Picks of the Week: Sept. 18 – 23

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Catharine Russell

- Sept 19. (Wed.) Catharine Russell.  Her resume includes gigs and recordings with the likes of Paul Simon, Steely Dan, David Bowie, Michael Feinstein.  But she’s very much the “real thing” according to critic Nat Hentoff.  And why not?  Her father, pianist Luis Russell, was Louis Armstrong’s music director.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

- Sept. 20. (Thurs.)  Stephanie Haynes & the Karen Hammack Trio. A decade or two ago Haynes was one of the Southland’s most admired jazz singers.  Now, after a too-long absence, she’s on the comeback trail, backed by the vocalist-friendly pianist Hammack and her trio.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- Sept. 20. (Thurs.)  Gabriel Johnson.  Yet another trumpeter/vocalist, Johnson – highly praised by Clint Eastwood – celebrates the release of his new CD, Introducing Gabriel Johnson. Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

- Sept. 21 & 22.  (Fri. & Sat.) Rhinoceros by Eugene Ionescu.  U.C.L.A.’s new performing arts entity – “Center for the Art of Performance at UCLA” – begins its debut season with Ionescu’s classic absurdist play, as performed by the Theatre de la Ville-Paris.  It’s done in French with English supertitles.   CAP UCLA.  Royce Hall.  (310) 825-2101.

Karrin Allyson

- Sept.21–23. (Fri. – Sun.)  Karrin Allyson. Admired by musicians as well as her enthusiastic audiences for her far reaching musicality, Allyson moves convincingly across stylistic lines while always maintaining her jazz roots.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

- Sept. 22. (Sat.) Larry Goldings, Peter Bernstein and Greg Hutchinson.  A classic jazz organ trio – with Goldings at the B-3, Bernstein on guitar and Hutchinson on drums – at its very best.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

- Sept. 22. (Sat.) Sing-A-Long Sound of Music. If you wake up on Sat. morning with an irresistible urge to sing some of the songs from Sound of Music, here’s the solution – the Bowl’s annual all-join-in event.  And don’t forget to wear your costume.  Hollywood Bowl.    (323) 850-2000.

- Sept. 22. (Sat.)  Gregory Porter.  It’s an L.A. week filled with impressive jazz vocal performances, and Porter’s warm, engaging voice and sturdy jazz vocalizing are among its major highlights. The Mint.   (323) 954-9400.

- Sept. 22. (Sat.)  Pianist Laurence Hobgood is rightly praised for his excellent work as an accompanist and arranger.  But there are other equally impressive aspects to his skills, and they’ll all be on display in this quartet performance with saxophonist Ernie Watts, bassist Hamilton Price and drummer Dan Schnelle.  The Blue Whale.  (213) 620-0908.

Kris Kristofferson and Merle Haggard

- Sept. 22. Sat.) Merle Haggard and Kris Kristofferson.  “Legendary” is a word that actually makes sense when applied to these great folk and country music artists.  Hearing them together will be one of the memorable musical experiences of a lifetime  Click HERE to read a recent iRoM review of Haggard and Kristofferson in action. Valley Performing Arts Center. (818) 677- 3000.

- Sept. 22. (Sat.) Emil Richards Quartet.  Veteran vibist’s resume is covered with all-star performances.  But he’s at his best when he steps into the spotlight with equally stellar backing from the likes of Mike Lang, piano, Mike Valerio, bass and Ralph Humphrey, drums.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.

- Sept. 23. (Sun.) Carol Robbins.  She’s everyone’s first call harpist, as well as one of the rare practitioners of jazz on her instrument.  Robbins will be celebrating the release of her new CD in the company of Billy Childs, Larry Koonse, Rob Lockart, Darek Oles and Dan Schnelle.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

San Francisco

- Sept. 19 – 21. (Wed. – Fri.)  Pat Metheny Unity Band.  Always in search of challenging new musical settings, Metheny finds an exciting new musical environment with Chris Potter, Antonio Sanchez and Ben Williams.  Yoshi’s San Francisco.   (415) 655-5600.

Seattle

Jeff Lorber

- Sept. 20 – 23.  (Thurs. – Sun.)  Jeff Lorber Superband. The label is right on target.  Keyboardist Lorber’s led some impressive bands over the course of his long career.  Add this one to the list, with Brian Bromberg, bass, Everette Harp, saxophones, Gary Novak, drums.  Jazz Alley.  (206) 441-9729.

Chicago

- Sept. 20 – 23. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Fred Hersch Trio. With John Hebert, bass, Eric McPherson, drums. Pianist Hersch, a master of the jazz piano trio format, celebrates the release of his new album Live at the Vanguard.  The Jazz Showcase.   (212) 360-0234.

New York

- Sept. 18 – 22.  (Tues. – Sat.)  Coltrane Revisited. Pianist Steve Kuhn’s Coltrane credentials reach back to his early days on the jazz scene.  He makes the journey back in the company of trumpeter Tom Harrell, saxophonist Eric Alexander, drummer Andrew Cyrille and bassist Lonnie Plaxico.  Birdland.    (212) 581-3080.

Anat Cohen

- Sept. 18 – 23. (Tues. – Sun.)  Anat Cohen Quartet. The lovely Anat Cohen isn’t just re-inventing the clarinet in contemporary jazz, she’s also a powerfully original tenor saxophonist, as well.  She performs with Jason Lindner, piano, Joe Martin, bass, Daniel Freedman, drums.  Village Vanguard.  (212) 255-4037.

London

- Sept. 18. (Tues.)  Patricia Barber.  Pianist/singer/songwriter Barber’s adventurous music – with her own works as well as the interpretations of others – is always a fascinating display of creative imagination.  Ronnie Scott’s.    (0) 020 7439 0747.

- Sept. 21 – 23. (Fri. – Sun.)  Mindi Abair. Smooth jazz saxophonist Abair finds intriguing areas of expression within the instrumental pop format.  Pizza Express Jazz Club Soho. 0845 6027 017.

Copenhagen

- Sept. 20 & 21. (Thurs. & Fri.)  Nicola Stilo Jazz & Latin Quartet. Versatile Italian musician Stilo (he plays adroitly on guitar, flute and piano) came to maturity as a regular with Chet Baker and Rahsaan Roland Kirk.   Jazzhus Montmartre.  http://www.jazzhusmontmartre.dk/home.html  (+45) 70 15 65 65.

Berlin

Chris Bennett

- Sept. 20 & 21. (Thurs. & Fri.)  Chris Bennett. Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter/pianist Bennett has proven her far-ranging skills with Tina Turner, Donna Summer and others.  But she’s also an impressive and imaginative jazz artist.  A Trane Jazz.  030/313 25 50.

Tokyo

- Sept. 21 & 22. (Fri. & Sat.)  Richard Galliano.  “Piazzolla Forever.”   French accordionist Galliano, a master of the instrument in his own right, honors the music of the great Argentine composer/accordionist. Blue Note Tokyo.    03.5485.0088.

Picks of the Week: May 22 – 27

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Kathleen Grace

- May 22. (Tues.)  Kathleen Grace Group.  Singer Grace, a true musical adventurer, combines the folk-based methods of the ‘70s singer songwriters with her jazz roots in her new album, Mirror.   Blue Whale.    (213) 620-0908

- May 22. (Tues.) Otmaro Ruiz/Aaron Serfaty Quartet.  Versatile pianist Ruiz and drummer Serfaty – musical partners for three decades — get together with the solid bass playing of Edwin Livingstone and the lush vocals of Brazilian singer/composer Catina De Luna. Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- May 24. (Thurs.)  Vardan Ovsepian.  Armenia-born pianist/composer Ovsepian celebrates his birthday with a release party for his new CD, Chromaticity.  Blue Whale.   (213) 620-0908.

- May 24 – 27. (Thurs. – Sun.)  The Los Angeles Philharmonic.  Four consecutive nights of Mozart compositions conducted by Gustavo Dudamel,  Thurs. and Sat. will begin the three year Mozart/Da Ponte Trilogy with Don Giovanni. Friday night and Sun. afternoon will feature Exultate, jubilate and the Posthorn Serenade (K. 320) with soprano Kiera Duffy.  Disney Hall.    (323) 850-2000.

Tierney Sutton

- May 25 – 27. (Fri. – Sun.) Tierney Sutton Band. It’s one of the finest musical partnerships in all of jazz – the almost symbiotic connection between Sutton’s warm, pliable voice and the complimentary responsiveness of her Band.  Hopefully they’ll play some selections from her latest CD, American Road.  Catalina Bar & Grill. (323) 466-2210.

- May 26. (Sat.)  War and Tower of Power. Two of the heavy rhythm, hard charging rock bands of the late ‘60s and beyond, War and Tower of Power impacted much of the crossover music that followed.  And they’re still at it. Greek Theatre.    (323) 665-5857.

- May 27. (Sun.) Alan Broadbent.  The gifted pianist/composer Broadbent, long one of the Southland’s jazz benefits, moved to the east coast last year.  Fortunately he comes back from time to time, so don’t miss this visit, in which he’ll be backed by bassist Pat Senatore and drummer Kendall Kay.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.    (310) 474-9400.

* * * * * *       HIGHLIGHT      * * * * * *

May 27. (Sun.) The 2012 Playboy Jazz Festival’s Second Community Concert. The Playboy Jazz Festival’s annual free concerts leading up to the Festival itself — which takes place on June 16 & 17 at the Hollywood Bowl – are some of the Southland’s greatest jazz bargains. And this year is no exception.  The second free concert of the 2012 Festival takes place at the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza.  The featured act is the Jeff Lorber Fusion.

Jeff Lorber

Founded in 1977, the Fusion was a pacemaker in transforming cross-over pop- and rock-influenced jazz into a convincing musical blend.  Since then, Lorber’s done everything from solo recording and production and session work to r&b and video game music.  But his many fans are always delighted on the rare occasions when he once again revives the inimitable Jeff Lorber Fusion.

Also on the bill, the fine playing of the Washington Preparatory High School Jazz Ensemble, another collective of Southland young players convincingly proving that the future of jazz is in fine hands.,  The Second Free Playboy Community Concert at the Baldwin Hills Crenshaw Plaza.        (310) 450-1173.

 San Francisco

- May 25 – 27. (Fri. – Sun.)  Joshua Redman’s James Farm group examines some of the far reaching connections between jazz and contemporary pop sounds.  With pianist Aaron Parks, bassist Matt Penman and drummer Eric Harland.  Yoshi’s Oakland.   (510) 238-9200.

Chicago

- May 24 – 27. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Gerald Clayton Trio.  Already an impressive pianist when he was in his teens, the twentysomething Clayton has matured into one of the gifted jazz artists of his generation.  Jazz Showcase.    (312) 360-0234.

New York

Joe Lovano

- May 22 – 26. (Tues. – Sat.)  Joe Lovano US Five. The dynamic tenor saxophonist’s talented young band checks out the music from his Bird Songs album – the still potent pleasures of bebop and its memories.  Birdland.    Bird Songs.  Album  *212( 581-3080.

- May 22 – 27. (Tues. – Sun.)  Fred Hersch Duos & Trio. Pianist Hersch continues his fascinating journey through classically-oriented jazz territories via his work with duos and a trio. The Jazz Standard.    (212) 576-2232.

- May 277. (Sun.)  Ravichandra Kulur.  South Indian flutist Kulur is a master of the Carnatic ragas and talas of his homeland.  His improvisational excursions are aided by Arun Ramamurthy, violin, and Akshay Anantapadmanabhan, mridangam.  Cornelia St. Café.   (212) 989-9319.

London

- May 27. (Sun.)  Sunday Jazz Lunch Celebrating the Modern Jazz Quartet.  The ensemble of Jim Hart, Barry Green, Matt Ridley and Steve Brown perform the memorable music of the legendary Modern Jazz Quartet.  Ronnie Scott’s.   020 7439 0747.

Berlin

Anat Cohen

- May 22 (Tues.)  The Three Cohens.  The gifted Cohen siblings Anat, clarinet and tenor saxophone, Yuval, soprano saxophone, and Avishai, trumpet, display their extraordinary jazz skills in the company of pianist Yonatan Avishai, bassist Omer Avital and drummer Jonathan Blake.  A-Trane.  030 / 313 25 50.

Milan

- May 23 – 25. (Wed. – Fri. )  The Yellowjackets.  After more than three decades of musical togetherness, the Yellowjackets continue to bring some impressive jazz essence to their unique blend of fusion and smooth jazz.  Blue Note Milano.   02.69.01.68.88.

Tokyo

- May 22 & 23. (Tues. & Wed.)  The Brian Blade Fellowship Band. Always a much in demand jazz sideman, drummer Blade has recently begun – with his Fellowship Band — to reveal his significant skills as singer and a songwriter.  Blue Note Tokyo.  03-5485-0088.

* * * * * *

Tierney Sutton photo by Tony Gieske.  

Here, There & Everywhere: The 2012 Jazz Grammy Winners

By Don Heckman

The 2012 Grammys are in, and once again there’s not much sound of surprise in the results.  Certainly nothing in the same ballpark as last year’s Best New Artist award for Esperanza Spalding.  That’s not to say that any of the wins were undeserved.  Because they all were the products of gifted artists doing their best. Nor were any of the nominees any less deserving than the winners.

Still, both the awards and the Recording Academy’s current approach to jazz raise some questioning observations.  Take, for example, the inclusion of Terri Lyne Carrington’ s The Mosaic Project in the Jazz Vocal grouping.  Doesn’t it seem inevitable that a collection of songs by such major names as Dianne Reeves, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Cassandra Wilson and, yes, Esperanza Spalding (among others) is going to have a major head start in any competition against recordings by single artists?  What chance did the other nominees – especially the unusually superlative trio of albums from Tierney Sutton, Roseanna Vitro and Karrin Allyson – have against a full line-up of such musical heavyweights?

Notice, too, some of the repetitions: multiple nominations for Randy Brecker, Fred Hersch and Sonny Rollins.  Great artists, all, but where are the nominations for the youngest generation of jazz players?  It’s worth noting that Gerald Clayton is the only nominee still in his twenties.  And Miguel Zenon is the only nominee still in his thirties.

Add to that several aspects in this year’s awards procedures that underscore the diminishing role that jazz is playing in the Grammy overview.  Start with the reduced number of categories.  In 2011 there were six: Contemporary Jazz Album, Vocal Album, Improvised Jazz Solo, Jazz Instrumental Album (Individual or Group), Large Jazz Album and Latin Jazz Album.

This year, there are four: Best Improvised Jazz Solo, Best Jazz Vocal Album, Best Jazz Instrumental Album and Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album. Some jazz fans won’t miss the Contemporary category, despite the fact that its absence eliminates the presence of some fine, pop-oriented jazz stylists.  But the Latin Jazz omission is unforgivable, and should receive careful re-consideration in the planning for next year’s Grammys.

In the listings below, I’ve also included Best Instrumental Arrangement and Best Instrumental Composition, because, in these nominees, the emphasis is almost completely in the direction of jazz.  They could easily have had different orientations — pop, rock, electronica, classical and otherwise — given the all-inclusive nature of the descriptions “Instrumental Arrangement” and “Instrumental Composition.”

Ultimately, the single word that comes to mind in considering all the above is “irrelevant.”  Receiving a Grammy award continues to be one of the music world’s greatest honors – for the individual artist.  And every jazz player –like every other musical artist – has to be delighted to receive the gold statuette.  But the overall significance of the Grammys to jazz, the Awards’ full commitment to honoring one of America’s greatest cultural contributions, continues to diminish.  And if it continues in its current direction, the long, historical Grammy/jazz connection won’t just be irrelevant, it’ll be non-existent.

Here are this year’s awards:

Best Improvised Jazz Solo

 Winner.  Chick Corea : “Five Hundred Miles High” from Forever.

Other Nominees:

Randy Brecker: “All or Nothing at All” from The Jazz ballad Song Book

Ron Carter: “You Are My Sunshine” from This Is Jazz.

Fred Hersch: “Work” from Alone at the Vanguard.

Sonny Rollins: “Sunnymoon For Two: from Road Shows, Vol. 2.

Best Jazz Vocal album

Winner: Terri Lyne Carrington and Various Artists: The Mosaic Project.

Other Nominees:

Tierney Sutton Band: American Road

Karrin Allyson: ‘Round Midnight.

Kurt Elling: The Gate.

Roseanna Vitro: The Music of Randy Newman.

Best Jazz Instrumental Album

Winner: Chick Corea, Stanley Clarke & Lenny White.  Corea, Clark & White.

Other Nominees:

Gerald Clayton: The Paris Sessions.

Fred Hersch: Alone at the Vanguard.

Joe Lovano/Us Five: Bird Songs.

Sonny Rollins: Road Shows, Vol.2

Yellowjackets: Timeline.

Best Large Jazz Ensemble Album

Winner: Christian McBride Big Band. The Good Feeling.

Other Nominees:

Randy Brecker with the WDR Big Band: The Jazz Ballad Song Book.

Arturo O’Farrill & the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra: 40 Acres and a Burro.

Gerald Wilson Orchestra; Legacy.

Miguel Zenon: Alma Adentro: The Puerto Rican Songbook

Best Instrumental Arrangement

Winner: Gordon Goodwin: Rhapsody in Blue.

Other Nominees:

Peter Jensen: ‘All or Nothing At All” (for Randy Brecker with the GDR Big Band)

Clare Fischer: “In the Beginning: (from the Clare Fischer Big band’s Continuum.)

Bob Brookmeyer: “Nasty Dance.” (from the Vanguard Jazz Orchstra’s Forever Lasting).

Carlos Franzetti: “Song Without Words” (from Alborada).

Best Instrumental Composition

Winner: Bela Fleck and Howard Levy: “Life In Eleven” from Rocket Science.

Other Nominees:

John Hollenbeck: “Falling Men” from Shut Up and Dance.

Gordon Goodwin: “Hunting Wabbits 3 (Get Off My Lawn) from That’s How We Roll.

Randy Brecker: “I Talk To The Trees” from The Jazz Ballad Song Book.

Russell Ferrante: “Timeline” from Timeline.

Picks of the Week: July 19 – 24

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

July 20. (Wed.)  John Daversa Big Band.  Trumpeter Daversa’s adventurous, often unpredictable charts make his big band appearances into engaging musical events.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

- June 21. (Thurs.)  Bruce Forman Quartet.  Guitarist/educator/novelist Forman is one of the jazz world’s true multi-hyphenates.  Here he is, with his guitar, getting down to basics.Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.

- June 21. (Thurs.)  Kate Reid with the John Heard Trio.  Singer/pianist Dr. Kate Reid, head of the jazz program at Cypress College also has a resume with gigs reaching from John Hendricks and Mark Murphy to Bobby McFerrin and Tito Puente. Charlie O’s.   (818) 994-3058.

Maria de Barros

- June 21. (Thurs.)  Maria de Barros. The musically eclectic de Barros reveals Cape Verdean influences in her Cesaria Evora-influenced style.  But she also brings elements of Latin and international pop to performances rich with dynamic musical energy. Skirball Center.    (310) 440-4500.

- July 22. (Fri.) Phil Upchurch and Sonya Maddox Upchurch.  The Upchurch couple get together for some guitar and voice displays from Phil Upchurch’s new catalog of songs.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- July 22. (Fri.)  Peter Cetera.  He’s probably best known for the hits he was instrumental in creating for the rock group Chicago.  But singer/songwriter Cetera’s had a busy career since then, with Oscar, Golden Globe and Grammy nominations.  Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.   (562) 916-8501.

- July 22. (Fri.)  Gina Saputo.  She still doesn’t have the visibility her impressive talents deserve, but Saputo continues to make a case for herself as one of the vocal standouts of her still youthful generation.  Steamers.    (714) 871-8000.

- July 22 & 23. (Fri. & Sat.)  Dolly Parton. The Queen of Country and one of the inconic musical artists of the past few decades, makes an appearance in the only Southern California venue large enough for her celebrity stature.  Hollywood Bowl.   (323) 850-2000.

- July 22 – 24. (Fri. – Sun.)  Kenny Burrell Quintet. Veteran guitarist and all around musical influence Burrell takes a break from this teaching chores at U.C.L.A. to celebrate his 80^th birthday.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

Don McLean

- July 23. (Sat.) Don McLean.  Writer of some of American song’s most memorable hits – “American Pie,” “Vincent,” “And I Love You So” among them – McLean makes one of his too rare Southland appearances. Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.  (562) 916-8501.

- July 24. (Sun.) Global Soul.  With Rickey Minor, Stevie Wonder, Rocky Dawuni, Sharon Jones, Janelle Monae and others..  Overlook the fact that its booked as one of the Bowl’s World Music events, and just sit back and enjoy the international reach of American soul music.  Hollywood Bowl.    (323) 850-2000.

San Francisco

July 23 & 24. (Sat. & Sun.)  Dee Dee Bridgewater.  With her lush, dark sound, her irresistible on-stage energy,  and her adventurous interpretations, a night with Dee Dee is always a night to remember. Yoshi’s San Francisco.  (415) 655-5600.

New York

July 19 – 23. (Tues. – Sat.)  Louis Hayes Quintet.  “Cannonball Adderley Legacy”  Drummer Hayes, a veteran of six years with the Adderley quintet, offers some authentic musical memories of Adderley’s unique music, with alto saxophonist Vincent Herring playing a key role. Birdland.    (212) 581-3080.

Tierney Sutton

- July 19 – 24. (Tues. – Sun.)  The Tierney Sutton Band.  Sutton’s extraordinary musicality resonates through every thing she sings, enhanced by her equally engaging ability to tell a story.  She performs with Christian Jacob, piano, Kevin Axt, bass and Ralph Humphrey, drums.  Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola.    (212) 258-9800.

July 19 – 24.  (Tues. – Sun.)  Fred Hersch Trio.  Pianist Hersch, fully returned to action after some severe medical problems, continues to affirm his compelling vision of the jazz piano art.  With John Hebert, bass and Eric McPherson, drums.  Village Vanguard.    (212) 255-4037.

Boston

- July 23. (Sat.)  Gregory Porter.  Grammy-nominated Porter’s lush sound and far-reaching style are bringing vitality to the still small coterie of male jazz vocal artists.  Regatta Bar.   (617) 395-7757.

Washington D.C.

- July 21 – 24. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Cyrus Chestnut Trio.  Versatile pianist Chestnut has a far ranging catalog of material to offer on any given gig – from spirituals and Elvis Presley tunes to straight ahead bebop.  Expect to be well entertained.  Blues Alley.   (202) 337-4141.

London

James Carter

- July 21 & 22. (Thurs. & Fri.)  The James Carter Organ Trio.  Saxophonist Carter’s ability to generate super heated improvisational energies is the perfect stimulus for the jazz organ trio format.  He performs with Gerard Gibbs, B-3 organ and Leonard King, drums.  Ronnie Scott’s.    020 7439 0747.

Paris

- July 21. (Thurs.)  David Krakauer and Klezmer Madness. Clarinetist Krakauer continues on his quest to blend traditional klezmer music with everything from pop and jazz to soul, funk and beyond.   New Morning.    01 45 23 51 41.

Tierney Sutton photo by Tony Gieske.

Picks of the Week: April 5 – 10

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Junko Onishi

- April 5. (Tues.)  Junko Onishi Trio.  Japanese pianist Onishi confirms her return to jazz action last year after a performance break of nearly a decade.  She kicks off her American tour tonight with the backing of the sterling rhythm team of bassist Dwayne Burno and drummer Gregory Hutchinson.   Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323)466-2210  (Also at Yoshi’s Oakland on April 6.)

- April 5. (Tues.)  Ostad Abbos Kosimov.  Traditional Uzbek and Tajik Percussion Music and Dance. Percussionist Kosimov is one of the world’s masters of the doyra frame drum.  He is joined by the CalArts Persian and World Music ensembles, as well as members of his own Abbos Ensemble in an exploration of the music of Uzbekistan.  Tara Pandeya adds the sensual movements of Central Asian dance.  REDCAT.  (213) 237-2800.

- April 5. (Tues.)  Lorenzo Lamas.  You may remember him as Jane Wyman’s evil stepson in Falcon Crest. But Lamas (yes, from that family) is also an effective musical purveyor of the romantic side of cabaret.  Vibrato Grill Jazz… (310) 474-9400. 

Kenny Burrell

- April 6. (Wed.) Kenny Burrell Jazz Heritage All Stars.  For once, the label “All-Stars” has real significance.  Veteran guitarist/educator Burrell puts it all together with trumpter (and also educator) Bobby Rodriguez, saxophonist Justo Almario, drummer Clayton Cameron and more.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

- April 6. (Wed.)  The Kronos Quartet. The creatively eclectic, Grammy winning string quartet celebrates composer Steve Reich’s 75^th birthday with the performance of a newly commissioned work.   Segerstrom Center for the Arts.   (714) 556-2787.

Salif Keita

- April 6. (Wed.)  Salif Keita. The voice of Keita, with its soaring tones, penetrating sound and inspiring rhythms, is one of the great glories of African popular music.  The Conga Room.  (213) 745-0162.

- April 6. (Wed.) Blue Lou Marini.  Veteran New York saxophonist Marini makes one of his rare West Coast appearances, performing with trumpeter Walt Fowler, pianist John Campbell, bassist Chuck Berghofer, drummer Peter Erskine and special guests.  Vitello’s. (818) 769-0905.

- April 7. (Thurs.)  Big Willie’s Burlesque.  Busy drummer Willie McNeil’s Quartet lays down some classic backbeat sounds to inspire the irresistible moves of dancer Carolina Cerisola.   They call it “old school burlesque with a cutting edge, Latin, new school vibe.”   The Edison Downtown.  (213) 613-0000.

- April 7. (Thurs.) V. R. Smith Sextet.  It’s a Smith Family Night.  With vocalist V.R. Smith backed by the band of her husband, bassist Putter Smith – with Gary Foster alto saxophone, Chuck Manning, tenor saxophone, Jim Szilagyi, piano and Tim Pleasant, drums.  Charlie O’s.   (818) 994-3058.

- April 7 – 10. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Rachelle Ferrell.  Blessed with one of the most impressive voices in the jazz vocal world, Ferrell is also a uniquely appealing song stylist.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.  .

Arlo Guthrie

- April 8. (Fri.)  Arlo Guthrie and Friends.  Folk music patriarch returns to UCLA, this time with his “Journey On” tour, featuring his son, Abe Guthrie and the folk-rock trio The Burns Sisters.  UCLA Live.  Royce Hall. (310) 825-2101.

- April 9. (Sat.)  Jazz Fundraiser for Japan.  Vitello’s April Williams has assembled an impressive collection of the Southland’s finest jazz artists for a 12 hour fundraiser for Japan.  Among the participants: Alan Pasqua, Peter Erskine, Bob Mintzer, Darek Oles, Alex Acuna, the Wayne Bergeron Big Band, Denise Donatelli, Joe La Barbera, Larry Koonse, Tom Warrington, Bob Sheppard and many more.  11 a.m. to 11 p.m.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

- April 9. (Sat.) Plas Johnson.  Although he’s been a vital member of the Southland jazz community for decades, Johnson is best known for his memorable solo work on “The Pink Panther” theme.  But he’s got a lot more than that to offer.  He’ll be playing with pianist Tom Ranier, bassist John Giannelli and drummer Fritz Wise.  Giannelli Square.  (818) 772-1722.

- April 9. (Sat. ) Wind Soloists of New York and Pedja Muzijevic. The superb wind instrumentalists of this much praised ensemble join with pianist Muzijevic to perform a dynamic program of works by Beethoven, Saint-Saens, Prokofiev and Poulenc.  And they’ll do so in the elegant Pompeian Room of the Doheny Mansion.  The Da Camera Society.  (213) 477-2929.

- April 10 (Sun.)  Greta Metassa.  Seattle-based singer Metassa is far less known than she should be.  In this rare Southland appearance, she’ll deliver her beautifully crafted vocals  in a plush, private mini concert hall in Beverly Hills.   Hopefully, she’ll include songs from her latest CD, I Wanna be Loved.” Backing her: the world class rhythm section of pianist Mike Garson, bassist Clipper Anderson and drummer Bob Leatherbarrow.  To book seats, click on Resonance Records.   Address will be given when the reservation is made.

San Francisco

- April 6. (Wed.)  Junko Onishi Trio.  Japanese pianist Onishi confirms her return to jazz action last year after a performance break of nearly a decade.  She’ll be backed by the sterling rhythm team of bassist Dwayne Burno and drummer Gregory Hutchinson.  Yoshi’s Oakland. (510) 238-9200.

Madeleine Peyroux

- April 8. (Fri.)  Madeleine Peyroux.  Moving beyond the Billie Holiday musical frame that had narrowed her music for too long, Peyroux is now finding her own way, as unique musical persona and an intriguing songwriter.  SF Jazz Spring Season.  Palace of Fine Arts Theatre.   (415) 398-5655.

- April 9. (Sat.)  Max Raabe and the Palast Orchester.  The music of the twenties and thirties comes vividly back to life in the hands of Raabe and his extraordinarily versatile musicians.  Always as musically provocative as they are entertaining, they’re one of a kind. SFJAzz Spring Season.  Paramount Theatre, Oakland. .

- April 10. (Sun.)  The Asaad Brothers “Da Volta as Raizes” Offspring of a famouns musical family, the two guitar duo of the Asaad brothers play everything from Bach transcriptions and gypsy jazz to Brazilian samba and the music of the Middle East.  SFJAZZ Spring Season. Palace of Fine Arts Theatre.  (415) 398-5655.

New York

Toshiko Akiyoshi

- April 4 (Mon.) Fund Raising Concert For Japan. The New York jazz community steps up to play a concert in support of the beleaguered people of Japan. Toshiko Akiyoshi; Cecil Bridgewater; Sam Burtis; Jerry Dodgion; Roy Hargrove; Tom Harrell; Barry Harris; Fred Hersch; Rene Manning; Earl McIntyre; Jimmy Owens; Rufus Reid; Marvin Stamm; Lew Tabackin; Kenny Werner and many others.  The Village Vanguard.  (212) 255-4037.

- April 5 – 10. (Tues. – Sun.)  Toots Thielemans with Kenny Werner and Oscar Castro-Neves.  As if that weren’t enough, Werner will also do a set each night with his Quintet featuring Lionel Loueke and Miguel Zenon.  The Blue Note. (212) 475-8592.

- April 8. (Fri.)  Rudresh Mahanthappa’s “Gama.” With David Fiuczynski, guitar, Francois Moutin, bass and Dan Weiss, drums.  Altoist Mahanthappa and Fiuczynski have been working together lately in Jack DeJohnette’s band.  Here they dip into some of the fascinating improvisational territory between jazz and Indian music.  Cornelia St. Café.  (212) 989-9319.

Picks of the Week: Mar. 1 – 6

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Alan Bergman

- Mar. 1. (Tues.)  Alan Bergman.  It’s always fun to hear a songwriter perform his own songs.  But it’s even better when the songwriter is also a singer with a richly nuanced interpretative style.  In Bergman, you get all that and more.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.  http://www.vibratogrilljazz.com

- Mar. 2. (Wed.)  Bill Cunliffe Piano Trio.   Pianist, composer, arranger and Grammy winner Cunliffe applies his multi-hyphenate skills to the musical clarity of the jazz piano trio setting.  His associates are Joe La Barbera, drums, Ryan McGillicuddy, bass.  Vitello’s. (818) 769-0905.

- Mar. 2. (Wed.)  Isabel Rose.  She does it all — co-wrote and starred in the film, Anything But Love, has written a novel — intriguingly titled The J.A.P. Chronicles — and a one-woman musical.  As if that wasn’t enough, she also sings and swings on her CD Swingin’ From the Hip with an authenticity that reaches into the classic traditions of American pop song.    Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

- Mar. 2. (Wed.)  Baroque Variations: Akademie fur Alte Musik Berlin.  Here’s a unique opportunity to hear a program of Baroque music performed by one of the world’s finest period instrument ensembles.  Walt Disney Hall.   (323) 850-2000.

- Mar. 3. (Thurs.)  David Becker Tribune.  International guitar star Becker’s group Tribune has been bringing their global overview to dynamic jazz performances for more than two decades.  Mostly on tour around the world, they’re making a rare Southern California appearance.  Don’t miss it.  Becker, guitars, Bruce Becker-drums, Jim Donica bass, Aniela Perry cello.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

Gerald Clayon

- Mar. 3. (Thurs.)  Gerald Clayton Trio. Raised in the Southland in a highly visible musical family (his father is bassist John Clayton, his uncle is saxophonist Jeff Clayton), pianist Gerald Clayton has emerged, in  his mid-twenties as one of the most compelling, versatile and engaging jazz artists of his generation.  Catalina Bar & Grill. (323) 466-2210.

- Mar. 3. (Thurs.)  “Mulligan Stew” Drummer Paul Kriebich celebrates West Coast cool jazz in a tribute to Gerry Mulligan and Chet Baker.  His band includes Charlie Orenia, saxophone, Ron Stout, trumpet, Chris Conner, bass.  LAX Jazz Club at the Crown Plaza LAX.  (310) 258-1333.

- Mar. 3. (Thurs.)  Eric Reed Quartet. A jazz prodigy when he was still a teen-ager, pianist Reed’s resume has since included gigs with everyone from Freddie Hubbard and Wayne Shorter to Quincy Jones and  Wynton Marsalis.  He performs with Jacques Lesure, guitar, Hamilton Price, bass, Kevin Kanner, drums.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.

- Mar. 3 & 4. (Thurs. & Fri.)  Scharoun Ensemble of the Berlin Philharmonic. The much honored octet of players from the Berlin Philharmonic perform Mozart’s Quintet for Clarinet and Strings, Beethoven’s Septet in Eb Major and the Schubert Octet in F Major. Thurs.  UCLA Live Royce Hall.  UCLA Live at Royce Hall.   (310) 825-2101.  Fri. Irvine Barclay Theatre.   (949) 854-4646.

Rebecca Coupe Franks

- Mar. 5. (Sat.)  Rebecca Coupe Franks.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.  A Californian by birth, trumpeter Franks has become a New Yorker by career, performing with the likes of Lou Donaldson, Ben Riley, Kenny Barron and others.  She makes a rare Southland appearance.  (310) 474-9400.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.

- Mar. 5. (Sat.)  Herbie Hancock, Wayne Shorter.  With Dave Holland and Vinnie Colaiuta.  It’s an iconic, all-star night when old musical pals Hancock and Shorter get together, backed by the dynamic bass of Holland and the multi-layered, hard-driving drumming of Colaiuta. Walt Disney Hall.  Disney Hall.  (323) 850-2000.

- Mar. 5. (Sat.)  The 11th Annual Brazilian Carnaval Exotica. The annual celebration of Brazilian carnaval in Los Angeles converts Club Nokia into an opportunity to indulge the senses and get lost in a pulsating sea of samba, sequins, masks and feathers.  In addition to Chalo Eduardo’s all-star band, the celebration will feature the Brazilian Nites Samba Dancers and a 100 piece community drum circle.  8 p.m. – 2 a.m.  Club Nokia.  (213) 765-7000.

- Mar. 5. (Sat.) Chick Corea and Gary Burton. Corea and Burton revive a partnership that began with the 1972 album Crystal Silence – described by NPR as “one of the seminal recordings of the decade.”   UCLA Live at Royce Hall.   (310) 825-2101.

Gerald Wilson

- Mar. 6. (Sun.) Gerald Wilson Orchestra.  At 92, Wilson has been leading impressive, hard swinging big bands for nearly seventy years.  And they’ve all reflected his free roaming imagination, his mastery of big band instrumentation and his fierce conducting techniques.  Don’t miss this opportunity to see and hear him in action. Catalina Bar & Grill. (323) 466-2210.

San Francisco

- Mar. 1. (Tues.)  Aaron Goldberg Trio. Pianist Goldberg is an A-list choice for Joshua Redman, Nicholas Payton, Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra.  But the best way to hear him may be with his long standing trio – with Matt Penman, bass and Eric Harland, drums.  He’ll also be joined by some surprise quests from the SFJAZZ Collective. Yoshi’s San Francisco.   (415) 655-5600.

- Mar. 3. (Thurs.)  Elvin Bishop. Bishop’s long musical road has reached from the Butterfield Blues Band and his mid-‘70s hit, “Fooled Around and Fell in Love” to side trips into blues taverns, concert stages and music festivals around the world.  Yoshi’s Oakland.  (510) 238-9200.

New York

- Mar. 1 – 6 (Tues. – Sun.)  Donald Harrison, Ron Carter, Billy Cobham Trio. All-Star is the proper phrase to use in describing this impressive, cross generational collective of jazz masters. The Blue Note.   (212) 475-8592.

JD Walter

- Mar. 2. (Wed.)  JD Walter. He still hasn’t received anything like the recognition his talent deserves, but Walter is a jazz vocalist to remember.  No wonder the LA Times called him “an original in an art overpopulated with copycats.”  55 Bar.  (212) 929-9883.

- Mar. 2 – 6. (Wed. – Sun.)  Fred Hersch Duos & Trio +2.  Pianist Hersch spreads his considerable skills around in a series of musical encounters.  He’ll play duos on Wed. with singer Kate McGarry, on Thurs. with guitarist Julian Lage, and on Sunday with saxophonist Joshua Redman.  And on Fri. and Sat., he’ll perform with his trio and saxophonist Noah Preminger and trumpeter Ralph Alessi.  Jazz Standard.  (212) 576-2232.

- Mar. 4 – 6. (Fri – Sun.)  Larry Coryell Power Trio.  Guitarist Coryell joins up with bassist Victor Bailey and drummer Lenny White to recall the rich textured sounds and fiery rhythms of jazz fusion.  Iridium.   (212) 582-2121.

Gerald Wilson photo by Tony Gieske.

Picks of the Week: Nov. 30 – Dec. 5

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Dec. 1. (Wed.) A Celtic Christmas.  Irish Storyteller Tomaseen Foley creates a traditional night before Christmas, filled with dancing, music-making and holiday joy.  Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts. (562) 916-8501.

John McLaughlin

- Dec. 1. (Wed.)  John McLaughlin and the 4^th Dimension. The ever-exploratory guitarist performs with a group reaching across genres, styles and generations: multi-instrumentalist Gary Husband on percussion and keyboards, Mark Mondesir on drums and Etienne Mbappe, a young Cameroonian, on bass.  A UCLA Live concert at Royce Hall.   (310) 825-2101.

- Dec. 1 & 2. (Wed. & Thurs.)  Raga Bop Trio.  With Steve Smith, drums, George Brooks, saxophone and Prasanna, guitar and vocals.  The name says it all for this high octane trio that cruises convincingly in the territory between Indian ragas and bebop.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

Jackie Ryan

- Dec. 3. (Fri.) Jackie Ryan.  She’s one of a kind, a vocal artist who’s traveled her own musical path, escorting her many fans through one unique musical adventure after another.  Making one of her too-rare performances in the Southland, she sings with pianist Jon Mayer, bassist Carlito Del Puerto and drummer Dean Koba.  The Culver Club for Jazz at the Radisson L.A. West Side Hotel.   (310) 649-1776 Ext. 4137.

- Dec. 3 & 4. (Fri. & Sat.)  6^th Annnual Filipino-American Jazzfest. The list of impressive jazz artists with Filipino roots grows longer every year.  Highlight of this year’s Jazzfest is a CD release celebration on Saturday for jazz singer Charmaine Clamor’s stellar new CD, Something Good. Also on the schedule, Abe Lagrimas, Annie Brazil, Johnny Alegre, JP Maramba, Bo Razon and introducing Carlo David.  Catalina Bar & Grill. (323) 466-2210.

- Dec. 4. (Sat.)  “Holiday on Broadway” Raymond Saar, Diane Ketchie, Valerie Perri and Scott Harlan celebrate the holidays with a program of festive music from Broadway, film and television, with a few whimsical twists and seasonal classica.  CSUN Valley Performing Arts Center.  Plaza del Sol Performance Hall.  (818) 677-3000.

- Dec. 4 (Sat.)  “Music and Conversations” A convivial interface between classical music, jazz and interesting people.  Featuring Susan Greenberg, flute, Alyssa Park, violin, Timothy Loo, cello, Delores Stevens and Alan Broadbent, piano, Putter Smith, bass.  Performing the music of Ravel, Brahms and Jane Brockman, with jazz improvisations by Broadbent and Smith.  Music and Conversations.  High Profile Productions, Culver City.  (310) 876-1188.

Bill Cunliffe

- Dec. 4. (Sat.)  Bill Cunliffe.  At 8 p.m.: “A Jazz Compass Christmas” featuring Cunliffe’s piano with drummer Joe LaBarbera, guitarist Larry Koonse and bassist Tom Warrington playing selections from their Jazz Compass CD Snowfall.  At 9 p.m.  The Bill Cunliffe Big Band, playing holiday and jazz selections, including the Grammy-winning West Side Story. With special guest vocalist, Daniela Spagnolo.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

- Dec. 4 (Sat.)  Tapestry.  The elegant sound of the four voices of Tapestry soars through a collection of music illuminating the common ground between Christian, Jewish, Muslim and Tibetan cultures.  Presented in the atmospheric setting of the St. Basil Catholic Church. Chamber Music in Historic Sites.   (213) 477-2929.

- Dec. 4 & 5. (Sat. & Sun.) Symphonic Mariachi Christmas.  Jose Hernandez and Latin Grammy nominated Mariachi del Sol join with Sinfonia Mexicana in an evening of grand arrangements of Mexico’s holiday classics.  Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.  (562) 916-8501.

Alice Coltrane

- Dec. 5. (Sunday) Alice Coltrane Tribute.  The life, music and philosophy of the late pianist and musical and spiritual explorer is celebrated by a diverse line up of musical artists: McCoy Tyner, Kyp Malone, Nels Cline, Han Bennink, Daniel Carter, Michael White & Leisei Chen, Radha Botofasina, Flying Lotus and special guests.   A UCLA Live concert at Royce Hall.   (310) 825-2101.

- Dec. 5 & 12. (Sundays) Los Angeles Childrens’ Chorus.  The 25^th Annual Winter Concert by an enthusiastic collection of children, aged 6 to 18, singing the music of 20 composers from 10 nations.  Pasadena Presbyterian Church.  http;//http://www.lachildrenschorus.org.  (626) 793-4231.

San Francisco

- Dec. 3 – 5. (Fri. – Sun.)  Ravi Coltrane Quartet.  Saxophonist Coltrane has moved far beyond the shadow of his iconic father, into an expressive and adventurous musical world of his own making.Yoshi’s Oakland.  (510) 238-9200.

- Dec. 3 – 5. (Fri. – Sun.)  Mike Stern Band. Guitarist Stern, one of his instrument’s most eclectic stylists, performs with a group of equally enterprising players: trumpeter Randy Brecker, drummer Dennis Chambers and bassist Anthony Jackson.  Yoshi’s San Francisco.  (415) 655-5600.

New York

- Nov. 30 – Dec. 4. (Tues. – Sat.)  Frank Wess Quintet.  Approaching his 88^th birthday, Wess is still one of the flute’s most masterful practitioners, as well as a tenor saxophonist who keeps the spirit of early bebop alive.  He performs with special guest Kenny Barron and Roni Ben Hur, guitar, Victor Lewis, drums, Santi Debriano, bass.  Birdland.   (212) 581-3080.

Fred Hersch

- Nov. 30 – Dec. 5 (Tues. – Sun.)  Fred Hersch, solo piano. After enduring a life threatening two months in a coma in 2008, Hersch literally had to work his way back to playing the piano again.  And he did so magnificently, as his listeners will realize in these evenings of challenging, but expressive, solo performances.  Village Vanguard.  (212) 255-4037.

Dec. 2 – 5 (Thurs. – Sun.)  Tango Meets Jazz Festival. The tenth annual celebration of the linkages between American jazz and the music often called Argentina’s blues.  Featuring Latin Grammy winning Pablo Ziegler with his Quartet.  With guest stars tenor saxophonist Prometheus Jenkins (you’ll immediately know who it is when you see him) and violinist Regina Carter. Jazz Standard. (212) 576-2232.

Picks of the Week: Sept. 20 – 26

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Sept. 21. (Tues.)  Further. Featuring Phil Lesh and Bob Weir. The music of the Grateful dead still lives, as Lesh and Weir, with an all star band take the classics “further” out.  The Greek Theatre.   (323) 665-3125.

- Sept. 21. (Tues.) John Pisano’s Guitar Night. Pisano teams up for an evening of duets with the guitarist Frank Sinatra loved — Ron Anthony. Bassist John Belzaguy keeps the rhythm together.  Vitello’s.  (818) 769-0905.

- Sept. 22. (Wed.)  Sally Kellerman.  “Hot Lips” returns with another display of Kellerman’s entertaining way with a song.  Andy Langham’s piano and arrangements provide the backing.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

- Sept. 23. (Thurs.) Denise Donatelli.  Her enchanting voice and intuitive way with a song are rapidly elevating Donatelli to the highest levels in the crowded field of female jazz vocalists.   Charlie O’s.   (818) 994-3058.

Debbie Reynolds

- Sept. 23 – Oct. 3. (Starting Thurs.)  Debbie Reynolds.  Alive & Fabulous. The title tells it all.  MGM’s hottest musical property from the ‘50s still knows how to light up a stage. The El Portal Theatre, North Hollywood.   (818) 508-4200.

- Sept. 24. (Fri.)  Kristin Korb.  Versatile bassist/singer Korb supports her new CD, In the Meantime with a free performance and two bands: Llew Mathews and Steve Barnes in the first set; Bruce Forman and Aaron Serfaty in the second.  LACMA.  (323) 857-6000.

- Sept. 24. (Fri.) Phil  Ranelin and Tribe Renaissance.  Trombonist Ranelin and his players apply their own unique mainstream sound and style to a musically stimulating encounter with the veteran trumpeter Marcus Belgrave.  The Culver Club at the Radisson.   (310) 649-1776 ext. 4137.

- Sept. 24. (Fri.)  Willie Nelson & Family. The one and only Willie performs selections from his latest CD, Country Music. Ryan Bingham and the Dead Horses open the show.  The Greek Theatre.   (323) 665-3125.

- Sept. 24. (Fri.)  Doug Webb.  One of the Southland’s most popular go-to saxophonists, Webb explores the nocturnal selections on his latest CD, Midnight.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.

- Sept. 24. (Fri.)  Babatunde Lea Quintet.  With Patrice Rushen, Ernie Watts, Gary Brown and Dwight Trible.  African, Cuban,, Caribbean and South American rhythms are blended into an irresistibly appealing jazz feast by Lea’s world class ensemble. Holy Nativity Episcopal Church, Westchester.  (310) 670-4777.

Dave Liebman

- Sept. 24 & 25. (Fri. & Sat.)  Dave Liebman. Saxophonist – and 2011 Recipient of the NEA Masters of Jazz Award – brings his New York Quartet, with guitarist Vic Juris, bassist Marko Marcinko and bassist Tony Marino to a rare Southland club engagement.  Don’t miss this one.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

- Sept. 24 & 25. (Fri. & Sat.)  BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet.  They’ve been performing traditional creole, cajun and zydeco music since the mid’’70s, and they’re still utterly compelling.  On Friday at McCabe’s. (310) 828-4497.  On Sat. in a free concert with Big Chief Monk Boudreaux & the Mardi Gras Indians. at Orange County Great Park.  (949) 854-4646.

- Sept. 25. (Sat.) Sound of Music Singalong. It’s the ultimate singalong, complete with a giant screen to keep everyone on the same beat in the same scene.  There’ll be a pre-show parade for audience members courageous enough to wear costumes.The Hollywood Bowl. (323) 850-2000.

Charles Lloyd

- Sept. 25. (Sat.) Charles Lloyd. Saxophonist/flutist Lloyd, one of the true – if sometimes under-appreciated – originals to emerge from the post-Coltrane era, performs selections from his new CD, Mirror, with the world class backing of pianist Jason Moran, bassist Reuben Rogers and drummer Eric Harland.   Jazz Bakery Movable Feast.  Nate Holden Performing Arts Center.   (310) 271-9039.

- Sept. 25. (Sat.)  Kris Kristofferson.  A solo acoustic show from the Grammy-winning Kristofferson, one of the stellar talents of the singer/songwriter era .  Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.  http://www.cerritoscenter.com (562) 918-8501.  Also Sept. 26. (Sun.) at the Civic Arts Plaza in Thousand Oaks.   (805) 449-2700.

- Sept. 25. (Sat.)  Symphonic Jazz Orch.  A far too-rare performance by the 67 person SJO, performing jazz, Brazilian music, soul music, classical music and a few world premieres.  With guest stars George Duke, Luciana Souza and Raul Midon. Conducted by Mitch Glickman.  Host for the evening is comedian Tommy Davidson.  Royce Hall. (310) 876-8130.

- Sept. 25. (Sat.)  Fiesta Mexicana VIII.  Sones, Bailes y Cantares. A colorful evening celebrating the rich folkloric music and dance of Mexico.  Among the groups performing – Tamborazo Pancho Villa and Trio Jacaranda.   Ford Amphitheatre.  (323) 461-3673.

- Sept. 26. (Sun.)  Red Holloway and Plas Johnson.  Bubba Jackson hosts.  KJAZZ Sunday Champagne Brunch. The Twist Restaurant in the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel. h

- Sept. 26. (Sun.)  17^th Annual Brazilian Summer Festival. The spirit of Brazil has been vividly alive in these Summer Festival events for nearly two decades.  And Sunday night will be no exception, with a spectacular performance by the 23-member percussion and dance ensemble Olodum, the group that created samba reggae.  Opening the performance, Brasilidade Samba and Pagode show combine body-moving pagode and samba rhythms with a coterie of stunning Brazilian dancers.  Ford Amphitheater.   (323) 461-3673.

San Francisco

George Wein

- Sept. 20 & 21. (Mon. & Tues.)  George Wein and the Newport All-Stars.  An Evening of Conversation and Jazz. The inventor of the outdoor jazz festival displays his chops as a pianist and as an entertaining, anecdote-filled conversationalist. Yoshi’s San Francisco.   (415) 655-5600.

- Sept. 21. (Tues.) Fred Hersch and Nancy King.  Pianist Hersch and singer King, A pair of he jazz world’s most consistently inventive, musically adventurous artists, find common musical ground.  Yoshi’s Oakland.  (510) 238-9200.

- Sept. 22 & 23. (Wed. & Thurs.)  The Charles Lloyd New Quartet.  Saxophonist/flutist Lloyd, one of the true – if sometimes under-appreciated – originals to emerge from the post-Coltrane era, performs selections from his new CD, Mirror, with the world class backing of pianist Jason Moran, bassist Reuben Rogers and drummer Eric Harland. Yoshi’s Oakland. (510) 238-9200.

- Sept. 23 – 26. (Thurs. – Sun.)  The McCoy Tyner All-Stars. “All-Stars” is precisely the right title, with Roy Hargrove, trumpet, John Patitucci, bass and Willie Jones III, drums on stage with the ever-stellar Tyner.  Yoshi’s San Francisco.  (415) 655-5600.

Geri Allen

- Sept. 24 – 26. (Fri. – Sun.)  Fri. – Sun.)  Geri Allen: Tribute to Eric Dolphy. Allen has assembled the right collection of players for a long overdue tribute to one of jazz’s most remarkable innovators — Oliver Lake, alto sax, Don Byron, bass clarinet, Dwayne Dolphin, bass and Jeff “Tain” Watts, drums.  Yoshi’s Oakland.   (510) 238-9200.

New York

- Sept. 21 – 25. (Tues. – Sat. )  “Coltrane Revisited’ Joe Lovano, Steve Kuhn, Lonnie Plaxico and Andrew Cyrille.  Combine Lovano’s affection for Coltrane with Kuhn’s remembrances of having worked with Coltrane, add the solid bass and drum work of Plaxico and Cyrille, and expect a musically energizing evening.  Birdland. (212) 581-3080.

- Sept. 21 – 26. (Tues. – Sun.)  Ravi Coltrane Quartet. He comes from noble lineage, but the most intriguing aspect of Coltrane’s saxophone work is the way he has shaped it into a style which is uniquely, creatively his own.  Village Vanguard.  (212) 255-4037.

Sept. 23 – 26. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Taylor Eigsti Trio with singer Becca Stevens.  A former child jazz prodigy, now impressively in his mid-‘20s, Eigsti displays his versatility with his own group, with singer Stevens and with special guests Julian Lage, guitar (Thurs.), singer Gretchen Parlato and pianist Gerald Clayton (Sun.).  Jazz Standard.   (212) 576-2232.

- Sept. 24. (Fri.)  Mike Melvoin Trio.  L.A.’s master jazz pianists hits the Big Apple with his favorite New York rhythm team, bassist Jay Leonhart and drummer Bill Goodwin.  Kitano.   (212) 885-7119.

Picks of the Week: Sept. 14 – 19.

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Sept. 14. (Tues.) Michael Bolton. One World One Love Tour.  The title says it all for the music of the two-time Grammy winner, Bolton, whose soft-rock style has been appealing to romantics since the ‘80s.  Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.  (562) 915-8501.

- Sept. 14. (Tues.)  John Proulx Trio.  Proulx’s solid skills as a first-call jazz pianist bring an impressive blend of musicality to his highly personal vocals. Charlie O’s.   (818) 994-3058.

Dolores Scozzesi

- Sept. 15. (Wed.)  Dolores Scozzesi.  Blending the dark timbres of her voice with a thoughtful interpretive style, Scozzessi brings musical illumination to everything she sings. Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

- Sept. 16. (Thurs.) Angela Carole Brown.  Brown’s multi-faceted creativity – musical, poetic, dramatic – are essential elements in her engaging vocal performances.  She’s backed by the Pat Senatore Trio. Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.

- Sept. 16. (Thurs.)  Sweet Baby Jai Quartet. She does it all – standards, blues, jazz and pop – with a charismatic style that commands a state.  Crowne Plaza Brasserie Jazz Lounge.   (310) 642-7500.

- Sept. 17. (Fri.)  Bob Mintzer Quartet.  Saxophonist Mintzer is also a prime composer and arranger who invests his far ranging improvisations with imagination and focus.  LACMA.   (323) 857-6000.

Anna Mjoll

- Sept. 17. (Fri.)  Anna Mjoll.  In the mid-‘90s, Mjoll‘s “Sjubidu” (Shoo-Be-Do) was a hit at the Eurovision song festival.  Since then, her rich-toned voice and assertive rhythms have evolved into a uniquely original jazz vocal style. Charlie O’s.   (818) 994-3058.

- Sept. 17 &O 18. (Fri. & Sat.)  Roy Gaines.  The veteran singer/guitarist has been creating classic blues performances – live and on record – since the ‘50s.  Catalina Bar & Grill.

- Sept. 19. (Sun.)  KCRW World Festival.  Viva Mexico! The Summer’s world music schedule at the Bowl wraps up with a celebration of Mexican music featuring performances from Ozomatli (with Cheech Marin and Cut Chemist), Calexico, the Mariachi Reyna de Los Angeles and special guests from various regions of Mexico.  Raul Campos hosts.  The Hollywood Bowl.  (323) 850-2000.

- Sept. 19. (Sun.)  Caleb Quaye and the Faculty.  Quaye – who’s played guitar with everyone from Elton John and Mick Jagger to Paul McCartney – leads his own jazz/rock/fusion band.  Bubba Jackson hosts.  KJAZZ Sunday Champagne Brunch.  The Twist Restaurant in the Renaissance Hollywood Hotel.

Monterey

Sept. 17 – 19. (Fri. – Sun.)  The 53rd Annual Monterey Jazz Festival. It’s arguably one of the country’s prime musical events.  And its inarguably a sensational way to experience a weekend of non-stop, world-class entertainment.  With 500 artists, 85 performances on 8 stages, along with an instrument petting zoo, percussion playshop and jazzy jumper for the youngest attendees, there’s a list of attractions too long to completely include here.  But the line-up, as always, is stellar.  Among the highlights: Ahmad Jamal, Harry Connick, Jr., Angelique Kidjo, Mino Cinelu, Billy Childs and the Kronos Quartet in the premiere of a new, MJF commisioned work by Childs, Roy Hargrove Big Band, Roberta Gambarini, Marcus Roberts, Rudresh Mahanthappa, Chris Potter, Gretchen Parlato, Fred Hersch, Dianne Reeves and much more.  The Monterey Jazz Festival.    (925) 275-9255.

San Francisco

Rudresh Mahanthappa

- Sept. 15. (Wed.)  Rudresh Mahanthappa & the Indo-Pak Coalition.  Saxophonist Mahanthappa leads Pakistani-American guitarist Rez Abbasi and tabla player Dan Weiss in a fascinating collection of Indo-jazz fusion.  Yoshi’s Oakland.  (510) 238-9200.

- Sept. 17 – 19. (Fri. – Sun.)  Sadao Watanabe. Japanese alto saxophonist, at 77, is still soaring easily from his bebop roots to the smooth sounds of contemporary jazz.  Yoshi’s San Francisco. (415) 655-5600.

New York

- Sept. 14 – 19. (Tues. – Sun.)  Renee Rosnes Quartet.  Pianist Rosnes showcases her adventurous playing in the stellar company of bassist Peter Washington, drummer Lewis Nash and vibist Steve Nelson.  Village Vanguard.   (212) 255-4037.

- Sept. 14 – 19. (Tues. – Sun.)  The Generations in Jazz Festival.  The Generations series continues with a pair of virtuosic jazz veterans: alto saxophonist Charles McPherson and trumpeter Randy Brecker with the New Jersey City University Jazz Ensemble. Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola.   (212) 258-9595.

- Sept. 14 – 19. (Tues. – Sun.)  Diane Schuur.  After several excursions through the pop world, Schuur is solidly back in a jazz groove, displaying the appealing qualities of her early jazz singing years.  The Blue Note. (212) 475-8592.

Mose Allison

Washington, D.C.

- Sept. 16 – 19. (Thurs. – Sun.)   Mose Allison Trio. The Bard of the Bayou still has a lot to say.  Hopefully he’ll include something from his recent album, The Way of the World, his first in more than a decade.  Blues Alley.   (202) 337-4141.

Seattle

- Sept. 16 – 19. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Jeff Lorber, Eric Marienthal, Jimmy Haslip, Will Kennedy.  They may be a quartet with contemporary and crossover references, but these guys can also carry their weight in every aspect of the jazz mainstream.  Jazz Alley.  (206) 441-9729.

Picks of the Week: June 17 – 20

By Don Heckman

The Picks of the Week are late this week — the result of last weekend’s busy coverage of the Playboy Jazz Festival.  But better late than never, and here are my selections for at least the last part of the week.

Los Angeles

- June 17. (Thurs.) Braziliato. An evening of entertaining Brazilian sounds with the vocals of Frank Zattoli and Roberto Montero backed by the body-moving rhythms of bassist Pat Senatore and drummer Enzo Todesco. Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.  (310) 474-9400.

Janis Mann

- June 7. (Thurs.) Janis Mann Quartet. She’s a jazz singer in the classic sense, applying her own rich imagination to a style resonating with qualities of Ella Fitzgerald and Sarah Vaughan. Charlie O’s.  (818) 994-3058.

- June 17 – 20. (Thurs. – Sun.) Keiko Matsui. Keyboardist Matsui was one of the pioneers of the smooth jazz movement. But she has always been more than that, her elegant playing enlivened by subtle traces of mainstream jazz. Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210.

Donna Summer

- June 18. (Fri.) Opening Night at the Hollywood Bowl. The 2010 summer season begins with a program honoring Donna Summer, the Carpenters and Jean-Yves Thibaudet. Herb Alpert and Angela Bassett will serve as presenters. Performances by the inductees (with Richard Carpenter ). Hollywood Bowl.  (323) 850-2000.

- June 8. (Fri.) Otmaro Ruiz Quartet. One of the Southland’s jazz treasures, Venezuelan pianist/composer Ruiz still hasn’t received the attention that his impressive talent deserves. Here’s a chance to hear him in action at one of the Los Angeles County Museum of Art’s free jazz events. LACMA. 6 p.m.  (323) 857-6000.

- June 18 & 19. (Fri. & Sat.) Eddie Daniels. The jazz clarinet has been a sometime thing in recent decades. But not for Daniels, who has kept the instrument’s jazz presence very much alive. He’s not in town often, so don’t miss this opportunity to hear what he does with one of the music world’s most expressive instruments, backed by the inimitable trio of pianist Tom Ranier, bassist Tom Warrington and drummer Joe La Barbera. (And let’s hope Ranier brings his clarinet, as well, for a spontaneous duet with Daniels.) Vitello’s.  (818) 769-0905.

Julio Iglesias

- June 19. (Sat.) Julio Iglesias. The “Starry Night” world tour of Iglesias — one of the world’s most popular entertainers — arrives in the Southland. Expect to hear a ton of hits from the man who has sold more records in more languages than any performer in history. The Grove of Anaheim.  (714) 712-2700.

- June 19. (Sat.) Dakah Hip Hop Orchestra. The dyamic instrumentation and cross-over talents of the Dakah players are applied to a new work titled Gangsta Wagner. And, that’s right, it’s an acknowledgment of “the Ring‘s sinister side and marries it to L.A.” Grand Performances.  (213) 687-2159.

- June 19. (Sat.) Ernie Watts. Last weekend, Watts’ performance with Kurt Elling was one of the highlights of the Playboy Jazz Festival. Here he is, fronting his own group, his inventive playing on full display as he celebrates the release of his new CD, Four Plus Four. Café Metropol.  (213) 613-1537.

- June 19. (Sat.) Marian Petrescu with Kevin Axt and Bill Wysaske. Petrescu is a technical wizard, as virtuosic a pianist as jazz has seen since the salad years of Oscar Peterson. At his best, he reaches beyond the fast-fingered excursions into a stylistic identity that blends his Eastern European roots with a deep understanding of the jazz mainstream. Pierre’s Fine Pianos.

- June 20. (Sun.) Anna Mjoll. Iceland’s gift to jazz singing knows how to combine her solid sense of swing with an engaging way with a song. Vibrato. (310) 474-9400.

Baaba Maal

- June 20. (Sun.) KCRW World Festival. Baaba Maal, Playing For Change, Tinariwen, Fool’s Gold. The world music series at the Bowl begins with the sort of eclectic mix of acts that characterizes most of the series’ summer schedule. All are intriguing, with Maal and Tinariwen particularly worthy of musical attention. Hollywood Bowl.   (323) 850-2000.

San Diego

- June 18. (Fri.) Tierney Sutton, Hubert Laws and Larry Koonse. Vocalist Sutton takes a break from her usual ensemble to explore some new territory with saxophonist Laws and guitarist Koonse. It should make for adventurous results. Anthology, San Diego.  (619) 595-0300.

San Francisco

- June 16 & 17. (Wed. & Thurs.) James Carter Organ Trio. Saxophonist Carter reaches into his far-reaching familiarity with the full range of jazz styles and takes on the blues-drenched organ trio genre. Yoshi’s San Francisco. (415) 655-5600.

- June 20 – 21. (Sun. & Mon.) Sharon McNight. Tony Award-winning McNight moves with utter ease from the musical theatre stage to the intimacy of cabaret. And she does it with wit and whimsy matched with superb vocal skills. Rrazz Room.  (415) 394-1189.

New York

- June 16 – 20. (Wed. – Sun.) Fred Hersch Trio. Pianist Hersch has been impressively exploring new attitudes toward the classic jazz piano trio setting for most of his lengthy career. And as he does so, he keeps making fascinating new discoveries. Village Vanguard.  (212) 255-4037.

Vijay Iyer

- June 16 – 20. (Wed. – Sun.) Dizzy Gillespie All Star Big Band. The Gillespie big band sound — virtually a jazz genre in itself — is alive and kicking in this stellar collection of players. Blue Note.  (212) 475-8592.

- June 16 – 19. (Wed. – Sat.) Vijay Iyer Trio. Pianist Iyer, who’s been receiving growing praise from audiences and critics alike, was chosen Musician of the Year in this week’s Jazz Journalists Association Awards. Birdland.  (212) 581-3080.