Picks of the Week: June 27 – July 1

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Miles Davis

- June 27. (Wed.)  A Celebration of Miles Davis. Herbie Hancock hosts a trio of Davis tributes: Miles’ Electric Band, Marcus Miller leading  “Tutu Revisited” and Jimmy Cobb leading his “So What” band in  “Kind of Blue.” Hollywood Bowl.   (323) 850-2000.

- June 28. (Thurs.)  Donald Fagen, Michael McDonald, Boz Skaggs.  The Dukes of September. Three rock greats get together once again to touch musical high points reaching from the O’Jays to the Doobie Brothers and the Steely Dan catalog. To read an earlier iRoM review of the Dukes of December click HERE.   Gibson Amphitheatre.  (818) 622-4440.

Judy Wexler

- June 28. (Thurs.) Judy Wexler.  The versatile Ms. Wexler’s admirable jazz vocal skills embrace everything from standards and jazz classics to singer/songwriter tunes from the ‘70s – all done with style and imagination.  LACMA.  .

- June 28. (Thurs.)  Ray Brown, Jr.  The adopted son of the great bassist Ray Brown and the equally inimitable Ella Fitzgerald, Brown was raised in a high level musical environment.  No wonder that he became first a drummer, then a singer, adding contemporary qualities to the musical sounds and substance of his youth.  Crown Plaza.  (310) 258-1333.

- June 29. (Thurs.) Sascha’s Bloc Band.  Led by musician/surgeon Alex Gershman (Sascha), the Bloc Band includes players from Ukraine, Russia, the U.S. and beyond, performing  an eclectic blend of European roots music, gypsy jazz, flamenco and much more.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

Bob Sheppard

- June 29. (Fri.) Bob Sheppard.  Saxophonist Sheppard, one of the Southland’s prime jazz artists still doesn’t receive the critical attention his far-reaching skills deserve.  He’s backed by Theo Saunders, piano, Pat Senatore, bass and Ferenc Nemeth, drums.   Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.

- June 29. (Fri.)  The Arte Café opens in the Town Center Plaza in Cerritos with another great Los Angeles saxophonist, Rickey Woodard, leading the way.  He’ll perform with pianist Jon Mayer, bassist Luther Hughes and drummer Roy McCurdy.  For information, call In-House Music at (310)216-5861.

- June 29. (Fri.)  Summerland.  The first ever Summerland tour features an impressive assembly of hit-making bands: Everclear, Sugar Ray, Gin Blossoms, Lit and Marcy Playground.  Greek Theatre.    (323) 665-5857.

Dave Frishberg

- June 30. (Sat.)  Dave Frishberg.  The Stephen Sondheim of jazz songwriters brings his memorable catalog (“Peel Me A Grape,” “Do You Miss New York?” “My Attorney Bernie,” etc., his engaging vocal style and his crisply swinging piano to town for a too-rare L.A. appearance.  A Jazz Bakery Movable Feast at the Kirk Douglas Theatre. .  (310) 271-9039.

- June 30. (Sat.) B52s and Squeeze.  With over 20 million albums sold in their 35 year career, it’s no surprise that the B52s are called the “World’s greatest party band.”  Expect to feel the pulse when the  hits, old and new, begin.  The popular U.K. band Squeeze opens the performance. Greek Theatre.     (323) 665-5857.

- July 1. (Sun.)  Chuchito Valdes Latin Jazz Band.  Son of the great Cuban jazz pianist Chucho Valdes, Chuchito has followed in his father’s musical foosteps, finding fascinating new territories in the world of Latin jazz. Featured artist with Valdes will be the versatile, multi-saxophone player Laksar Reese.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

Ben Harper

- July 1. (Sun.)  Ben Harper, Fitz and the Tantrums, Vieux Farka Toure. The World Festival 2012 series begins with a trio of unique artists demonstrating the linkages between the blues, soul music and dynamic African rhythms.   Hollywood Bowl.   (323) 850-2000.

San Francisco

- June 28. (Thurs.) Paul McCandless and Antonio Calogero.   A keystone member of the band Oregon and the Paul Winter Consort, McCandless’ wind instrument versatility is one of the unique sounds of the jazz and world music blend.  He appears with the talented young Italian guitarist, Calogero. Freight and Salvage Coffeehouse.   (510) 644-2020 Ext. 20.

Seattle

- June 28 – July 1. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Diane Schuur. Singer Schuur’s long career has seen her perform  effecttvely in several cross genre styles, from jazz to pop.  More recently, she’s blended all those styles into a unique expressiveness of her own making.  Jazz Alley.    (206) 441-9729.

New York

- June 29. (Fri.)  The Ben Monder Theo Bleckmann Duo.  Grammy-nominated singer/composer Bleckmann and pianist Monder have spent nearly two decades shaping a vocal form that might best be described as “jazz art songs.”  The results are extraordinary.  Cornelia St. Café.   (212) 989-9319.

Harry Allen

- June 29 & 30. (Fri. & Sat.)  Harry Allen Quartet. At a time when the influence of John Coltrane and/Sonny Rollins dominates the tenor saxophone world, Allen – a dedicated traditionalist – strives convincingly to keep the pre-bop styles of Coleman Hawkins, Ben Webster and others vividly alive. Smalls.

- June 29 – July 1. (Fri. – Sun.) Charlie Watts: “The A, B, C and D of Boogie Woogie.”  Watts, best known as the drummer with the Rolling Stones, yet always a stalwart fan of jazz, has just released the first album of his Boogie Woogie Band.  They’ll celebrate the release with a live performance of some of the album’s selections.  The band consists of Axel Zwingenberger, piano, Dave Green, bass and Ben Waters, piano and vocals.  The Iridium.   (212) 582-2121.

London

- June 27 – 29. (Wed. – Fri.)  Curtis Stigers.  Saxophonist/singer Stigers had all the look of a rare, break out jazz vocalist in the ’90s.  His visibility has dimmed somewhat since then, despite his still attractive style.  Give credit to listeners in the U.K. for continuing to recognize his appealing qualities. Ronnie Scott’s.    020 7439 0747.

Tokyo

Hilary Kole

- June 26 & 27. (Tues. & Wed.)  Hilary Kole. The sound alone of Kole’s warm, embracing voice would almost be enough to make anything she does listenable.  But she raises the bar much higher with a combination of attractive musicality and compelling story telling. Blue Note Tokyo.    03.5485.0088.

- June 28 – July 1. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Sadao Watanabe. One of the first Japanese jazz artists to break through to international fame, saxophonist Watanabe, at 79, is still a master of the bebop genre. Blue Note Tokyo. 03.5485.0088.

Picks of the Week: July 12 – 17

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- July 12. (Tues.)  John Pisano’s Guitar Night.  With Mundell Lowe and bassist Jim Hughart.  Guitar Night’s always a pleasure, but here’s one not to miss – a pair of veteran jazz guitarists in action with the support of a fine bassist.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

Chris Botti

- July 13. (Wed.)  Chris Botti and Bobby McFerrin with the Yellowjackets.  One of the highlights of the Hollywood Bowl summer jazz schedule.  Botti’s trumpet playing, delivered with surging rhythms and an elegantly expressive melodic flow have currently established him as the best-selling American instrumentalist.  McFerrin is always a wonder and even more so when he’s having fun with the dynamic Yellowjackets players.  The Hollywood Bowl.   (323) 850-2000

- July 13. (Wed.)  Alex Iles and Bill Reichenbach Quintet.  A pair of primo trombonists get together with a sound and style that will hopefully recall the delights of Kai Winding and J.J. Johnson.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- July 14. (Thurs.)  The Bill Cunliffe Quartet.  “Bill in Brazil” The ever-versatile pianist displays his love of the irresistible rhythms and soaring melodies of Brazil.    Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.

Della Reese

- July 14. (Thurs.)  Della Reese.  “I’m still here, celebrating my 80^th birthday,” says the ever energetic Ms. Reese.  And indeed she is, still singing up a storm, bringing imagination and entertainment to everything she does.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

- July 15 & 16. (Fri. & Sat.)  Sarah McLachlan with the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra, Thomas Wilkens conducting.  Multi-Grammy winning McLachlan makes her Hollywood Bowl debut in her first tour with an orchestra.  She’ll sing songs from her recent CD, Laws of Illusion.  Hollywood Bowl.  (323) 850-2000.

- July 16. (Sat.)  Golden Boys: Frankie Avalon, Fabian Forte, Bobby Rydell.  Three of the teen idols of the ‘50s and ‘60s appear in the Cerritos season opener.  The Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.   (562) 916-8501.

- July 16. (Sat.)  An Evening with the Monkees. Forty five years after they first hit the television screens original members Davy Jones, Mickey Dolenz and Peter Tork revisit their catalog of hits.  Greek Theatre.    (323) 665-5857.

- July 16. (Sat.)   Rickey Woodard with the John Heard Trio.  Saxophonist Woodard’s hard swinging, harmonically and melodically adventurous improvisations are among the Southland’s great jazz delights.  Charlie O’s.  (818) 994-3058.

- July 16. (Sat.)  “From California With Love”  CD release party.  The CD and the performance benefit Japanese disaster relief.  Among the stellar list of performers are Jim Cox, Michael Dees, Sue Raney, Diane Hubka, Pinky Winters and many more.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

Freda Payne

- July 17. (Sun.)  Freda Payne.  The gorgeous Ms. Payne applies her far reaching interpretive skills to a Tribute to the Great Ladies of Jazz: Ella, Lena and Sarah.  Catalina Bar & Grill.   (323) 466-2210.

San Francisco

- July 17. (Sun.)  Shahrzad Sepanlou.  The lovely Iranian singers warm, expressive voice moves freely from traditional songs to intimate contemporary balladry.  Yoshi’s San Francisco.    (415) 655-5600.

- July l5 & 16.  (Fri. & Sat.)  Charlie Hunter/Scott Amendola Duo. Hunter’s seven string guitar virtuosity has a chance to fully express itself in the company of Amendola’s subtle drumming.  Freight & Salvage Coffeehouse.    (510) 644-2020.

Chicago

- July 14 – 17. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Steve Turre Quartet with pianist Willie Pickens. Jazz trombonist and remarkable conch shell player Turre explores colorful jazz territory with Chicago jazz great Pickens.  Jazz Showcase.    (312) 360-0234.

New York

- July 13. (Wed.)  Jane Bunnett and Hilario Duran.  Soprano saxophonist/flutist Bunnett and pianist Duran display some of the unusually eclectic Cuban material on their new album, Cuban Rhapsody.  Jazz Standard.  http://www.jazzstandard.com/red/index.html  (212) 576-2232.

July 14 – 17. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Airto.  The great Brazilian percussionist, fascinating with a group or as a soloist, plays with the all-star aggregation of  Mark Egan, bass, Jose Neto, guitar, Helio Alves, piano, and Lew Soloff, trumpet.  D Booker, the daughter of Airto and Flora Purim, will sing.  The Blue Note.   (212) 475-8592.

London

Charlie Parker

- July 12 & 13. (Tues. & Wed.)  “The Music of Charlie Parker”  Alto saxophonist Gilad Atzmon evokes the spirit and the soul of the great bebop alto saxophonist, performing – with a string ensemble – selections from Bird’s classic “with strings” recordings.  Ronnie Scott’s.    020 7439 0747.

Paris

- July 12. (Tues.) Ceu. Grammy-nominated singer/songwriter Ceu is an intriguing songwriter and a compelling performer, blending her unique skills with her admiration for Billie Holiday, Ella Fitzgerald and Lauryn Hill.    New Morning.    01 45 23 51 41.

Milan

- July 15. (Fri.)  Return To Forever IV.  Chick Corea, Lenny White, Stanley Clarke, Jean-Luc Ponty, Frank Gambale.  The latest incarnation of Return to Forever may well be the best one yet.  With Ponty and Gambale bringing their fiery skills to the dependable platform provided by Corea, White and Clarke, the results are musically irresistible.The Blue Note Milano.    02.69.01.68.88.

Berlin

- July 13 & 14. (Wed. & Thurs.)  Lionel Loueke and Raul Midon, the Duwala Malambo Projekt. A pair of uniquely idiosyncratic guitarist/singers find common ground in a wide open arena of improvisational adventuring they call the Duwala Malambo Projekt.  A-Trane International Jazz Club.   030/313 25 50.

Chris Botti photo by Tony Gieske.

Picks of the Week: June 14 – 19

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- June 14. (Tues.)  Motley Crue. L.A.’s heavy metal stars of the eighties (and beyond) take over the vast expanse of the Bowl for a tour through the many hits that have made them rock icons.   The Hollywood Bowl.    (323) 850-2040.

- June 15. (Wed.)  Sachel Vasandani Quartet.  At a time when male jazz vocalists are in surprisingly short supply, Vasandani is carving an intriguing musical pathway of his own.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

Angelique Kidjo

- June 16. (Thurs.)  Angelique Kidjo, Youssou N’Dour, Vusi Mahlasela.  A stellar ensemble of great African artists.  Count on them – and Kidjo in particular – to bestow an irresistible display of dynamic, musical excitement on their listeners.  The Greek Theatre.  (323) 554-5857.

- June 15. (Wed.)  Chuck Manning & Sal Marquez Quartet.  Two of the Southland’s most dependably hard swinging players team up for some straight ahead jamming.   Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.

- June 15 – 19.  (Wed. – Sun.)  The National Ballet of Cuba.  One of the world’s great classical ballet companies, the dancers’ performances reflect the exquisite style established by the founder, prima ballerina Alicia Alonso.  Segerstrom Center for the Arts.    (714) 556-2787.

- June 16. (Thurs.)  Mel Martin Quartet. Saxophonist Martin, who roves freely and impressively across the spectrum from bebop to avant-garde, makes a rare club stop in the Southland.  He’ll be backed by the equally versatile pianist Don Friedman, (who is also rarely seen in L.A., with bassist Tom Warrington and drummer Joe La Barbera.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

- June 16 – 19. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Hiromi.  The Trio Project.  Keyboardist Hiromi, always exploring new musical territory, has a go at the ever-changing vistas of the piano jazz trio.  She performs with bassist Anthony Jackson and drummer Steve Smith.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

Harry Connick, Jr.

- June 17.   (Fri.) Hollywood Bowl Opening Night.  Opening nights at the Bowl are always memorable events, glowing with stars.  This year, there will be performances by 2011 Hall of Fame inductees Harry Connick, Jr. and Gloria Estefan.  Also on the program: an exclusive live sneak preview of Cirque du Soleil’s first Hollywood production, IRIS – A Journey Through the World of Cinema.  Dame Helen Mirren hosts the evening, and Andy Garcia and Hilary Swank will serve as guest presenters.  Thomas Wilkens conducts the Hollywood Bowl Orchestra.  The Hollywood Bowl.   (323) 850-2040.

- June 18. (Sat.)  Filipina Ladies of Jazz.   Following up on last year’s Filipino Gentlemen of Jazz, this year’s program features a splendid array of female Filipina artists.  Pauline Wilson (of the group Seawind) headlines.  She’ll be joined by two rising young artists, Nicole David (who will duet with her father, singer Mon David) and soul jazz singer Jaclyn Rose.  They’ll be backed by the band of saxophonist Michael Paulo.   Ford Amphitheatre.     (323) 461-3673.

- June 18. (Sat.) Rickey Woodard.   Saxophonist Woodard brings high spirited, hard swinging life to every note he plays.  This time out, he’s backed by the John Heard Trio. Charlie O’s.   (818) 994-3058.

- June 18. (Sat.)  Phil Norman Tentet.  Saxophonist Norman’s eminently listenable ensemble is also a briskly swinging show case for many of the Southland’s (and the world’s) finest composers and arrangers.  Add to that a line up of all-star players, and expect an evening of memorable little big band jazz.  Vitello’s.  (818) 769-0905.

Roseanna Vitro

- June 18. (Sat.)  Roseanna Vitro “The Randy Newman Project”  Vitro, always a fascinating jazz singer, expands her horizons with her new CD, in which she explores the far-ranging, emotionally diverse musical catalog of Randy Newman.  It’s a remarkable album, and the live performance of its selections should make for a compelling musical evening.   Jazz Bakery Moveable Feast at Musicians Institute Concert Hall.    (310) 271-9039.

San Francisco

- June 14 & 15. (Tues. & Wed.)  Paula Morelenbaum.  Singer Morelenbaum’s deep linkage to the music of her Brazilian homeland in general, and to bossa nova in particular, reaches back to her work as a young singer with Antonio Carlos Jobim in the ‘80s and ‘90s.  Yoshi’s Oakland.    (510) 238-9200.

- June 18. (Sat.) Nikki Yanofsky. Still only 17, Yanofky’s recordings and live performances have convincingly established her as a rising star with extraordinary potential.   An SFJAZZ Spring Season concert at Herbst Hall.    (866) 920-5299.

Seattle

- June 16 – 19. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Ramsey Lewis.  “The Sun Goddess Tour.”  Keyboardist Lewis leads his electric band in a revisiting of the funk-driven sounds of his cross-over hit album, Sun Goddess.  Jazz Alley.     (206) 441-9729.

Chicago

Rudresh Mahanthappa

June 16 – 19. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Rudresh Mahanthappa.  Alto saxophonist Mahanthappa, who just received the Jazz Journalists Association Alto Saxophonist of the Year Award, His Indo-Pak Coalition, with Pakistani-American guitarist Rez Abbasi and drummer Dan Weiss is seeking, and finding, ways to synthesize jazz and the improvised musical forms of South Asia.  The results are often extraordinary.   Jazz Showcase.    (312) 360-0234.

New York

- June 14 & 15. (Tues. & Wed.)  The Dave Brubeck Quartet.  What is there to say that hasn’t already been said about the Brubeck Quartet.  Hearing the group, playing classic selections as well as new ventures, is tapping into living jazz history.  The Blue Note.  (212) 475-8592.

- June 14 – 19.  (Tues. – Sun.)  Chris Potter Underground.  One of the most consistently imaginative saxophonists of his generation, Potter leads a band filled with similarly adventurous players – drummer Nate Smith, guitarist Adam Rogers and bassist Fima Ephron.  Village Vanguard.   (212) 255-4037.

- June 15 – 19. (Wed. – Sun.)  Monty Alexander and the Harlem-Kingston Express.  Pianist Alexander and his group survey the musically delightful linkages between up town jazz and the rhythms of the Caribbean.   Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola.    (212) 258-9800.

Picks of the Week: May 3 – 8

By Don Heckman

 Los Angeles

Leon Russell

- May 3. (Tues.)  Leon Russell.  One of the great iconic figures of the golden era of rock makes a rare local appearance in a relatively small venue.  There’ll also be a special performance by Booker T. Jones.  The El Rey.   (323) 936-6400.

- May 3. (Tues.)  Emil Richards, Mike Lang, Abraham Laboriel, Joe Porcaro.   A quartet of L.A.’s finest, veteran jazzmen get together to provide a few effortlessly swinging lessons in the benefits of bebop and beyond.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905.

– May 4 & 5. (Wed. & Thurs.)  Josh Nelson’s “Kansas City-L.A Project.  Pianist Nelson leads  Hermon Mehari, trumpet, Bob Reynolds tenor saxophone, Ben Leiffert, bass and Zack Albetta, drums in a colorful musical excursion.  Wed. at Steamers in Fullerton (714) 871-8800
and on Thursday at the Blue Whale Bar in Los Angeles.   (213) 620-0908.

Roy Hargrovw

- May 4 – 8. (Wed.- Sun.)  Roy Hargrove Quintet. Trumpeter Hargrove is playing in every imaginable setting these days, but it’s always a special pleasure to hear him in a straight ahead, jazz quintet performance.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

- May 5. (Thurs.) Cinco de Mayo at the Conga Room.  For the sheer joy of music and movement, there’s no better place to celebrate Cinco de Mayo than the Conga Room.  And it’s especially sizzling this year with the electro music of Maria Daniela y Su Sonido Lasser, the three piece, electro-pop party band, Cosmopolitan and L.A.’s own Son Jarocho collective, Las Cafeteras.  The Conga Room.    (213) 745-0162.

- May 5. (Thurs.)  Jon Mayer.  Here’s another performance by a quartet of the Southland’s finest veteran jazzers.  Expect the mood to be swinging and the sounds to be memorable. With Rickey Woodard, tenor saxophone, Chris Conner, bass, Roy McCurdy, drums.   LAX Jazz Club at the Crown Plaza LAX.  (310) 258-1333.

- May 5 – 7. (Thurs. – Sat. )  Ravel with the Pacific Symphony.  Conductor Carlos Miguel Pietro leads the Pacific Symphony in a journey across the Iberian peninsula via the music of Albeniz (Iberia), Sarasate (Carmen Fantasy), De Falla (The Three Cornered Hat) and Ravel (Bolero and Tzigane.  Violinist Philippe Quint solos.  Segerstrom Center for the Arts.   (714) 556-2787.

Shirley MacLaine

- May 6. (Fri.)  Shirley McLaine.  It’s hard to know what to expect from any given appearance by the fascinating Ms. McLaine.  But there’s no doubt she’ll share some of her film moments with some revelations about her life, career and interests in spirituality.  Valley Performing Arts Center.    (818) 677-8800.

- May 6 & 7. (Fri. & Sat.)  The Mikado. One of Gilbert & Sullivan’s most entertaining musical delights, performed by the New York Gilbert & Sullivan Players.  Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.   (562) 916-8501.

- May 7. (Sat.)  Ceu.  Brazilian singer Ceu comfortably steps across genres – Brazilian music, pop, rock, jazz – in a single bound.  El Rey.     323) 936-6400.

- May 7. (Sat.)   Wavefest.  The 15^th annual Wavefest has morphed into something more than music to relax to.  There’ll be a lot more energy than that, and a lot more interest, too, in a program featuring Roberta Flack, KEM, Macy Gray and Sheila E. & the E. Family.  The Greek Theatre.   (323) 665-5857.

- May 8. (Sun.)  Alan Broadbent and Pat Senatore.  Pianist Broadbent and bassist Senatore have played with just about everyone in their long productive careers.  Here’s a chance to hear them exchanging musical ideas in an elegant, laid back setting.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.

Cameron Carpenter

- May 8. (Sun.)  Cameron Carpenter.  Carpenter isn’t just a brilliantly virtuosic organist, he’s also a charismatic entertainer who understands how to balance his astonishing technical displays with interpretive authenticity.  In this performance he finds the heartbeat of Brahms’ Academic Festival Overture  and Prelude and Fugue in G minor.  Disney Hall.  (323) 650-2000.

 San Francisco

- May 5 – 8. (Thurs. – Sun.)  The Crusaders.  Joe Sample, Wayne Henderson and Wilton Felder, three of the original Jazz Crusaders, revive their unique blend of jazz, soul, bop, blues and groove.  Yoshi’s Oakland.    (510) 238-9200.

- May 7. (Sat.)  Yanni.  One of the most popular international artists in the world, Yanni’s lyrical piano playing, combined with his warm and fuzzy orchestrations have sold more than 20 million albums worldwide.  The Warfield.    (415) 345-0900.

 Seattle

May 5 – 8. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Keiko Matsui.  Keyboardist Matsui was one of the first artists to make the most of the fertile territory between smooth jazz, fusion and New Age, and do so with a subtly appealing undercurrent of swing.  Jazz Alley.    (206) 441-9729.

New York

- May 3 – 8. (Tues. – Sun.)  Omar Sosa.  Cuban pianist/composer Sosa’s Afri-Lectric Quintet finds fascinating common ground with special guest Benin-born guitarist Lionel Loueke.  The Blue Note.   (212) 475-8592.

- May 3 – 8. (Tues. – Sun.)  The Julliard Jazz Quintet.  A cross-generational jazz quintet that balances scholarly know-how with inventive swing.  With Ron Carter, bass, Rodney Jones, guitar, Frank Kimbrough, piano, Carl Allen, drums and Ron Blake, saxophone. Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola.    (212) 258-9800.

Danny Aiello

- May 4. (Wed.)  Danny Aiello.  He’s given one memorable film performance after another – including a pair of Academy Award nominations along the way.  But Aiello’s singing chops are every bit as impressive.  The New York Times called it right when it said “Aiello has the bounce of his idols Bobby Darin, Frank Sinatra and Louis Prima, and the throaty lyricism of another idol, Tony Bennett.”  The Iridium.    (212) 582-2121.

Washington, D.C.

- May 6 & 7. (Fri. & Sat.)  Azar Lawrence Quintet.  Tough tenor Lawrence applies his muscular style to an encounter with the equally dynamic Eddie Henderson, trumpet, Benito Gonzalez, piano and Billy Hart, drums.  Blues Alley.    (202) 337-4141.

Boston

- May 5. (Thurs.)  The Mahavishnu Project. Drummer Gregg Bendian leads his sturdy band of players in the performance of the original Mahavishnu Orchestra’s complete Visions of the Emerald Beyond.  John McLaughlin offers his support: “To hear you guys playing those tunes in such an unbelievable way is quite amazing.”   The Regatta Bar.   (617) 395-7757.

 Chicago

- May 5 – 8. (Thurs. – Sun.)  The Eric Alexander/Harold Mayburn Quartet. Fiery saxophonist Alexander combines his hard driving, fast fingered skills with the veteran bop chops of pianist Mayburn.  Jazz Showcase.    (312) 360-0234.

London

PHaroah Sanders

May 2– 4. (Mon. – Wed.)  Pharoah Sanders Quartet. Adventurous, Grammy-winning tenor saxophonist Sanders continues the exploratory journeys he began in the avant-garde ‘60s.  Ronnie Scott’s.    020.7439.0747

May 8. (Sun.) The Atomic Mr. Basie.  Led by Pete Long,the Ronnie Scott’s Jazz Orchestra, with its stellar assemblage of U.K. jazz talent, performs the complete program from Basie’s classic 1957 album.  Ronnie Scott’s.    020.7439.0747

 Paris

May. 6. (Fri.)  The Kora Jazz Trio.  Keyboardist/composer Abdoulaye Diabate, kora player Djeli Moussa Diawara and percussionist Moussa Sissokho are creating a compelling fusion of the Mandinka tradition and the free flying, improvisational qualities of jazz.  New Morning.   01 45 23 51 41.

Picks of the Week: Nov. 16 – 21

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Johnny Mandel

- Nov. 16. (Tues.)  Johnny Mandel Big Band. Multiple Grammy winner, gifted composer/arranger/songwriter Mandel is one of the Southland’s true musical treasures.  This rare appearance with a big band serves as an early celebration of his 85^th birthday on November 23.   Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400. 

- Nov. 16. (Tues.)  Tamir Hendelman Trio.  Versatile pianist Hendelman – a favorite of Barbra Streisand’s – celebrates  the release of his new Destinations CD.  With Ryan McGillicuddy, bass, and Dean Koba, drums.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

- Nov. 16. (Tues.)  Le Kat.  “Jazzy, bluesy and a lil’ naughty” is the way Le Kat’s ultimate cabaret act – with its mix of swing, blues and bohemian sophistication – is described.  Ivan Kane’s Café Was. (323) 466-5400.

- Nov. 17. (Wed.)  Bill Cantos.  Pianist/composer Canto’s skills reach from primo accompaniment and solid solo work to the writing of songs with the distinct qualities of the Great American Songbook.  He appears with his wife, singer Mari Falcone.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.

- Nov. 17. (Wed.)  Jair Oliveira. The son of Brazil’s singer Jair Rodrigues, Oliveira is a gifted singer/songwriter/instrumentalist in his own right, bringing a contemporary touch to classic Brazilian rhythms.   The dynamic, always exciting singer/dancer Katia Moraes opens the show.   Conga Room. (213) 745-0162.

Lainie Kazan

- Nov. 18 – 20.  (Thurs. – Sat.)  Lainie Kazan. Name an area of the entertainment business and Kazan’s been there, as a star, from Broadway and cabaret to films and television.  But there’s nothing quite like hearing her bring songs to life in an intimate jazz setting.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

- Nov. 18. (Thurs.)  Grand opening of the LAX Jazz Club.  The jazz room at the Crowne Plaza LAX is transformed into the Southland’s newest .  The Dee Dee McNeil Quintet.  With Rickey Woodard, saxophone, Theo Saunders, piano, Richard Simon, bass and Quentin Denard, drums.  LAX Jazz Club.   (310) 258-1333.

- Nov. 19. (Fri.)  The John Altman Big Band. Alto saxophonist Altman’s resume also includes a long list of genre-crossing successes as a composer and arranger.  This time out, he fronts a group of L.A.’s finest players performing a collection of his swinging big band charts.  LACMA.   (323) 857-6000.

Richard Thompson

- Nov. 19. (Fri.)  Richard Thompson with Harry Shearer and Judith Owen.  “Cabaret of Souls.” Thompson’s musical satire — direct from London’s Royal Festival Hall — is a collection of new songs and music by the veteran guitarist, songwriter and former member of Fairport Convention.  With other guests, as well as the Idyllwild Arts Academy Orchestra.   UCLA Live at Royce Hall. (310) 825-2101.

- Nov. 19 & 20. (Fri. & Sat.)  Renaud Garcia-Fons.  Bassist Garcia-Fons takes his five-string instrument on a tour of music embracing jazz, classical, flamenco, new musette and stops in between.  Samueli Theatre OCPAC.  (714) 556-2787.

- Nov. 20. (Sat.)  Menahem Pressler and Richard Stoltzman with the New York Chamber Soloists Orchestra.  An evening of piano and clarinet classics from Mozart and Brahms.  Pianist Pressler performs Mozart’s Piano Concerto No. 17 in G Major. Stoltzman displays Mozart’s magical touch with the clarinet in the Clarinet Concerto in A Major. And together, they perform Brahms’ Sonata No. 1 for Clarinet and Piano. UCLA Live at Royce Hall.  (310) 825-2101.

Billy Childs

- Nov. 20. (Sat.)  Billy Childs Jazz Chamber Ensemble.  Childs continues his adventurous exploration of the common ground between jazz and classical with the Sonus String Quartet and his own group of regulars — Bob Sheppard, saxophones and flute, Larry Koonse, guitar, Carol Robbins, harp and Marvin “Smitty” Smith, drums.  Vitello’s.  (818) 769-0905.

- Nov. 21. (Sun.)  Sylvia Brooks.  The elegant Ms. Brooks applies her dark sound and sophisticated style to songs from her latest album Dangerous Liaisons.  Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

- Nov. 21. (Sun.)  Tom Scott. Saxophonist Scott takes a break from his busy career as an arranger, composer and conductor to reaffirm his impressive chops as an adventurous jazz player.   KJAZZ Sunday Champagne Brunch.    (323) 491-1000.

San Francisco

- Nov. 16 & 17. (Tues. & Wed.)  Nnenna Freelon. Six-time Grammy nominee Freelon is one of the uniquely original voices in the growingly crowded field of female jazz singers.   Yoshi’s Oakland.    (510) 238-9200.

- Nov. 17. (Wed.)  Kyle Eastwood.  Bassist and film composer Eastwood leads a sterling quintet of rising jazz artists.  Yoshi’s San Francisco. (415) 655-5600.

Denny Zeitlin

- Nov. 20. (Sat.)  Denny Zeitlin.  Solo jazz piano.  Musician/psychiatrist Zeitlin is always a pleasure to hear.  But never more so than when he’s playing solo, exploring the outer limits of his far-reaching improvisational imagination.  Piedmont Piano Company, Oakland.  

- Nov. 21. (Sun.) Dave Mason.  Founding member of Traffic and a Rock & Roll Hall of Famer, guitarist Mason is out there, affirming his credentials as a rock star.  Yoshi’s San Francisco.  (415) 655-5600.

New York

Sheila Jordan

- Nov. 16 & 17. (Tues. & Wed.)  Sheila Jordan and Steve Kuhn.  82^nd Birthday Celebration. Numbers don’t mean a thing when it comes to the birthdays of Sheila Jordan.  Still vivacious and full of spunk, she continues to define the meaning of great jazz singing.  And with long time associate Steve Kuhn at the piano, it gets even better.  Jazz Standard. (212) 447-7733.

- Nov. 16 – 20.  (Tues. – Sat.)  Phil Woods Quintet.  Veteran alto saxophonist Woods has surrounded himself with a group of the finest contemporary players: Brian Lynch, trumpet, Bill Mays, piano, Steve Gilmore, bass and Bill Goodwin, drums.  Birdland.   (212) 581-3080.

- Nov. 18 – 21. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Paul Bley and Charlie Haden.  Pianist Bley and bassist Haden have a history going back to the ‘60s.  Their empathic musical connections will be apparent in every fascinating note they play.   The Blue Note.   (212) 475-8592.

Billy Childs photo by Bobby Colomby.

Picks of the Week: Nov. 9 – 14

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- Nov. 9. (Tues.)  Roy Gaines and His Orchestra.  “Tuxedo Blues” Guitarist/blues singer Gaines’ resume includes stints with Ray Charles, Chuck Willis, Bobby “Blue” Bland and others.  The Living Blues “Comeback Artist of the Year,” he’s still in rare form.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.

- Nov. 9 – 13.  (Tues. – Sat.) Jimmie Vaughan.  With a career dating back to the Fabulous Thunderbirds, veteran guitarist/singer Vaughan — the older brother of the late Stevie Ray Vaughan — continues to be an impressive practitioner of the Texas blues style.  He makes a series of stops in the Southland this week  supporting  Plays Blues, Ballads & Favorites, his first new album in nine years.  Tues: The Grammy Museum.  Thurs: Belly Up in Solana Beach.  Friday: the Canyon Club in Agoura Hills.  Saturday: Brixton in Redondo Beach.

Lila Downs

- Nov. 10. (Wed.)  Lila Downs and Buika.  A pair of vibrant Latin artists – Mexican-American Downs and Spanish-born Concha Buika explore music reaching from flamenco and morna to traditional Mexican folk in a contemporary setting.  Disney Hall.  (323) 850-2000.

- Nov. 10. (Wed.)  Carol Welsman.  Tall, blonde and beautiful, Welsman is also a singer/pianist with stunning jazz skills as a vocalist and an instrumentalist.  Hopefully her program will include a few selections from her scintillating Peggy Lee tribute album, I Like Men.   Vitello’s. (818) 769-0905.

- Nov. 10. (Wed.)  Chuck Berghofer’s Midnight Jazz band.  One of the Southland’s most compelling jazz combinations returns to its original line up of Berghofer, bass, Gary Foster, alto saxophone, Joe LaBarbera, drums and Tom Ranier, piano.  Charlie O’s.   (818) 994-3058.

- Nov. 11. (Thurs.)  The Szymanowski Quartet.  The highly regarded quartet demonstrates its versatility with a program of Schubert, Beethoven and a work by its namesake, Polish composer Karol Szymanowski.  Samueli Theatre. Orange County Performing Arts Center.   (714) 556-2787.

Theresa Russell

- Nov. 12. (Fri.)  Mike Melvoin and Theresa Russell.  Veteran jazz pianist Melvoin teams up with singer/actress Russell in an adventurous tour through Great American songs.  Bassist Tony Dumas and drummer Ralph Penland energize the rhythm.   Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

- Nov. 12. (Fri.) The Littleton Brothers. The two veteran brothers – bassist Jeff and drummer Don – have played with an all-star array of leaders (from Herbie Hancock and Horace Silver to Billy Eckstine and Horace Tapscott).  Here they are, side by side, leading their own sterling group.  LACMA. (323) 857-6000.

- Nov. 12. (Fri.)  Hi-Fi: The Sounds of the 70s.  Featuring B.J. Thomas, Chuck Negron (Three Dog Night) and the 5^th Dimension in a memorable evening of hits.  Expect to hear, among others, “I’m So Lonesome I Could Cry,” “Joy To The World” and “Up, Up and Away.”   Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts. (562) 916-8500.

- Nov. 12. (Fri.) Brian Blade “Fellowship Band.” The superb drummer (guitarist and singer)  Blade is featured in a stellar ensemble of young players – Chris Thomas, Jon Cowherd, Myron Walden, Melvin Butler, Jeff Parker. A Jazz Bakery Movable Feast at Zipper Hall.   (310) 271-9039.  (Also at Yoshi’s Oakland on Wed. & Thurs.)

- Nov. 12. (Fri.)  Nnenna Freelon. Six-time Grammy nominee Freelon is one of the uniquely original voices in the growingly crowded field of female jazz singers.   The Broad Stage. (310) 434-3200.

- Nov. 12 – 14. (Fri. – Sun.)  The Los Angeles Philharmonic.  Susanna Malkki conducts a stylistically diverse program reaching from Strauss’ Also Spach Zarathurstra (central to the score of 2001: A Space Odyssey) and the teen-aged Mozart’s Violin Concerto No. 1, performed by violinist Martin Chalifour.  Disney Hall.   (323) 850-2000.

Robert Cray

- Nov. 13. (Sat.)  An Evening with Robert Cray.  Five time Grammy winner Cray successfully blends traditional and contemporary blues, while crossing over easily into soul, r&b and pop.  Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.    (562) 916-8500.

- Nov. 13. (Sat.)  Christine Ebersole. Tony Award winner Ebersole is a convincing musical actress, as adept with a tender ballad as she is with a whimsical patter song. The Broad Stage. (310) 434-3200.

- Nov. 13. (Sat.)  Rita Moreno. Actress, singer and dancer Moreno is one of the few artists to have won a Grammy, an Emmy, an Oscar and a Tony.  She makes a rare, up close and personal club appearance. Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.

- Nov. 13. (Sat.)  The Assad Brothers.  The gifted, guitar-playing Brazilian brothers, Sergio and Odair Assad belong to a family of talented guitarists.  Their eclectic repertoire reaches from folk, traditional and jazz works to classical standards and transcriptions of the Baroque keyboard literature.  CSUN Performing Arts Center.   (818) 677-3000.

- Nov. 13. (Sat.)  60^th Birthday Party. Dr. Bobby Rodriguez celebrates a landmark birthday in a high spirited musical encounter with Rickey Woodard. Backed by John Heard Trio.  Charlie O’s.   (818) 994-3058.

- Nov. 13. (Sat.)  Peter Sprague String Consort.  It’ll be 26 strings and three cymbals in action, as guitarist Sprague’s jazz trio blends sounds and rhythms with string quartet in a program reaching from jazz and classical to Brazilian samba.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

Helen Sung

- Nov. 14. (Sun.)  Helen Sung. Pianist Sung’s impressive versatility has served her well in a career that includes gigs with the likes of Wayne Shorter, Ron Carter, Clark Terry and others. Here’s a chance to hear her far-ranging musical skills in a piano trio setting. Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.  http://www.vibratogrilljazz.com

- Nov. 14. (Sun.)  Kim Richmond Quartet +1.  Alto saxophonist/composer Richmond appears with his quartet, enhanced by the added presence of woodwind artist Alex Budman.  Also in the quartet: David Roitstein, piano, Kristin Korb, bass and vocals, Jamey Tate, drums.  The Lighthouse Café.   (310) 376-9833.

- Nov. 14. (Sun.)  “The Grand Romance Riverboat Jazz Cruise” It’s a new Southland way to hear first rate jazz — on a short entertaining cruise on a replica of a Mississippi Paddle Steamer.  And it takes place every Sunday, this week featuring the Rickey Woodard Quintet. With Bobby Rodriguez, trumpet, Llew Matthews, piano, Richard Simon, bass, Roy McCurdy, drums.  Departing from Rainbow Harbor, Long Beach.  1 p.m. and 3:45 p.m.   The Grand Romance Riverboat Jazz Cruise. (562) 628-1600.

San Francisco

- Nov. 10 & 11. (Wed. & Thurs.)  Brian Blade “Fellowship Band.” The superb drummer Blade is featured in a stellar ensemble of young players – Chris Thomas, Jon Cowherd, Myron Walden, Melvin Butler, Jeff Parker. Yoshi’s Oakland.  (510) 238-9200.  (Also at a Jazz Bakery Movable Feast in Los Angeles on Friday.)

Hiromi

- Nov. 12 – 14.  (Fri. – Sun.)  Hiromi. Pianist Hiromi takes a break from her recent ensemble work with Stanley Clarke to perform as a soloist, showcasing selections from a soon to be released CD. Yoshi’s Oakland.   (510) 238-9200.

- Nov. 14. (Sun.) Vijay Iyer Trio.  Although his jazz skills are world class, Iyer also delves deeply into other musical genres and creative territories.  In 2009, he was voted – with good reason — #1 Rising Star Jazz Artist in Down Beat’s Critics Poll.  An SFJAZZ concert at the YBCA Forum.   (866) 920-5299.

- Nov. 14. (Sun.) Rosanne Cash. The gifted daughter of Johnny Cash, Rosanne Cash’s superlative career has generated ten Grammy nominations and eleven #1 hit singles.  She’ll perform selections from her 2009 album, The List.   An SFJAZZ concert at the Palace of Fine Arts Theatre.   (866) 920-5299.

New York

Jim Hall

- Nov. 9 – 13. (Tues. – Sat.)  Jim Hall Quartet.  Veteran guitarist Hall approaches his 80^th birthday (in December) by displaying his still extraordinary chops with the musically challenging ensemble of Greg Osby, alto saxophone, Steve Laspina, bass and Joey Baron, drums.  Birdland.  (212) 581-3080.

- Nov. 11 – 14. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Ottmar Leibert  “Evening of Solo Guitar.” One of the founders of the nouveau flamenco style, Leibert – who is also an ordained Zen Monk – plays an intimate evening of solo selections.  The Blue Note.   (212) 475-8592.

- Nov. 11 – 14. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Cyrus Chestnut Trio.  Pianist Chestnut says he likes to “construct melodies that tell stories.”  And he’s done that with everything from jazz standards to spirituals and Elvis Presley tunes.  This time out, he’ll offer tunes from his recently released CD, Journeys.  Jazz Standard.  (212) 447-7733.

Freda Payne

Nov. 12 – 14. (Fri. – Sun.)  Freda Payne Sings Ella Fitzgerald.  Not only will the lovely Ms. Payne channel the songs of Ella (A-Tisket, A-Tasket, Mack the Knife, etc.).  She’ll also add a few Lena Horne specialties, as well.  And — of course — her own inimitable Band of Gold.  Iridium.  (212) 582-2121.

South Carolina

- Nov. 11 – 13. (Thurs. – Sat.)  Earl Klugh’s Weekend of Jazz.  Golf, sun, ocean, jazz and a lot more.  A great way to spend a weekend — especially with a line up that includes Kyle Eastwood, Boney James, Jessy J, Earl Klugh, Fourplay.  Kiawah Island Golf Resort.  Kiawah Island, South Carolina.   (800) 576-1570.

Picks of the Week: Feb. 16 – 21

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

Rickie Lee Jones

- Feb. 16. (Tues.)  Rickie Lee Jones.  Her latest album, Balm in Gilead, affirmed that Jones is still a vital and imaginative singer and songwriter.  She’ll be performing selections from that CD as well as material from her long, productive career.  Vista Theatre, 4473 Sunset Blvd., L.A.  (323) 660-6639.

- Feb. 16. (Tues.)  Guitar Night at Vitello’s.  John Pisano with Dori Caymmi. Guitar night takes on a fascinating Brazilian tone tonight with the presence of Caymmi, a superb guitarist/singer/songwriter from one of Brazil’s first musical families. With luck, Dori will sing and play his lovely song, “O Cantador” (“Like A Lover” in the English version). Vitello’s. (818) 769-0905.

- Feb. 16. (Tues.)  Maria Volonte. Argentine singer Volonte’s lyrical style has been making convincing connections between the folkloric traditions of her country and the improvisational inventiveness of vocal jazz.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.   (310) 474-9400.

Houston Person

- Feb. 17. (Wed.)  Houston Person Quartet. Person’s authoritative, blues-driven tenor saxophone is an irresistible pleasure, whether he’s playing a driving up tempo or bringing a classic ballad to full-blooded life.  He’s backed by the sterling trio of pianist Bill Cunliffe, bassist Richard Simon and drummer Ralph Penland.  Spazio.  (818) 728-8400.

- Feb. 18.  (Thurs.)  Max Raabe & Palast Orchester. With his slicked-down hair, well-tailored tuxedo and jaunty manner, Raabe and his associates provide both a convincing and an immensely entertaining display of German pop music of the Weimar era.  Royce Hall.  UCLA Live.  (310) 825-2101.

- Feb. 18. (Thurs.)  Carol Welsman. Welsman, who celebrated Peggy Lee in her most recent album, “I Like Men,” is an authentic jazz artist.  Not a crossover cabaret performer, not a frustrated pop star – but a confident and gifted singer and pianist who knows, like Lee, the ways in which jazz can bring a song to life.  Spazio.   (818) 728-8400.

- Feb. 18. (Thurs.)  Sofia Rei Koutsovitis. Like Maria Volonte, Koutsovitis – who is based in New York — is an Argentine singer who brings subtle aspects of jazz to the tango rhythms of her roots.   Museum of Latin American Art.  Long Beach. http://www.molaa.org/Programs-and-Events/events-calendar.aspx (562) 437-1689.

- Feb. 18. (Thurs.)  The Midnight Jazz Band.  Chuck Berghofer, Gary Foster, Tom Ranier, Steve Schaffer.  Red Carpet Jazz Series picked the perfect ensemble – a collective of some of the Southland’s finest jazz artists – to celebrate its 1 Year Anniversary.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

- Feb. 18. (Thurs.)  Slumgum. Formed in 2006 when its members were students at CalArts, Slumgum – Jon Armstrong, tenor saxophone, Rory Cowal, piano, David Tranchina, bass and Trevor Anderies, drums – explore some of the outer limits of jazz improvising.  Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc.    (310) 474-9400.

Randy Newman

- Feb. 19. (Fri.) An Evening with Randy Newman. Each of Newman’s songs is a short story in itself, a brief, often sardonic passage in the life of a character who may, or may not, reflect aspects of Newman himself.  His latest album, “Harps and Angels,” affirms that his ability to create these remarkable musical narratives is as powerful as it was when he first arrived on the scene in the ‘60s.  And there’s no better way to experience him than in his rare, live appearances.  Royce Hall.  UCLA Live.  (310) 825-2101.

Sally Kellerman

- Feb. 19. (Fri.)  Sally Kellerman.  She may have been Hot Lips Houlihan at some point in her life, but Kellerman was a singer both before and after M*A*S*H.  And the jazz inflections in her style have become stronger and more adventurous every time she performs.  This time out, she’s backed by Rickey Woodard, tenor saxophone, Joel Scott, piano, Luther Hughes, bass and Paul Kreibich, drums. Jazz at the Radisson.  (310) 649-1776.

- Feb. 19. (Fri.)  Justo Almario.  The versatile saxophonist celebrates his 61^st birthday in the rhythmically supportive company of the John Heard Trio.  Charlie O’s.   (818) 994-3058.

- Feb. 20. (Sat.)  Peter Sprague String Consort.  Guitarist Sprague’s ensemble – basically a string quartet with his guitar, Bob Magnusson’s bass and Duncan Moore’s drums – is likely to play anything from Bach to Brubeck, from Chick Corea to Sprague’s own atmospheric compositions.  Vitello’s.   (818) 769-0905.

- Feb. 20. (Sat.)  Russian National Orchestra. The first Russian orchestra to win a Grammy (for its recording of Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf), the RNO will perform the Shostakovich Symphony No. 9 and the Tchaikovsky Violin Concerto (with violinist Stefan Jackiw).  Cerritos Center for the Performing Arts.   (562) 916-8501.

Tinariwen

- Feb. 20. (Sat.) Tinariwen plus special guests.  They started out as ambitious guitar players from the Touareg people of the Saharan desert.  And now, four albums later, their desert-rock blend of blues, Berber and Arabic sounds have made them one of international  music’s most entertaining ensembles.  Royce Hall.  UCLA Live.  (310) 825-2101.

- Feb. 20.  (Sat.)  10^th Annual Brazilian Carnaval. The big, flashy Carnaval event takes place this year in the equally flashy environs of Club Nokia. Featured performers are Bahia’s Trio Eletrico Armandinho, Dodo & Osmar.  Three DJs will spin additional Brazilian music all night, and the Brazilian Nites Samba Dancers will heat up the floor. Club Nokia.   (213) 765-7000.

San Francisco

Tuck & Patti

- Feb. 16 & 17. (Tues. & Wed.)  Trio Da Paz.  Guitarist Romero Lubambo, bassist Nilson Matta and drummer Duduka Da Fonseca play together in a style that can best be described as a definitive encounter between jazz and Brazil.  Yoshi’s San Francisco.   (415) 655-5600.

- Feb. 18 – 20. (Thurs. – Sat.)  Nancy Wilson. She doesn’t play clubs very often, so don’t miss this opportunity to hear one of the great jazz divas in action, up close and personal. Yoshi’s Oakland.   (510) 238-9200.

- Feb. 21. (Sun.)  “A Great Night in the Fillmore.” An evening filled with musical wonders, as diverse and entertaining as the programs that once took place at San Francisco’s legendary auditorium.  Bobby  Hutcherson, Tuck & Patti, Denny Zeitlin, The Wayne Wallace Latin Jazz Quintet, Cultural Heritage Choir with Linda Tillery, John Handy. Hosted by Rita Moreno and Chuy Varela.  A Benefit for the California Jazz Foundation.  Yoshi’s San Francisco.   (415) 655-5600.

New York

- Feb. 16 & 17. (Tues. & Wed.)  McCoy Tyner Trio. Always eager to stretch musically, Tyner adds some Latin jazz atmosphere with special guests Dave Valentin and Steve Turre.  The Blue Note.   (212) 475-8592.

Ann Hampton Callaway

Feb. 16 – 21.  (Tues. – Sun.)  Ann Hampton Callaway “Swings the Great American Songbook.”  She’ll swing it, for sure, but expect Callaway to express the lyrical heartbeat of everything she sings, as well.  Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola.  (212) 258-9595.

-Feb. 16 – 21. (Tues. – Sun.) The Robert Glasper Trio.  Pianist Glasper is doing an impressive job of exploring links between mainstream jazz and some contemporary pop genres, without losing the credibility of either.  Village Vanguard.  (212) 255-4037.

- Feb. 17 – 20. (Tues. – Sat.)  Dave Liebman, Richie Beirach, Ron McClure and Jeff Williams. Liebman’s 1974 album Lookout Farm was one of the innovative jazz albums of the decade.  He revisits it here with Beirach and Williams from the original Lookout Farm, and McClure from a later version of the band.  Birdland.  (212) 581-3080.

- Feb. 17 – 21. (Wed. – Sun.)  Cyrus Chestnut Trio.  Pianist Chestnut follows in the footsteps of Art Tatum, Teddy Wilson, Hank Jones and others, adding his own inimitable qualities of soul and gospel.  Jazz Standard.  (212) 576-2232.

Gay Marshall

- Feb. 18 – Mar. 18. (Thursdays)  Gay Marshall. PIAF: Queen of Heart. Edith Piaf has been receiving a lot of attention lately — all of it well deserved.  But no one is bringing as much creative authenticity to the Piaf revival as Marshall.  Singing in exquisite Parisian French, adding a few tunes done in her own English translations, she uses Piaf classics — “L’Accordeoniste,” “Non, Je ne regrette rien” — and less familiar items (“Avec Ce Soleil”) as the foundation for her own superbly lyrical interpretations.  The ghost of Piaf is there, but the substance is Marshall’s.  She performs every Thursday through March 18.  The Metropolitan Room.  (212) 206-0440.

Santa Cruz

- Feb. 21. (Sun.)  Martin Hayes and Dennis Cahill.   (831) 427-2227. Irish fiddle virtuoso Martin Hayes and Chicago guitarist Dennis Cahill play with a depth and intimacy that the New York Times describes as “a Celtic complement to Steve Reich’s quartets or Miles Davis’s Sketches of Spain.”  Kuumbwa.

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: July 13-19

By Don Heckman

Los Angeles

- July 13. (Mon.) Big Band 2000. Give Terence Love, the proprietor of Steamers, credit for keeping the tradition of Big Band Monday nights alive. This week, Bill Strout‘s Big Band 2000 recalls the glories and the hits of the Swing Era. Steamers. (714) 871-8800.

- July 14. (Tues.) Rickey Woodard Quartet. Saxophonist Woodard, one of the Southland’s great jazz treasures, performs with the equally valuable backing of pianist Art Hillary, bassist Richard Simon and drummer Roy McCurdy. Bar Melody. (310) 670-1994.

Smokey Robinson

- July 14. (Thurs.) Andy Martin Quartet. Trombonist Martin takes a night off from his busy schedule of performing with virtually every large jazz ensemble in town, to front his own quartet. Charlie O’s. (818) 994-3058.

- July 15. (Wed.) Smokey Robinson. The Motown legend celebrates the release of his latest album, Time Flies When You’re Having Fun. The Pacific Amphitheatre.

- July 15 – 19. (Wed. – Sun.) Kurt Elling, with the aid of Ernie Watts and Laurence Hobgood, revives songs from the iconic recording match-up of John Coltrane and Johnny Hartman.. Catalina Bar & Grill. (323) 466-2210.

- July 16. (Thurs.) Grant Geissman. Versatile guitarist Geissman’s quintet showcases selections from the new CD, Cool Man Cool, with saxophonist Brian Scanlon, pianist Emilio Palame, bassist John Belzaguy and drummer Ray Brinker. Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. (310) 474-9400.

- July 16. (Thurs.) Issa Bagayogo. The fast-fingered Malian master of the lute-like n’goni blends traditional sounds with rock, funk, dub and electronica. The Skirball Center. (310) 440-4500.

Ceu

- July 16. (Thurs.) Sgt. Garcia. Ricardo Lemvo & Makina Loca. The grooves will be flying across one border after another, with Garcia’s salsamuffin and Lemvo’s irresistible blend of salsa, rumba and soukous. The Twilight Dance Series at the Santa Monica Pier. HYPERLINK “http://www.twilightdance.org” http://www.twilightdance.org. (310) 458-8901.

July 17. (Fri.) Céu. One of the leaders of a new generation of female Brazilian singers who are creating a 21st century version of the stylistically inclusive MPB and Tropicalia of Brazil’s sixties and seventies. And when Céu is good, she’s very good, indeed. Get there early enough to hear some of the other acts, especially the superb — and not yet well-known in this country — Italian singer/songwriter  Patrizia Laquidara.  The Roxy. (310) 276-2222.

- July 18. (Sat.) Suzy Williams sings Literature in The Lit Show. Songs based on the words of Kurt Vonnegut, Dorothy Parker, Raymond Chandler, Truman Capote and more. Suzy’s 4th annual celebration of the linkages between songs and literature. Beyond Baroque, Venice. (310) 822-3006.

- July 18. (Sat.) Albita. Cuban-born Albita’s unique musical perspective reaches from the irrepressible rhythms of her native land to the boundary-less sounds of the contemporary dance floor. She’s truly one of a kind. Grand Performances. (213) 687-2159

- July 19. (Sun.) Houston Person Quartet. The soulful sound and blues-driven phrases of Person, backed by pianist Bill Cunliffe, bassist Richard Simon and drummer Ralph Penland — all of it in a delightful, Hollywood Hills setting. A-Frame Jazz. (310) 659-9169

Tierney Sutton

Highlight:

- July 19. (Sun.) “The Grammy Museum Salutes the Jazz Bakery.” The Jazz Bakery lives via the first of several Bakery-branded programs leading up (hopefully) to a re-opening in a new location. All artists are Grammy winners or nominees. Kenny Burrell, Hubert Laws, Alan Bergman, Alan Broadbent Trio, Tierney Sutton, Bill Henderson and Mike Melvoin Hosted by Jeff Garlin. Grammy Museum Sound Stage at the corner of Olympic Blvd. and Figueroa St. Jazz Bakery. (310) 271-9039.

July 19 (Sun.)  Shaila Durcal. “Descarga en CityWalk” — the annual free outdoor concert series produced by Telemundo and Mun2 kicks off its third season with the unnique song stylings of Shaila Durcal — daughter of lagendary vocalist Rocío Durcal.  Also on the bill — Mariachi Imperial and Beto Cortez.  The Citywalk at Universal Studios.  Descarga en CityWalk.

San Francisco

- July 16 – 19. (Thurs. – Sun.) Renee Olstead and Paula West. Olstead has been wowing audiences since — in 2003 at the tender age of 13 — she brought an afternoon crowd to their feet to cheer her unannounced appearance at the Playboy Jazz Festival in the Hollywood Bowl. But she needs to be in her best form with the superb, but still too little known West on the same bill.  Yoshi’s has also announced half priced tickets for the 10 p.m. shows on Friday and Saturday.  Check with the club for destails.   Yoshi’s San Francisco. (415) 655-5600.

New York City

- July 14 – 19. (Tues. – Sun.) Chuck Mangione. The cat in the hat, the always lyrical trumpeter/flugelhornist and the crafter of a collection of memorable jazz melodies, doesn’t make many club appearances. So don’t overlook this one. The Blue Note. (212) 475-8592.

Picks of the Week: April 7 – 12

By Don Heckman

 Los Angeles

 - April 7. (Tues.)  Saxophonist Rickey Woodard’s hard swinging, adventurous playing is the perfect opening act for this new jazz room.  Bar Melody – Bar & Grill.  (310) 670-1994.  www.barmelodyla.com.

 - April 8. (Wed.)  Katya and Marielle Labeque and Mayte Martin..  ”De Fuego y de Agua”  The elegant, pianist siblings join Catalonian singer Martin in an unlikely encounter between Spanish classical music and traditional flamenco. UCLA Royce Hall. (310) 825-2101.  www.uclalive.org

 - April 8. (Wed.)  Santa Barbara’s Mellonie Irvine brings her warm-toned, briskly swinging vocals to an appearance at Hollywood’s premiere jazz room. Catalina Bar & Grill.  (323) 466-2210.  www.catalinajazzclub.com.  

 - April 8. (Wed.) Manhattan Transfer. The intrepid quartet continue adding to their expanding definition of the glories of vocal quartet jazz. Cerritos Center.  (562) 467-8818  www.cerritoscenter.com

 April 8 – 11. (Wed. – Sat.)  Steve Coleman Sextet.  Cutting edge alto-saxophonist Coleman and his equally adventurous sextet slice open the box of contemporary jazz possibilities. The Jazz Bakery  (310) 271-9039.  www.jazzbakery.com.

 April 9. (Thurs.)  Lila Downs.  The Mexican-American’s startlingly diverse eclecticism is on full display in her Grammy-nominated CD, “Shake Away.”  Expect to hear everything from Fleetwood Mac and Lucinda Williams to Downs originals.. UCLA Royce Hall. (310) 825-2101.  www.uclalive.org

 - April 10 & 11. (Fri. & Sat.) Leonard Cohen.  The poet/singer/songwriter returns, selling out concert-sized venues wherever he goes.  And with good reason.  He’s one of the true ’60s/’70s originals.   Nokia Theatre. (213) 763-6030.   http://www.nokiatheatrelalive.com  

 - April 12. (Sun.)  Jennifer Leitham Trio.  Left-handed bass playing, delivered with dancing, swinging enthusiasm and imagination. Lighthouse Café.  (310) 376-9833.  www.lighthousecafe.net.

 San Francisco

 - April 8. (Wed.)  Take 6. A cappella meets the lush, moving harmonies of contemporary jazz in the always startling music of this remarkable ensemble. Yoshi’s San Francisco.  (415) 655-5600.  www.yoshis.com

 New York City

 - April 7 & 8. (Tues. & Wed.)  Allan Harris: Songs of Strayhorn. And what songs they are, starting with “Lush Life,” written – incredibly – when Strayhorn was still a teen-ager.  Harris brings the right sort of panache to a collection of music that deserves a far wider hearing.  Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola. (212) 258-9595.  www.jalc.org/dccc  

 - April 9 – 12. (Thurs. – Sun.)  Jimmy Scott & the Jazz Expressions. You haven’t really heard the full possibilities of a ballad until you’ve  heard it sung by Scott, at one of his glacial, but utterly captivating tempos.  Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola. (212) 258-9595.  www.jalc.org/dccc