 19, The Dakota Combo followed by Dean Granros' Tall Tales at The Nicollet

. June 19, Bill Frisell Trio with Tony Scherr and Rudy Royston at the Dakota

. June 20, John Penny/Jay Epstein Duo followed by the Phil Hey Quartet at the Black Dog

. June 20, Adam Meckler Quintet; Doug Haining's Twin Cities 7 at Episcopal Homes/Iris Park (Twin Cities Jazz Fest - PreFest)

. June 21, Francisco Mela Trio, Jazz in the Library at St Paul Central Library

. June 21, St Peter Street Stompers; Southside Aces at Episcopal Homes/Iris Park (Twin Cities Jazz Festival Pre-Fest)

. June 22, Kurt Elling at the Dakota

. June 23, Master Class (free) with Francisco Mela and Jon Weber at Walker West

. June 23, Lila Ammons Quartet, Langford Chiropractic Outdoor Stage (Twin Cities Jazz Festival Pre-Fest)

. June 23-24, Cecile McLorin Salvant at the Dakota

. June 25-27, Twin Cities Jazz Festival, Mears Park and beyond (Dr John, Potter/Holland/Louke/Harland Quartet, Francisco Mela with Nicholas Payton, Araya-Orta Quartet, Marquis Hill Blacktet)

. June 28, John Pizzarelli Quartet at the Dakota

. June 29, Becca Stevens at the Dakota

. June 30-July 1, Charles Lloyd Quartet at the Dakota

. July 2-4, Iowa City Jazz Festival (Charles Lloyd, Dave Douglas, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Julian Lage, Brian Charette, Atlantis Quartet, Becca Stevens, COLOSSUS, Dakota Combo)

. July 5, Vinicius Cantauria at the Dakota

. July 12, Edina Jazz Fest at Centennial Lakes Park

. July 18, PipJazz at The Bedlam

. July 19, Midtown Global Market Music Festival

. July 23, John Raymond Quartet at the Dakota

. August 6, George Brooks with Larry Coryell and Bombay Jazz at the Dakota

. August 8, PipJazz at The Bedlam

. August 31, Terence Blanchard and E-Collective at the Dakota

. September 7-8, Victor Wooten at the Dakota

. September 22-23, Lizz Wright at the Dakota

Pete Whitman and the X-Tet -- Back at Jazz Central on June 16

Cyrus Chestnut at the Dakota, August 25

© Andrea Canter

Lots of special events on the jazz scene this week, from the final two nights of Adam Meckler Quintet's live recording sessions and the season finale of the All Originals Jazz Series to the jazz components of the Bridge Chamber Music Festival in Northfield, and a stellar line-up of visiting artists from Kansas City bassist Bob Bowman and former Minnesotan Nancy Harms to hard-swinging pianist Cyrus Chestnut and the Rabbi of jazz, Ben Sidran.

Big Gigs This Week

Friday, August 21. Start the evening with Irv Williams. Just a few days past his 96th birthday, Mr. Smooth continues to hold down Happy Hour at the Dakota every Friday.

Bob Bowman

Kansas City bassist Bob Bowman has been a frequent visitor lately, and he's back in town for a gig at Jazz Central, playing in a trio with pianist Dan Leahy and drummer Mac Santiago.

Across town at the Black Dog, saxophonist Donald Washingtonhosts his monthly meeting of improvisational minds, featuring a trio tonight with bassist Yohannes Tona and drummer/son Kevin Washington. Come down early for Todd Harper's Possibilities, with drummer Bill Stieger, bassist Mike Leipold, trumpeter Todd Baer, saxophonist Chris Hagedorn, and of course Harper--pianist, composer, and "traffic director."

Patty Peterson

In downtown St Paul, Vieux Carré presents the early show with the Zacc Harris Duo, while the swinging Southside Aces will turn up the heat a couple hours later.

In the north 'burbs, the ever-expanding palette of music at Crooners features Patty Peterson and Friends, and the friends tonight include pianist Sean Turner, bassist Billy Franze and drummer Bobby Vandell. Turner is playing more and more visibly these days, which is a very good thing for local jazz. Or head south to Bloomington for an evening at Parma 8200 with Arne Fogel, channeling Bing, Frank, and more.

David Milne

Further south in Northfield, its the Bridge Chamber Music Festival which spreads across venues over several days. Tonight's treat is offered by the piano/sax duo of Laura Caviani and Dave Milne at the Carleton College Concert Hall, performing "jazz impressions” of classical repertoire, featuring special arrangements of music by Dave Brubeck, Chick Corea, Bill Dobbins, Claude Debussy, Manuel de Falla, Gabriel Faure, Carlos Guastavino, and Maurice Ravel. Definitely worth the 40-minute drive.

Adam Meckler

Friday-Saturday, August 21-22. On Thursday, the Adam Meckler Quintet launched an unusual three-night, three-venue live recording series of gigs at Studio Z, and this weekend they finish up at The Nicollet (Friday) and Black Dog (Saturday), each session sponsored by Steve Kenny's Illicit Productions. With Zacc Harris, Nelson Devereaux, Graydon Peterson and Greg Schutte filling out the ensemble, we'll hear all new compositions written with these artists in mind. And while the music intended for the album will be played each night, the nature of the set, and the additional tunes to fill out the set lists, will vary with the moment.

Zacc Harris

Saturday, August 22. The ever-creative Zacc Harris launches a new ensemble tonight at the Black Dog, opening for the Adam Meckler Quintet. Dubbed American Reverie, Zacc notes that "It won't always be trio, and the 'American' part is key, as we'll be doing all arrangements and re-imaginations of songs that evoke imagery of an America gone by," including "Tennessee Waltz,""Shenandoah," and "Be My Baby." It is a trio tonight with bassist Matt Peterson and drummer Lars-Erik Larson.

Jeremy Siskind Trio

In the wake of their superb new recording, Housewarming (BJU Records), the Jeremy Siskind Trio is on a Midwest tour that brings the band to Vieux Carré tonight. And this "housewarming" is also a homecoming for vocalist Nancy Harms, a Minnesota native who spent about five years charming vocal jazz fans in the Twin Cities before relocating to New York in 2010. Her star is on a fast rise in the Big Apple, in part due to her role in projects like Housewarming. Pianist Siskind is also a prolific composer who tends to set poetry to the music; rounding out the trio is multi-reed specialist Lucas Pino, with whom Nancy creates two-voice harmonies that sometimes leave the listener wondering what's human, what's reed.

Robert Everest

Brazilian-style guitarist Robert Everest brings samba outside at Powderhorn Park tonight, and Andrew Walesch brings his big band to Crooners for his salute to Frank Sinatra.

Sunday, August 23. Want a little jazz with Sunday brunch? Most every Sunday, you can find good food and good music around the metro, from the soothing piano and vocals of Andrew Walesch at Crooners (with Gordy Johnson and Phil Hey) to the "New Orleans Traditional Jazz, Western Swing, Gypsy melodies, Ragtime piano blues, jug music and 1930′s popular song" melange of Patty and the Buttons at the Aster to the south of the border vibe of Robert Everest at Maria's Cafe.

Dave Hagedorn

Monday, August 24. Saxophonist Joe Mayo brings his quartet (Zacc Harris, guitar; Andrew Foreman, bass; Lars-Erik Larson, drums) to Jazz Central tonight, while down in Northfield, vibes master Dave Hagedorn"and friends" continue the jazz trend of the Bridge Chamber Music Festival at the Grand Event Center. JT's Jazz Implosion at the Icehouse tonight features a trio of innovative multi-instrumentalists-- Tom Reichert, Tim Glenn, and Atlanta artist Stephen Roach.

Cyrus Chestnut

Tuesday, August 25. Swinging pianist Cyrus Chestnut headlined the Twin Cities Jazz Festival two years ago, but it has been a very long time since he's played here in an appropriately intimate space like the Dakota. The Baltimore native is considered one of the most beloved ambassadors of jazz for his swinging and accessible style as well as his warm persona. His background includes two years with Betty Carter and appearing in Robert Altman's film, Kansas City. Joining Chestnut at the Dakota will be bassist Michael Hawkins and drummer Neal Smith.

Byan Nichols

At Vieux Carré tonight, modern jazz takes the stage as Nichols/Bates/Batesreturns to St. Paul, having performed last month on the All Originals Jazz series at Studio Z. Pianist Bryan Nichols, bassist Chris Bates and drummer JT Bates will challenge listeners while remaining accessible, and pretty darn fun to watch as well as hear.

It's big band night at Jazz Central, and the Twin Cities Latin Jazz Orchestra likes to refer to their fourth Tuesday gig as an "open rehearsal." This band features the metro's best, with Geoff Senn and Mac Santiago leading the likes of Pete Whitman, Doug Little, Dave Graf, Jeff Rinear, Pete Enblom, Jake Baldwin, Joe Strachan, Dave Martin and Graydon Peterson.

Joe Strachan

Wednesday, August 26. New music night at Jazz Central will feature young pianist Joe Strachan. Just two years out of the jazz program at the U of M, Joe has become a first-call musician, performing in a wide variety of contexts but often in the company of the finest of the new generation-- Jake Baldwin, Nelson Devereaux, Miguel Hurtado, Andrew Foreman, Lars-Erik Larson and more, as well as holding the piano chair for the Twin Cities Latin Jazz Orchestra.

Tonight at the Black Dog, percussionist Davu Seru brings in a trio featuring visiting multi-instrumentalist Stephen Roach and local guitar wizard Tom Reichert.

Ben Sidran

Wednesday-Thursday, August 26-27. We always look forward to the return of pianist/composer/producer/you-name-it Ben Sidran, and he's back for two nights at the Dakota with his latest "jazz and philosophy" class, Blue Camu. It's a double family affair with son Leo on drums and long-time associates Billy (bass) and Ricky (keys) Peterson.

Mike Lewis

Thursday, August 27. The Bryan Nichols Quintet has been one of the most popular modern ensembles in the metro, but since saxophonist Mike Lewis relocated to the East Coast, their gigs have been few and far between. Tonight they reunite to close out the second summer All Originals Jazz Series at Studio Z. Joining pianist Bryan and saxophonist Mike will be Brandon Wozniak (sax), James Buckley (bass) and JT Bates (drums). All original compositions, of course.

Rhonda Laurie

At Jazz Central, vocal night features Melody Mendis, an eclectic talent who takes her listeners "on a journey into love and madness." Vocals also are on the menu tonight in the lounge at Public Kitchen in St. Paul, with Rhonda Laurie providing the songs and guitarist Reuben Ristromproviding the strings.

George Cartwright

The little avant garde series that keeps a low profile in St Paul continues on Thursday nights at Khyber Pass. But it's hard to consider George Cartwright and Dave King"low profile" within the jazz community! Khyber Pass brings some amazing music to its tiny space with help from curators Adam Linz, Paul Metzger and Davu Seru, and tonight George and Dave will no doubt blow the roof off... for a $5 cover. Run and grab a chair.

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities. The most comprehensive jazz calendar can be found at Jazz Police, but you will also find jazz listings at KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You. Jazz Police also posts monthly metro jazz highlights. KBEM and KFAI radio host jazz programs regularly and provide daily notices of jazz gigs and concerts. The live edition of The Lead Sheet can be heard at 4:40 pm on Thursdays on KBEM, excerpts rebroadcast at 7:40 am on Fridays. (Special guest August 27-- Dean Sorenson re his new CD!) Venues and artists are reminded to send information to online and print calendars (e.g. tc@jazzpolice.com)

Coming Soon!

. August 28, No Room for Squares at The Nicollet

. August 28, Maud Hixson at Parma 8200

. August 28, Jeremy Walker Duo/Patty and the Buttons at Vieux Carré

. August 29, Dean Sorenson Sextet, CD Release at the Black Dog

. August 29, Patty Peterson and Friends at the Dakota

. August 30, Tootie Heath Trio with Ethan Iverson and Ben Street at the Dakota

. August 31, Terence Blanchard and E-Collective at the Dakota

. August 31, Explosion Big Band at Minnesota State Fair, AFL-CIO Labor Pavilion (5 pm)

. August 31, Acme Jazz Company at Crooners Lounge

. September 1, Explosion Big Band at Minnesota Stage Fair, AFL-CIO Labor Pavilion (5 pm)

. September 1, Tanner Taylor at Crooners Lounge

. September 1, Maryann Sullivan and Corner Jazz at Vieux Carré

. September 1, Dean Magraw and Davu Seru at the Black Dog

. September 1, Bill Simenson Orchestra at Jazz Central

. September 2-3, Robert Everest at the Minnesota State Fair, International Bazaar Stage

. September 3, Rhonda Laurie Quartet at Crooners Lounge

. September 3, Vicky Mountain at Jazz Central
. September 4, Last Days of Summer KBEM Cruise

. September 4, Joel Shapira Trio at Parma 8200

. September 4, Katia Cardenas at Vieux Carré

. September 5, Adam Booker Sextet CD Release at Vieux Carré

. September 6, Nichole Mitchell at Walker West Music Academy
. September 7, Shapira/O'Brien/Gravatt Trio at the Black Dog

. September 7-8, Victor Wooten at the Dakota

. September 8, Dave Karr Quartet at Crooners Lounge

. September 10, Kamasi Washington at the Icehouse

. September 11, Christian Scott and Stretch Music at the Dakota

. September 11, Ron Carter and Golden Striker Trio at Walker West Music Academy

. September 12, Selby Avenue Jazz Festival (Walter Chancellor, Salsa del Soul, Source Code)

. September 12, Peterson Family Tribute to Jeanne Arland Peterson at Vieux Carré

. September 13-14, Bill Carrothers Trio at Crooners Lounge

. September 15, Butch Thompson and Dean Magraw at Vieux Carré

. September 15, Tommy O'Donnell Trio at Crooners Lounge

. September 17, Patricia Barber at the Dakota

. September 18, Bryan Nichols (Chicago) Quartet at Vieux Carré

. September 19, Freedom Jazz Festival at Minnehaha Falls Park

. September 19, Laura Caviani and Dave Milne, Jazz at St Barneys

. September 19, Jay Young and Lyric Factory at the Dakota

. September 20, Clarice Assad at the Dakota

. September 22, Chris Lomheim Trio at Crooners Lounge

. September 22-23, Lizz Wright at the Dakota

. September 24, Adam Meckler Orchestra at Vieux Carré

. September 25, Javi Santiago Sextet at Vieux Carré

. September 26, Patty Peterson and Friends with Steve Cole at the Dakota

. September 29, Dave Graf Quartet at Crooners Lounge

. September 29, Red Planet at Vieux Carré

. October 4, Afro-Cuban Jazz Orchestra at the Dakota

. October 8, Jazz in the Target Atrium (Orchestra Hall), with Wessell Anderson

. October 13, Phil Hey Quartet at Crooners

. October 16, JT Bates Organ Trio at Vieux Carré

. October 16, Yolande Bruce Group at Walker West Music Academy

. October 20, Laura Caviani Trio with Bob Bowman and Todd Straight at Crooners

. October 25, Benny Green Trio at the Dakota

. November 13, Eric Gravatt and Source Code at Walker West Music Academy

. November 16, Regina Carter's Southern Comfort at the Dakota

. November 19, Jazz in the Target Atrium (Orchestra Hall), Atrium Jazz Ensemble

. November 22-23, Karrin Allyson at the Dakota

. December 2, Diane Schuur at the Dakota

. December 14-15, New York Voices Holiday show at the Dakota

Tanner Taylor visits at Crooners Lounge on September 1, starting the Tuesday Night Jazz series

Tanner Taylor, coming to Crooners Lounge on September 1

© Andrea Canter

Summer might be waning but the jazz calendars are anything but. Outdoor music and festivals are winding down, but tickets are on sale for the new Eight O'Clock Jump Series at Walker West (starting September 6) and Crooners Lounge is jump-starting its new Tuesday Night series on September 1 with a long-overdue visit from Tanner Taylor. The coming weekend and week also feature a CD release at the Black Dog from trombonist and master educator Dean Sorenson, a series debut for No Room for Squares at The Nicollet, back to back nights at the Dakota with Tootie Heath and Terence Blanchard, Maud Hixson back at Parma 8200, music of all sorts on various stages at the Stage Fair..... and the beat goes on.

Big Gigs This Week

Friday, August 28. Heading out to the Fair? The swinging Parisota Hot Club (Robb Henry, Matt Senjem, Jay Epstein and Erin Livingstone) are on the stage at the Ramberg Senior Center for three sets starting at 10:30 am.

Maud Hixson

The patio might be nice this evening but come inside to the bar/lounge at Parma 8200 for songbird Maud Hixson and her intrepid trio with husband Rick Carlson on keys and one of his favorite partners, bassist Steve Pikal. Count on Maud to throw in a few curveballs -- forgotten songs or forgotten songwriters. Clever lyrics are always in her set list.

Bill Stieger

A favorite among local jazz hounds at the 2015 Twin Cities Jazz Festival, No Room for Squares is as old fashioned as it sounds-- this is good ol' bebop at its best, presented by a veteran crew who swing through the best of the era: Drummer Bill Stieger in the driver's seat, Jon Pemberton on trumpet, Jimmie Wallace on sax, Mikkel Romstad on piano and Adam Tucker on bass. They make their debut on the Friday Night Jazz at The Nicollet series.

Jeremy Walker

Start up north in Fridley at Crooners with Katia Cardenas singing her way through happy hour (and again tomorrow night), then head south to St. Paul for the double-header at Vieux Carré. The night kicks off in sublime mode with the Jeremy Walker/Jeff Brueske duo, then turns around and swings the night away with Patty and the Buttons. Come early and chill out, just long enough to energize your ears for some old time swing.

Javi Santiago

A little bit different tonight at Jazz Central: Hard core jazzers Javi Santiago (piano) and Miguel Hurtado (drums) join up with the funky soulful vocalist Taylor Johnson (aka Proper-T) for a new project, dubbed Murkury.The ensemble is described as "an experimental, jazz and electro-soul band."

Sam Miltich

Vocalist Charmin Michelle and guitarist Sam Miltich sound like a heavenly pairing, and tonight they bring their magic to "Take Love Easy," the music of Ella Fitzgerald and Joe Pass, at the Third Place Gallery in south Minneapolis. Normally this is not a music venue but a gallery run by photographer Wing Young Huie, but it will surely be an artful setting for these two musical treasures.

Dean Sorenson

Saturday, August 29. Dean Sorenson has been long associated with the jazz program at the U of Minnesota, which he has directed for 15+ years, yielding some of the top young jazzers on the Twin Cities scene (aka, Joe Strachan, Nelson Devereaux, Adam Meckler). But Sorenson is also a well respected arranger, composer and trombonist, skills on full display in his Dean Sorenson Sextet.A band of Twin Cities heavyweights (David Milne, Steve Kenny, Chris Lomheim, Tom Lewis, Phil Hey), the sextet will celebrate its first recording (Colors of the Soul) on the Saturday Night Jazz at the Black Dog series tonight. The music soars with the colors and energy of a big band, yet still retains the intimate collaboration of a chamber ensemble. The opening act, appropriately, features a quartet of Dean's past and current students -- Ryan Christianson (trombone), Joe Strachan (piano), Matt McIntyre (bass) and Andres Crovetti (drums).

Patty Peterson

At the Dakota, Patty Peterson and Friends returns for a night of soulful jazz and R&B, with Paul Peterson, Billy Franze, Bobby Vandell, Sean Turner and Ronny Loew.

Sunday, August 30. Singer/songwriter and a great jazz interpreter, Barbara Meyer joins Imaginary Numbers ("cool jazz") for an afternoon of music at the Alexis Bailly Vineyard in Hastings, the closing act on the summer's jazz series.

Tootie Heath Trio*

Tonight the Dakota presents a real treat for jazz fans, with a trio led by the great drummer, Albert "Tootie" Heath, in the red hot company of Bad Plus pianist Ethan Iverson and bassist Ben Street. One of the famed Heath Brothers, Tootie's resume covers six decades and includes stints with the likes of John Coltrane. With his much younger cohorts Iverson and Street, Heath recently released Philadelphia Beat, a celebration of his home town.

Chris Thomson Quartet

Over at the Icehouse, there's an early evening show for singer-songwriter Paul Spring's vinyl release, with the Chris Thomson Quartet as the opening act. Saxophonist Thomson always engages a creative group, with his most recent quartet featuring accordionist Patrick Harison, bassist James Buckley and drummer, Dosh.

Explosion Big Band

Monday, August 31. If this is your night at the Fair, check out the AFL/CIO Pavilion at 5 pm for a free gig from the Doug Haining/Scott Agster Explosion Big Band (to be repeated tomorrow night). Another accomplished big band, the Acme Jazz Company, fills their monthly slot at Crooners Lounge.

Terence Blanchard

A major force in jazz trumpet and composition, Terence Blanchardreturns to the Dakota with a new "plugged in" project, E-Collective, described as the intersection of jazz, R& B, funk, and fusion. The ensemble features outstanding young pianist Fabian Almazon who has been with Blanchard since 2007. The rest of the band includes guitarist Charles Altura (Chick Corea's Vigil), bassist Donald Ramsey (Dr. John, Irma Thomas), and drummer Oscar Seaton (Ramsey Lewis, Lee Ritenour).

James Buckley

Tonight's Jazz Implosion at the Icehouse is essentially the James Buckley Trio + 1, with guitar wizard Jacob Hanson joining bassist Buckley, pianist Bryan Nichols and drummer/host, JT Bates. Their debut at Studio Z on the All Originals series last month was too good to be an isolated gig.

Tuesday, September 1. It's been about a year since piano monster Tanner Taylor pulled up his Minnesota stakes and returned to his native central Iowa. It's a brief return but a welcome one, and a perfect way to launch the new Tuesday Night instrumental series at Crooners Lounge. Joining Tanner will be Graydon Peterson and Jay Epstein, making it a triple play.

Maryann Sullivan

Making her Vieux Carré debut, vocalist Maryann Sullivanbrings her Corner Jazz band to downtown St. Paul for an evening of old-fashioned swing and standards. Her band is a bit different from its usual tonight-- with Doug Haining at the State Fair, the sub on horn is son/trumpeter Preston Haining, visiting from southern California; Javi Santiago takes over the piano bench, with Steve Pikal on bass and older son Trevor Haining on drums.

It's First Tuesdays at the Black Dog, and tonight guitarist Joseph Damman sits in for Dean Magraw with Davu Seru handling percussion.

Robert Everest

Wednesday, September 2. Brazilian-style guitarist Robert Everest and his Expedition play today and tomorrow at the International Bazaar at the State Fair (3 sets starting at 10:45 am).

Rhonda Laurie

Thursday, September 3. Vocal Jazz night continues at Jazz Central, now curated by Sarah Greer. Tonight she hosts Vicky Mountain"and Friends"....and her friends are always fabulous-- Phil Aaron on piano and Jim Chenoweth on bass. And vocal jazz rules the evening at Crooners with the Rhonda Laurie Quartet.

Coming Soon!

. September 4, Joel Shapira Trio at Parma 8200

. September 4, Katia Cardenas at Vieux Carré

. September 4, Phil Aaron/Zacc Harris Quartet at The Nicollet

. September 5, Adam Booker Sextet CD Release at Vieux Carré

. September 5, Jana Nyberg Group at Crooners Lounge

. September 5, What Would Monk Do at the Black Dog

. September 6, Nichole Mitchell at Walker West Music Academy

. September 6, Connie Evingson with Jon Weber, Music of David Frishberg at the Jungle Theater

. September 7, Convergence Trio (Michael O'Brien, Joel Shapira, Eric Gravatt) at the Black Dog

. September 7, Dave King Trucking Company at the Icehouse

. September 7-8, Victor Wooten at the Dakota

. September 8, Dave Karr Quartet at Crooners Lounge

. September 9, Dean Magraw solo guitar, American Swedish Institute Ballroom Series

. September 10, Kamasi Washington at the Icehouse

. September 11, Christian Scott and Stretch Music at the Dakota

. September 11, Ron Carter and Golden Striker Trio at Walker West Music Academy

. September 11, Michael O'Brien Trio at The Nicollet

. September 12, Selby Avenue Jazz Festival (Walter Chancellor, Salsa del Soul, Source Code)

. September 12, Peterson Family Tribute to Jeanne Arland Peterson at Vieux Carré

. September 12, Jon Pemberton's Tribute to Lee Morgan at the Black Dog

. September 13-14, Bill Carrothers Trio at Crooners Lounge

. September 15, Butch Thompson and Dean Magraw at Vieux Carré

. September 15, Tommy O'Donnell Trio at Crooners Lounge

. September 17, Patricia Barber at the Dakota

. September 18, Bryan Nichols (Chicago) Quartet at Vieux Carré

. September 18, Seru/Bates/Wozniak at The Nicollet

. September 19, Freedom Jazz Festival at Minnehaha Falls Park

. September 19, Laura Caviani and Dave Milne, Jazz at St Barneys

. September 19, Jay Young and Lyric Factory at the Dakota

. September 19, Paul Harper's Show and Tell at the Black Dog

. September 20, Clarice Assad at the Dakota

. September 22, Chris Lomheim Trio at Crooners Lounge

. September 22-23, Lizz Wright at the Dakota

. September 24, Adam Meckler Orchestra at Vieux Carré

. September 25, Javi Santiago Sextet at Vieux Carré

. September 25, Lucia Sarmiento Quartet at The Nicollet

. September 26, Patty Peterson and Friends with Steve Cole at the Dakota

. September 26, John Penny Trio followed by CD Release "Night Together" at the Black Dog

. September 29, Dave Graf Quartet at Crooners Lounge

. September 29, Red Planet at Vieux Carré

. October 4, Afro-Cuban Jazz Orchestra at the Dakota

. October 8, Jazz in the Target Atrium (Orchestra Hall), Atrium Jazz Ensemble with Wessell Anderson

. October 13, Phil Hey Quartet at Crooners

. October 16, JT Bates Organ Trio at Vieux Carré

. October 16, Yolande Bruce Group at Walker West Music Academy

. October 20, Laura Caviani Trio with Bob Bowman and Todd Straight at Crooners

. October 25, Benny Green Trio at the Dakota

. November 13, Eric Gravatt and Source Code at Walker West Music Academy

. November 16, Regina Carter's Southern Comfort at the Dakota

. November 19, Jazz in the Target Atrium (Orchestra Hall), Atrium Jazz Ensemble

. November 22-23, Karrin Allyson at the Dakota

. December 2, Diane Schuur at the Dakota

. December 14-15, New York Voices Holiday show at the Dakota

The Dave King Trucking Company, at the Icehouse on September 7

*All photos by Andrea Canter except Tootie Heath Trio (courtesy Chicago Jazz Festival)

Victor Wooten - coming to the Dakota September 7-8

Labor Day Weekend traditionally marks the end of summer, but on the local jazz scene, the heat wave continues. A new Minnesota transplant celebrates his debut CD at Vieux Carré; a new band of local veterans launches at The Nicollet; an established ensemble celebrates Monk at the Black Dog; the Dave King Trucking Company "implodes" at the Icehouse; Jon Weber sticks around for two more gigs this weekend including another Jazz at the Jungle with Connie Evingson; Chicago's brilliant flautist Nicole Mitchell opens the new 8 O'Clock Jump series at Walker West; expat Minnesotan Michael O'Brien plays the first of his four Twin Cities evenings; Dave Karr brings his quartet to Crooners;Victor Wooten returns to the Dakota; and hot sax star Kamasi Washington hits the Icehouse at the end of the week. For starters.

Big Gigs This Week

Friday, September 4. At post time there were still a few seats left for KBEM's Annual "Last Days of Summer" River Cruise on the Magnolia Blossom, taking off from Crosby Park, complete with live music from pianist Joe Strachan and vocalist Cameron Kinghorn. Enjoy these young lions along with food and a chance to help support KBEM.

Joel Shapira

Once in a while, Parma 8200 has an instrumental ensemble on a Friday night, and tonight it's sublime guitarist Joel Shapira's Trio with saxophonist Pete Whitman and bassist Tom Lewis.

Phil Aaron

In south Minneapolis, Friday Night Jazz at The Nicollet helps launch a new project-- the Phil Aaron/Zacc Harris Quartet with Matt Peterson and Jay Epstein. Technically a cross-generational ensemble, even the "youngsters" Matt and Zacc have at least a decade's worth of credentials and Harris probably has one of the longest list of working bands in the region.

Jon Weber

The encyclopedic sage of jazz piano Jon Weber arrived from New York earlier this week to perform with Connie Evingson at the Minneapolis Woman's Club. Tonight he brings his "Joplin to Jarrett" show to the Dakota to inform and entertain. (See Sunday below for his next gig!)

Andrew Schwandt

Saxophonist Andrew Schwandt moves into the leader position with his quartet at Jazz Central,doubling on tenor sax with Joe Mayo and featuring Pierre Lewis on piano. Eric Graham on bass and Batume on drums.

Katia Cardenas

Young vocalist Katia Cardenas continues to build a fan base across the metro, in part because she is as likely to sing Ella as Sting. She returns to Vieux Carré tonight, where she had the club's grand opening gig in July.

Saturday, September 5. The State Fair will be jammed for its final weekend, and this afternoon you can hear Doug Haining's Twin Cities 7 with singer Maryann Sullivan (1-3 pm) at the Carousel Stage.

Jana Nyberg

The Jana Nyberg Group is back in full swing after the singer's "maternity leave," and a new configuration of the band makes its debut at Crooners' Lounge: Chris Lomheim on piano, Graydon Peterson on bass, and Pete James-Johnson on drums join singer/songwriter/flautist Jana.

Kenny Horst-- What Would Monk Do?

Saturday Night Jazz at the Black Dog features the always-popular What Would Monk Do, providing interpretations of the Monk repertoire as well as original compositions inspired by Monk. WWMD includes Steve Kenny on trumpet, Peter Schimke on piano, Kenny Horst on drums, and original bassist Billy Peterson, home for a while after a summer of European gigs. Come early for an opening set with some talented college students -- "VVG" (Very Very Groovy) with saxophonist Josh Johnson, vibraphonist/pianist Levi Schwartzberg, trumpeter/bassist DeCarlo Jackson, and drummer Ben Beyene.

Vieux Carré welcomes Texas transplant Adam Booker for a CD release party. The bassist is currently on faculty at the University of Minnesota Duluth, whose jazz director Ryan Frane serves as pianist on Booker's Unraveled Rival, released this week on the local Shifting Paradigm Records. The recording features a largely Texas crew, while the CD Release Party will be a Minnesota affair, with Frane, Pete Whitman, Zacc Harris and Pete Hennig on board.

John Penny

The Normandy Kitchen in downtown Minneapolis continues to expand its bookings, tonight offering the John Penny Trio. The versatile guitarist/vocalist/composer joins forces with the formidable pianist Thomas West and swinging drummer Nathan Norman.

For a swinging good time, check out vocalists Judi Vinar and Lori Dokken at the Townhouse Lounge in St. Paul.

Sunday, September 6. Jazz brunch options today include Andrew Walesch with Gordy Johnson and Jay Epstein at Crooners' Lounge; Patty and the Buttons at the Aster; and Robert Everest at Maria's.

Connie Evingson

Connie Evingson has been presenting Jazz at the Jungle (Theater) productions for the past few years, including a series with pianist Jon Weber that celebrated the Songbooks of Ella Fitzgerald. One of their first collaborations was a celebration of the songs of David Frishberg, and today (two shows) they reprise that production with Dave Karr and Gordy Johnson. "Fresh Frish" presents favorite Frishberg tunes with a fresh sound.

Nicole Mitchell*

The first of the 8 O'Clock Jump series at Walker West takes place tonight, and there may be no tickets left. Chicago-based flautist Nicole Mitchell is the founder of Black Earth Ensemble, Black Earth Strings, Ice Crystal and Sonic Projections, as well as a perennial poll-topper. She's at Walker West with her quartet.

Michael O'Brien

Monday, September 7. Former Twin Citian Michael O'Brien is a first-call bassist as well as bandleader and composer in New York. He's back this week with four gigs, starting tonight in Joel Shapira's Convergence Trio at the Black Dog, featuring Eric Gravatt on drums. (Michael appears in duo format next weekend at Vieux Carré and leading a quartet at The Nicollet.)

Dave King and Chris Speed

Another homecoming of sorts -- The Dave King Trucking Company, complete with New York saxophonist Chris Speed and (formerly local bassist) Chris Morrissey, brings new meaning to the "Jazz Implosion" series at the Icehouse tonight. King, Brandon Wozniak and Erik Fratzke round out the company.

Monday-Tuesday, September 7-8. Bassist, 5-time Grammy winner and a member of Bela Fleck's Flecktones, Victor Wooten returns for two nights, four sets at the Dakota. He's a three-time winner of Bassist of the Year from Bass Player Magazine, the only artist to win more than once.

Dave Karr

Tuesday, September 8. The Tuesday night instrumental jazz series hosts another top ensemble as the Dave Karr Quartet makes its Crooners' debut. Joining the 80-something sax legend will be long-time cohorts, Chris Lomheim on piano, Gordy Johnson on bass and Phil Hey on drums. Crooners is seeking to make this a night for serious music and serious listeners, but fortunately Dave Karr never takes himself too seriously!

Thomas Bruce

Another debut night, vocalist Thomas Bruce takes the stage for his first turn at Vieux Carré, backed by Phil Aaron and Steve Pikal. Tommy brings a Chet Baker-like vulnerability and elegance to his tunes, but with Phil and Steve on the bandstand, there will be some fun as well!

At the Black Dog, the monthly "Chris Olson Project" expands to the full Framework trio (with Chris Bates and Jay Epstein) plus special guest, vocalist Tony DeMarco.

Framework

For big band fans, look no farther than Jazz Central tonight, as the Cedar Avenue Big Band takes the stage for its monthly blowout. With more than 25 years together, the CABB is the real deal and features a who's who in Twin Cities jazz.

Judi Vinar

Wednesday, September 9. Tonight at Crooners', it's vocalist/songwriter Judi Vinar (Donaghy) with the Wolverines Trio (Rick Carlson, Steve Pikal, Jendeen Forberg) -- a band she has worked with for more than 20 years.

Kamasi Washington*

Thursday, September 10. Seems everywhere I turn lately, someone is talking about Kamasi Washington. The eclectic multi-instrumentalist makes his Icehouse debut tonight with his Dectet. Washington has played with McCoy Tyner, Freddie Hubbard, Kenny Burrell, and George Duke while also working with Lauryn Hill, Jeffrey Osborne, Mos Def, and Quincy Jones; more recently he has toured with Stanley Clarke, Harvey Mason and Chaka Khan. In his band “The Next Step,” Kamasi boasts two drummers, two bassists (upright and electric), piano and keyboards, three horns, and a vocalist. They just released a triple disc entitled The Epic. (Reservations recommended.)

At MacPhail's Antonello Hall, pianist/instructor Tom Pletscher performs a farewell concert with a powerhouse ensemble featuring Jim Bierma on bass, Phil Hey on drums, Greg Keel on sax, and Nathan Norman on drums. After more than two decades at MacPhail, Tom is relocating to Washington state.

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities. The most comprehensive jazz calendar can be found at Jazz Police, but you will also find jazz listings at KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You. KBEM and KFAI radio host jazz programs regularly and provide daily notices of jazz gigs and concerts. The live edition of The Lead Sheet can be heard at 4:40 pm on Thursdays on KBEM, excerpts rebroadcast at 7:40 am on Fridays. (Special guest September 3--Peter Leggett of Walker West, on the new jazz series with Nicole Mitchell and soon Ron Carter.) Venues and artists are reminded to send information to online and print calendars (e.g. tc@jazzpolice.com).

Coming Soon!

. September 11, Christian Scott and Stretch Music at the Dakota

. September 11, Ron Carter and Golden Striker Trio at Walker West Music Academy

. September 11, Michael O'Brien Trio at The Nicollet

. September 12, Selby Avenue Jazz Festival (Walter Chancellor, Salsa del Soul, Source Code)

. September 12, Peterson Family Tribute to Jeanne Arland Peterson at Vieux Carré

. September 12, Jon Pemberton's Tribute to Lee Morgan at the Black Dog

. September 13-14, Bill Carrothers Trio at Crooners Lounge

. September 15, Butch Thompson and Dean Magraw at Vieux Carré

. September 15, Tommy O'Donnell Trio at Crooners Lounge

. September 17, Patricia Barber at the Dakota

Patricia Barber

. September 18, Bryan Nichols (Chicago) Quartet at Vieux Carré

. September 18, Seru/Bates/Wozniak at The Nicollet

. September 19, Freedom Jazz Festival at Minnehaha Falls Park

. September 19, Laura Caviani and Dave Milne, Jazz at St Barneys

. September 19, Jay Young and Lyric Factory at the Dakota

. September 19, Paul Harper's Show and Tell at the Black Dog

. September 20, Clarice Assad at the Dakota

. September 22, Chris Lomheim Trio at Crooners Lounge

. September 22-23, Lizz Wright at the Dakota

. September 24, Adam Meckler Orchestra at Vieux Carré

. September 25, Javi Santiago Sextet at Vieux Carré

. September 25, Lucia Sarmiento Quartet at The Nicollet

. September 26, Patty Peterson and Friends with Steve Cole at the Dakota

. September 26, John Penny Trio followed by CD Release "Night Together" at the Black Dog

. September 29, Dave Graf Quartet at Crooners Lounge

. September 29, Red Planet at Vieux Carré

. October 4, Afro-Cuban Jazz Orchestra at the Dakota

. October 6, Butch Thompson at Crooners Lounge

. October 8, Jazz in the Target Atrium (Orchestra Hall), Atrium Jazz Ensemble with Wessell Anderson

. October 13, Phil Hey Quartet at Crooners Lounge

. October 16, JT Bates Organ Trio at Vieux Carré

. October 16, Yolande Bruce Group at Walker West Music Academy

. October 20, Laura Caviani Trio with Bob Bowman and Todd Straight at Crooners

. October 25, Benny Green Trio at the Dakota

. October 27, Jane Monheit at the Dakota

. November 13, Eric Gravatt and Source Code at Walker West Music Academy

. November 16, Regina Carter's Southern Comfort at the Dakota

. November 19, Jazz in the Target Atrium (Orchestra Hall), Atrium Jazz Ensemble

. November 22-23, Karrin Allyson at the Dakota

. December 2, Diane Schuur at the Dakota

. December 14-15, New York Voices Holiday show at the Dakota

Ron Carter - At Walker West Music Academy on September 11

* Photos by Andrea Canter except Nicole Mitchell and Kamasi Washington (from artist websites)

Bill Carrothers-- Trio at Crooners Lounge, September 13-14

Fall is in the air, you can almost hear the seasonal changes-- or is it chord changes? With so many jazz sets to choose from, it's hard to keep up with the schedules of favorite performers and visiting dignitaries. There's plenty of each this week, from "homecoming" gigs of native sons, tributes to local and national legends, some intriguing pairings, and a long-running neighborhood jazz fest.

Big Gigs This Week

Ron Carter

Friday, September 11. Does anyone remember when living legend bassist Ron Carter was last in the Twin Cities? Did anyone expect that his next local gig would be in the intimate performance space of am inner city community music school? Carter and his current Golden Striker Trio with guitar wizard Russell Malone and acclaimed pianist Donald Vega play to a sold-out audience at Walker West Music Academy, the second installment of WW's 8 O'Clock Jump concert series. Earlier, at 4 pm, Carter will hold a Q and A at Walker West, no charge but advance reservation required. (I just heard this trio at the Detroit Jazz Festival -- and they are golden.)

Christian Scott

At the Dakota, trumpet master Christian Scott stretches the boundaries with his Stretch Music, a new ensemble that defies classification other than "great music." Scott himself describes it as"a stretching of Jazz, not a replacement... the idea that innovation should never be regarded as a problem in artistic practice, that one should always be aware of what has come before, and finally, that criticisms shouldn’t evoke paralysis, they should inspire action." Scott will no doubt play music from his upcoming mid-September release, Stretch Music.

Michael O'Brien

New York transplant bassist Michael O'Brien continues his metro tour this weekend, playing two gigs tonight. He pairs up with pianist Jeremy Walker for early evening sets at Vieux Carré, then leads a trio at The Nicollet with Walker and drummer Tim Zhorne, part of Steve Kenny's Friday Night Jazz at The Nicollet series.

Dan Musselman

At Jazz Central, pianist/composer Dan Musselmanspreads his electronic wings with drummer Alex Young in a duo "exploring sonic textures and spontaneous improvisation in a jazz/atmospheric idiom."

Mary Louise Knutson

Planning to spend an evening with the Minnesota Orchestra at Orchestra Hall? Come early and enjoy (free) piano jazz in the lobby with Mary Louise Knutson before the concert. (Come back tomorrow night for another dose!) You don't need a concert ticket to attend pre-show jazz.

Also free, Judi Vinar is the Friday vocalist tonight at Parma 8200, providing a sophisticated evening of song to accompany that pasta or canolli.

Walter Chancellor

Saturday, September 12. It's music all day long. Start at 11 am at the intersection of Milton and Selby in St. Paul, where the annual Selby Avenue Jazz Festival celebrates its 14th year presenting local and national talents. This free and family-friendly day of jazz, food and crafts will feature the perennial Walker West Legends of Jazz with Carl Walker and Grant West, the Jazz Heritage Showcase with Maurice Jacox, always spicy Salsa del Soul, and headliner, saxman Walter Chancellor.

The late Jeanne Arland Peterson

At Vieux Carré, Michael O'Brien is back for another duo to kickoff the evening, this time with magical pianist Bryan Nichols. It's the prelude to a Peterson Family tribute to late matriarch Jeanne Arland Peterson, raising funds for the U of M scholarship fund in her name that supports jazz students. Family includes Patty, Linda and Paul Peterson, Jason Peterson DeLaire, and special guest, Kenny Horst. This is Kenny's personal debut at Vieux Carré since "retiring" as owner of the Artists Quarter which anchored St. Paul jazz in this space from about 1995-2013. Across the river at the Dakota, Nachito Herrera pounds salsa from the keyboard, his almost monthly at his "home base."

Tribute to Lee Morgan

Another tribute this evening, this time the subject is trumpet great Lee Morgan, celebrated at the Black Dog by Jon Pemberton and his band (David Brattain, Mikkel Romstad, Tom Lewis and Cory Healey). It's a reprise of their tribute held in July at The Nicollet and one of several such tributes from Pemberton over the years. The evening kicks off with the Post Atomic Triowith David Hamilton (piano), Ademola Adegun (bass) and Derrin Pinto (drums).

JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske

Normandy Kitchen presents the always-fun, always-swinging Travis Anderson Trio (with Steve Pikal and Nathan Norman), while out at Crooners Lounge, the velvety Ginger Commodorebrings back the original quartet with Adi Yeshaya, Jay Young, Bobby Commodore and new pal Andrew Schwandt. And back for another season of Jazz in the Lobby Bar, JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueskeentertain at the Saint Paul Hotel.

Sunday, September 13. Jazz brunch with the usual suspects-- the Andrew Walesch Trio at Crooners; Patty and the Buttons at the Aster; Robert Everest at Maria's.

Paul Renz

This evening, the Travis Anderson Trio returns to the Dakota, while the Paul Renz Quintet(with Wes Ruelle, piano; Jonathan Thomas, bass; and Jessie Lesmeister, drums) returns to the Aster for a night of Paul's original compositions.

Bill Carrothers

Sunday-Monday, September 13-14. Crooners Lounge in Fridley is beefing up their jazz schedule, but even at that this is a special booking. Minnesota native, Europe-renowned pianist Bill Carrothers comes back to town for two nights with Chris Bates and Jay Epstein, working trio magic as only Bill can, and with no cover! No reservations in the lounge either, so plan to arrive early. Plan to go both nights. Bill is certainly not going to play the same show twice!

Charmin Michelle

Monday, September 14. Ahead of their season opener, JazzMN Orchestra brings the band along with vocalists Charmin Michelle and Andrew Walesch to the Chanhassan Dinner Theater. Big band, big voices, big menu. Try to beat that.

Dean Magraw

Tuesday, September 15. Continuing the instrumental jazz series at Crooners, tonight features the seldom heard Tommy O'Donnell Trio with Gordy Johnson and Phil Hey. They'll bop your socks off. Vieux Carré hosts what at first seems like an odd pairing -- trad piano fiend Butch Thompson and the eclectic modern guitar master Dean Magraw. It's going to be a melding of virtuosos across time and space! Speaking of virtuosos, come early and enjoy Chris Lomheim solo piano before Butch and Dean get underway. And at Jazz Central, it's time for the Explosion Big Band, led by Doug Haining and Scott Agster.

Wednesday, September 16. Young New York-based guitarist Asher Kurtz is featured tonight on the "new music" series at Jazz Central. A recent graduate of the Berklee College of Music, Asher has toured with Terri Lyne Carrington and appears on Jake Baldwin's recording of his band Ra Ra Rue.

Charmin and Shapura

Thursday, September 17. The early sets at Vieux Carré feature the sublime Charmin and Shapira (Charmin Michelle and Joel Shapira), who seem to play less as a duo these days since launching their "And Friends" quintet. Enjoyable fare for midweek, vocalist/saxophonist Jason Weisman brings his Jason and the Q to Crooners.

Patricia Barber

At the Dakota, the always intriguing pianist/vocalist Patricia Barber returns with her Chicagoland quartet. Barber typically includes a largely original repertoire on her set list, although some of her most devastating music has been her unique renditions of Cole Porter. And her skills at the keyboard are no less individual.

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities. The most comprehensive jazz calendar can be found at Jazz Police, but you will also find jazz listings at KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You. KBEM and KFAI radio host jazz programs regularly and provide daily notices of jazz gigs and concerts. The live edition of The Lead Sheet can be heard at 4:40 pm on Thursdays on KBEM, excerpts rebroadcast at 7:40 am on Fridays. (Special guest September 3--Peter Leggett of Walker West, on the new jazz series with Nicole Mitchell and soon Ron Carter.) Venues and artists are reminded to send information to online and print calendars (e.g. tc@jazzpolice.com

Coming Soon!

. September 18, Bryan Nichols (Chicago) Quartet at Vieux Carré

. September 18, Seru/Bates/Wozniak at The Nicollet

. September 19, Freedom Jazz Festival at Minnehaha Falls Park

. September 19, Laura Caviani and Dave Milne, Jazz at St Barneys

. September 19, Jay Young and Lyric Factory at the Dakota

. September 19, Paul Harper's Show and Tell at the Black Dog

. September 20, Clarice Assad at the Dakota

. September 21, Nichols/Bates/Bates at the Icehouse
. September 21, Paul Peterson at Jazz Central

. September 22, Chris Lomheim Trio at Crooners Lounge

. September 22-23, Lizz Wright at the Dakota
. September 23, Pete Whitman's Rootie Tootie at Jazz Central

. September 24, Adam Meckler Orchestra at Vieux Carré

. September 25, Javi Santiago Sextet at Vieux Carré

. September 25, Lucia Sarmiento Quartet at The Nicollet

. September 26, Patty Peterson and Friends with Steve Cole at the Dakota

. September 26, John Penny Trio followed by CD Release "Night Together" at the Black Dog

. September 29, Dave Graf Quartet at Crooners Lounge

. September 28, Larry McDonough 60th Birthday Celebration at the Dakota

. September 29, Red Planet at Vieux Carré

. October 4, Afro-Cuban Jazz Orchestra at the Dakota

. October 6, Butch Thompson at Crooners Lounge

. October 8, Jazz in the Target Atrium (Orchestra Hall), Atrium Jazz Ensemble with Wessell Anderson

. October 13, Phil Hey Quartet at Crooners Lounge

. October 16, JT Bates Organ Trio at Vieux Carré

. October 16, Yolande Bruce Group at Walker West Music Academy

. October 20, Laura Caviani Trio with Bob Bowman and Todd Straight at Crooners

. October 25, Benny Green Trio at the Dakota

. October 27, Jane Monheit at the Dakota

. November 9, Joey DeFrancesco at the Dakota

. November 10, Mary Louise Knutson Trio at Crooners Lounge

. November 13, Eric Gravatt and Source Code at Walker West Music Academy

. November 16, Regina Carter's Southern Comfort at the Dakota

. November 19, Jazz in the Target Atrium (Orchestra Hall), Atrium Jazz Ensemble

. November 21, Joyce Lyons, Jazz @ St. Barneys

. November 22-23, Karrin Allyson at the Dakota

. December 2, Diane Schuur at the Dakota

. December 14-15, New York Voices Holiday show at the Dakota

The Freedom Jazz Festival returns to Minnehaha Falls Park, September 19th

Kamasi Washington Dectet at the Icehouse, September 10, 2015

There was a blowout tonight at the Icehouse. Unfortunately it was ear drums that were most at risk. I knew very little of saxophonist Kamasi Washington before I saw the promo on the Icehouse website for his "Dectet" gig. I'd skimmed an article in the June issue of Jazz Times. And I checked out his music online. Most recently he has toured and recorded with a ten-piece band, and the original music seemed at least interesting in combining hip hop and rock beats with improvisation and an orchestral feel.

Kamasi Washington

The gig sold out despite the $22 ticket price, on the high end for Icehouse shows. Tim Berne, somewhat of an icon among avant garde jazz fans, sold out the Icehouse a few months ago for half that price.

I counted myself lucky to snag a ticket (and a table) until the first blasts of the sound check. Then I realized I was in over my head, or rather over my ears. The space quickly filled with mostly standing Gen Xers and Millenials -- tables and chairs on the main floor had been cleared to allow for a larger, if less comfortable, audience. Kamasi Washington already had an eager following in the Twin Cities. A few younger people hovered outside in front of the window, either hoping for tickets or enough sound to provide free audio. They surely benefitted from the latter.

Javi Santiago and Tamara Renee

Javi Santiago, Miguel Hurtado and Taylor Johnson, aka Murkury, joined New York vocalist Tamara Renee for a short opening set of a cool blend of jazz, soul and R&B, albeit at a greater volume than I've ever heard from Javi and Miguel. That was just a warning.

Kamasi Washington and company wasted no time proving my ear plugs were close to useless. Well, perhaps I would have passed out without them. It occurs to me that too few people complain about outrageous volume levels. Loud is equated with excitement and excitement is the most addictive "drug" of the 21st century. Most of this audience at the Icehouse came of age under the sign of Loud. I came of age under the sign of rock 'n roll -- what our parents considered Loud, but easily averaging about 50 decibels below the typical rock concert of 2015. Now I sound like my parents. But they were right about this.

What is not "relative" to time and place and musical taste is volume and its impact on human ears, which are not evolving to handle more and more decibels. Rather, those little hairs in your ears (stereocilia) are merely shrinking and disappearing along with the ability to distinguish and ultimately receive sound. My dad at 94 has precious few of those little hairs left and he never listened to loud music intentionally. The finest digital hearing aids can't reconstruct sounds that never reach the eardrum for lack of stereocilia. My 60-something peers who insisted on turning up the volume in their teens now may be approaching the hearing acuity of 90-somethings. What about the Millenials? What sounds will they hear in their 60s? Or 50s? And how exciting will that be?

Already I fear that one of the reasons for what seems to be ever-increasing volume at music events is the fact that half the audience can't really hear music at what to me is a normal, comfortable level. And that is why few people complain. To many, this is not loud at all. (Tell that to your stereocilia as they cringe, and disintegrate, under the increasing impact of louder and louder sound waves.)

Then there's the phenomenon of sound checks. It seems that the volume for drums and bass are established as the baseline for whatever band. Then the brass and piano have to be set high enough to be heard over drum and bass. Why not reverse the process and set piano and saxophone (and voice) at a reasonable level and let the drums and bass come down to meet them?

Kamasi Washington Dectet

But I digress from this evening's event. With ear plugs, I only survived through the first three tunes (and I use the term loosely) of Washington and the Dectet. That was more than enough as I wanted to save my hearing at least long enough to enjoy Ron Carter and Bill Carrothers this weekend. And frankly I was unable to draw any real conclusions as to the talent of Kamasi Washington and his bandmates. One consequence of extreme volume is that it disguises talent as easily as lack of talent. As long as your drummers (Washington uses two) and bassist can effectively maintain a halfway interesting rhythm, you don't need much else as you won't hear much else, or what you do hear from horns etc. is so distorted that it is impossible evaluate. A weak saxophonist can hold his or her own and get away with it. And a strong saxophonist, which I suspect Washington really is, gets lost in the invasive auditory muck that obscures whatever talent. Does the audience care? Apparently not. After all, Loud = Excitement, and Excitement trumps all.

I actually might enjoy Kamasi Washington's new 3-disc release, Epoch, at least when I am in charge of the volume (and bass) settings. These musicians deserve much better than what they are giving themselves--sonic disguise. Get rid of the distortion, the excess vibration, the inevitable bleeding of sounds (as opposed to true harmony) and I bet we uncover an ensemble of talented musicians with distinct voices and inventive musical ideas. I just wish we could actually hear the music! It's hard to keep your ears wide open when your stereocilia are screaming for insulation.

September 10, 2015

Stunning pianists are in the spotlight this week, as well as one of the area's longest-running jazz festivals, a new Monk-inspired project from Pete Whitman, and a good handful of area (and international) vocalists. And for aspiring jazz artists, the annual auditions for the Dakota Combo will be held Sunday afternoon.

Big Gigs This Week

Bryan Nichols

Friday, September 18. Last night at the Dakota, vocalist/pianist Patricia Barber was on stage with her current Chicago band of Kurt Schweitz (bass), Jon Deitemyer (drums), and Jim Gailloreto (saxophone). This trio hangs out another day in Minnesota, long enough to visit Vieux Carré with pal and top-flight pianist Bryan Nichols.

Donald Washington

The Black Dog presents the early show with pianist Todd Harper, then brings on the monthly gig with the always intriguing Donald Washington Trio, tonight featuring bassist Yohannes Tona and drummer/son Kevin Washington in company with bari/tenor saxophonist Donald.

Davu Seru

Over at The Nicollet, the Friday Night Jazz Series gets a boost with the music of three of the region's most exciting improvisers-- Davu Seru(percussion), Brandon Wozniak(saxophone) and Chris Bates (bass). Where it goes, where it ends, is anyone's guess, but you can count on an exciting ride.

Jazz Central has changed its Friday night format, offering a more eclectic line-up and starting later, at 8 pm. Tonight, young saxophonist Evan Benidt leads an ensemble (Joe Mayo, Javi Santiago, Greg Byers and Mac Santiago) through two sets of jazz, blues, and rock.

Patty Peterson

Bringing the finest area music to the north burbs, Crooners presents a night with Patty Peterson and Friends, which tonight include Jason Peterson DeLaire (keys, sax, vocals), Mark Weisberg (bass), and Bobby Vandell (drums). Often the band is somewhat larger, but the quartet format might be the best way to enjoy Patty's savvy delivery of a wide-range of great songs. On the south end of the metro, enjoy the stellar voice of Thomas Bruce in the relaxed setting of Parma 8200.

Ben Abrahamson

Guitar fans should check out three of the metro's finest young masters at the Public Kitchen late tonight -- Park Evans takes on steel-string; Thomas Nordlund adds electric, and Ben Abrahamson provides the flamenco flair.

Freedom Jazz Fest All-Stars

Saturday, September 19. Most every summer over the past 15 years, the Freedom Jazz Festival has been held in a Minneapolis park setting, bringing a wide range of contemporary and traditional jazz to a free, community-centered event. Held a little later this year, the festival returns to Minnehaha Falls Park, noon-6 pm, featuring perennial favorites McCrae Jazz Workshop, Walker West Jazz Band, and Capri Big Band along with the Tangents, a vocal showcase with Debbie Duncan, Yolande Bruce and Linda Sloan, Chip Minor and George Scott. Along the way, the festival will present its annual Sam Favors Award as well as arts, crafts, concessions, great food, and family fun.

Jazz in the Lobby Bar of the Saint Paul Hotel is back for its new season with pianist/vocalist JoAnn Funk and bassist Jeff Brueske entertaining with the songs of Peggy Lee, Blossom Dearie and more.

Paul Harper

Saturday Night Jazz at the Black Dog kicks off with the Zeb Cruickshank Quartet, featuring Zeb on guitar, Dan Musselman on piano, Brent Wallace on bass and Byron Johnson-Blanchard on drums. The "prime time" show features Paul Harper's Show and Tell, a modern bebop ensemble with Paul on sax, Mike Cramer on guitar, Charlie Riddle on bass and visiting drummer Sheila Earley. Show and Tell has proven to be a popular band over their recent appearances at The Nicollet and Black Dog.

Laura Caviani

Two area virtuoso performers, composers and educators come together to reconsider classical composers as well as classic jazz artists. Pianist Laura Caviani and saxophonist David Milne first performed their "Jazz Impressions" last month in Northfield at the Bridge Chamber Music Festival, and now bring their rearrangements of Debussy, Ravel, Corea, Brubeck, and more to the opening concert of the Jazz @ St. Barney's series at St. Barnabas Lutheran Church in Plymouth.

Jay Young

Jay Young's Lyric Factory returns to the Dakota with a follow-up to their recent "Bandwidth" show, highlighting the music of jazz and pop radio. It's Jay's usual suspects including son Ian on a second bass, pianist Thom West, drummer Kevin Washington, violinist Ernest Bisong, and a team of vocalists (Yolande Bruce, Linda Sloan and Heather McElrath).

Something--or rather someone-- a little different takes the stage at Crooners tonight. Bassist and vocalist Kate Lynch adds a jazz sensibility to a wide array of tunes, largely from the 30s and 40s, and she's joined by the aptly named Most Excellent Fellows-- guitarist Chris Beaty, drummer Ken Chastain, trumpeter Greg Lewis, and trombonist Michael Nelson.

Andrew Walesch

Sunday, September 20. If it's Sunday, it's time for jazz brunch, with the Andrew Walesch Trio (with Gordy Johnson and Jay Epstein) at Crooners; Patty and the Buttons at the Aster; Robert Everest at Maria's. Close the day (and every Sunday night) at the Riverview Wine Bar with the Zacc Harris Trio.

The Dakota Combo

This afternoon is a special one for area high school jazz students with a serious interest in small ensemble performance. For the tenth year, MacPhail Center for Music and the Dakota Foundation for Jazz Education join together to hold open auditions for the Dakota Combo, a metro-wide jazz band that provides scholarships for 5-8 talented young musicians (grades 9-12) to spend the school year studying with bassist/educator Adam Linz, performing at area venues including the Dakota, Black Dog, Nicollet and more; taking the Youth Stage at the Twin Cities and Iowa City Jazz Festivals each summer; visiting area schools and participating in clinics with nationally renowned musicians. Auditions are held today from 12:30 - 4 pm at MacPhail; no pre-registration required but interested students should review requirements posted on the DFJE website.

Tonight at the Dakota, Brazilian pianist/vocalist Clarice Assadreturns for an evening of exquisite song-making.

Monday, September 21. Following their sold-out CD release at the Icehouse last month, the amazing young Potash Twins return to perform at the Dakota tonight. Still in college programs, the twin trombonists have played with Wynton Marsalis and Jon Batiste, at Jazz at Lincoln Center, South by Southwest, Birdland and beyond. Local guitarist Cory Wong describes their music as falling "someplace between Katy Perry and Miles Davis."

"Not that Paul Peterson" performs tonight on the weekly jam at Jazz Central. Not to be confused with St. Paul Peterson of the famed Peterson Family, this Paul is a saxophonist who studied at the U of M Duluth and is now making his way through the Twin Cities jazz scene, performing with hortZ, CC Septet, Nova Jazz Orchestra, and Century Big Band. His cohorts this evening include Larry McDonough on piano, John Hyvarinen on guitar, Greg Stinson on bass and Dean White on drums.

JT Bates

Late night improv at the Icehouse features Nichols/Bates/Bates-- Bryan, Chris and JT having a lot of fun "performing compositions of all three members and generally navigating the music however they see fit at any given moment."

Chris Lomheim

Tuesday, September 22. It's a special "media night" at Crooners, with print and online media folks invited to check out the new Tuesday Night instrumental music series as well as the venue. And it's a perfect night for such an event, with the Chris Lomheim Trio (Gordy Johnson and Jay Epstein) performing two sublime sets, largely drawn from Chris's 2014 recording of all-original music (Timelines) as well as newer material.

Mary Louise Knutson

At Vieux Carré, elegant pianist Mary Louise Knutson plays a couple solo sets early evening, followed by the swinging Parisota Hot Club and hot club chanteuse Connie Evingson.

Dubbed an "open rehearsal," the Twin Cities Latin Jazz Orchestra takes over the Jazz Central space once per month, boasting a who's who band of veterans and up and coming artists, led by Geoff Senn and Mac Santiago.

Lizz Wright

Tuesday-Wednesday, September 22-23. It's been a few years since vocalist Lizz Wright visited the Twin Cities. Mixing jazz and soul, Wright has a remarkable instrument and several captivating recordings that capture it.

Pete Whitman

Wednesday, September 23.Pete Whitmanlaunches another new project at Jazz Central tonight with "Rootie Tootie." Celebrating Monk and Ornette, the band includes two saxes--Whitman and Nathan Hanson, along with Steven Hobert on piano, Chris Bates on bass and Phil Hey on drums. Sounds like some rootin' tootin' jazz.

At Crooner's, Debbie Duncan returns for an evening of joyful song and a little mayhem.

Katia Cardenas

Thursday, September 24. Vocalist Katia Cardenas makes her debut at the Black Dog tonight, filling the club with her takes on jazz and R&B gems. At Khyber Pass, the Thursday Night gig is an LP release celebration for Paul Metzger's Improvisations on Modified Banjo. And up at Crooners, enjoy another swingfest with the Southside Aces.

Adam Meckler and the AMO

At Vieux Carré, the Adam Meckler Orchestra makes their venue debut, and their first public gig in a while as Meckler has been focused on recording his quintet. The AMO is a modern jazz orchestra in the tradition of Maria Schneider and Bob Brookmeyer, with a repertoire of original compositions and a stable of some of the finest jazz soloists in town.

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities. The most comprehensive jazz calendar can be found at Jazz Police, but you will also find jazz listings at KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You. KBEM and KFAI radio host jazz programs regularly and provide daily notices of jazz gigs and concerts. The live edition of The Lead Sheet can be heard at 4:40 pm on Thursdays on KBEM, excerpts rebroadcast at 7:40 am on Fridays. (Special guest September 3--Peter Leggett of Walker West, on the new jazz series with Nicole Mitchell and soon Ron Carter.) Venues and artists are reminded to send information to online and print calendars (e.g. tc@jazzpolice.com

Coming Soon!

. September 25, Javi Santiago Sextet at Vieux Carré

. September 25, Lucia Sarmiento Quartet at The Nicollet

. September 25, Anthony Cox at Jazz Central

. September 26, Patty Peterson and Friends with Steve Cole at the Dakota

. September 26, John Penny Trio followed by CD Release "A Night Together" at the Black Dog

. September 28, Larry McDonough 60th Birthday Celebration at the Dakota

. September 28, Classic B-3 Organ Trio at the Icehouse

. September 29, Dave Graf Quartet at Crooners Lounge

. September 29, Acme Jazz Company at Jazz Central

. September 29, Red Planet at Vieux Carré

. October 2, Pete Emblom Sextet at Jazz Central

. October 3, Wayne Bergeron and Andrew Walesch with JazzMN Orchestra at Hopkins High School Auditorium

. October 4, Afro-Cuban Jazz Orchestra at the Dakota

. October 6, Butch Thompson at Crooners Lounge

. October 8, Jazz in the Target Atrium (Orchestra Hall), Atrium Jazz Ensemble with Wessell Anderson

. October 13, Phil Hey Quartet at Crooners Lounge

. October 16, JT Bates Organ Trio at Vieux Carré

. October 16, Yolande Bruce Group at Walker West Music Academy

. October 20, Laura Caviani Trio with Bob Bowman and Todd Straight at Crooners

. October 25, Benny Green Trio at the Dakota

. October 26, Mike Sopko/Hamir Atwal/Martin Dosh at the Icehouse

. October 27, Jane Monheit at the Dakota

. November 1, Soul Cafe at the Hennepin Ave United Methodist Church

. November 9, Joey DeFrancesco at the Dakota

. November 10, Mary Louise Knutson Trio at Crooners Lounge

. November 13, Eric Gravatt and Source Code at Walker West Music Academy

. November 16, Regina Carter's Southern Comfort at the Dakota

. November 19, Jazz in the Target Atrium (Orchestra Hall), Atrium Jazz Ensemble

. November 21, Joyce Lyons, Jazz @ St. Barneys

. November 22-23, Karrin Allyson at the Dakota

. December 2, Diane Schuur at the Dakota

. December 14-15, New York Voices Holiday show at the Dakota

Red Planet - at Vieux Carre' on September 29

Patty Peterson and Friends, at the Dakota September 26

Feels like Autumn in Minnesota! And our jazz venues are turning up the heat, from gigs with the best of our young lions to veteran performers in diverse contexts, including a CD release from very familiar musicians playing in the unexpected context of romantic standards.

Big Gigs This Week

Lucia Sarmiento

Friday, September 25. Young lions chew up the stage at The Nicollet on the Friday Night Jazz Series! I first heard young saxophonist Lucia Sarmiento a couple years ago on the youth stage at the Twin Cities Jazz Festival. From Lima Peru, she studied with one of our favorite visiting artists, Andres Prado, and now is pursuing advanced studies at McNally Smith with Pete Whitman. She leads a band of like-minded artists who appeared on the Sixth Street stage at the 2015 festival.

Maud Hixson

At Parma 8200 in Bloomington, it's the monthly evening with the Maud Hixson Trio, with Rick Carlson and Gordy Johnson. Maud and Rick just returned from Portland, OR where they performed her "Skyscraper Wits" show-- music from Porter, Hart and Mercer, so perhaps some of that repertoire will be on the Parma setlist?

Javi Santiago

At Vieux Carré, start the evening with the sublime piano/bass duo of Jeremy Walker and Jeff Brueske, then re-boot your ears with the Javi Santiago Sextet. The young pianist, recently relocated back home after a few years honing his chops in New York, has assembled a band of the top young guns in town-- trumpeter Jake Baldwin, bassist Ted Olson, and drummer Miguel Hurtado, along with two of our most prolific veterans--guitarist Zacc Harris and saxophonist Pete Whitman. It will be a blast.

Anthony Cox

Jazz Central has a new, more eclectic format for Fridays, starting at 8 pm. This week, internationally acclaimed bassist Anthony Cox leads Riotous N ("mysticism explored") with an ensemble featuring top improvisers deVon Gray (keys), John Penny (guitar), Davu Seru (percussion), and Sarah M. Greer (vocals).

Saturday, September 26. Saturday Night Jazz at the Black Dog makes a bit of a right turn tonight with a CD release party for A Night Together. Conceived and funded by frequent Black Dog patrons Holly Augustine and Bill Coulter, the recording puts familiar Black Dog performers Brandon Wozniak, Steve Kenny, Peter Schimke, Billy Peterson and Kenny Horst into less familiar territory--standards that tell the story of love ("A Night Together") from preamble ("Suggestion") to conclusion ("Denouement"), arranged by Adam Meckler.

John Penny

To be sure there is an initial jolt of adrenalin, the 7 pm opening set features the John Penny Trio--guitarist/vocalist John with bassist Charlie Riddle and drummer Davu Seru. Surely a night with something for everyone!

At the Dakota, there's always some fun as well as music flowing with Patty Peterson and Friends, and tonight's "Friends" include both brother Ricky Peterson on keys and frequent guest Steve Cole on sax, along with Jason Peterson DeLaire, Joe Elliot, Billy Franze, and Bobby Vandell.

Debbie Duncan

Across the river, Minnesota's First Lady of Song, Debbie Duncan, entertains as only she can at Vieux Carré. (I just ran into her, almost literally, on the grounds of the Detroit Jazz Festival-- and I think it's time she performed there for her hometown crowds.)

Pavel Jany

Regular Saturday night gigs continue-- JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueskein the Lobby Bar of the Saint Paul Hotel; the swinging Talking Strings (Pavel Jany, Gary Schulte) at the Loring Pasta Bar; and the epitome of piano jazz at Parma 8200 with the Benny Weinbeck Trio.

Sunday, September 27. Sunday Jazz Brunch is offered at Crooners Lounge with songbird Maud Hixson; at the Aster Cafe with the swinging Patty and the Buttons; and at Maria's Cafe with Brazilian jazz favorite Robert Everest. End the day in relaxed surroundings at the Riverview Wine Bar with the Zacc Harris Trio.

Larry McDonough

Monday, September 28. Our favorite piano-playing attorney Larry McDonough celebrates the big 6-0 at the Dakota with his long-running quartet-- saxophonist Richard Terrill, bassist Greg Stinson and drummer Dean White, usually assisted by Larry's daughter Rosie on African percussion. To make this gig more festive, Larry has asked fans for song requests from his CDs and recent shows.

Cameron Kinghorn

Tonight the young turks of Jazzland Wonderband debut at Crooners Lounge, playing the music of Dixieland and the Swing era. These are musicians you have heard in more contemporary contexts-- Cameron Kinghorn, Nelson Devereaux, Keith Hilson, Evan Clark and Andres Crovetti.

JT's Jazz Implosion at the Icehouse features a star-bright organ trio, with Kevin Gastonguay, Zacc Harris and JT himself. This is no church organ gig!

Arne Fogel

Tuesday, September 29. The benefit of a fifth Tuesday this month-- the Acme Jazz Company (with vocalist Arne Fogel) performs on Big Band night at Jazz Central Studios! With one of the most original books among regional big bands, Acme brings a modern twist to Big Band sounds.

Dave Graf

Tuesday Night instrumental jazz series continues at Crooners with the Dave Graf Quartet. We seldom hear the ace trombonist in a leading role, and he has gathered some simpatico pals--Dan Leahy on piano, Gary Raynor on bass and Mac Santiago on drums.

Dean Magraw

A worthy double-header at Vieux Carré: Start your evening with calm elegance from the solo piano of Chris Lomheim. Then jump-start your cardio system with the ever-surprising Red Planet, featuring Dean Magraw, Chris Bates and Jay Epstein in the band's VC debut.

Wednesday, September 30. New Music Night at Jazz Central presents a dazzling duo with Steven Hobert and Dean Magraw, taking piano and guitar to new heights with "honesty, passion, exploration. . . . letting loose. Come and dig it."

Solomon Parham

Thursday, October 1. Vieux Carré kicks off the new month with early evening music from guitarist Joel Shapira, followed by Solomon's Sessions-- a jam of sorts led by trumpeter Solomon Parham and friends.

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities. The most comprehensive jazz calendar can be found at Jazz Police, but you will also find jazz listings at KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You. KBEM and KFAI radio host jazz programs regularly and provide daily notices of jazz gigs and concerts. The live edition of The Lead Sheet can be heard at 4:40 pm on Thursdays on KBEM, excerpts rebroadcast at 7:40 am on Fridays. (Special guest September 3--Peter Leggett of Walker West, on the new jazz series with Nicole Mitchell and soon Ron Carter.) Venues and artists are reminded to send information to online and print calendars (e.g. tc@jazzpolice.com).

Coming Soon!

. October 2, Pete Emblom Sextet at Jazz Central

. October 3, Wayne Bergeron and Andrew Walesch with JazzMN Orchestra at Hopkins High School Auditorium

. October 4, Afro-Cuban Jazz Orchestra at the Dakota

. October 6, Butch Thompson at Crooners Lounge

. October 8, Jazz in the Target Atrium (Orchestra Hall), Atrium Jazz Ensemble with Wessell Anderson

. October 10, Maud Hixson, Jazz @ St. Barneys

. October 13, Phil Hey Quartet at Crooners Lounge

. October 15, Amina Figarova Sextet at the Dakota

. October 16, JT Bates Organ Trio at Vieux Carré

. October 16, Yolande Bruce Group at Walker West Music Academy

. October 20, Laura Caviani Trio with Bob Bowman and Todd Straight at Crooners Lounge

. October 25, Benny Green Trio at the Dakota

. October 26, Mike Sopko/Hamir Atwal/Martin Dosh at the Icehouse

. October 27, Jane Monheit at the Dakota

. November 1, Soul Cafe at the Hennepin Ave United Methodist Church

. November 9, Joey DeFrancesco at the Dakota

. November 10, Mary Louise Knutson Trio at Crooners Lounge

. November 13, Eric Gravatt and Source Code at Walker West Music Academy

. November 16, Regina Carter's Southern Comfort at the Dakota

. November 19, Jazz in the Target Atrium (Orchestra Hall), Atrium Jazz Ensemble

. November 21, Joyce Lyons, Jazz @ St. Barneys

. November 21, JazzMN Orchestra at Hopkins High School Auditorium

. November 22-23, Karrin Allyson at the Dakota

. December 2, Diane Schuur at the Dakota

. December 14-15, New York Voices Holiday show at the Dakota

. December 25-28, The Bad Plus at the Dakota

Atrium Jazz Ensemble, new season October 8 at Orchestra Hall

JazzMN Orchestra's new season gets underway October 3

Nights are getting a bit nippy, the leaves are definitely turning and a splendid October is in the forecast! Let the fall festival of jazz begin! And we have some terrific opportunities coming our way, from the youthful lions of the local scene to veteran improvisers and big band stalwarts, from visiting stars to local legends. The lunar eclipse has passed, but there's a universe of jazz to enjoy here on Earth.

Big Gigs This Week

Pete Emblom

Friday, October 2. Trombone vet Pete Emblom keeps busy blowing with a long list of bands including Explosion and Bill Simenson, but tonight he steps out in front at Jazz Central with a sextet of local standouts, including saxophonist Clay Pufahl, trumpeter Jake Baldwin, pianist Peter Schimke, visiting Kansas City bassist Bob Bowman, and Jazz Central director, drummer Mac Santiago. (See Saturday for a special Bob Bowman gig.)

Thomas Strommen, Dark Blue

Down the street, Friday Night Jazz at The Nicollet features a quartet of UW-River Falls students and recent alums, together for the past three years honing their chops on mostly original compositions of surprising sophistication. Dark Blue features tenor saxophonist Thomas Strommen, guitarist Dylan Nelson, bassist Jason McLean and drummer Alex Burgess. Strommen and Burgess might be familiar from their work with Steve Kenny's Group 47.

Tim Nyberg

Making tonight truly special, local artist Tim Nyberg will be painting along with the music. Nyberg, who exhibits and sells his work from his Fun Art Studio, created the cover to the Good Vibes Trio CD a couple years ago in a similar set-up, so who knows where this will go?

Butch Thompson

The first of two gigs this week with trad jazz legend Butch Thompsontakes place in likely company at an unlikely venue. Joining Patty and the Buttons and Dakota Dave Hull, Thompson performs on clarinet at the Jackson Street Roadhouse in St Paul, which Patty (accordionist Patrick Harison) reports "has an amazing collection of train cars, engines and memorabilia housed in a 100+ year old functioning roundhouse." (See Tuesday for Butch's piano gig at Crooners.)

Katia and Denny

At Crooners' Lounge, a new pairing puts young vocalist Katia Cardenas on the bandstand with veteran accordionist Denny Malmberg for the happy hour sets, followed by the ever-entertaining Ginger Commodore Quartet, this evening with Lee Blaske on piano, Rich Manik on sax, Mark Weisberg on bass and Bobby Commodore on drums.

And at the Dakota, it's the monthly-ish appearance of Cuban fireball pianist Nachito Herrera and friends.

Charmin and Shapira

Saturday, October 3. Midtown Global Market brings in Charmin (Michelle) and (Joel) Shapirafor a midday duo, a perfect accompaniment for a global lunch in the MGM atrium.

Jordan Anderson

Saturday Night Jazz at the Black Dog presents another cross-generational double feature. Opening tonight will be the debut of the Jordan Anderson Group, led by high school senior pianist Jordan who has been playing the past year (and now for another) with the Dakota Combo as well as with Pippi Ardennia, Charlie Lincoln, and in his own duo at Five Watt Coffee while studying with Peter Schimke and Richard Johnson. Jordan's equally precocious band includes guitar whiz Adam Astrup, a student of Zacc Harris. Prime time tonight features a new configuration of veteran improvisers, dubbed the Deconstruction Zone as their repertoire is largely deconstructed standards. The band includes Anthony Cox on bass and cello, Bryan Nichols on piano, Steve Kenny on trumpet and Davu Seru on percussion, along with "special guests."

Andrew Walesch

It's the opening concert of the new season for the JazzMN Orchestra at their home base in the Hopkins High School Auditorium, and to celebrate they bring back a crowd favorite, trumpeter Wayne Bergeron, who will pay tribute to his muses. Also on hand for the first set will be local vocalist/pianist Andrew Walesch singing songs from the books of Frank Sinatra and Joe Williams.

Bob Bowman

At Jazz Central, a rare Saturday night gig features frequent visitor, Kansas City bassist Bob Bowman along with his KC cohort, saxophonist Michael Schults. Add in relatively new Minnesotan Dan Leahy on piano and Jazz Central manager, drummer Mac Santiago.

Travis Anderson

The Normandy Kitchen provides an atmosphere of swinging fun with the Travis Anderson Trio-- feisty pianist Travis along with bassist Steve Pikal and drummer Nathan Norman. Meanwhile weekly Jazz in the Lobby Bar at the Saint Paul Hotel features vocalist/pianist JoAnn Funk and bassist Jeff Brueske, and Sophia Shorai sings and charms at Crooners' Lounge.

Sunday, October 4. Jazz for Sunday brunch can be found weekly at Crooners (Andrew Walesch Trio), the Aster (Patty and the Buttons), and Maria's (Robert Everest).

Solomon Parham

Back by popular demand! Solomon's Sessions", a high-energy, open-ended gig led by trumpeter Solomon Parham and friends and students from McNally Smith, returns on alternating Sundays at The Bedlam Lowertown.

At the Dakota, the Afro-Cuban All-Stars reign, led by Juan de Marcos and encompassing a full range of Cuban styles across three generations of musicians.

Music from farther south, the popular Viva Brazil, led by Altamir Coelho, adds color and energy to this night at the Icehouse.

Charmin Michelle and Denny Malmberg

Monday-Thursday, October 5-8. Since Fireside Pizza discontinued music last winter, there have been few opportunities to hear the swinging duo of Charmin Michelle and Denny Malmberg. Thanks to Crooners' Lounge, we can have four days of happy hour sets to bring back the memories. Hopefully this is just the beginning.

Monday, October 5. Come early to Crooners for Charmin and Denny at happy hour and stay for the big band magic of the Acme Jazz Company with the additional charms of vocalist Arne Fogel.

Ryan Christianson

The Monday Spotlight and Jam at Jazz Central features young trombonist Ryan Christianson and his trio-mates, bassist Matt McIntyre and drummer Andres Crovetti, all tracing their lineage to the U of M jazz program. Ryan's plans to finish his degree have been delayed by his appointment to the bone chair of the Dallas Brass Quintet, so catch him here while you can.

Tuesday, October 6. Improvisation flows freely at the Black Dog, where the First Tuesdays gig flies with Davu Seru on percussion and guitarist Joseph Damann sitting in for Dean Magraw.

Things are more traditional at Crooners where Butch Thompsonpresides on the Tuesday Instrumental Jazz series, while swing + humor rule at the Dakota with the Travis Anderson Trio(e.g., "jazz with a smack"). There's more big band sleight-of-hand at Jazz Central with the First Tuesday appearance of the Bill Simenson Orchestra.

Steve Kenny

Vieux Carré hosts a sterling double-header, starting with the early evening sets from heady pianist Dan Musselman, followed by the Steve Kenny Quartet. Kenny seems equally at home with veteran elders and young Turks, and the latter form this night's quartet--Javi Santiago, Ted Olsen and Miguel Hurtado.

Wednesday, October 7. The Wolverines Trio make some devilish jazz at Hell's Kitchen tonight, while Katia Cardenas sings with finesse at Crooners Lounge.

Cameron Kinghorn

Thursday, October 8. A showcase of young talents at Vieux Carré tonight, starting with pianist Joe Strachanand bassist Ted Olsen, and moving into "prime time" with the Jazzland Wonderband-- a quintet featuring trumpeter/vocalist Cameron Kinghorn, multi-reedman Nelson Devereaux, trombonist Keith Hilson, tuba master Evan Clark, and drummer Andres Crovetti.

Wess Warmdaddy Anderson

The second season of Jazz in the Target Atrium launches at Orchestra Hall under the leadership of Jeremy Walker. The Atrium Jazz Ensemble --Walker on piano, Chris Thomson on sax, Jeff Brueske on bass and Tim Zhorne on drums-- welcomes guest and long-time Walker cohort Wessell "Warmdaddy" Anderson on alto, performing a program that includes works by Hoagy Carmichael, Bob Dylan, and the premiere of Walker's "A River Like a Train."

Noah Ophoven-Baldwin

Trumpets rule at Khyber Pass tonight. First set features Adam Linz and Steve Kenny; second set is a trumpet trio with Noah Ophoven-Baldwin, Jake Baldwin and Elaine Evans.

More Jazz!

Keep up with the live jazz scene in the Twin Cities. The most comprehensive jazz calendar can be found at Jazz Police, but you will also find jazz listings at KBEM, Rhythm and Grooves and Jazz Near You. KBEM and KFAI radio host jazz programs regularly and provide daily notices of jazz gigs and concerts. The live edition of The Lead Sheet can be heard at 4:40 pm on Thursdays on KBEM, excerpts rebroadcast at 7:40 am on Fridays. (Special guest October 8--Jeff Whitmill, curator of Jazz @ St. Barney's.) Venues and artists are reminded to send information to online and print calendars (e.g. tc@jazzpolice.com).

Coming Soon!

. October 9, Bottomless Pit at The Nicollet

. October 10, Maud Hixson, Jazz @ St. Barneys

. October 10, Low Blows at the Black Dog

. October 13, Phil Hey Quartet at Crooners Lounge

. October 15, Amina Figarova Sextet at the Dakota

. October 16, JT Bates Organ Trio at Vieux Carré

. October 16, Seru/Bates/Granros at The Nicollet

. October 16, Yolande Bruce Group at Walker West Music Academy

. October 17, Le Percheron at the Black Dog

. October 20, Laura Caviani Trio with Bob Bowman and Todd Straight at Crooners

. October 22, Charmin and Shapira at Jazz Central

. October 23, No Room for Squares at The Nicollet

. October 24, Illicit Sextet at the Black Dog

. October 25, Benny Green Trio at the Dakota

. October 26, Mike Sopko/Hamir Atwal/Martin Dosh at the Icehouse

. October 27, Jane Monheit at the Dakota

. October 31, How Birds Work at the Black Dog

. November 1, Soul Cafe at the Hennepin Ave United Methodist Church

. November 9, Joey DeFrancesco at the Dakota

. November 10, Mary Louise Knutson Trio at Crooners Lounge

. November 13, Eric Gravatt and Source Code at Walker West Music Academy

. November 16, Regina Carter's Southern Comfort at the Dakota

. November 17, Adam Meckler Orchestra at Vieux Carré

. November 19, Jazz in the Target Atrium (Orchestra Hall), Atrium Jazz Ensemble + Ron Miles

. November 21, Joyce Lyons, Jazz @ St. Barneys

. November 21, JazzMN Orchestra at Hopkins High School Auditorium

. November 22-23, Karrin Allyson at the Dakota

. November 30, Pat Martino Quartet at the Dakota

. December 2, Diane Schuur at the Dakota

. December 14-15, New York Voices Holiday show at the Dakota

. December 25-28, The Bad Plus at the Dakota

. February 2, Charles Lloyd Trio with Bill Frisell at the Dakota

Phil Hey leads his quartet at Crooners Lounge on October 13

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, March 13-26

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, March 27 - April 2

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, April 3-9

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, April 10-16

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, April 17-23

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, April 24-30

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, May 1-7

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, May 8-14

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, May 15-21

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, May 22-28

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, May 29 - June 4

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, June 5-11

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, August 20-27

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, August 28-September 3

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, September 4-10

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, September 11-17

Sound Check: Will You Still Hear Me Tomorrow?

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, September 18-24

The Lead Sheet" Twin Cities Live Jazz, September 25-October 1

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, October 2-8