Picks of the Week: Oct. 31 – Nov. 4

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Bob Sheppard

- Oct. 31. (Wed.)  Bob Sheppard and Friends.  Halloween Party and Jam.  With Larry Koonse, guitar, Dave Robaire, bass, Charles Ruggiero, drums.  Wear a Halloween costume and get in free.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

-  Nov. 2. (Fri.)  David Grisman Sextet.  Special guest David Lindley. Mandolin virtuoso Grisman, moving easily across styles and genres, teams up with similarly eclectic string player Lindley.  A CAP UCLA concert at Royce Hall.   (31) 825-2101.

- Nov. 2. (Fri.) Ballet Folklorico de Mexico de Amalia Hernandez.  Traditional folk music and dance from the rich cultural traditions of Mexico, presented in colorful costumes.  The Valley Performing Arts Center.    (818) 677-3000 Also on Sat. Nov. 3.  (562) 916-8501.

Bill Holman

- Nov. 2. (Fri.)  Bill Holman Big Band.  Holman’s imaginative big band arrangements have been influencing young musicians since the ‘50s.  Hear them live and up close in a great listening room.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

- Nov. 2 – 4 (Fri. – Sun.)  Kenny Burrell Quintet.  Veteran guitarist Burrell takes a break from his responsibilities at the UCLA jazz program to display his potent playing talents.  Catalina Bar & Grill.    (323) 466-2210.

Betty Bryant

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- Nov. 4. (Sun.)  Betty Bryant’s Birthday Brunch.  She may be celebrating a birthday in her eighties, but pianist/singer Bryant is still setting examples for jazz singing at its best.    Catalina Bar & Grill.  .   (323) 466-2210.

- Nov. 4. (Sun.)  Llew Matthews and Pat Senatore Duo.  A pair of versatile jazz artists team up for an evening of improvisation, swing and balladry.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.     (310) 474-9400.

San Francisco

- Nov. 4. (Sun.)  Orquesta Aragon. More than 70 years after they were founded as a danzon ensemble, Orquesta Aragon continues to record and perform in classic Cuban fashion.   An SFJAZZ Concert at the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre.    (866) 920-5299.

Washington D.C.

- Nov. 1 – 4.  (Thurs. – Sun.)  Roberta Gambarini. At her best – which is basically in every performance – Gambarini is doing a convincing job of defining the best in contemporary jazz vocalizing. Click HERE to read a recent kRoM review of Gambarini.   Blues Alley.    (202) 337-4141.

New York

Anat Cohen

- Nov. 2 & 3. (Fri. & Sat.)  Anat Cohen with Falafel, Freilach & Frijoles – From Mambo to Borscht. Clarinetist Cohen and percussionist Benny Koonyevsky join the Afro Latin Jazz Orchestra in a musical exploration of the cultural relationships between the Jewish and the Hispanic communities.  Symphony Space.  (212) 864-5400.

- Nov. 2 – 7. (Fri. – Wed.)  The Chick Corea & Stanley Clarke Band.  With Ravi Coltrane, saxophone and Marcus Gilmore, drums.  To call this ensemble an all-star band still wouldn’t quite identify the extraordinary quality of the music they make together.  The Blue Note.    (212) 475-8592.

- Oct. 31 – Nov. 3. (Wed. – Sat.)  Lee Konitz Quartet.  Into his eighties, a significant force on the jazz alto saxophone since the late ‘40s, Konitz continues to maintain the gifted, individuality he has expressed for his entire, remarkable career.  Birdland.   (212)581-3080.

Copenhagen

Vini Iuel

- Nov. 1. (Thurs.)  Vini Iuel sings Jobim.  Danish singer Iuel, backed by pianist Thomas Clausen and bassist Mads Vinding, brings the warm rhythms of Brazil to Denmark just before the arrival of winter.  Making the music even more convincing, she’s invited Brazilian singer/percussionist Robertino Silva to join the celebration.   Jazzhus Montmartre.    (+45) 70 15 65 65.

Milan

- Nov. 2. (Fri.)  Jacky Terrasson.  French-born pianist Terrasson has thoroughly established his credentials as a world class jazz artist.  Blue Note Milano.   02.6901 6888.

Bill Holman photo by Lesley Bohm.

 

Picks of the Week: Oct. 16 – 21

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Judy Carmichael

- Oct. 17. (Wed.)  Judy Carmichael Trio.  Pianist/singer and all around dynamic entertainer Carmichael can bring a room to life with her powerful stride piano and deeply interpretive vocals.  Click HERE to read a review of Carmichael in her last L.A. appearance.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- Oct. 17. (Wed.)  The Dale Fielder Quintet Plays the Music of Pepper Adams.  Special guests Gary Smulyan and Eric Reed.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.   Also performing Thursday (10/18) with his Quintet at Crowne Plaza, Friday (10/19) at SOKA Performing Arts Center , and Sat. (10/20) at Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.

- Oct. 17 & 24. (Wed. & Wed.) Andras Schiff.  Hungarian pianist, and widely respected interpreter of Bach, performs Book 1 of The Well Tempered Clavier. This will be the first in a multi-season survey by Schiff of Bach’s solo keyboard works.  Disney Hall.   (323) 850-2000.

Babbie Green and John Boswell

- Oct. 18. (Thurs.)  Babbie Green and John Boswell. Green and Boswell are a songwriting team who merit far wider attention than either their songs or their engaging performances have yet received.  Don’t miss this chance to hear them offer some of the delightful material from their two-CD collection of originals and standards: How Should I Remember You?  The Gardenia.  (323) 467-7444.

- Oct. 18 – 20. (Thurs. – Sat.)  Delfeayo Marsalis Octet.  Yet another member of the gifted Marsalis family of New Orleans arrives to display his talents as producer, band leader and trombonist.  Expect to hear selections from his CD tribute to Ellington and Shakespeare, Sweet Thunder.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

- Oct. 19. (Fri.)  The Mavericks.  The Grammy Award-winning Mavericks have spent the last two decades cooking up their inimitable brew of rock, pop, Tejano, Mariachi and a sprinkling of rockabilly.  They’ll play some selections from a new CD, In Time. Valley Performing Arts Center.    (818) 677-3000.

- Oct. 19. (Fri.)  Sascha’s Bloc Band.  Vitello’s.  The mostly Russian and Eastern European players and singers in the Bloc Band have thoroughly mastered their jazz, swing and groove abilities. Click HERE to read a review of Sascha’s talented players in their most recent appearance at Vitello’s.     (818) 769-0905.

- Oct. 19 – 21. (Fri. – Sun.)  “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland.”  The superb National Ballet of Canada presents the U.S. debut of choreographer Christopher Wheeldon’s modern classic.  Dorothy Chandler Pavilion at the Music Center.    (213) 972-7211.

Lionel Loueke

-Oct. 20. (Sat.)  Lionel Loueke.  Born in the West African country of Benin, Loueke quickly applied his impressive guitar skills to a style blending his roots with a broad understanding of jazz.  Rarely heard in Los Angeles, this is a rare opportunity to hear a uniquely individualistic jazz talent in action.Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- Oct. 21. (Sun.)  Lou Forestieri Duo. Pianist/composer Forestieri is always a pleasure to hear, especially for the spontaneous compositional crafting he applies to his free swinging solos.  He’ll be accompanied by the equally thoughtful bassist Pat Senatore. Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.     (310) 474-9400.

- Oct. 21. (Sun.)  Joanne O’Brien. Versatile singer O’Brien moves casually from classical to pop to jazz, doing it all with great authenticity.  A cancer survivor, O’Brien titles her one night performance “Alive and In Concert.” Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

San Francisco

- Oct. 17 & 18. (Wed. & Thurs.) Spyro Gyra.  The ever appealing pop jazz group Spyro Gyra showcases their new album A Foreign Affair, with its sounds and rhythms from around the world.  Yoshi’s Oakland.   (510) 238-9200.

Eliane Elias

- Oct. 19. (Fri.)  Eliane Elias.    A fine jazz pianist, Elias was well known for  her instrumental skills before she displayed equally engaging abilities as a singer.  Her current band includes guitarist Rubens de la Corte, drummer Rafael Barata and bassist (and husband) Marc Johnson.   An SFJAZZ event at the Herbst Theatre.  (866) 920-5299.

New York

- Oct. 17. (Wed.)  Judy Wexler.  Her beautifully articulated vocals are among the great pleasures of Southland jazz.  Now the Big Apple has a chance to hear Wexler in action.  The Kitano.   (212) 885-7119,

- Oct. 18. (Thurs.)  Barbara Cook. The veteran singer/actress Cook – her career reaching comfortably from stardom in Broadway musicals to cabaret to classical art song singing – is still, at 84, a remarkably appealing performer. Carnegie Hall. (Perelman Stage)    (212) 247-7800.

Jacky Terrasson

- Oct. 18 – 21. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Jacky Terrasson Trio.  French pianist Terrasson has thoroughly established himself as an authentic jazz artist, with a style that embraces his full musical history as a European and an international jazz artist. He performs with Burniss Travis, bass and Justin Faulkner, drums.   The Jazz Standard.  http://jazzstandard.net/red/index.html  (212) 576-2232.

- Oct. 19. (Fri.)   The Manhattan School of Music Jazz Philharmonic Orchestra, conducted by Justin DiCioccio, performs “The Symphonic Ellington,” showcasing rarely heard selections of Duke Ellington’s music for orchestra transcribed by David Berger.   The Manhattan School of Music. (917) 493-4428.

- Oct. 19. (Fri.)  Opera Shorts.  The Remarkable Theater Brigade brings back their off-beat, but popular evening of ten 10-minute operas. The Opera Shorts include works by Carlisle Floyd, Seymour Barab, Ben Bierman, Richard Burke, Bern Herbolsheimer, Randolph Coleman, Graham Robb, Patrick Solluri, Christian McLeer and David Morneau.  Eight of the operas in this remarkable line-up will be world premieres.  Carnegie Hall (Zankel).   (212) 247-7800.

Boston

- Oct. 18. (Thurs.)  The Either/Orchestra.  The ten piece band – approaching its 27th anniversary, is led by founder and primary composer Russ Gershon in a program of music leaping across genre lines through jazz from swing to bop to electric, from Ethiopian jazz to Latin music.  Regatta Bar. http://www.getshowtix.com/regattabar/moreinfo.cgi?id=2737 (617) 661-5000.

London

Becca Stevens

- Oct. 16. (Tues.)  Becca Stevens Band.  Singer, guitarist, songwriter Stevens moves confidently from jazz and pop to folk and beyond, doing so in a blending of instrumental and vocal timbres that identify her as one of the most musically adventurous vocal artists of her generation.   Jazz Club Soho.    020 7437 9595.

- Oct. 18 & 19. (Thurs. & Fri.)  “Sound Prints.”  Joe Lovano and Dave Douglas Make somewhat of an odd couple as the leaders of their own Quintet.  But they’ve found a way to blend Lovano’s sturdy, straight ahead tenor saxophone with Douglas/ cutting-edge trumpet style.  Ronnie Scott’s.   020 7439 0747.

Berlin

- Oct. 20. (Sat.)  Grace Kelly Quartet. She’s just turned 20, but Asian/American Kelly has already released seven albums, displaying impressive skills as an alto saxophonist, singer, songwriter and band leader.   A-Trane Jazz.  http://www.a-trane.de  030/313 25 50.

Copenhagen

Lee Konitz

- Oct. 18 – 20. (Thurs. – Sat.)  Lee Konitz Quartet.  A true jazz original, alto saxophonist Konitz frequently appears in European club and festival events.  This time out he leads an international ensemble, featuring Danish pianist Florian Weber, American bassist Jeff Denzon and Israeli drummer Ziv Ravitz.  Jazzhus Montmartre.    (+45) 70 15 65 65.

Tokyo

- Oct. 16 – 19. (Tues. – Fri.)  The Duke Ellington Orchestra.  Yes, it’s a so-called “ghost band,” carrying on the music of a great historical jazz ensemble…. And these guys handle the great Ellington collection of works with convincing ease,      Blue Note Tokyo.    03.5485.0088.

Picks of the Week: October 9 – 14

BY DON HECKMAN

Los Angeles

Dr. John

Oct. 11. (Thurs.)  Dr. John, the Lower 911 and the Blind Boys of Alabama.  “Spirituals To Funk.”  The title is right on target, with Dr. John’s inimitable, funk-driven, Crescent city swing and the gripping spirituals of the Blind Boys.  Valley Performing Arts Center.  (818) 677-8800.

- Oct. 11. (Thurs.)  Frank Petrilli.  The jazz accordion is alive and well in the talented hands of Frank Petrilli.  He’s backed by the equally skilled John Chiodini, guitar, Pat Senatore, bass and Enzo Tedesco, drums.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.    (310) 474-9400.

- Oct. 11 – 14. (Thurs. – Sun.).  “Where the Wild Things Are.”  Gustavo Dudamel conducts the Los Angeles Philharmonic in a mixed media performance of Oliver Knussen’s one act opera based on the famous children’s book by Maurice Sendak.  Also on the program: Ravel’s charming Mother Goose.   Walt Disney Hall.   (323) 850-2000.

Bajofondo

Oct. 12. (Fri.)  Bajofondo.  Academy Award and Golden Globe-winning composer Gustavo Santaolalla leads an eight person collective of musicians from Argentina and Uruguay in a program of innovative Latin music ranging from tango and electronica to contemporary and alternative sounds.  A CAP UCLA  concert at Royce Hall.   (310) 825-2101.

Oct. 12. (Fri.)  Marilyn Crispell and Myra Melford.  Pianist/composer Crispell performs a solo/duo set, followed by pianist Melford and Snowy Egret, her six person music and dance ensemble.  At REDCAT as part of the ANGEL CITY JAZZ FESTIVAL.    (213) 237-2800.

Oct. 12. (Fri.) Smoky Joe’s Cafe.  The immensely popular, Tony-nominated musical features a program of memorable songs by Mike Stoller and Jerry Lieber.  Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.  (562) 916-8501. /production.aspx?productionSeasonId=4128

Denise Donatellil

Oct. 12 & 13. (Fri. & Sat.)  Denise Donatelli.  The gifted, Grammy nominated Ms. Donatelli is backed by music director/pianist Geoffrey Keezer and his quintet in a release party for her new CD, Soul Shadows.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

Oct. 12 – 14. (Fri. – Sun.)  Chris Minh Doky and the Nomads.  Danish/Vietnamese bassist Doky leads a hard driving, jazz fusion band featuring Dave Weckl, drums, Dean Brown, guitar and George Whitty, keyboards. Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

Oct. 13. (Sat.) Bill Frisell & Bill Morrison.  “The Great Flood.”  A creative collaboration between the music of guitarist/composer Frisell and Morrison’s film based on the 1927 Mississippi River flood.  A CAP UCLA/Angel City Jazz Festival concert at  Royce Hall.

Oct. 14. (Sun.)   An Evening with Vijay Iyer: Trio, Quartet and Sextet.  The much praised keyboardist leads several different group formats featuring saxophonist Steve Coleman.  A CAP UCLA/Angel City Jazz Festival concert at Royce Hall.

San Francisco

- Oct. 10. (Wed.)  “Monk’s Birthday.”  With Barry Harris, Jacky Terrasson and Alfredo Rodriguez. Three cross-generational jazz pianists celebrate the 95^th anniversary of the birth of the incomparable Thelonious Monk.   An SFJAZZ concert at the Herbst Theatre.  .

New York

Lee Ritenour and Dave Grusin

- Oct. 10 – 14. (Wed. – Sun.)  “GRP 30^th.”  Lee Ritenour and Dave Grusin, a pair of long time musical companions, get together for the 30^th anniversary of GRP Records, the company founded by Grusin and Larry Rosen.  The Blue Note.    (212) 475-8592.

- Oct. 13 & 14. (Sat. & Sun.)  The SFJAZZ Collective Plays Chick Corea.  The stellar members of the SFJAZZ Collective perform the far-reaching, ever-fascinating music of Chick Corea.  SFJAZZ Collective is David Sanchez, Miguel Zenon, Avishai Cohen, Stefon Harris, Robin Eubanks, Edward Simon, Matt Penman and Jeff Ballard.  Jazz Standard.    (212) 576-2232.

London

- Oct. 11 & 13. (Thurs. & Fri.) Soulive.  Carrying the torch for the jazz organ trio format, the trio of Soulive – Eric Crasno, guitar, Neal Evans, keyboards and Alan Evans, drums, continue to keep the jazz groove alive.  Ronnie Scott’s.    (0)20 7439 0747.

Tokyo

John Scofield

- Oct. 10 – 13. (Wed. – Sat.)  The John Scofield Trio.  Guitarist Scofield, always in search of challenging playing environments, performs with a pair of great, veteran players – bassist Steve Swallow and drummer Bill Stewart.  Blue Note Tokyo.  03.5485.0088.

Picks of the Week: Oct. 2 – 7

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Emmylou Haris

- Oct. 2. (Tues.)  An Evening with Emmylou Harris and Her Red Dirt Boys.  Grammy winning country music icon Harris possesses one of the pop/country world’s finest voices.  Hopefully she’ll apply it to some of the memorable songs from her catalog of classics.  CAP UCLA  Royce Hall.    (310) 825-2101.

- Oct. 2. (Tues.) Josh Nelson and Pat Senatore Duo.  Rising young pianist Nelson and veteran bassist Senatore play together with some regularity.  And the results are always a pleasure – fascinating musical encounters between players a generation or so apart who nonetheless find common creative ground. Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.    (310) 474-9400.

Cheryl Bentyne and Mark Winkler

- Oct. 2. (Tues.)  Mark Winkler and Cheryl Bentyne.  “West Coast Cool.”  They’re back.  The Winkler/Bentyne Cool Jazz Road Show.  They’ll once again celebrate, in high spirited song, their affection for cool jazz and its legendary practitioners. Click HERE to read a recent iRoM review of the dynamic duo.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

- Oct. 4. (Thurs.)  Arnold McCuller.  Singer McCuller’s resume includes long associations as a back up singer with the likes of James Taylor, Phil Collins, Bonnie Raitt and numerous others.  But he’s also a superb up front vocalist as well.  Here he is, making a rare appearance in the spotlight.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.     (310) 474-9400.

- Oct. 4 – 7. (Thurs. -  Sun.)  Dudamel conducts Beethoven. Norwegian pianist Leif Ove Andsnes joins Gustavo Dudamel and the Los Angeles Philharmonic beginning in a three-year presentation of Beethoven’s music for piano and orchestra, including the five numbered concertos and the Choral Fantasy. Disney Hall.     (323) 850-2000.

Marcus Miller

- Oct. 4 – 7. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Marcus Miller Band. A much admired string bassist – both acoustic and electric – a bass clarinetist, producer and arranger, Miller’s musical vision is always focusing on new ideas.  Expect this time out to once again hear him open the door to illuminating jazz perspectives.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

- Oct. 5. (Fri.)  Doc Severinson and the San Miguel Five.  He may not be leading a big band anymore, but Severinson still has a firm grip on his trumpet.  This time out, he’ll be urged on by the Latin jazz rhythms of the San Miguel Five.    Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts. (562) 916-8501.

Les McCann and Lee Hartley

- Oct. 5. (Fri.)  Lee Hartley.  The versatile Hartley ranges freely from jazz and pop to gospel.  She’ll perform with the Eric Reed Trio featuring Les McCann.  Looks like an evening with some interesting potential.  Vitello’s.  (818) 769-0905.

- Oct. 5 & 6. (Fri. & Sat.)  Akram Khan Company,  “Vertical Road.”  One of the most honored choreographers of his generation, Khan has assembled dancers from Asia, Europe and the Middle East to perform his “Vertical Road,” to a score by Nitin Sawhney.  CAP UCLA  Royce Hall.       (310) 825-2101.

- Oct. 6. (Sat.)  Chick Corea, Gary Burton and the Harlem String Quartet. Long time musical partners, pianist Corea and vibraphonist Burton have been seeking new musical adventures together since the early ‘70s.  On this evening, their explorations will be aided by the Harlem String Quartet.   Valley Performing Arts Center.     (818) 677-3000.

Bob Mintzer

- Oct. 6. (Sat.)  Bob Mintzer, Alan Pasqua, Darej Oles and Ignacio Berroa.  That list of names could represent a law firm.  But no firm with these guys, who are among the Southland’s jazz elite, coming together to challenge themselves and each other.  Vitello’s.  (818) 769-0905.

- Oct. 5 – 7. (Fri. – Sun.)  The Angel City Jazz Festival 2012.  The Angel City Festival once again presents a set of concerts underscoring the extent of the Southland’s extraordinary population of world class jazz artists.  Add to that the participation of several major international artists and the ACJF is rapidly establishing its creds as a major musical event.  On Friday, the Anthony Lucca Quintet and the Phil Ranelin Jazz Ensemble perform at the Los Angeles County Museum of Art.  On Saturday, Anthony Wilson, Larry Goldings and Jim Keltner are at REDCAT.  On Sunday, Peter Erskine’s New Trio, the Mark Dresser Quintet, the Ambrose Akinmusire Quintet and the Archie Shepp Quartet perform at the Ford Amphitheatre.  With more to come next week.   The Angel City Jazz Festival.

- Oct. 7. (Sun.)  Los Angeles Chamber Orchestra.  The LACO offers its own participation in Royce Hall’s opening week with a program of Ravel, Beethoven and more.  In addition to the Ravel Piano Conerto in G Major and the Beethoven Violin Concerto in D Major, there will be West Coast premieres of new compositions by Andrew Norman and James Matheson .  CAP UCLA Royce Hall.    (310) 825-2101.

San Francisco

- Oct. 3 & 4. (Wed. & Thurs.)  An Intimate Evening with Helen Reddy.  The hit-making Australian singing star returns to performing after a decade hiatus.  Eager listeners will hope to hear songs such as “I Am Woman,” “I Don’t Know How To Love Him,” “Delta Dawn” and more. Yoshi’s San Francisco.   (415) 655-5600.

Chicago

- Oct. 4 – 7). (Thurs. – Sun.)  Benny Green Trio.  Pianist Green is one of the mainstays in the effort to find new jazz territory without abandoning the jazz homeland.  Jazz Showcase.    (312) 360-0234.

New York

Jim Hall

- Oct. 2 – 6. (Tues. – Sat.)  Jim Hall Quartet.  Hall has been described as “the reigning master of the jazz guitar” by the Wall St. Journal.  And while there are a lot of things I’d disagree with the Journal about, this isn’t one of them.  The ever-fascinating Hall will be in the company of alto saxophonist Greg Osby, bassist Steve Laspina and drummer Joey Baron.  Birdland.     (212) 581-3080.

- Oct. 2 – 7. (Tues. – Sun.)  John Scofield Trio.  Guitarist Scofield is always searching for new musical environments.  And he’s found a winner this time, in the stellar team of bassist Steve Swallow and drummer Bill Stewart.  The Blue Note.     (212) 475-8592.

- Oct. 5 & 6. (Sat. & Sun.)  Brad Mehldau: Solo.  A solo performance by Mehldau is always a compelling musical experience, ranging across the full extent of his classically-trained, jazz-invested skills.  The Allen Room in Jazz at Lincoln Center.    (212) 258-9800.

London

Hiromi

- Oct. 4 – 6. (Thurs. – Sat.)  Hiromi: The Trio Project.  Hiromi’s virtuosic piano playing combines with her imaginative musical vision to suggest a new view of the classic jazz piano trio.  She performs with bassist Steve Smith and drummer Anthony Jackson.  Ronnie Scott’s.    20 7439 0747.

Paris

- Oct. 3. (Wed.)  Randy Weston’s African Rhythms Trio.  Pianist/composer Weston has written a few jazz classics – “Hi-Fly” and “Little Niles” among them.  And he’s equally dedicated to the African music at the roots of jazz, exploring them in performances of ensembles such as his African Rhythms Trio.  New Morning.   01 45 23 51 41.

Berlin

- Oct. 4. (Thurs.)  The Al Foster Quartet.  Drummer Foster has been a high visibility presence in the bands of Miles Davis, Sonny Rollins, Herbie Hancock and Joe Henderson.  But he’s also been the effective leader of his own groups.  This one includes Wayne Escoffery, saxophones, Adam Birnbaum, piano, Doug Weiss, bass.  A-Trane.    030/313 25 50.

Milan

- Oct. 4 & 5. (Thurs. & Fri.)  Scott Henderson, Dennis Chambers and Jeff Berlin. Here’s high energy jazz rock of the most intense order.  Henderson, Chambers and Berlin are all instrumental virtuosi in their own right.  Together, they’re sheer excitement.  Blue Note Milano 02.69016888.

Copenhagen

Gretchen Parlato

- Oc. 4 & 5. (Thurs. & Fri.)  Gretchen Parlato Quartet.  Always her own person, eager to find her own pathway in partnership with instrumentalists, singer Parlato is performing with a collective fully capable of sharing her creative explorations. With Taylor Eigsti, piano, Burmiss Travis, bass, Kendrick Scott, drums.  Jazzhus Montmartre.  (+45) 70 15 65.

Tokyo

- Oct. 6 & 7. (Sat. & Sun.)  Composer, pianist, songwriter Michel Legrand has been having an impact on contemporary music for decades.  This time out, he’s celebrating his 80 birthday.   Blue Note Tokyo.     03.54850088.

Picks of the Week: Sept. 25 – 30

By Don Heckman

 Los Angeles

John Pisano

- Sept. 25. (Tues.)  John Pisano’s Guitar Night.  It’s an all-star congregation, with John Pisano celebrating the 15^th anniversary of his always-entertaining Guitar Nights. Expect to see and hear a stage full of the Southland’s finest 6-stringers.  Lucy’s 51.    (818) 763-5200.

- Sept. 27. (Thurs.)  The Los Angeles Philharmonic.  The Philharmonic Dances.  Opening Night Concert and Gala.  The 2012-2013 Los Angeles Philharmonic season opens with a spectacular evening celebrating the long creative alliance between orchestral music and dance.  Gustavao Dudamel conducts the Philharmonic Disney Hall in a program reaching Saint-Saens and Stravinsky to Adams and Bernstein, with dancers from the American Ballet Theatre, from Broadway, and from BODYTRAFFIC.  Disney Hall.    (323) 850-2000.

- Sept. 27. (Thurs.)  Cirque Chinois.  If you were impressed by Cirque du Soleil, you’ll be at least that delighted – and probably more — by China’s Cirque Chinois, a gifted assemblage of acrobats, jugglers and contortionists who have been influencing circuses in the West for decades The Valley Performing Arts Center.

Cirque Chinois

- Sept. 27. (Thurs.)  Andrea Marcelli Quartet. Italian drummer/composer Marcelli impressive track record includes working with Wayne Shorter, Dave Liebman, Bob Mintzer and more.  And his compositions can be heard on nearly 200 CDs.  This time out, he’s working with bassist Pat Senatore, pianist Mitchell Forman, and saxophonist Bob Sheppard.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.    (310) 474-9400.

- Sept. 27. (Thurs.)  Sascha’s Bloc Band.  The richly entertaining, mostly Russian,  Bloc Band moves easily through funk, jazz, blues and r&b with an impressive degree of jazz authenticity. How good are they? Click HERE to read a recent review of a Bloc Band performance.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

- Sept. 28. (Fri.)  Miles Davis House @ Dim Mak Studios.  A celebration of the life and music of Miles Davis on the 21st anniversary of his passing.  The event — described in its announcement as “a genre-bending odyssey, the ultimate jam session — is hosted by Davis son, Erin Davis, and his nephew, Vince Wilburn, Jr.  Performers include Alexandra & the Starlight Band, David & Devine, Gabriel Johnson and Steven Roth.  There will also be DJ sets by Clifton Weaver AKA Soft Touch and Miles Tackett, and a Miles Davis shop with T-shirts, giveaways, etc.  Dim Mak Studios.  8 p.m. – 1:30 a.m.  1643 Cosmo St., Hollywood.

Bebel Gilberto

- Sept. 28. (Fri.)  Bebel Gilberto.  The singer/songwriter daughter of the iconic Joao Gilberto, Bebel has created, in her own right, a starry career in Brazil as well as the rest of the world.  She’ll perform some numbers with special guests “Forro in the Dark.”  A CAP UCLA program at Royce Hall.  (310) 825-2101.

- Sept. 28 & 29.  Fri. & Sat.  Vardan Ovsepian Chamber Ensemble.  Armenian born pianist/composer Ovsepian displays his far-reaching creative versatility with his Chamber ensemble.  The Blue Whale.   (213) 620-0908.

- Sept. 28 – 30. (Fri. – Sun.)  Los Angeles Philharmonic.  Gustav Dudamel showcases his first performance of Stravisky’s Rite of Spring with the Philharmonic.  Also on the program: Ravel’s Pavane pour une infante defunt and the world premiere of Steven Stuckey’s Symphony.   Disney Hall.    (323) 850-2000.

Bill Cunliffe

- Sept. 29. (Sat.)  Bill Cunliffe Big Band.  Pianist/composer/leader Cunliffe takes a break from his numerous small group outings to spotlight his versatile big band writing, performed by an aggregation of Southland first-call players. Upstairs at Vitello’s.  (818) 769-0905.

- Sept. 30. (Sun.) Wilco.  Grammy Award-winning alternative rock band Wilco close the summer season with their first appearance at the Hollywood Bowl.  They’ll be joined by singer/songwriter/harpist Joanna Newsom.  Hollywood Bowl.    (323) 850-2000.

San Diego

- Sept. 29. (Sat.)  Nikhil Korula Band.  Jazz, rock and reggae are on the bill whenever Nikhil Korula and his musically adventurous six piece band step on stage.  Expect to hear some of Korula’s new compositions from his latest CD, Music of the New Day.  Longboard’s Grill.   (858) 270-4030.

San Francisco

Paula West

- Sept. 26 & 27. (Wed. & Thurs.)  Paula West.  The remarkable blend of rhythmic swing and emotionally touching phrasing, expressed via her warm honey voice, make West one of the finest individualist in today’s crowded category of female jazz singers.  Don’t miss a chance to hear her live.  Yoshi’s San Francisco.   (415) 615-5600.

New York

- Sept. 25 – 30. (Tues. – Sun.) Gerald Clayton  Sextet.  Pianist/composer Clayton is completely familiar to Los Angeles jazz fans, who have experienced his remarkable creative growth since he was a teen-ager.  Now a new star, nationally and beyond, he performs an almost week-long with a four-horn sextet.  Jazz Standard.    (212) 576-2561.

Toots Thielemans

- Sept. 29. (Sat.)  Toots Thielemans: Celebrating 90 Years.  He’s the definitive jazz harmonica player, a fine guitarist and an amazing whistler.  And Thielemans has been entertaining and exciting jazz audiences with versatility for decades.  And still at it.  The performance also includes Eliane Elias, Dori Caymmi, Kenny Werner, Oscar Castro-Neves and more.  The Rose Theatre, Jazz at Lincoln Center.  (212) 258-9800.

London

- Sept. 28 & 29. (Fri. & Sat.)  Ian Shaw with the Phil Ware Trio.  Arguably one of the U.K.’s finest male jazz singers, Shaw’s eclectic musical view embraces everything from the Great Standards to Ray Charles, Joni Mitchell and Burt Bacharach.  Ronnie Scott’s

Milan

- Sept. 27 – 29.  (Thurs – Sat.)  Sarah Jane Morris.  English-born singer/songwriter moves easily from pop, jazz and rock to r&b, doing it all with convincing authenticity.  Blue Note Milan.   02.690 16888.

Tokyo

Rickie Lee Jones

- Sept. 27 – 28. (Thurs. & Fri.)  Rickie Lee Jones. Singer and songwriter of styles beyond definition, Jones – approaching 60 – may not have the visibility she once did, but she nevertheless continues to be one of pop music’s most intriguing performers. Blue Note Tokyo.    03.5485.0088.

Picks of the Week: Sept. 4 – 9

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

B.B. King

- Sept. 5. (Wed.)  Blues Night: B.B. King and the Tedeschi/Trucks Band.  A great program, with a banquet of blues running the gamut from the masterful B.B. King to the Tedeschi/Trucks Band, with their spicy servings of blues, soul, rock and funk.  The Hollywood Bowl.   (323) 850-2000.

- Sept. 5. (Wed.)  Jennifer Leitham Trio. Bassist Leitham’s career has reached across the full panorama of the music business.  But she may be at her best, both playing and singing in a trio setting, especially with high quality players such as Andy Langham, piano and Dave Tull, drums.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- Sept. 5. (Wed.)  Pat Senatore Trio.  Bassist Senatore’s versatility is on display many nights as the bassist in the house rhythm section at Vibrato. Here, he’ll work with a challenging trio of rising young players: Josh Nelson, piano and Zach Harmon, drums.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.     (310) 474-9400.

WRoberta Gambarini

- Sept. 6 – 8. (Thurs. – Sat.) Roberta Gambarini. Italian-born singer Gambarini sings jazz with spirit and  authenticity, moving comfortably from lush balladry to high speed scat singing.  She’ll be backed by Mike Wofford, piano, Chuck Berghofer, bass and Harvey Mason, drums.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

- Sept. 6 – 9.  (Thurs. – Sun.)  Cage 100 Festival.  John Cage, Henry Cowell, Erik Satie,   Thurs: First Presbyterian Santa Monica.  Fri: Miles Playhouse in Reed Park.  Sat: Santa Monica Bay Women’s Club.  Sunday: Annenburg Community Beach House.  Jacaranda: Music at the Edge.  (323) 483-0216.

- Sept. 7. (Fri.)  Crosby, Stills & Nash.  What is there to say about this classic trio of gifted artists?  Forty three years after Woodstock, they’re still going strong, with the old songs and with the new.  Don’t miss this opportunity to see and hear them in living color.  Greek Theatre.    (323) 665-5857.

- Sept. 7 & 8. (Fri. and Sat.)  The Tchaikovsky Spectacular with Fireworks.  The Los Angelesl Philharmonic, conducted by Bramwell Tovey.  This annual program, matching a spectacular set of works by Tchaikovksy with the Bowl’s pyrotechnic geniuses.  The Grand Finale will feature the Philharmonic, with dancers from the American Ballet Theatre, the L.A. Children’s Chorus and the USC Trojan Marching Band performing Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture.  The Hollywood Bowl.    (323) 850-2000,

- Sept. 8. (Sat.)  The Gilbert Castellanos Quartet. Trumpeter Castellanos has a musical resume reaching from Dizzy Gillespie and Natalie Cole to Willie Nelson and Michael Buble.  He’s been in such demand because of his ability to illuminate a song with everything he possesses. Castellanos performs with pianist Theo Saunders, bassist Pat Senatore and drummer Ramon Banda.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.

Billy Childs

- Sept. 8. (Sat.)  Billy Childs Trio.  Pianist/composer Childs takes a break from his chamber jazz with strings, and digs into the piano trio format with the world class support of John Clayton, bass and Jeff Hamilton, drums.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- Sept. 8. (Sat.) Anthony Wilson Nonet.  First call guitarist on every jazz promotors’ list, Wilson is also a first rate composer.  And the Nonet – a kind of big/little (but very versatile) band format – is the perfect vehicle for the expression of his far ranging imagination.  Blue Whale.   (213) 620-0908.

- Sept. 9. (Sun.)  Pink Martini.  Call their music retrospective or call it old-fashioned, it’s still an eminently listenable pastiche of pop, standards, blues, cabaret and beyond.  This will be a debut for Pink Martini and China Forbes, who will be making their first appearances at the Greek Theatre.    (323) 665-5857

San Francisco

- Sep. 5 – 9. (Wed. – Sun.)  The Jack DeJohnette Trio featuring Chick Corea and Stanley Clarke.  It would be hard to find a more engaging jazz evening than this one.  Three world class players who move with utter ease from straight ahead jazz across genre lines.  It doesn’t get any better than this. Yoshi’s San Francisco.   (415) 655-5600.

Seattle

Halie Loren

- Sept. 4 & 5. (Tues. & Wed.)  Halie Loren.  The rave reviews keep coming in about the extraordinary jazz skills of this gifted young singer.  To read more about Halie Loren, read iRoM’s revew of her latest CD by clicking HERE.    Jazz Alley.   (206) 441-9729.

Boston

- Sept. 5. (Wed.)  Cyrille Aimee.  She has one of the great voices among her twentysomething jazz generation.  And Aimees’ work – as a singer and a writer – is rapidly establishing her as a voice to watch in her generation.  Scullers  Jazz Club.  Also on Sept. 7 & 8 at the Iridium jazz club.    (617) 562-4111.

New York

- Sept. 3. (Mon.)  Amram & Co.  David Amram.  He plays a lot of instruments – French Horn, flute, keyboards, hand percussion.  But Amram’s six decade career took him through waves of newly emerging music and ideas.  And it’s all there in his performances.  Amram will be backed by Kevin Twigg, drums, John de Witt, bass and Adam Amram, percussion.  Cornelia St. Café.    (212) 989-9319.

- Sept. 4. (Tues.) David Binney. Adventurous alto saxophonist Binney is always in search of the newest sound, melody or rhythm,  This time out, he’s exchanging all three of those elements with keyboardist Jacob Sacks, bassist Eivind Opsvik and drummer Dan Weiss.  55 Bar.   (212) 929-2883,

- Sept. 4 – 8. (Tues. – Sat.)  Oregon. It’s a band that has been together for four decades, and is still bringing new musical seasoning to various combinations of jazz and world musics.  The results are always utterly compelling.  Birdland.     (212) 581-3080.

London

Claire Martin

- Sept. 4. (Tues.)  Claire Martin with Sir Richard Rodney Bennett. Martin’s been called, with good reason, “England’s finest jazz singer.”  It should make for a compelling musical evening to hear her with Bennett, a veteran composer/musician with a lots of jazz experience. Ronnie Scott’s. (0) 20 7439 0747.

Berlin

-  Sept. 4. (Tues.)  Chieli Minucci Trio.  A-Trane Jazz.  I addition to his visibility in smooth jazz, guitarist Minucci also has a busy career as a film and television composer.  He’ll be performing with the stellar rhythm team of bassist Gerald Veasley and drummer Dennis Chambers. A-Trane Jazz   030/313 25 50.

Tokyo

- Sept. 7 (Fri.) – Sept. 11 (Tues.)  Eddie Palmieri Salsa Orchestra.  The great keyboardist and composer takes his swingingly authentic Salsa Orchestra on a tour that should produce many more Japanese fans. To read a recent iRoM review of Eddie Palmieri at the Hollywood Bowl, click HERE. The Blue Note Tokyo.

Picks of the Week: Aug. 27 – Sept. 2

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Jason Marsalis

- Aug. 27. (Mon.)  Jason Marsalis Quartet. He may be the youngest member of the illustrious Marsalis jazz family, but drummer/vibraphonist Jason has already established his own impressive musical identity.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

- Aug. 28 & Aug. 30/ (Tues. & Thurs.)  Carmina Burana. German composer Carl Orf’s cantata, a dramatic setting of medieval poems, is performed by the Los Angeles Philharmonic, the Los Angeles Master Chorale and the Los Angeles Childrens’ Chorus, directed by Spanish conductor Rafael Fruhbeck de Burgos.  Hollywood Bowl. (323) 850-2000

- Aug. 28. (Tues.)  Sachsa’s Bloc.  An eclectic group of musicians from countries across Europe offer a collection of music ranging freely across gypsy jazz, contemporary jazz, flamenco, swing, blues and country. Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400

Wayne shorter

- Aug. 29. (Wed.)  Celebrating Peace.  Herbie Hancock has gathered a stellar array of musicians to join together in a musical celebration of the pleasures of peace.  The cast includes Wayne Shorter, Marcus Miller, Zakier Hussain, Dave Holland, Cindy Blackman Santana, Carlos Santana and others.  Hollywood Bowl.  (323) 850-2000.

- Aug. 31 and Sept 1. (Fri. & Sat.)  John Williams Maestro of the Movies.  “Musical Maestro” would be a more accurate title for Williams, whose film scores reach from Star Wars and Superman to E.T. and Harry Potter.  He’ll conduct the Los Angeles Philharmonic in selections from many of his hit films, including a film sequence from E.T. accompanied live by the Philharmonic.  The guest artist is violinist Gil Shaham. Hollywood Bowl.   (323) 850-2000.

- Aug. 31. (Fri.)  Wolfgang Schalk Quartet.  Guitarist Schalk celebrates the release of his new CD Word of Ear with pianist Andy Langham, bassist Michael Valerio and drummer Tom Brechtlein.  Upstairs at Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- Sept. 1. (Sat.)  Wendy Fraser.  Singer-songwriter Fraser has been described by the LA jAzz Scene as a “diamond in the rough” and “a musical force to be reckoned with.”  She makes one of her rare appearances, backed by guitarist John Chiodini, saxophonist Rob Lockhart, bassist Chris Colangelo and drummer Kendall Kay. Upstairs at Vitallo’s.  http://www.vitellosjazz.com/event/wendy-fraser  (818) 769-0905.

Barbara Morrison

- Sept. 1 & 2. (Sat. & Sun.)  Barbara Morrison returns to Catalina’s for an exciting weekend featuring a pair of different settings: With the Barbara Morrison Performing Arts Center Big Band (Sat.), and the Barbara Morrison Quartet (Sun.)  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

- Sept. 2. (Sun.)  John Proulx and Pat Senatore.  Pianist/singer Proulx’s laid-back vocals recall the intimate singing of Chet Baker.  He’s backed by the ever-versatile, always supportive Senatore on bass.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.  (310) 474-9400.

- Sept. 2. (Sun.)  Madeleine Peyroux.  “The Party Oughta be Comin’ Soon!”  Singer/songwriter/guitarist Peyroux has been one of the music world’s most unique talents since she first arrived on the scene in the mid-‘90s.  And she’s still charting her own creative pathway through song. The Broad Stage.   (310) 434-3200.

Louie Cruz Beltran

- Sept. 2. (Sun.)  The Fourth Annual La Vida Music Festival. La Vida returns with its annual celebration of the great pleasures of Latin music, in all its forms.  And what better time to do it than during National Hispanic Heritage Month.  This year’s far-ranging music features Louie Cruz Beltran and his Latin Jazz Ensemble, Incendio, the Plaza de la Raza Youth Mariachi and the Ted and Pablo Choro Ensemble with special guest Chalo Eduardo.  The Ford Amphitheatre.  (323) 461-3673.

San Francisco

- Aug. 29 – Sept. 2. (Wed. – Sat.)  Bela Fleck & the Marcus Roberts Trio. It’s an off-beat combination – Fleck’s unique banjo playing and the straight ahead jazz trio of pianist Roberts, drummer Jason Marsalis and bassist Rodney Jordan. They’ll no doubt play selections from their new recording together – Across the Imaginary Divide. Yoshi’s San Francisco.  (415) 655-5600.

Washington D.C.

- Aug. 30 – Sept. 2. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Mose Allison. The inimitable Bard of the Bayou and his suitcase full of songs can always be counted on to provide a swinging, blues-driven evening of song and wisdom. Blues Alley.   (202) 337-4141.

New York

- Aug. 28 – Sept. 2. (Tues. – Sun.)  The Jenny Scheinman Quartet.  Violinist Scheinman showcases her eclectic musical interests with pianist Jason Moran, bassist Greg Cohen and drummer Rudy Royston.  Village Vanguard.  (212) 929-4589.

- Aug. 28 – Sept. 2. (Tues. – Sun.)  Charlie Parker Birthday Celebration.  What would have been the 92^nd birthday week (the actual birthday is Aug. 29) of the legendary alto saxophonist is celebrated with a musical tribute from Tom Harrell, trumpet, Vincent Herring, alto saxophone, George Cables, piano, Victor Lewis, drums and Lonnie Plaxico, bass.  Birdland.    (212) 581-3080.

Ron Carter

- Aug. 28 – Sept. 2. (Tues. – Sun.)  The Ron Carter Big Band.  Bassist Carter has played with everyboy and led a variety of his own ensembles.  But this, his first big band, wasn’t established until 2011, with arrangements by Bob Freedman.  Featuring a line of major NYC players on stage and Carter up front, expect musical magic to take place.  The Jazz Standard.   (212) 889-2005.

London

- Sept. 2. (Sun.)  The Story So Far.  Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra – Pete Lang leads an assemblage of the U.K.’s finest jazz players in an exploration of the music of Count Basie, Duke Ellington, Woody Herman, Stan Kenton, the Rat Pack and Benny Goodman.  Ronnie Scott’s.   (0) 20 7439 0747.

Tokyo

- Aug. 30 – Sept. 2. (Thurs. – Sun.)  The Mingus Big Band.  The rich musical legacy of bassist/composer Charles Mingus continues to find new musical expression in the hands of the superb Mingus Big Band. The Blue Note Tokyo.   03.5485.0088.

Wayne Shorter and Ron Carter photos by Tony Gieske. 

Picks of the Week: Aug. 20 – 26

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Alison Balsom

- Aug. 21. (Tues.)  McGegan conducts Haydn.  Nicholas McGegan conducts the Los Angeles Philharmonic in a program of Papa Haydn’s finest, including the Alleluia Symphony and the Drumroll Symphony.  Add to that an appearance by the brilliant British trumpeter Alison Balsom performing the Haydn Trumpet Concerto.  The Hollywood Bowl. (323) 850-2000.

- Aug. 22. (Wed.) Anita Baker.  Esperanza Spalding.  A pair of the finest jazz/pop/r&b crossover singers in the world make a rare Bowl appearance.  Baker will no doubt perform her  new hit digital single, “Lately,”  “Sweet Love” and “Giving You the Best That I’ve Got” and Spalding will display some of the dynamic singing and bass playing that brought her a Grammy new star award.  (323) 850-2000.  The Hollywood Bowl. 

- aug. 22. (Wed.) Annie Sellick.  I once described singer Sellick as “an utterly unique personality.”  And she’s accomplished that by transforming influences — such as Janis Joplin — toher own personal (and personable) style.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- Aug. 22. (Wed.) Kofi Baker’s Tribute to Cream.  Up close and personal with one of the great rock bands.  Baker (son of Ginger Baker), drums.  Fran Banish, guitar, Rick Fierabracci, bass.  Baked Potato.    (818) 980-1615.

- Aug. 23. (Thurs.)  Midsummer Mozart.  Nicholas McGegan again conducts the Los Angeles Philharmonic in a program of delightful summer music — this time by Mozart.  The featured solo artist will be Norwegian violinist Henning Kraggerud, making his debut Bowl appearance in a performance of the Mozart Violin Concerto No. 4.  (323) 850-2000.  The Hollywood Bowl.

Christian McBride

- Aug. 23 – 26. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Christian McBride Quartet.  He was everybody’s first call bassist when he was barely out of his teens.  But McBride’s ambitions have reached out to embrace big band writing (and leading) and wide activities as an educator, curator and administrator.  Here, he’s back to basics, leading his own fine trio.  Catalina Bar & Grill. (323) 466-2210.

- Aug. 24. (Fri.)  The Kevin Toney 3.  The “New American Suite” tour.  Composer/pianist Toney introduces selections from the classically-inspired compositions in his new recording.  He’ll be backed by bassist Michael Bradford and drummer Chris Coleman.  Vitello’s.

Diana Krall

- Aug. 24 & 25. (Fri. & Sat.)  Diana Krall.  It’s been less than two decades since jazz singer/pianist Diana Krall released her first album, at a time when she was honing her skills in L.A. — much admired, but with low visibility.  Since then, she’s become an international star, selling albums in the millions, maturing into one of the finest jazz vocalists of this, or any, generation.   Hollywood Bowl.  (323) 850-2000.

- Aug. 25.  (Sat.)  Dale Fielder Quartet.  Saxophonist Fielder’s versatility reaches across saxophones  from the baritone up to the soprano.  But his versatility is not simply technical, it’s enhanced by a rich musical understanding of the qualities of each instrument, combined with an inventive musical imagination.  He’ll perform with bassist Pat Senatore, pianist Theo Saunders and bassist Ramon Banda.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.

San Francisco

- Aug. 24 – 26. (Fri. – Sun.)  A Tribute to Jimmy Smith and Wes Montgmery.  Organ jazz trios and quartets never got any more exciting and imaginative than they did in the hands of Smith and Montgomery.  But this ensemble, celebrating the masters, comes close.  And how could it be otherwise, with Joey DeFrancesco, Jimmy Cobb, Larry Coryell and Steve Cotter.  Yoshi’s Oakland.  http://www.yoshis.com/oakland/jazzclub/artist/show/2768  (510) 238-9200.

Seattle

Lee Ritenour and Dave Grusin

- Aug. 21 – 26. (Tues. – Sun.)  Lee Ritenour and Dave Grusin.  A pair of the path-finding masters of the music generally grouped under the titles of smooth jazz, funk, crossover and instrumental pop get together for one of their many musical encounters.  Expect to be hugely entertained by a pair of guys who have never abandoned their straight ahead roots. Jazz Alley.   (206) 441-9729.

Chicago

- Aug. 23 – 26. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Ira Sullivan Quartet.  81 year old Sullivan is a truly iconic jazz figure — a superb player on trumpet, saxophone and flute, whose playing career has reached from gigs with Charlie Parker, Lester Young and Roy Eldridge to Pat Metheny, Jaco Pastorius and beyond.  Still a remarkable improvisational artist, he should be heard at any opportunity.   Jazz Showcase.     (312) 360-0234.

New York

Michael Brecker

- Aug. 21 – 23.  (Tues. – Thurs.)  Celebrating Michael Brecker.  The music of the late, great saxophonist is featured in all its far-reaching glories by a band with all the skills to do it right: Joey Calderazzo, piano and musical director, Ravi Coltrane, saxophones, James Genus, bass and Jeff “Tain” Watts, drums.  With special guests.  The Blue Note.  (212) 475-8592.

- Aug. 21 – 26. (Tues. – Sun.)  Trio Da Paz.  The Music of Stan Getz and Joao Gilberto.  The Trio Da Paz — guitarist Romero Lubambo, bassist Nilson Matta and drummer Duduka da Fonseca reach back into the roots of bossa nova with the spendid aid of saxophonist Harry Allen, vibist Joe Locke  and singer Maucha Adnet.  Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola.  (212) 258-9595.

London

- Aug. 25. (Sat.)  A Portrait of Jaco”  The Laurence Cottle Big Band.  Bassist Laurence Cottle, a world class instrumentalist in his own right, showcases the influences — both instrumental and compositional — that have impacted him from the legendary bassist Jaco Pastorius.  Ronnie Scott’s. (0) 20 7439 0747.

Berlin

Celine Rudolph

- Aug. 21 – 25. (Tues. – Sat.  Celine Rudolph.   Singer Rudolph’s urban oriented jazz  blurs the boundaries between musical styles, finding common ground where little seems to exist.  Appropriately, her musicians come from locations such as Lisbon, Paris and Berlin.  She’ll no doubt feature songs from her CD, Salvador. A-Trane.    030/313 25 50.

Live Jazz: The Ron Kalina Quartet at Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.

By Don Heckman

Wednesday was another one of those mid-week jazz nights in L.A. A lot of choices about what to hear, with the usual freeway determinants – traffic and/or distance – playing a role in where to go.

But I also was in the mood to hear something a little unusual. And Ron Kalina’s harmonica jazz gig at Vibrato seemed like an intriguing choice, enhanced by the fine rhythm section team of guitarist Barry Zweig, bassist Pat Senatore and drummer Kendall Kay.

There was, however, one small problem. When I first started listening to jazz, the idea of jazz harmonica used to be as unappealing to me as the tinkly sound of the vibraphone. One of my visions of jazz hell at that time was a performance of a band co-led by a vibes player and a harmonica player. All of that changed, of course, as I became familiar with the work of, among many others,Toots Thielemans, Terry Gibbs, Milt Jackson and many others.

Barry Zweig, Pat Senatore, Ron Kalina, Kendall Kaye

I didn’t expect Kalina, performing before a fairly sparse gathering, to necessarily provide any major competition for those stellar figures. And, tp be perfectly honest, he didn’t. But what he did do was provide a pleasant evening of jazz tinged tunes, mostly from the Great American songbook. And he wisely shared much of the solo space with his back-up trio, occasionally livening things with a vocal.

Tunes such as “Laura,” “My Romance,” “They Can’t Take That Away From Me” and “It Could Happen To You” were delivered in a similar middle tempo groove, with Kalina’s harmonica lines moving smoothly from the original melodies to his own buoyant paraphrasing. On “I’m Old Fashioned,” Zweig stepped out to demonstrate his impressively inventive skills.

An uptempo version of “Bernie’s Tune,” a line often played by Gerry Mulligan, added more spice to the program. In contrast, there were some several atmospheric slow tunes – “The Very Thought of You,” “My One and Only Love” and “In The Wee Small Hours.” Kalina vocalized on several, mixing his sometimes foggy baritone lines with harmonica insertions, creating the classic feeling of a being in a jazz cabaret room.

That perception, in fact, underscored much of the music. Nothing wrong, of course, with reminding the listeners of what it was like to be in a 52^nd St.  jazz bistro.  Especially when the music is being played with the enthusiasm and high spirits of Kalina and his prime time partners. In sum, a fine way to spend a Wednesday jazz night in L.A.

Photo by Bob Barry.

Picks of the Week: Aug. 14 – 19

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Aug. 14 & 15. (Tues. & Wed.) Michael Jackson the Immortal World Tour.  Cirque du Soleil.  The music and lyrics of Michael Jackson are the foundation for a show that “immerses audiences in Michael’s creative world and literally turns his signature moves upside down,” performed by the incomparable artists of Cirque du Soleil.   Staples Center.   (213) 742-7100.

- Aug. 15. (Wed.)  Joe Cocker and Huey Lewis & The News.  A pair of still vitally active rock icons whose music reaches from the ‘60s to the present make for a rare evening of engaging musical memorabilia.  Greek Theatre.    (323) 665-5857.

- Aug. 15. (Wed.)  Ron Kalina Trio. He’s a virtuoso jazz harmonica player who also doubles on piano, with a resume including recordings with the likes of Linda Ronstadt, Joe Williams, Anita O’Day and dozens of others. Hear him in action, backed by guitarist Barry Zweig, bassist Pat Senatore and drummer Kendall Kay.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.     (310) 474-9400.

Eddie Palmieri

- Aug. 15. (Wed.)  Eddie Palmieri, Ruben Blades.  A pair of legendary Latin jazz and salsa giants share the stage on a Wednesday jazz night at the Bowl, demonstrating first hand the exciting linkages between jazz and Latin dance rhythms. Hollywood Bowl.   (323) 850-2000.

- Aug. 15 – 18. (Wed. – Sat.)  Terence Blanchard Quintet. Critically praised trumpeter Blanchard takes a break from his busy schedule as a film composer, Artistic Director of the Thelonious Monk Institute and Director of the Henry Mancini Institute, to lead his Grammy-winning jazz group.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

- Aug. 16. (Thurs.)  De Temps Antan.  The Quebecois ensemble makes its West Coast debut, performing the traditional songs of French Canada.  Skirball Center.     (310) 440-4500.

- Aug. 17. (Fri.)  Wolff & Clark Expedition.  Pianist Michael Wolff’s credits reach from Cannoball Adderley. Sonny Rollins and others to a stint as the bandleader on the Arsenio Hall Show.  He’s backed by the stellar rhythm team of drummer Mike Clark and bassist Brian Bromberg.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- Aug. 17 & 18. (Fri. & Sat.)  Juanes with the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra.  Multiple Latin Grammy winning singer/songwriter/guitarist Juanes performs with the Youth Orchestra of Los Angeles, the Cal Voce Singers and the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra conducted by Thomas Wilkins.  And with fireworks, too.  Hollywood Bowl.    (323) 850-2000.

Sara Gazarek

- Aug. 18 & 19. (Sat. & Sun.)  Sara Gazarek.  At a time when jazz singers are arriving in waves, Gazarek is one of the rare few whose remarkable potential is apparent in everything she sings.  She celebrates her new album, Blossom & Bee with special guest keyboardist Larry Goldings and the backing of pianist Josh Nelson, bassist Hamilton Price and drummer Zach Harmon.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- Aug. 19. (Sun.)  Gerald Wilson Big Band.  Well into his nineties, Wilson remains one of the iconic figures of big band jazz.  And watching him in action with hits all-star group is one of the pleasures of experiencing live jazz.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

- Aug. 19. (Sun.)  Dudamel and Domingo.  The Hollywood Bowl’s pairing of charismatic classical music figures continues with Gustavo Dudamel and the Los Angeles Philharmonic joining for the first time with the great tenor Placido Domingo.  Hollywood Bowl.   (323) 850-2000.

San Francisco

Benny Green

- Aug. 16. (Thurs.)  The Benny Green Trio.  A jazz professional as a teen-ager, pianist Green’s career has been expanding ever since, establishing him as one of the most imaginative and listenable players of his generation.  He’s backed by bassist Peter Washington and drummer Kenny Washington.  Yoshi’s Oakland.    (510) 238-9200.

Seattle

- Aug. 16 – 19. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Karrin Allyson. Grammy nominated singer-pianist Allyson brings rich layers musicality to everything she sings or plays.  Hopefully she’ll include some selections from her latest album, ‘Round Midnight.   Jazz Alley.    (201) 441-9729.

Boston

- Aug. 18. (Sat.)  Kenny Werner. Pianist Werner’s versatility – he is as adept at backing singers as he is at straight ahead jazz playing – no doubt traces to the mind-body techniques explored in his thoughtful book on improvisation, Effortless Mastery.  Regatta Bar.   (617) 661-5000.

New York

John Abercrombie

- Aug. 14 – 18. (Tues. – Sat.)  The John Abercrombie Quartet.  Always seeking adventurous new jazz combinations, Abercrombie’s latest group features saxophonist Joe Lovano, bassist Drew Gess and drummer Adam Nussbaum.  Birdland.    (212) 581-3080.

- Aug. 14 – 19. (Tues. – Sun.)  Enfants Terribles.  Lee Konitz, Bill Frisell, Gary Peacock and Joey Baron. A stellar array of world-class jazz players celebrate their new CD, Enfants Terribles. The Blue Note.   (212) 475-8592.

- Aug. 16 – 19. (Thurs. – Sun.)  The Tierney Sutton Band.  Singer Sutton has been working with her band for nearly two decades, and the results are apparent in the extraordinary music they make together.  The Jazz Standard.  (212) 576-2561.

London

- Aug. 14 – 18. (Tues. – Sat.)  Roy Ayers. Vibraphonist Ayers has been, and continues to be, a pioneer in blending jazz with Afro-beat, funk and hip hop.  Ronnie Scott’s.   (0) 20 7439 0747.

Tokyo

Aug. 14 & 15.  Joyce.  Brazilian singer/songwriter/guitarist Joyce Moreno has been blending jazz with bossa nova since the late ‘60s.  Blue Note Tokyo.   03.5485.0088.

Eddie Palmieri photo by Tony Gieske.