Picks of the Week: Dec. 7 – 12

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Neil Sedaka

- Dec. 8. (Tues.)  Neil Sedaka.  Hitmaker Sedaka showcases his memorable catalog of songs in a performance replacing a date cancelled in late October. Disney Hall.   (323) 850-2000.

- Dec. 8. (Wed.)  Carol Welsman Canadian-born Welsman has the rare ability to surround the supple timbres of her voice with an intimate piano style.  Her versatility reaches from American standards to songs in French, Italian and Portuguese.  With any luck, she’ll offer her intimate version of the lovely Italian song, “Estate.”  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.

- Dec. 8. (Wed.)  Emil Richards/Joe Porcaro Quartet.  Featuring Abraham Laboriel, bass and Mike Lang, piano. A quartet of veteran players reveal the broad, generational reach of masterful jazz.  Charlie O’s. (818) 994-3058.

- Dec. 8. (Wed.)  The Celtic Tenors Holiday Show. An evening of musical holiday cheer from the soaring voices of the Celtic tenors, embracing classical, Celtic, Americana and pop music.  Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.  (562) 916-8501.

Natalie Cole

- Dec. 9. (Thurs.)  Natalie Cole.  The eclectic Cole, who – like her Dad – reaches convincingly across genres from jazz to blues and pop, makes her Disney Hall debut.  Disney Hall.   (323) 850-2000.

- Dec. 9. (Thurs.)  Adam Schroeder.  Rising star jazz saxophonist Schroeder hosts a pair of release parties for his new CD, A Handful of Stars.  W. Graham Dechter, guitar, John Clayton, bass, Jeff Hamilton, drums.  Vitello’s. (818) 769-0905.   Also Dec. 10 (Fri.) at the The Culver Club for Jazz at the Radisson L.A. West Side Hotel.   (310) 649-1776 Ext. 4137.

- Dec. 9. (Thurs.)  Eric Reed Trio.  Once a teen-age pianistic jazz prodigy, Reed is now firmly established as mature jazz star.  He performs with Hamilton Price, bass, Kevin Yokota, drums.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.

- Dec. 9. (Thurs.)  Denise Donatelli. The Southland is blessed with an impressive array of gifted jazz vocalists.  Donatelli’s one of the best – here and elsewhere.  To read a recent iRoM performance review click HERE. Charlie O’s. (818) 994-3058.

- Dec. 9 – 11. (Thurs. – Sat.)  The Pacific Symphony with pianist Kirill Gerstein in an evening of memorable classics.  On the program: the Rachmaninoff Piano Concerto #2 and Dvorak Symphony #9 (from the New World).  Segerstrom Concert Hall, Orange County Performing Arts Center.   (714) 556-2787.

- Dec. 9 – 12. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Mike Stern Quartet.  Guitarist Stern leads an ensemble of guys, all of whom, fly freely across a colorful array of jazz genres.  With Randy Brecker, trumpet, Dennis Chambers, drums and Anthony Jackson, bass.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

- Dec. 10 – 12. (Fri. – Sun.)  Hilary Hahn and the Los Angeles Philharmonic.  Hahn applies her rich, interprettive style to the Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto, and Rafael Fruhbeck de Burgos conducts the LA Phil in Berlioz’s Symphonie Fantastique.  Disney Hall. (323) 850-2000.

James Ingram

- Dec. 11 & 12. (Sat. & Sun.)  The Colors of Christmas.  It’s been one of the annual pleasures of Christmas for nearly two decades, with Peabo Bryson, James Ingram, Oleta Adams and Stephanie Mills bringing holiday musical joy to the season.  Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.  (562) 916-8501.

- Dec. 12. (Sun.)  Red Holloway and Plas Johnson.  Two of the most inimitable jazz tenor saxophonists in the business team up for a holiday jazz celebration.  The irrepressible Bubba Jackson hosts.   KJAZZ Sunday Champagne Brunch.   (323) 491-1000.

- Dec. 12. (Sun.)  Kate McGarry and Keith Ganz.  Grammy-nominated McGarry performs selections from her album, Less Is More, Nothing is Everything, with her husband, guitarist Keith Ganz.  The Royal T. (310) 559-6000.

San Francisco

Charlie Hunter

- Dec. 9 – 12. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Charlie Hunter.  Guitarist Hunter, who sometimes manages to make his diverse guitar playing sound like a one man band, arrives for his eleventh annual December appearance at Yoshi’s Oakland. (510) 238-9200.

- Dec. 9 – 12. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Los Van Van.  The great Cuban band, crossing genres in every stylistic direction, and doing it with vitality and substance, makes a rare San Francisco appearance.  Yoshi’s San Francisco.   (415) 655-5600.

New York

- Dec. 7. (Tues.)  Theo Bleckmann & Ben Monder Duo.  The unique duo of Bleckmann and Monder trigger musical magic via the blending of voice, live electronics and guitar.  The Cornelia St. Café. (212) 989-9319

- Dec. 7 – 11. (Tues. – Sat.)  The Roy Haynes Quartet.  Ageless, 85 year old drummer Haynes, continues to give seminars in the art of swinging, backed by his Fountain of Youth Quartet.  Birdland.   (212) 581-3080.

- Dec. 7 – 12. (Tues. – Sun.)  Robert Glasper Trio.  Pianist Glasper is one of the rare young jazz artists who can bring authenticity to the combination of jazz, rock, hip hop and more.   Village Vanguard.   (212) 929-4589.

Manhattan Transfer

- Dec. 7 – 12. (Tues. – Sun.)  The Manhattan Transfer. Vocal music – jazz, pop, blues and beyond – doesn’t get any better than the Transfer. Forty years together and their performances are still utterly mesmerizing.  The Blue Note. (212) 475-8592.

- Dec. 9 – 12. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Patricia Barber. Pianist/singer Barber is one of a kind, opening new vistas in every song she sings.  Hopefully she’ll play an advance tune or two from her upcoming album, The Storyteller, due out in 2011.   Jazz Standard.  (212) 576-2232.

Picks of the Week: June 1 – 6

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- June 1. (Tues.) Guitar Night. John Pisano, Barry Zweig. John Belzaguy.  A pair of veteran guitarists – each with an overflowing resume of memorable appearances – have a typical Guitar Night jam with the solid backing of bassist Belzaguy.   Vitello’s. (818) 769-0905.

Lisa Hilton

- June 1. (Tues.) Lisa Hilton.  Described as a “lioness of jazz” by JazzReview magazine, Hilton is about to release her 12^th U.S. recording, Nuance. Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.  On Saturday, June 5, Hilton will also give an onstage interview and performance for visually-impaired students from Junior Blind America at the Grammy Museum.  The appearance is part of her continuing efforts to bring music to the visually impaired in Los Angeles, Boston and New York.

- June 2. (Wed.)  Austin Peralta/Javier Santiago Project.  Pianist Peralta had two CDs released in Japan by the age of 16.  Approaching his 20^th birthday, the talented young player – the son of legendary skateboarder and film director Stacy Peralta – shows off his wares amid the simmering rhythms of the Javier Santiago Project.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

- June 2 & 3. (Wed. & Thurs.)  Partch: Even Wild Horses.  Harry Partch was such an original musical thinker that he re-imagined the concept of musical pitch intervals, then created an array of instruments designed to play those intervals.  John Schneider continues his superb survey of Partch’s extraordinary music with Even Wild Horses–Dance Music for an Absent Drama and Cloud Chambe. Also on the program: Lou Harrison‘s Canticle #3, the West Coast debut of Anne LeBaron‘s Southern Ephemera, and Madeline Tourtelot‘s MiRotate the Body in All Its Planes.  REDCAT.  (213) 237-2800.

Mike Lang

- June 4. (Fri.) Mike Lang Trio.  PianistLang’s far-ranging career reaches from backing Ray Charles and Ella Fitzgerald to performing on more than 2,000 film scores.  But here’s a rare opportunity to experience his own music, up close and personal. Catalina Bar & Grill. (323) 466-2210.

- June 4. (Fri.)  Calabria Foti.  Blessed with a rich, multi-hued voice, Foti enhances it with impressive musicality and an engaging sense of phrasing.  The Back Room At Henri’s.   (818) 346-5582.

- June 4. (Fri.)  Sal Marquez with the Pat Senatore Trio.  One of the Southland’s premiere trumpeters, Marguez has found a unique pathway for himself, somewhere between the lyricism of Miles Davis and the fire of Freddie Hubbard.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.

- June 4. (Fri.)  Bern.  Drummer Bernie Dresel leads his gang of funk and groove driven instrumenalists and singers through the music of Stevie Wonder, Miles Davis, Prince, the Beatles and beyond.  Vitello’s. m (818) 769-0905.

- June 4 & 5. (Fri. & Sat. )  Sara Gazarek.  Still on the rise, Gazarek has all the qualities that make a prime jazz artist.  She’s won a Down Beat Student Music Award, and hit the top 10 in Billboard jazz charts with her first album.  But she’s still not receiving the full attention that her finely honed talents deserve.  The Café Metropol.

Rita Moreno

- June 5. (Sat.) Rita Moreno.  She completely inhabited the role of Maria in the film version of West Side Story, winning an Academy Award for her work.  And that was only one of the accomplishments in a career that has also produced an Emmy, a Grammy and a Tony, as well.  Moreno doesn’t do club dates often, so don’t miss this rare opportunity to see a legendary entertainer in action.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

- June 5. (Sat.) Rickey Woodard with the John Heard Trio.  L.A.’s had more than its share of impressive saxophonists over the years.  And Woodard belongs in the very top echelon of that extraordinary group.  Always a pleasure to hear, he’s at his best performing with bassist Heard and his group in the cozy setting of Charlie O’s.    (818) 994-3058.

- June 5. (Sat.)  Grant Geissman.  Busy, versatile guitarist Geissman celebrates Cool Man Cool, the latest in his long string of entertaining recordings.  Vitello’s.  (818) 769-0905.

- June 5. (Sat.)  Gary Lucas solo acoustic. The Grammy-nominated veteran of Captain Beefheart has been described by Rolling Stone as “one of the best and most original guitarists in America.”  And that’s a reasonable description for a musician who’s played with both Leonard Bernstein and Lou Reed (among others).  McCabes. (310) 828-4497.

- June 6. (Sun.)  Graham Dechter and the Adam Schroeder Quartet.  Dechter’s guitar and Schroeder’s baritone sax make for one of the more unique timbral sounds in jazz.  Add to that the sturdy swing capabilities of both players, and expect an evening of high energy.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.

- June 6. (Sun.)  Element Band.  This entertaining, eclectic ensemble is a living definition of the phrase “World Music.”  Performing in Armenian, French, Greek, Spanish, English, Arabic, Portuguese, Italian, Bulgarian and Farsi, they offer a little something for almost every ethnic or musical taste.  Guest star Italian singer Giovanna Gattuso adds her own elegant touch to the proceedings.  The Ford Amphitheatre. (323) 461-3673

Highlight……………………………………………………………

- June 6. (Sun.)  “Playboy Jazz in Warner Park.” The build-up to the Playboy Jazz Festival at the Hollywood Bowl on June 12 & 13 continues with another free Playboy community event.  Although the Warner concerts only began a couple of years ago, they’ve already become one of the early Summer’s most popular jazz events.  And the price is right.  This year’s program features four time Grammy nominated singer Oleta Adams, keyboardist Lao Tizer, master jazz trumpeter Sal Marquez, and the Calabasas High School Jazz Band (one of the 15 finalists in Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Essentially Ellington Competition.  Playboy Jazz in Warner Park.   (310) 450-1173.

San Francisco

- June 1 & 2. (Tues. & Wed.)  Jane Monheit. Always one of the most gorgeous voices in jazz, Monheit is also an original jazz stylist, approaching everything she sings with a unique combination of rhythmic swing and lyrical imagination. Yoshi’s Oakland.   (510) 238-9200.

- June 1 & 2. (Tues. & Wed.)  Pat Martino.  Guitarist Martino has essentially had to learn to play the guitar twice, as the result of a near-fatal brain aneurysm in 1980.  But he’s done it superbly, firmly establishing his position as one of jazz’s finest veteran artists.  Yoshi’s San Francisco.   (415) 655-5600.

John Handy

- June 3. (Thurs.)  John Handy. Forty-five years after his remarkable performance at the Monterey Jazz Festival made him a highly visible jazz figure, Handy – who has also had a long career as an educator – continues to be a an eminently listenable alto saxophonist.  Yoshi’s Oakland.   (510) 238-9200.

- June 4 – 6. (Fri. – Sun)  Dave Holland Quintet.  Bassist Holland’s interests have taken him in all directions – in recent years with a big band as well as a little big band.  This time, he’s back to basics, with a quintet that includes the all-star line-up of saxophonist Chris Potter, trombonist Robin Eubanks, vibist Steve Nelson, and drummer Nate Smith. Yoshi’s Oakland.(510) 238-9200.

- June 4 – 6. (Fri. – Sun.) Dr. John & the Lower 911. One of the music world’s true originals, Dr. John (Mac Rebennack) has been one of the irrepressible symbols of New Orleans for decades.  And he’s still going strong, winning a Grammy last year for “City That Care Forgot.” Yoshi’s San Francisco.  (415) 655-5600.

New York

- June 1 – 5. (Tues. – Sat.)  Stacey Kent.  Wisely focusing her career upon international audiences, Kent has achieved visibility reaching beyond that of many of her contemporaries.  Her latest album, Raconte-Moi, sung in French underscores her global outreach.  Birdland.   581-3080.

- June 3 – 6. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Jacky Terrasson Trio. French/American pianist Terrasson – well-regarded since he won the 1993 Thelonious Monk Piano Competition – celebrates the release of his latest album, Push. Jazz Standard.  (212) 576-2232.

Dee Dee Bridgewater

- June 3 – 6. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Dee Dee Bridgewater. Her recordings are always a pleasure to hear, and the latest — Eleanor Fagan: To Billie With Love From Dee Dee Bridgewater – is an extraordinary Billie Holiday tribute.  But Bridgewater in person is even more unique, more dynamic.  This is one to place on your “Don’t Miss” list.  The Blue Note. (212) 475-8592.

Washington, D.C.

- June 1 – 13.  D.C. Jazz Festival. It was originally titled the Duke Ellington Jazz Festival.  But whatever the name, this is one of the early Summer’s most impressive assemblages of all-star talent.  Among the major names:  Claudio Roditi, Roberta Flack, Eddie Palmieri, Kenny Barron, Paquito D’Rivera, Regina Carter, Roberta Gambarini, Roy Hargrove, and more.  The D.C. Jazz Festival.

Picks of the Week: March 23 – 28

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Mar. 23. (Tues.)  Christopher Cross.  Multiple Grammy Award-winning composer Cross hits include “Sailing,” “Ride Like the Wind” and “Never Be the Same.” Vibrato.   (310) 474-9400.

Ray Davies

- Mar. 24. (Wed.)  Ray Davies. After the success of last Fall’s CD, The Kinks Choral Collection, Davies – one of the founders of the venerable English rock band The Kinks – is once again out on tour, offering golden oldies, as well as his newer material. Grove of Anaheim.  (714) 712-2700.

- Mar. 25. (Wed.)  Jamie Cullum.  The English wiz, adept at the piano, quick with a song, successfully masters the territory between rock, pop, blues and jazz.  The Avalon.   (323) 467-4571.

- Mar. 25. (Wed.)  Nat Adderley Jr. Quintet.  “The Music of Cannonball and Nat Adderley”. His direct connection with the source, makes pianist Adderley, Jr. the perfect advocate for the classic music of his father and uncle. Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210.

- Mar. 24. (Wed.)  Judy Wexler.  “Talkin’ About My Generation.” Jazz singer Wexler adds her fine-tuned, improvisational vocal touches to the music of the ‘60s and ‘70s.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

- Mar. 25.  (Wed.)  Chef Jam Sessions. Vibrato launches a new series in which guest chefs will cook 5-course dinners of their signature favorites.  Alain Giraud (Anisette, Bastide, Citrus) is the first all-star guest chef.  The Norman Pantone Continental Quartet will accompany the feasting with accordion-driven Gypsy jazz.  Vibrato. (310) 474-9400.

- Mar. 25. (Thurs.)  Nancy Kelly.  Veteran jazz singer Kelly brings swing, phrasing, vitality and – best of all – authenticity to everything she sings.  This is one of her too-rare appearances in the Southland.  Crown Plaza Brasserie Jazz Lounge.  (310) 642-7500.

Billy Childs

- Mar. 25. (Thurs.)  Billy Childs. He’s got eight Grammy nominations and two Grammy awards, and he’s been commissioned by symphonies across the land to write compositions.  But Childs is also one of the finest — and too little acknowledged — jazz pianists in the world. He doesn’t play many club dates these days, so don’t miss this one.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

- Mar. 26. (Fri.)  The CJS Quintet and Hideaki “Heday” Tokunaga “East Meets Wes.” The hard bop of the CJS Quintet encounters Heday’s grooving, Wes Montgomery-styled guitar work.   Hollywood Studio Bar and Grill/Gower Gulch.  (323) 466-9917.

- Mar. 26. (Fri.) Larry Karush Quintet.  Pianist Karush roves confidently across the boundaries of improvisation, from the thorny avant-garde to the propulsive lift of straight ahead.  The Santa Monica College Performing Arts Center (Edye 2nd Space)  (310) 434-3000.

- Mar. 26. (Fri.)  Perlene Thurston. The rich-timbred voice and roving phrases of Thurston stimulate distinct recollections of Sarah Vaughan.   The Back Room at Henri’s.   (818) 348-5582.

- Mar. 26 & 27. (Fri. & Sat.) Wallace Roney Quintet. Trumpeter Roney has taken the Miles Davis style and shaped it into a highly personal expression of his own.  He performs with Antoine Roney, saxophones, Aruan Ortiz, keyboards, Rashaan Carter, bass, Kush Abadey, drums.  Spazio.  (818) 728-8400.

- Mar. 26 & 27. (Fri. & Sat.)  Mike Lang and Los Angeles Sonic Odyssey.   Pianist Lang performs the world premiere of Jennifer Logan’s Planetarium, a work for improvised piano and electronics.  Logan will also perform Lang’s Moonlit Night…in blossoms’ shimmer and her own Serenades and spreading shadows for solo piano.  Neighborhood Unitarian Church, Pasadena.  Los Angeles Sonic Odyssey. (213) 422-2733.

Diane Schuur

- Mar. 27. (Sat.)  Diane Schuur.  Eclectic singer/pianist Schuur has a pair of Grammy awards and three nominations.  Lately, Deedles has been setting aside some of her pop interests in favor of the expressive jazz vocalizing she does best.  CSUN Performing Arts Center.  (818) 677-1200.

- Mar. 27. (Sat.)  “Broadway Today” Jason Graae, David Burnham, Julia Murney and Lisa Howard sing songs from  such contemporary musicals as  Wicked, Hairspray,  The Lion King, Rent, The Producers, The Phantom of the Opera, Jersey Boys, Mamma Mia and others.  Thousand Oaks Civic Arts Plaza.  (805) 449-2787.

- Mar. 27. (Sat.)  Antonio Sanchez Quartet. Drummer Sanchez keeps the Jazz Bakery brand alive with a stellar group that includes alto saxophonist David Binney, tenor saxophonist Donny McCaslin and bassist Scott Colley.  All of which should make for a high sprited evening.  Musicians Institute.  A Jazz Bakery Moveable Feast.   (310) 271-9039.

- Mar. 28. (Sun.)  Frank Potenza Trio. Guitarist/educator Potenza, inspired by Joe Pass, has built a highly personal style of his own.  He performs material from his current Capri release, Old, New, Borrowed & Blue.  With Joe Bagg, organ, Steve Barnes, drums.  The Lighthouse Café in Hermosa Beach.   (310) 376-9833

San Francisco

- March 23 & 24.   (Tues. & Wed.)  Joe Lovano and US Five perform selections from “Folk Art,” his first recording with a program of all his original compositions.   Yoshi’s Oakland.   (510) 238-9200.

Eliane Elias

- Mar. 23 & 24.  (Tues. & Wed.)  Eliane Elias.  Pianist/singer Elias brilliantly combines her deep Brazilian roots with an impressively original jazz imagination.  Yoshi’s San Francisco.   (415) 655-5600.

- Mar. 23 – 27. (Tues. – Sat.)  Maude Maggart. With a background that traces to several generations of musical show biz veterans, Maggart enhances her inherited skills with her own stylish approach to the classic songs of cabaret and the musical theatre.  The Rrazz Room.  (415) 394-1189.

- Mar. 26 – 28. (Fri. – Sun.)  Natalie Cole.  Ever versatile, as comfortable with a  soulful pop song as she is with a dynamic evening of jazz, Cole makes a rare club appearance.  Yoshi’s Oakland.  (510) 238-9200.

New York

Mar. 23 – 27. (Tues. – Sat.)  John Scofield New Quartet. Guitarist Scofield sets aside his eclectic musical interests for some straight ahead jazz.  With Mulgrew Miller, piano, Ben Street, bass and Kendrick Scott, drums. Birdland.   (212) 581-3080.

- Mar. 23 – 28. (Tues. – Sun.)  Regina Carter. The busy, versatile violinist previews her new CD, Reverse Thread. Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola.   (212) 258-9595.

- Mar. 25. (Thurs.) Allison Miller.   Multi-skilled drummer, composer and singer Miller leads a stellar ensemble — pianist Myra Melford, violinist Jenny Scheinman and bassist Todd Sickafoose — in a release party for her new CD, Boom Tic Boom.   Cornelia Street Cafe.  (212) 989-9319.

Freda Payne

- Mar. 25 & 26. (Thurs. & Fri.)  Kurt Rosenwinkel Standards Trio.  Guitarist Rosenwinkel does what the title of his group says – explore the soaring melodies and rich harmonies of the Great American Songbook.  Jazz Standard.   (212) 576-2232.

- Mar. 25 – 28.  (Thurs. – Sun.)  Freda Payne sings Ella Fitzgerald.  She’s had a #! Hit – “Band of Gold” – and starred in Broadway shows such as “Jelly’s Last Jam” and ‘Sophisticated Ladies.”  But Payne has a feel for jazz, too, and – especially – an empathic way of understanding Ella’s way with a song.  Iridium. (212) 582-2121.

Live Jazz: The Ron Jones Influence Big Band at Vitello’s

By Tony Gieske

Ron Jones

The world’s longest running publicity stunt did not command the attention of everyone in Hollywood Sunday night. Disdaining the Oscar festivities was a discriminating crowd that filled the Upstairs room at Vitello’s out in the Valley to hear the Ron Jones Jazz Influence big band.

Jones, a noted composer for off-beat television fare, led his organization of 22 studio savants, including a pair of French hornists, to reward the visitors with a program of familiar songs and heads that were staples when bebop was young. That would have been before many of the players took up the instruments with which they now make their not inconsiderable livings.

Clockwise from upper left: Chuck Berghofer, Bob McChesney, French horn player Jean Marinelli, Ron Jones, Jeff Bunnell, Bob Sheppard, Tim May

“The Way You Look Tonight,” in a gently swinging arrangement by Mike Tomaro (available online for $47.50, in case you run a big band), followed a gently swinging opener on “Bird of Paradise,” playing the spotlight here and there on the world’s greatest trumpet section.

These horns were limber muscle and flat abs all evening, a shout when called for that gave no pain but was music to the ear, and dry muted comments in support of other soloists. Charlie Davis, Chuck Findley, Gary Grant and Jeff Bunnell were the players. Findley soloed powerfully on an original ballad.

The Ron Jones brass section

The similarly adept trombones lent a rich color and deep power to the tuttis, underpinning the various sections when necessary, warming the top line when called for. Bob McChesney stepped out for a pretty little story about “Emily,” beginning with velvety balladic wooings and ending with bold staff-surmounting calisthenics.

The reeds were light and airy on such swiftly wandering numbers as Wayne Shorter’s “Yes and No” and loaded with vigor on the Latinate “St. Thomas,” which the Bill Holman arrangement made into a more delightful romp than many of those we’ve been hearing since the Eisenhower Administration.

Such delights rested all night on the Basie-like power of Chuck Berghofer, bass, Mike Lang, piano, Tim May, guitar and Steve Schaeffer, drums. The colors of May and vibraharpist Billy Holting reminded you of the old Woody Herman sound that Red Norvo and Billy Bauer contributed.

But that was a hotbed zone; tonight was a botanical garden.

Photos by Tony Gieske.

Read and see more of Tony Gieske’s jazz essays and photos at his personal web site tonyspage.com.

Picks of the Week: Feb. 8 – 14

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Jennifer York Quartet

- Feb. 9. (Tues.)  The Jennifer York Quartet.  Bassist and TV personality York leads a band that crosses smoothly from contemporary to mainstream jazz.  The evening will be further enlivened by the always impressive singing of special guest Chris Bennett.  Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210.

- Feb. 9.  (Tues.)  John Pisano Guitar Night.  Barry Zweig, who has played with everyone from Peggy Lee and Don Ellis to Buddy Rich and Natalie Cole,  partners with Pisano in this laid-back, entertaining format.  Vitello’s (818) 769-0905.

- Feb. 10. (Wed.)  Masters of Persian Music.  Kamancheh (spike fiddle) player  Kayhan Kalhor and Hossein Alizadeh, a master of the lute-like tar and setar are joined by classical vocalist Hamid Reza Nourbakhsh in a program of Persian traditional and classical music.   Disney Hall.  (323) 850-2000.   Also Friday, Feb. 12  at the Irvine Barclay Theatre (see below).

Emil Richards

- Feb. 11. (Thurs.)  Emil Richards/Joe Porcaro Quartet.  Vibist/percussionist Richards has played on the soundtracks of nearly 2000 films and TV shows creating such memorable sounds as the the finger snaps on the Addams Family show, the bongos on the original Mission Impossible show and the xylophone on The Simpons.  Here he partners with Porcaro, a veteran of gigs with Gerry Mulligan, Frank Sinatra, Madonna and more.  Backing them, the similarly experienced pianist Mike Lang and bassist Abraham Laboriel.  Charlie O’s.  http://www.charlieos.com (919) 994-3058..

- Feb. 11. (Thurs.)  The Paul Kreibich Quartet with guest vocalist Tony Galla.  A Pre-Valentine’s Day Party.   Drummer Kreibich has been a rhythm section mainstay with Ray Charles, Carmen McRae, Mose Allison and more.  Galla’s lyrical singing harkens back to the days of the great Italian balladeers — a perfect voice for the romance of Valentine’s Day.   The Kreibich Quartet also includes saxophonist Roger Neumann, pianist Marty Harris and bassist Kirk Smith.  The Brasserie Jazz Lounge in the  Crowne Plaza LAX Hotel.  (310) 642-7500.

Ken Peplowski

- Feb. 11 – 14. ( Thurs. – Sun.)  “For the Love of Jazz” Newport Beach Jazz Party. The Southland’s first major jazz event of the year.  Highlights include the Sinatraland Orchestra, Ken Peplowski’s Big Band and the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra.  Saturday night Valentine’s Dance, Sunday Valentine’s Day Brunch with Bill Henderson and Byron Stripling. The Heath Brothers Quartet. The long list of participants includes Dave Frishberg, Ken Peplowski, Jackie Ryan, Houston Person, Lewis Nash, Rickey Woodard, Holly Hofmann, Bill Cunliffe, Ron Eschete, Tamir Hendelman and dozens of others.  Newport Beach Jazz Party.  (949) 759-5003.

- Feb. 11 – 14 (Thurs. – Sun.) & Feb 18 – 21 (Thurs. – Sun.)  Steve Tyrell.  Catalina’s has become a virtual second home for the American Songbook stylings of the mellow-voiced Tyrell. Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

- Feb. 12. (Fri.)  Dave Pell & Med Flory Quintet.  Veteran saxophonists Pell and Flory revive the compelling sounds of an alto and tenor front line.  The Back Room at Henri’s.  (310) 348-5582.

- Feb. 12.  (Fri.)  Masters of Persian Music.  Kamancheh (spike fiddle) player  Kayhan Kalhor and Hossein Alizadeh, a master of the lute-like tar and setar are joined by classical vocalist Hamid Reza Nourbakhsh in a program of Persian traditional and classical music.  Irvine Barclay Theatre.  (949) 854-4646.

Denise Donatelli

- Feb. 12. (Fri.)  Denise Donatelli. Always a pleasure to hear, Donatelli is at her best when she’s in a superlative musical setting.  As she is here, with pianist Otmaro Ruiz, bassist Hamilton Price and drummer Aaron Serfaty. Spazio.   (818) 728-8400.

- Feb. 12 – 13.  (Fri & Sat.) Adam Rudolph and the Go: Organic Orchestra. Adventurous percussionist/composer Rudolph presents an evening of cutting edge music, performed by a remarkable, 26-piece enssemble of winds, percussion and strings.  Electric Lodge, Venice.   (310) 306-1854.

- Feb. 12 – 13. (Fri. & Sat.).  La Traviata.  Teatro Lirico D’Europa perform Verdi’s tragic opera of frustrated love and selfless sacrifice.  In Italian with English supertitles.  Cerritos Center.  (582) 916-8501.

- Feb. 12 – 13. (Fri. & Sat.)  Alex Acuna. The versatile drummer/percussionist celebrates the release of his “Jungle City” CD leading a Weather Report-styled trio (with keyboardist Jan Gunnar Hoff and bassist Per Mathisen).  Vitello’s (818) 769-0905.

- Feb. 13. (Sat.)  Tessa Souter.  English jazz vocalist — by way of New York City — brings her engaging interpretation of standards and jazz classics to a Jazz Bakery Moveable Feast. She’s backed by Jason Ennis, guitar, Hamilton Price, bass, Kevin Kanner, drums.  To read an iRoM review of Souter’s last L.A. appearance, click here. Ivy Substation, Venice.  Jazz Bakery.   (310) 271-9039.

Katja Rieckermann

- Feb. 13. (Sat.)  Katja Rieckermann Quartet.  The German tenor saxophonist has been touring and recording with Rod Stewart for the past several years. Her resume also includes gigs with, among others, Al Green, Carole King, Reba McEntire, Tom Scott and Randy Newman. Vibrato Grill Jazz… etc.   (310) 474-9400.

- Feb. 14. (Sun.)  Gershwin Sings Gershwin.  Alexis Gershwin and the Harry James Tribute Band.  A chance to hear Gershwin songs performed by a singer in the direct lineage.  Alexis is the niece of George and Ira Gershwin.   Cerritos Center.   (582) 916-8501.

San Francisco

- Feb. 9. (Tues.) Maria Volonte.  The sweet-voiced singer/guitarist from Argentina begins with classic tango, expanding it into musical visions of her own.  The Rrazz Room.   (415) 394-1189.

- Feb. 12 – 14. (Fri. – Sun.)  Mavis Staples.  No one finds the heart of gospel in rhythm and blues as impressively as the still mesmerizing veteran of the Staples Singers.   Yoshi’s Oakland.  (510) 238-9200.

New York

Gerald Clayton

- Feb. 9 – 14. (Wed. – Sun.) The Gerald Clayton Trio.  Pianist Clayton, now in his mid-twenties, has been one of the most electrifying young jazz talents since he was still a teen-ager.  And he keeps gettng better.  He performs with Joe Sanders, bass and Justin Brown, drums.  Village Vanguard.  (212) 255-4037.

- Feb. 9 – 14. (Wed. – Sun.)  The David Sanborn Quartet featuring Joey DeFancesco. Call this pairing the perfect combination for finding the heart of the blues in contemporary jazz.   The Blue Note.  (212) 475-8592.

- Feb. 10. (Thurs.)  Steve Kuhn and Ravi Coltrane Duo.  Veteran pianist Kuhn once created magic with John Coltrane.  Now he’s recalling the formula with the elder Coltrane’s gifted saxophone-playing son.   Jazz Standard.   (212) 576-2232.

Hilary Kole

- Feb. 10 – 14. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Hilary Kole.  Kole’s singing reaches well beyond the usual vocal interpretations of standard songs.  In her gifted hands, they are transformed into compelling new musical short stories.  To read an iRoM review of Kole’s recent L.A. appearance click here.   Birdland.  (212) 581-3080.

- Feb. 11 – 14. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Rene Marie.  Marie has been an utterly unique jazz vocalist, insisting upon doing a song her own way, since she first arrived on the scene a decade ago.   Jazz Standard. (212) 576-2232.

Seattle

Feb. 11 – 14 (Thurs. – Sun.)  Mindi Abair.  Contemporary jazz saxophonist Abair has a track record reaching from the Backstreet Boys and Josh Groban to Lee Ritenour and Keb’ Mo’, producing a series of Top 10 hits on the Billboard Contemporary Jazz charts.  As if that wasn’t enough, she also plays the flute, sings and writes songs.  Jazz Alley.   (206) 441-9729.

Washington, D.C.

- Feb. 11 – 14. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Jerry “The Ice Man” Butler.  Butler, the original lead singer in the Impressions, now divides his time between his still-potent, still-cool singing, and his  political activities  as a Cook County [Illinois] Board Commissioner    Blues Alley.   (202) 337-4141.

Zanzibar

- Feb. 11 – 16.  (Thurs. – Tues.)  Sauti Za Busara Zanzibar.   An international festival celebrating East African music.  The long list of artists includes performers from South Africa, Senegal, Tanzania, Ethiopia, Egypt, Suriname, Uganda, Zanzibar and beyond.  Admission is free to all East African residents before 5 p.m. Tel: 255 24 223 2423.  Sauti Za Busara Zanzibar.

Picks of the Week: Feb. 2 – 7

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Anthony Wilson

- Feb. 2. (Tues.)  John Pisano Guitar Night.  With Anthony Wilson.  Guitar Nights are always good.   This should be one of the best.  Guitarist, composer and bandleader Wilson is a stunningly versatile talent.   Vitello’s (818) 769-0905.

- Feb. 4. (Thurs.) Beyond the Pale.  Skirball.  The Canadian band doesn’t hesitate to wrap klezmer around everything from bluegrass and jazz to reggae and funk.  (310) 440-4500.

Estaire Godinez

- Feb. 4. (Thurs.)  Estaire Godinez.  Percussionist/singer Godinez brings passionate intensity to eveerything she sings and plays.   She celebrates the release of her new CD.  Vibrato Grill Jazz… etc.   (310) 474-9400.

- Feb. 5. (Fri.)  Yamaha Piano All Star Review.  A versatile line up of pianists pay tribute to the Yamaha brand with music reaching from romantic classical to straight ahead jazz.  Performers include Anna Grinberg, Danny Holt, Milen Kirov, David Roitstein, David Rosenboom, Juris Vikovs, and Liam Viney.  REDCAT.  (213) 237-2800.

- Feb. 5. (Fri.)  Sony Holland.  Vocalist Holland’s intimate sound and dramatic phrasing find a perfect blend with the Theo Saunders Quartet.  Steamers.  (714) 871-8800.

Dave Liebman

- Feb. 5. (Fri.)  Dave Liebman.  A too-rare Los Angeles appearance by the versatile, veteran saxophonist Liebman, enhanced by the all-star Southland quartet of  Bob Sheppard, bass, John Beasley, piano, Darek Oles, bass and Joe LaBarbera, drums.  Upstairs at Vitellos.  (818) 769-0905.

- Feb. 5. (Fri.)  Laurence Hobgood Trio. Pianist Hobgood has had a lot of visibility as Kurt Elling’s musical associate, but he’s a gifted artist in his own right.  Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear him in action.  Café Metropol. (310)  613-1537

- Feb. 5. (Fri.)  Jon Mayer Quartet. Pianist Mayer is a bop master, but he crosses comfortably into other mainstream jazz areas as well.  He’s backed by the vertain team of Ernie Watts, tenor saxophone, Chris Conner, bass, Roy McCurdy, drums.  Spazio.   (818) 728-8400.

- Feb. 5 & 6.  (Fri. & Sat.)  Strunz & Farah.  The guitar duo, with roots in Costa Rica and Iran have been stretching the limits of flamenco jazz and fusion since world music was just becoming a genre on its own. Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210

- Feb. 5 & 6. (Fri. & Sat.)   Sambaguru.  When the super-heated Katia Moraes and her accomplices in Sambaguru hit the stage, the Brazilian rhythmic pyrotechnics never stop.Friday at Culver Club Raddison.  Sat. at Spazio. .   Sambaguru.

- Feb. 6. (Sat.)  Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey. They’ve gone through several incarnations since their founding in 1994, but JFJO continue to blur the boundaries between jazz, rock, funk and avant-garde.  The Mint.   (323) 954-9400

- Feb. 6. (Sat.) Lanny Morgan.  Another bebopper on the loose, alto saxophonist Morgan is also a lyrical ballad player.  He performs with the John Heard Trio.  Charlie O’s.  (818) 994-3058.

Repast

- Feb. 6. (Sat.)  Repast.   The Baroque instrumental trio — Amelia Roosevelt (baroque violin), John Mark Rozendaal (baroque violoncello and viola da gamba), and Avi Stein (harpsichord) — are joined by baroque violinist Claire Jolivet and soprano Nell Snaidas for an evening of music from Amsterdam.  Th performance complements the Getty’s current exhibit of drawings by Rembrandt and his students.   The Getty.   (310) 440-7300.

- Feb. 6 – 19.  (Sat. – Fri.)  Bob Barry Jazz Photography Exhibit.  Barry’s extensive jazz performance photos are on display as part of the two week Celebration of Jazz at the  Brand Library of Music and Art.   (818) 548-2051

- Feb. 7. (Sun.)  Mike Lang. The ever-versatile, always-swinging pianist appears with the solid backing of bassist Abraham Laboriel, Sr. and drummer Walter Rodriguez.  Catalina Bar & Grill (323) 466-2210.

San Francisco

Paula West

- Feb. 2 – 28.  Paula West.  One of the Bay area’s many fine jazz vocalists, West still hasn’t received the recognition her extraordinary talent deserves.  She sings with the George Mesterhazy Quartet.  The Rrazz Room.   (415) 394-1189.

- Feb. 4. (Thurs.)  John Handy. Educator and long-time cutting-edge alto saxophonist brings his admirable skills to a rare one-nighter. Yoshi’s San Francisco.   (415) 655-5600.

- Feb. 4 – 7. (Thurs. – Sun)  Charisma!: The Music of Lee Morgan.  Selections from the catalog of the great jazz trumpeter are performed by the sterline ensemble of  Benny Maupin, Bill Harper, Eddie Henderson, David Weiss, Geri Allen, Dwayne Burno, Billy Hart.  Yoshi’s Oakland.  (510) 238-9200.

- Feb. 6. (Sat.)  Dionne Warwick.  The iconic hit-maker of the ’60s and ’70s still knows how to bring a song to life — even if it wasn’t written by Burt Bacharach and Hal David.Castro Theatre. (415) 392-4500.

New York

- Feb. 2 & 3.  (Tues. & Wed.)  Dorado Schmitt‘ continues his cross-country celebration of the Django Reinhardt centennial.  This time with special guest Curtis Stigers.  Iridium.   (212) 582-0161.

Gretchen Parlato

- Feb. 2 & 3. (Tues. & Wed.)  Afinidad — the adventurous ensemble formed by Edward Simon and David Binney moves into even more colorful musical territory with special guests Gretchen Parlato, Ben Monder, Rogerio Boccato.  Jazz Standard. (212) 576-2232.

- Feb. 2 – 6. (Tues. – Sat.)  Oregon, the trail-breaking jazz/world music ensemble is still making superb music — forty years after its founding.  With Ralph Towner, guitar, keyboards and trumpet, Paul McCandless, woodwinds, Glen Moore, bass and Mark Walker, drums.  Birdland.  (212) 581-3080.

- Feb. 2 – 7. (Tues. – Sun.)  Jimmy Heath Big Band.  Veteran saxophonist/educator Heath has been leading big bands of one sort or another for most of his long, productive musical life.  And, at 84, he’s still at it.  The Blue Note.   (212) 475-8592.

- Feb. 3. (Wed.)  Mary Foster Conklin.  Somewhere between cabaret and jazz, Mary Foster has found an utterly believable musical home.  She’s always worth hearing, and never more so than at  Café Vivaldi.  (212) 691-7538.

- Feb. 4 – 6. (Thurs. – Sat.)  David Sanchez Group.  Puero Rican tenor saxophonist Sanchez has been honing and shaping his unique musical voice since he arrived on the scene.  And it just keeps getting better.   Jazz Standard. http://www.jazzstandard.com/red/index.html (212) 576-2232.

Picks of the Week: Sept. 22 – 27

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Sept. 23. (Wed.) Mike Lang Trio. Lang has played piano on thousands of film scores, backed everyone from Aretha Franklin to John Lennon and written songs for Stan Getz, Herb Alpert and others. Here’s a chance to hear him doing his own thing with bassist Abraham Laboriel and drummer Walter Rodriguez. Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

- Sept. 23. (Wed.) Slavic Soul Party! Brooklyn’s best brass band, in the tradition of Eastern European brass band ensembles, applies a massive amount of energy to their blend of traditional music, jazz, funk and gospel. The Echo.  (213) 413-8200.

- Sept. 23. (Wed.) Jack Sheldon California Cool Quartet. California’s coolest trumpeter leads his own appropriately titled group, mixing his potent trumpet with atmospheric vocals and — depending o his mood — some of his uniquely sardonic humor. Charlie O’s.  (818) 994-3058

- Sept. 23. (Wed.) Alan Broadbent & Pat Senatore. Pianist/composer/arranger Broadbent brings compositional insights, a sensitive touch for tone and a rhythmic lift to everything he touches. Senatore’s bass adds a sturdy sound, a propulsive groove and an empathetic musical ear. Expect to hear music that is as thoughtful as it is swinging. Vibrato Grill Jazz… etc.  (310) 474-9400.

- Sept. 24. (Thurs.) The Yuval Ron Ensemble performs “Days of Awe” featuring vocalist Maya Haddi in a program of “Sacred music and stories for the Season of Renewal.” Electric Lodge, Venice.

- Sept. 24. (Thurs.) The Dave Brubeck Quartet. Fifty years after “Take Five” and more than sixty years after he started recording, Brubeck still has something fascinating to say, musically, wheneveer he sits down at the piano.The Cerritos Center.  (562) 916-8501.

- Sept. 24 – 27. (Thurs. – Sun.) The John Patitucci Trio. Patitucci takes time out from his busy schedule as one of jazz’s A-list bassist to lead his own world class trio featuring tenor saxophonist George Garzone and up and coming drummer Marcus Gilmore (grand son of the ageless Roy Haynes). Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

Sept. 25. (Fri.) Sally Kellerman. Yes, of course you know her as the original Hot Lips in the film verson of M.A.S.H. But Kellerman’s always had at least one foot in the music world. And over the past decade she’s thoroughly established herself as an entertaining diva who easily finds the linkages between jazz, folk, country and pop. She performs with the Joel Scott Quartet. The Culver Club for Jazz. Radisson Hotel.  (310) 649-1776.

- Sept. 25.& 26 (Fri. & Sat.) Gladys Knight. Grammy-winning Knight has had a stellar career, with and without the Pips. Although she was named one of the “100 Greatest Women of Rock and Roll,” Knight’s singing transcends any single genre, reaching easily from jazz and soul to torch songs and beyond. The Cerritos Center.  (562) 916-8501.

- Sept. 25 & 26. (Fri. & Sat.) Ahmad Jamal Quartet. The one and only, the pianist whose sense of time had a profound effect upon Miles Davis, and who still comes up with ear opening musical ideas every time he performers. Nate Holden Performing Arts Center. (323) 964-9766. http://www.ebonyrep.org

- Sept. 25 & 26. (Fri. & Sat.) Wavefest. Smooth jazz and more smooth jazz, performed by some of its best known artists. Among the line-up: On Friday: Brian McKnight, Al Jarreau, David Benoit, James Torme. On Saturday: Kenny G, Vanessa Williams and Jesse Cook. The Greek Theatre.  (323) 665-3125.

- Sept. 26. (Sat.) Iliana Rose.  She’s not well known yet, but Rose’s extraordinary skills — as a singer, songwriter, composer and arranger, mark her as a soon-to-break-out, potential major talent. Here her now, before the cover charge goes up, and you can brag that you saw a new star in her ascendance.  The 322 Cafe.  (626) 836-5414.

- Sept. 26. (Sat.) Phil Norman Tentet. A 14th anniversary Party for the band that has kept alive the briskly swinging, compact and contrapuntal styles of ’50s West Coast jazz. Radisson Hotel. The Culver Club for Jazz.  (310) 649-1776.

- Sept. 26. (Sat.) Grant Geissman Quartet. There isn’t a guitar style that the versatile Geissman can’t handle with ease. But with the band he’s working with on this gig, expect some stirring, straight ahead jazz. With Brian Scanlon, alto saxophone, Emilio Palamo, piano, Trey Henry, bass and Ray Brinker, drums. Spazio.  (818) 728-8400.

- Sept. 27. (Sun.) Bill Cosby. The master, story-telling stand up comic, who drives his tales with the improvisational spontaneity of the jazz musician he’s always wanted to be. The Cerritos Center.  (562) 916-8501.

- Sept. 27. (Sun.) Louie Cruz Beltran. “Dancing on the Water” Beltran’s enthusiastic performances, ranging across r&b, salsa, reggae, Latin jazz, Brazilian bossa nova and rock should stimulate plenty of dancing during this cruise through Long Beach Harbor. On the Hornblower yacht, Endless Dreams, 5:30 p.m. boarding at Rainbow Harbor, Long Beach, cruising from 6 – 8 p.m.  (888) 467-6256.

San Francisco

Sept. 23. (Wed.) “India & Africa: A Birthday Tribute to John Coltrane” Another celebration of the iconic saxophonist’s birthday on Sept. 23. This one features percussionist/composer Anthony Brown’s Asian American Orchestra with special guests. Yoshi’s San Francisco.  (415) 655-5600.

- Sept. 25 – 27. (Fri. – Sun.) Stanley Jordan Trio. Jordan’s tap-on style continues to be one of the jazz world’s most unique styles. This time out, he enhances the setting with the backing of bassist Charnett Moffett and drummer Eddie Barattini. Yoshi’s Oakland. (510) 238-9200.

- Sept. 26 & 27. (Sat. & Sun.) Roberta Gambarini and James Moody. The gifted Italian jazz singer and the veteran tenor saxophonist perform together with irresistible musical affinity. Hopefully “Moody’ Mood For Love” will surface somewhere during one of the sets. Yoshi’s San Francisco. (415) 655-5600.

Albuquerque

Sept. 25 & 26. (Fri. & Sat.) Globalquerque! Fifth annual world music highlight of the Southwest. The far-ranging line-up of artists includes Roberto Mirabal, Doyle Lawson & Quicksilver, Novalima, Maria de Barros, Mamek Khadem, Blick Bassy, Vasen with Mike Marshall & Darol Anger, Lorin Sklamberg & Susan McKeown. Globalquerque! (505) 724-4771.

New York

- Sept. 22 – 25 and Sept. 27. (Wed. – Fri. and Sun.) Billy Hart Quartet. Drummer Hart has played in every imaginable style during his nearly five decade career. This time out he works with younger generation stalwarts — Ethan Iverson, piano, Mark Turner, tenor saxophone and Ben Street, bass. The Village Vanguard. h (212) 255-4037.

- Sept. 23 – 26. (Wed. – Sat.) “Coltrane Revisited” A team of ultimate all-stars celebrate John Coltrane’s 83rd birthday with former Coltrane sideman Kuhn leading the way. Joe Lovano, tenor saxophone, Steve Kuhn, piano, Lonnie Plaxico, bass, Andrew Cyrille and Billy Drummond, drums. Birdland.  (212) 581-3080.

- Sept. 24. (Thurs.) “Jazz Guitars Meet Hendrix” With Sheryl Bailey and Vic Juris, guitars, Brian Charette, keyboards, George Gray, drums. The 55 should be rocking happily when Bailey and Juris take on high flying pleasures of the Hendrix songbook. 55 Bar.  (212) 929-9883.

- Sept. 24 – 27. (Thurs. – Sun.) Barry Harris Trio. The masterful bebop pianist spends a lot of his time teaching these days, so he should be heard at every opportunity. He performs with Ray Drummond, bass and Leroy Williams, drums. The Jazz Standard.  (212) 576-2232.

- Sept. 26. (Sat.) Barbra Streisand. The diva of all divas does a one-nighter to hype her new album.  Tickets were handed out long ago.  it will nevertheless undoubtedly cause some major paparazzi-induced traffic jams on Seventh Avenue. The Village Vanguard.  (212) 255-4037.

Picks of the Week: Aug. 18 – 23

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Aug. 18. (Tues.) John Altman Quartet. The English saxophonist/composer has a line of credits reaching from Monty Python to bebop (with all stops in between). And with pianist Mike Lang, bassist Harvey Newmark and drummer Frank De Vito on hand, he has the backing to support his every musical move. Charlie O’s (818) 994-3058.

- Aug. 20. (Thurs.) Jennifer Leitham. The Southland’s prima singing, left-handed bassist makes her last appearance as an Angeleno before moving to the New York City area. The presence of her regular sidekicks Josh Nelson, piano, and Randy Drake, drums, should make for a poignantly swinging evening. Cafe 322. (626) 836-5414.

- Aug. 20. (Thurs.) Flexible Reality. It would be hard to beat this instrumentation for an evening of intriguing sounds, with Richard Todd on French horn, Charlie Bisharat on violin, Frank Marocco on accordion, Michael Valerio and Abraham Laboriel on bass and Alex Acuna on drums. But beyond that, each of these guys is a first rate player, so this is one not to miss. Give April Williams credit for bringing increasingly fine programming to this Studio City venue. Vitello’s Upstairs (818) 769-0905.

- Aug. 21. (Fri.) Mel Martin Band with Don Friedman. Here’s one of the most interesting pairings of the summer — versatile woodwind/saxophone artist Martin and the versatile, veteran pianist Friedman in what promises to be a fascinating musical encounter. Bassist John Heard and drummer Lorca Hart provide solid support. The Culver Club in the Radisson Hotel Los Angeles Westside. (310) 649-1776.

- Aug. 21 – 22. (Fri. & Sat.) Diana Krall and the Los Angeles Philharmonic. Krall sings and plays selections from her “Quiet Nights” collection of bossa nova tunes with the L.A. Phil. under the very able direction of Alan Broadbent. In the opening half of the program, the Philharmonic, directed by Benjamin Wallfisch performs selections by Mexican composer Arturo Marquez. The Hollywood Bowl. (323) 850-2000.

- Aug. 22. (Sat.) Carmen Lundy. The gifted and still far too unrecognized singer appears with the dynamic backing of pianist Billy Childs, bassist Ryan Cross and drummer Lorca Hart. Expect musical magic. The Culver Club for Jazz. The Culver Club in the Radisson Hotel Los Angeles Westside. (310) 649-1776.

- Aug. 23. (Sun.) Smooth Summer Jazz. It used to be called the JVC Festival, but this new label provides a more accurate description of melodiously rhythmic music on the program. Featured acts are Dave Koz, Brian Culbertson, Peabo Bryson, George Duke, Tower of Power and Doc Powell. The Hollywood Bowl. (323) 850-2000.

Aug. 23. (Sun.) Woodstock Tribute. It’s a weekend after the 40th anniversary of the legendary concert in the fields, but this tribute performance will be no less memorable, given the line-up. True, most of the bands are not exactly what they were in 1969, but there’s no denying the nostalgia that will be in the air when the familiar melodies begin to roll from Jefferson Starship, 10 Years After, Canned Heat and Big Brother and the Holding Company, with the inimitable Country Joe McDonald as the host. The Greek Theatre.

- Aug. 23. (Sun.) Gerry Gibbs Thrasher Band. Drummer Gibbs and his six piece band (playing 40 different instruments) bring rhythmic drive and improvisational enthusiasm to a performance of all the original music from their latest CD on RKM Records, “Moving On.” Spazio. (818) 728-8400.

San Francisco

- Aug. 20 – 22. (Thurs. – Sat.) Brass, Bows and Beats. A Hip Hop Symphony by Adam Theis and the Jazz Mafia Symphony. The first performance by Theis’ 40 piece ensemble at the Palace of Fine Arts was an s.r.o. event. And the work, with its extraordinary compatible assemblage of seemingly disparate musical genres, clearly deserves more performances. Here’s an opportunity to hear it live and up close. Yoshi’s San Francisco. (415) 655-5600.

- Aug. 21 – 23. (Fri. – Sun.) Chuck Mangione. The flugelhorn-playing Mangione has been defining melodic jazz for decades, and he shows no signs of slowing down. Yoshi’s Oakland. (510) 238-9200. .

New York

- Aug. 18 – 23. (Tues. – Sun.) Kevin Eubanks. Here’s a chance to hear Eubanks’ fine guitar live and in person, playing full tunes rather than interstitial segments on a late night television talk show. He’s aided by Marvin “Smitty” Smith, drums, Rene Camacho, bass, Bill Pierce, saxophone, ad Gerry Etkins, keyboards. The Blue Note. (212) 475-8592. .

- Aug. 19 – 22. (Wed. – Sat.) Richie Beirach Quintet. A veteran of gigs with Stan Getz, Chet Baker, Dave Liebman and others, pianist Beirach leads a stellar group of players: Tim Hagans, trumpet (8/19 only), Randy Brecker, trumpet (8/20-22), George Mraz, bass, Billy Hart, drums, Gregor Huebner, violin. Birdland. (212) 581-3080.

- Aug. 20 – 23. (Thurs. – Sun.) Joanne Brackeen Quartet with special guest Eddie Gomez. The irresistibly swinging music of pianist Brackeen has been praised — justifiably — by everyone from Bill Evans to Tony Bennett. In addition to Gomez, her first rate band includes Ravi Coltrane, tenor saxophone, Adam Cruz (8/21 only) and E.J. Strickland, drums (8/20, 8/22 & 8/23). The Jazz Standard. (212) 576-2252.

Picks of the Week: Mar. 16 – 22

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Mar. 16 & 17. (Mon. & Tues.)  Uri Caine Trio. Caine’s crossover blends of jazz and classical music are among the wonders of contemporary music.  Jazz Bakery. Jazz Bakery  (310) 271-9039.  www.jazzbakery.com.0-317-4292 310-317-4292

- Mar. 17. (Tues.)  Josh Nelson Trio.  Nelson has quickly moved from the position of emerging young talent to a solid role as one of the Southland’s adventurous, always compelling jazz artists.  He performs with the solid support of bassist Pat Senatore and drummer Mark Ferber. Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.  www.vibratogrilljazz.com.

- Mar. 18. (Wed.)  Mike Lang Trio.  Pianist Lang’s credits range eclectically from work with Ray Charles, John Lennon, Lee Konitz, Barbra Streisand and Frank Zappa to film recording with John Williams, Henry Mancini, Elmer Bernstein and more.  But the best way to hear him is on his own, fronting a trio with  Mike Valerio, bass, Joel Taylor, drums, with special guest, David Paich, on keyboards.  Catalina’s.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.  www.catalinajazzclub.com.

Mariza

- Mar. 18. (Wed.)  Mariza.  The dynamic, Portuguese fadista brings the classic fado style fully into the 21^st century.. Walt Disney Concert Hall. (323) 850-2000.  http://www.laphil.org.

- Mar. 19. (Thurs.)  Chick Corea & John McLaughlin Five Peace Band.  With Christian McBride, Kenny Garrett and Vinnie Colaiuta in the Band, expect state of the art contemporary  jazz.  Five Piece (or Peace) groups don’t get much better than this. UCLA Royce Hall. (310) 825-2101. www.uclalive.org

- Mar. 19 & 20.. (Thurs. & Fri.)  Ladysmith Black Mambazo. The Grammy winning South African choral ensemble makes a pair of Southland appearances.  Thurs. at The Conga Room. (213) 749-0162 .  http://www.congaroom.com Friday at CSUN’s Plaza del Sol Performance Hall. (818) 677-2488.  http://www.artsnorthridge.csun.com..

- Mar. 20 (Fri.)  Ernie Watts with the John Heard Trio. Player for all seasons Watts is the first call saxophonist on everyone’s list, bringing everything he touches to life.  Here he has a chance to do it up front on  his own terms. Charlie O’s.  Charlie O’s.  (818) 994-3058.  www.charlieos.com.

Tuck & Patti

- Mar. 20 – 22. (Fri. – Sun.)  Tuck & Patti. The ultimate voice and guitar jazz duo showcase selections from their latest CD, “I Remember You,” in typically rememorable fashion. Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.  www.catalinajazzclub.com.

- Mar. 20.  (Fri.)  Susie Hansen Latin Jazz Band. Susie’s high -energy electric violin and the surging rhythms of her always buoyant musicians keep the body moving and the feet tapping.  (714) 871-8800  www.steamersjazzcafe.com.

- Mar. 22. (Sun.)  Wycliffe Gordon, Rickey Woodard, John Beasley, Trevor Ware, Clayton Cameron.  Trombonist Gordon and saxophonist Woodard front a quintet of L.A.’s finest.  A-Frame Jazz. (310) 659-9169.  www.aframejazz.com.

The Petersons

- Mar. 22. (Sun.)  The Peterson Family.  Three generations of Minnesota’s amazing Peterson family – from matriarch jazz pianist Jeanne Arland Peterson to the second generation’s Linda, Patty, Billy, Ricky and Paul to grandsons Jason Peterson De Laire – make another welcome return to L.A. There’ll be lots of sibling revelry. The Jazz Bakery  (310) 271-9039.  www.jazzbakery.com..

San Francisco

- Mar 19 – 22. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Bela Fleck and Toumani Diabete.  The eclectic banjo virtuoso and the Malian master kora player find common creative ground.  Yoshi’s Oakland. . (510) 238-9200.  www.yoshis.com.

Googoosh

- Mar. 21. (Sat.)  Googoosh. The iconic singer from Iran celebrates Nooroz (the Iranian New Year) with the first performance in her Memory Lane Tour.  One of the world’s most charismatic artists, her rare appearances in the U.S. should not be missed, The Paramount Theatre, Oakland. (510) 465-6400. http://www.paramounttheatre.com.

- Mar. 21 – April 2.   The Jewish Music Festival.  Andy Statman Trio, Ernest Bloch Celebration, Kosher Gospel, The Sisters of Sheynville, Daniel Kahn & Painted Bird, and others.  Locations in San Francisco, Berkeley and the Bay area. (800) 838-3006.   http://www.jewishmusicfestival.org.

New York City

George Avakian

- Mar. 18. (Wed.)  George Avakian’s 90^th Birthday Celebration. With music by David Ostwald’s Louis Armstrong Centennial Band.  Name an important development in the history of recorded music, and George Avakian, has probably been involved – from the creation of the first record album and the emergence of the LP to the great Columbia jazz recordings of the ’50s.  Birdland.  (212) 581-3080.  www.birdlandjazz.com.

- Mar. 19 – 22. (Thurs. – Sun,.)  Charles Tolliver Big Band.  Tolliver celebrates the release of his adventurous big band’s new release on Half Note records. Blue Note.  (212) 475-8592. http://www.bluenote.net/newyork/index.shtml.

Savannah, Georgia

Savion Glover

- Mar. 19 – April 5.  The Savannah Music Festival.  Savannah may not seem to be a power center for contemporary music, but this year’s Festival includes an impressive gathering of major jazz and world music talent.  Scheduled artists include the Chick Corea/John McLaughlin Five Peace Band, Marcus Printup, Mariza, Bela Fleck, Toumani Diabate, Vusi Mahlasela, Zakir Hussain, Bucky Pizzarelli, Howard Alden, Ellis Marsalis Quartet, Eddie Palmieri, the Clayton Brothers, Savion Glover, the Atlanta Symphony Orchestra, Garrick Ohlsson, Neko Case, Eddie Palmieri, Mike Marshall and Darol Anger, Andrea Marcovicci and dozens of others.  At locations around Savannah. (912) 234.3378 http://www.savannahmusicfestival.org.

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