Picks of the Week: Mar. 20 – 25

By Don Heckman Los Angeles – Mar. 21. (Wed.)  Zana Messia and the Balkan Soul Orchestra. Yugoslavian singer-songwriter Messia celebrates the release of her new album, Balkan Soul, featuring the arching melodies and gypsy rhythms of her songs.  Guest  performers will reportedly be in attendance as well.  Vitello’s.    (818) 769-0905. – Mar. 21. (Wed.)  Zakir… Read More Picks of the Week: Mar. 20 – 25

Picks of the Week: Feb. 6 – 12

By Don Heckman Los Angeles – Feb. 7. (Tues.)  Misha Piatigorsky and Sketchy Black Dog.  Winner of the 2004 Thelonious Monk Composers’ Competition, Piatigorsky applies his adventurous composition and piano playing skills within the offbeat string quartet sounds of the Sketchy Black Dog. Vibrato Grill Jazz…etc. http://www.vibratogrilljazz.com  (310) 474-9400. – Feb. 7. (Tues.)  Guitar Night. … Read More Picks of the Week: Feb. 6 – 12