The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, June 14-20

Ramsey Lewis with Henry Johnson and Joshua Ramos

© Andrea Canter

Finally, the weather is heating up, maybe drying out? Making the evenings perfect for getting out an enjoying live music. And the music is surely heating up as well, building up to our end-of-the-month Twin Cities Jazz Festival. Of course, any given weekend typically seems like a jazz festival around here. This weekend, KBEM brings yet another innovative project to local audiences, this time Destination Twin Cities with Butch Thompson and choreographer Sarah LaRose-Holland; the Atlantis Quartet returns to the Artists Quarter with tunes from their upcoming CD release; the edgy threesome Triose takes the Late Night slot at the Dakota; and Sidewalk Café opens the St Paul “Jazz in the Library” prelude to the festival. In the coming week, we welcome home Reid Anderson, this time without the Bad Plus as he collaborates with members of the SPCO on some new music; and for two nights, the Dakota hosts Ramsey Lewis and Dee Dee Bridgewater –together.

Big Gigs This Week

Jay Young

Friday, June 14. Bassist Jay Young is one of the best known sidemen in town, supporting such stars as Bruce Henry, Debbie Duncan, Ginger Commodore and more. But he’s taken on the role of bandleader a few times as well, usually with his Lyric Factory ensemble in tributes to Stevie Wonder and Earth, Wind and Fire. It’s EWF that he salutes tonight at the Dakota, in his usual company with son Ian Young (also on bass), saxman Pete Whitman, pianist Thom West, drummer Kevin Washington, and a vocal trio of Judi Donaghy Vinar, Sarah Greer, and Katie Gearty.

Triose'

Triosé is a three-way collaboration of some fast-rising stars, guitarist Vinnie Rose, bassist Jeremy Boettcher, and drummer Adrian Suarez, all graduates of the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire’s renowned jazz program. In the past year they have recorded covers and originals, live and in studio, keep steady gigs at Shanghai Bistro in Hudson and Eau Claire, and have been on stage at the Artists Quarter, Café Maude and tonight, the Dakota, on the Late Night shift.

Bryan Nichols

At the Black Dog, an outstanding collaboration continues the Community Pool: Deep End series curated by Nathan Hanson and Brian Roesslar—as they bring in monster keyboardist Bryan Nichols for some inventive mayhem.

Friday-Saturday, June 14-15. Surely one of the most hip and inventive of local jazz ensembles, the Atlantis Quartet has built a large following over its seven-year run, no surprise given the engaging nature of their mostly original music and on-stage performance. Unquestionably modern and unerringly accessible, the AQ (Zacc Harris, Brandon Wozniak, Chris Bates, Pete Hennig) returns to the Artists Quarter this weekend, no doubt sharing some of the new tunes on their upcoming CD.

Butch Thompson

We’ve had the great fortune to enjoy some new productions from KBEM, fueled in part with Legacy funding—our tax dollars at work! This weekend, “Destination Twin Cities” features a collaboration between trad piano master Butch Thompson and choreographer Sarah LaRose-Holland and her Kinetic Evolution dance troupe, with three performances at the Lab Theater in the Minneapolis Warehouse district (Friday night, Saturday matinee and Saturday night). The gist of the show is the unique history of the Twin Cities, from Swede Hollow to 60s counter culture Minneapolis and more.  Making a cameo appearance will be songbird Maud Hixson.

Sidewalk Cafe'

Sunday, June 16.  A few years ago, the Twin Cities Jazz Festival and St Paul Library system forged a partnership to bring jazz to St Paul neighborhoods as a jump-start to the Twin Cities Jazz Festival. The first of three “Jazz in the Library” performances takes place this afternoon at the Central library in downtown St. Paul, featuring the swinging trio, Sidewalk Café. Hot off the release of a new CD (Crème Brulée), this band of string virtuosos (Gary Schulte on violin, Reynold Philipsek on guitar, Jeff Brueske on bass) will kick-off festival activities in joyful fashion.

Dean Magraw

Monday, June 17. Dean Magraw has been performing all over the area lately, but this will be an extra special evening when he headlines at Jazz Central, the underground studio known for presenting new artists and veterans in new configuration with new music. Plus it is perhaps the most intimate jazz space in the Upper Midwest!

Tuesday, June 18. The Artists Quarter has been saving Tuesday nights for the house timekeepers, Billy Peterson and Kenny Horst, in varying formats with inventive musicians. Tonight, one such artist, Brandon Wozniak, joins Billy and Kenny for a night of pure magic. Brandon is one of the most versatile jazzers in the region, and particularly creative when he’s given the space to cut loose.

Reid Anderson

Tuesday-Wednesday, June 18-19. Postponed due to the now-resolved SPCO lock-out, Bad Plus bassist Reid Anderson comes home for two nights of collaboration with members of the SPCO in the orchestra’s rehearsal space (408 St Peter, St Paul), part of the Liquid Music series. Reid’s first full-length work, The Rough Mixes, features SPCO violinists Steven Copes and Sunmi Chang and Mn Orchestra cellist Anthony Ross, as well as acclaimed jazz percussionist Jeff Ballard (Brad Mehldau Trio, Joshua Redman’s Elastic Band) and Anderson on electronics; video design by Brooklyn-based architect Cristina Guadalupe. Says Reid, “The meeting place of elements – a shoreline, for example – is always new, unstable, mysterious. And mystery is what I love most in music.”  

Wednesday, June 19. The second Jazz in the Library gig features an early evening with the George Maurer Trio at the Merriam Park Library. Keyboardist, bandleader, composer and arranger George Maurer always brings in a crowd, and his  arrangements are always savvy and dance-worthy.

Dee Dee Bridgewater

Wednesday-Thursday, June 19-20.  Two of the most accomplished musicians in modern jazz get together on the stage of the Dakota – Ramsey Lewis and Dee Dee Bridgewater. Collaborators earlier in their careers, each has forged a signature jazz persona. Lewis is best known for hits like “The In Crowd,” “Hang On Sloopy” and “Wade In The Water”; his music has always had wide appeal with its tinges of gospel, soul and R&B. Dee Dee Bridgewater defines the word “entertainer” – winner of Broadway’s Tony Award, London’s Laurence Olivier Award, France’s Victoire de la Musiqe, and three Grammy Awards, as well as host of the award-winning NPR series, Jazz Set. Recent projects have included Red Earth (the music of Mali) and Eleanora Fagan (Billie Holiday).

More Jazz Every Night!

Be sure to check live jazz calendars on Jazz Police and KBEM sites. Also find a growing number of events on the Jazz Near You site, a service of All About Jazz. A few more gigs of note:

Friday, June 14. Irv Williams and Peter Schimke, Happy Hour at the Dakota; Arne Fogel at Parma; Lee Engele with Reynold Philipsek at The Wine Market; Todd Harper, early set at the Black Dog; Chris Lomheim and Gordy Johnson at the Icehouse; Firefly with Jello Slave, late set at the Icehouse

Saturday, June 15. Charmin and Shapira at Midtown Global Market (12:30 pm); JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske at the Lobby Bar (St Paul Hotel); Joel Shapira Trio at Loring Pasta Bar; Benny Weinbeck Trio at Parma; Lila Ammons Quintet at Honey;  Phil Aaron and Adam Wozniak at the Icehouse; Pavel Jany Trio in the Jazz Lounge, Hotel Ivy; St. Peter Street Stompers at the Red Stag

Sunday, June 16. Robert Everest, brunch at Maria’s Café; Zacc Harris Trio at Riverview Wine Bar; Jerry O’Hagan Orchestra with Charmin Michelle at Cinemal Ballroom

Monday, June 17. Charmin Michelle and Denny Malmberg at Fireside Pizza; Headspace at the Artists Quarter; Southside Big Band at Lake Harriet Bandshell; Jazz Implosion at the Icehouse (Santiago, Duke, Wozniak and Hurtado)

Tuesday, June 18. Patty and the Buttons at Café Maude (Penn Av); Cory Wong Quartet, early set at the Artists Quarter; Roseville Big Band at Frank Rog Amphitheater (Roseville); Café Accordion at Loring Pasta Bar; Explosion Big Band at Jazz Central

Steve Kenny and the Bastids

Wednesday, June 19. Charmin Michelle and Denny Malmberg at Fireside Pizza; Sister Swing (Rhonda Laurie and Maryann Sullivan) at the Eagles' Club; Zacc Harris Trio at Café Maude (Penn Av); Steve Kenny and the Bastids at the Artists Quarter, followed by the Doug McDonald Trio; Classic Big Band at Como Lakeside Pavillion; Larry McDonough at Three Crows (Delano); Graydon Peterson Quartet at Jazz Central

Thursday, June 20. Vinnie Rose at Adagio Pizza Factory; Pete Whitman X-Tet at the Artists Quarter; Beasley’s Big Band at Wabasha Street Caves; Vocal Night at Jazz Central;  Rhonda Laurie at Barbette

 

Coming Soon!

. June 21, Maud Hixson at Parma

. June 21-22, Mississippi (Whitman, Schimke, Bailey, Washington) at the Artists Quarter

. June 23-24, David Murray Infinity Quartet with Macy Gray at the Dakota

. June 23, Ticket to Brasil at Lake Harriet Bandshell

. June 25, Adam Meckler Orchestra at Jazz Central

. June 26, Salsabrosa (Jazz in the Library), Riverview Library

. June 27-29, Twin Cities Jazz Festival with Cyrus Chestnut, Kenny Werner, Matt Slocum, Ariel Pocock, JazzMN Big Band, Jon Weber and more

. June 28, Ginger Commodore at the Dakota

. July 3, Lulu’s Playground at the Artists Quarter

. July 5-7, Iowa City Jazz Festival with Pharoah Sanders, Fred Hersch, Charlie Hunter, Christian Scott, Lonnie Smith and more

. July 8, Milo Fine Free Jazz Ensemble at Homewood Studios

. July 8-9, Pharoah Sanders at the Dakota

. July 13, St Croix Vineyards Jazz Festival in Stillwater (Atlantis Quartet, Patty Peterson and more)

. July 14, PipJazz Sundays with Louis Alemayehu at Landmark Center

. July 19, Maud Hixson at Parma

. July 23, Badi Assad at the Dakota

. July 25, Benefit for Jeremy Walker at the Dakota

. July 27, Dakota Street Fest (Nicollet Mall)

. August 17, Burnsville Art and All That Jazz Festival, Nicollet Commons Park (Burnsville)

David Murray, coming to the Dakota, June 23-24

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, June 7-12

Hugh Masekela returns to the Dakota, June 11th

© Andrea Canter

The weather is unpredictable. It might be warm and sunny, it might be cool and damp. Odds favor the latter given the last few weeks. What is predictable is the busy weekend in local jazz, spilling into the coming week with some outstanding visitors. Play it safe and carry and umbrella, but don’t even think of staying home.

Big Gigs This Week

Friday, June 7.  With their updated spins on hot club swing, Sidewalk Café has become one of the more popular “gypsy jazz” ensembles in the Twin Cities. Now they have a new recording, dubbed Crème Brulee, and it’s anything but froth. Violinist Gary Schulte, guitarist Reynold Philipsek and bassist Jeff Brueske celebrate the CD release at the 318 Café in Excelsior. All compositions come from either Philipsek or Schulte. These are three virtuoso string experts, and while you will likely be moved to tap your toes, be sure to keep your ears engaged as well. Your cover of $12 includes a copy of the CD.

At the Dakota, Nicole Henry makes a long-awaited return. Dubbed “the vocal love-child of Whitney Houston and Sarah Vaughan” by the Miami Herald, Henry brings a jazz sensibility to a broad book of songs, with her latest CD covering beloved songs of the 70s.

Dean Granros

Friday-Saturday, June 7-8.  Once a monthly gig at the Artists Quarter, How Birds Work now comes together only a few times each year, and this weekend is one of those times. This long-standing quartet of Dean Granros, Peter Schimke, Chris Bates and Kenny Horst has always been teetering on the edge, yet manages to keep the music accessible and engaging. It’s particularly a treat to see Dean Granros, who seldom plays in town now that he’s become a Wisconsin resident.

Bobb Fantauzzo of JazZen

Saturday, June 8. Tonight, KBEM sponsors an unusual program at Sundin Hall of Hamline University, “A Weaving of Traditions” featuring the ensemble JazZen and Native American vocalist/ percussionist Lyz Jaakola. The idea here is to look at the “weaving” of native music with jazz, with special arrangements of the music of some of the greats names in jazz who are themselves at least part Native American—Duke Ellington, Oscar Pettiford, Dave Brubeck and more. Bobb Fantauzzo leads JazZen and will be playing a variety of Native American flutes.

Pavel Jany

Tonight, a new jazz venue launches at Porter and Frye in the Hotel Ivy. Saturday nights will feature music in the “jazz lounge” in the restaurant’s lower level. Guitarist Pavel Jany is curating the music, and tonight starts off with Jany, pianist Chris Lomheim and bassist Dan Weston. Upcoming Saturday nights will feature Jany, Lomheim and Andrew Foreman; Linda Peterson; and Doug Little.

Another series ends its season, as Jazz at Studio Z concludes with a night devoted to Young Lions—Courageous Endeavors (Brian Courage, Miguel Hurtado, Joe Strachan and Nelson Devereaux) and Mancrush (Lars-Erik Larson with youngish veterans Zacc Harris, Bryan Nichols and Brandon Wozniak). Courageous Endeavors has a busy night, joining another young lion, trumpeter and newly minted New England Conservatory grad Jake Baldwin, for the Late Night at the Dakota gig.

Dan Musselman

Sunday, June 9. A few years ago, pianist Dan Musselman, just a year past his college degree from McNally Smith, had the audacity to release a debut CD of solo, original compositions. This afternoon, he leads a trio and quartet in celebrating another recording of original works, including a 5-part suite based on five books of the bible and additional compositions. Musselman provides detailed commentary about the biblical tales and musical devices he uses on his website, but taking the music at face value is a rewarding experience as well. His special guest will be trumpeter Hermon Mehari, a young and powerful voice that we will hear more from soon.

John Penny

PipJazz Sundays welcomes all dads—dads get in free with a son or daughter at Landmark Center when Pippi Ardennia welcomes special guest, guitarist John Penny and young piano monster Will Kjeer as this month’s youth artist. Penny has been part of the Twin Cities jazz scene for more than 30 years and is finally getting the attention he deserves for his original compositions and Brazilian-influenced guitar. It’s not going to take Will Kjeer 30 years—or even 3 years. This 16-year-old already is grabbing pro gigs, including the piano chair with Steve Kenny and the Bastids and his own gigs as leader at Jazz Central and the Artists Quarter.

Connie Evingson

Connie Evingson’s “Jazz at the Jungle” series continues with her salute to the music of Dave Frishberg. Her special guest is pianist Jon Weber, best known in the Twin Cities for hosting the festival jams at the AQ during the Twin Cities Jazz Festival. Frishberg’s old pal Dave Karr will also be on hand as Connie and the band reprise music from her Frishberg project, Little Did I Dream. (She’s doing two shows, at 4 and 7:30 pm.)

Monday, June 10^th. One of my favorite things about the programming at Jazz Central is the opportunity to hear some well-established musicians in new contexts. Tonight, the spotlight is on saxophonist Clay Pufahl. Clay is often on the bandstand with large ensembles like JazzMN and the X-Tet, but here is a rare chance to hear him leading a small ensemble. And Monday night means a late set jam – you never know who will join in.

Hugh Masekela

Tuesday, June 11. Trumpeter Hugh Masekela has performed the music of his native South Africa several times on the Dakota stage in the past decade, but this show brings him together with veteran jazz pianist Larry Willis. Over his career, Masekela has used his music to help focus attention on the fight against apartheid, leaving critics doubting his jazz abilities.  Yet he studied with the best at the Manhattan School of Music—Donald Byrd, Herbie Hancock, and his touring partner, Larry Willis. Recently they released the four-disc set, Friends, leaving no doubt as to Masekela’s jazz intentions.

Daniel Duke

Wednesday, June 12. Minneapolis South and St Paul Central have long been fertile breeding grounds for new generations of jazz musicians. About ten years ago, budding artists Javier Santiago (piano) and Miguel Hurtado (drums) were finding their way in youth bands at South and in the community; across the river, bassist Daniel Duke honed his chops at Central; both Javi and Daniel were in the first edition of the Dakota Combo. Javi went on to the Brubeck Institute and New School for Jazz, Miguel studied at Manhattan School of Music, and Daniel at William Paterson University. And every summer, they found gigs, at the Dakota, Artists Quarter, and at “house parties” hosted by Daniel’s mom. Javi and Daniel stayed on the East Coast, Miguel is now a first-call drummer in the Twin Cities. Tonight, the trio performs at the Artists Quarter. It will be an exciting reunion.

Albare (photo from artist)

Thursday, June 13. A lot of us are probably unfamiliar with Albare (aka Albert Dadon), a Moroccan born, globally raised, Australian-based guitarist who brings his current jazz ensemble to the Dakota. With influences from Wes Montgomery to George Benson, Albare is a leader on the Australian jazz scene, touring with pianist Osmany Gonzalez Paredes, Cuban bassist Yunior Terry, and Venezuelan drummer Pablo Bencid. Jazz Times noted that Albare’s guitar “is nearly an extension of himself. …the guitar is not just an instrument, but a partner in music.”

An exciting visitor comes to the Artists Quarter tonight—pianist Lee Tomboulin, recently on the faculty of Lawrence Conservatory, one-time member of the University of North Texas One O’Clock Jazz Band, and founding member of the Brazilian/Uruguayan ensemble Circo. Equally exciting is Tomboulin’s locally based band—Adam Meckler, Pete Whitman, Dave Milne, Brian Courage and Mac Santiago.

More Jazz Every Night

Be sure to check live jazz calendars on Jazz Police and KBEM sites. Also find a growing number of events on the Jazz Near You site, a service of All About Jazz. A few more gigs of note:

Friday, June 7. Irv Williams and Peter Schimke, Happy Hour at the Dakota; Lee Engele with Phil Aaron and Tom Lewis at Parma; Chris Lomheim and Gordy Johnson at the Icehouse

Jana Nyberg Group

Saturday, June 8. Charmin & Shapira, Chicago Avenue BBQ and Music Fest; Jana Nyberg Group at Hell’s Kitchen; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske at the Lobby Bar (St Paul Hotel); Benny Weinbeck Trio at Parma; Jon Pemberton Trio at Loring Pasta Bar; Phil Aaron and Adam Wozniak at the Icehouse

Sunday, June 9. Patty and the Buttons, brunch at the Aster Café; Robert Everest, brunch at Maria’s Café; Minnesota Jazz on the Prairie Festival (River City Jazz Orchestra, Bend in the River Big Band, Just Friends Big Band, Acme Jazz Company, Jazz on the Prairie Big Band) at Staring Lake Park (Eden Prairie); Zacc Harris Trio at Riverview Wine Bar; Jerry O’Hagan Orchestra with Charmin Michelle at Cinema Ballroom

Monday, June 10. Headspace at the Artists Quarter; Charmin Michelle and Denny Malmberg at Fireside Pizza; Reynold Philipsek, Gary Schulte and Lee Engele at the Hilde Stage (Plymouth); JT’s Jazz Implosion at the Icehouse; Neighborhood Trio at Barbette

Tuesday, June 11. Cory Wong Quartet followed by Bryan Nichols/Billy Peterson/Kenny Horst at the Artists Quarter; Cedar Avenue Big Band at Jazz Central; Joel Shapira Trio at Hell’s Kitchen

Wednesday, June 12. Charmin Michelle and Denny Malmberg at Fireside Pizza; Steve Kenny and the Bastids, early show at the Artists Quarter; Chris Bates and Zack Lozier at Jazz Central; Lee Engele and Joel Shapira at Centennial Lakes Park Amphitheater; Rhonda Laurie at Three Crows (Delano)

Thursday, June 13. Minnesota Jazz Orchestra at Wabasha Street Caves; Jazz on the Prairie Big Band at Lake Harriet Bandshell; Southside Aces Tribute to Doc Evans at the Eagles Club; Jon Pemberton Trio at the Red Stag; Gypsy Mania at Barbette

Coming Soon!

. June 14, Jay Young’s Tribute to Earth, Wind and Fire at the Dakota

. June 14-15, Destination Twin Cities with Butch Thompson and Sarah LaRose-Holland at the Lab Theater

. June 14-15, Atlantis Quartet at the Artists Quarter

. June 15, Lila Ammons Quintet at Honey

. June 16, Sidewalk Café (Jazz in the Library), St Paul Central Library

. June 18-19, Reid Anderson, Liquid Music at 408 (SPCO)

. June 19, George Maurer Group (Jazz in the Library), Merriam Park Library

. June 19, Doug McDonald Trio at the Artists Quarter

. June 19-20, Ramsey Lewis Trio with Dee Dee Bridgewater at the Dakota

. June 20, Pete Whitman’s X-Tet at the Artists Quarter

. June 21-22, Mississippi (Whitman, Schimke,

. June 23-24, David Murray Infinity Quartet with Macy Gray at the Dakota

. June 26, Salsabrosa (Jazz in the Library), Riverview Library

. June 27-29, Twin Cities Jazz Festival with Cyrus Chestnut, Kenny Werner, Matt Slocum, Ariel Pocock, JazzMN Big Band, Jon Weber and more

. June 28, Ginger Commodore at the Dakota

. July 5-7, Iowa City Jazz Festival with Pharoah Sanders, Fred Hersch, Charlie Hunter, Christian Scott, Lonnie Smith and more

. July 8, Milo Fine Free Jazz Ensemble at Homewood Studios

. July 8-9, Pharoah Sanders at the Dakota

. July 14, PipJazz Sundays with Louis Alemayehu at Landmark Center

. July 23, Badi Assad at the Dakota

. July 27, Dakota Street Fest (Nicollet Mall)

Reid Anderson and musicians from the SPCO -- Liquid Music at 408 St Peter on June 18-19

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, May 31-June 6

 

Pat Moriarty and Phil Hey Reunite at the Artists Quarter, June 5th

© Andrea Canter

Patios are open, lilacs have bloomed, our first summer storms have thundered through. It’s time for outdoor band concerts, neighborhood festivals, and always, more music.

Big Gigs This Week

Nichola  Miller

Friday, May 31. After taking a maternity break, Nichola Miller is back on stage, swinging and sassy as ever. I caught her “return” gig at Hells’ Kitchen Wednesday night, and now she’s back for another night in Hell, this time with partner Tanner Taylor.  Baby Charlie might sing before he can talk!

Friday-Sunday, May 31-June 2. Sometimes our internationally acclaimed jazz bands are more often on the road than here at home. And a band like Happy Apple has to coordinate 3 globe-trotting musicians’ schedules. The stars align this weekend, however, with Mike Lewis, Erik Fratzke and Dave King together on the Artists Quarter stage for three nights. King is just back from a European tour with the Bad Plus, but he’ll nevertheless be at full throttle.

Mike Lewis of Happy Apple

Monday, June 3. Need a midday break? The always-fun and always savvy Adam Meckler Orchestra performs in Rice Park (St Paul) at noon. You can find something tasty from one of the food trucks or nearby cafés, and hopefully it will be one of our rare dry days! Tonight, Jazz Central continues to promote new and veteran musicians, this time putting the spotlight on young Will Kjeer. Will has another year of high school ahead of him, but a number of first-class gigs behind him, including at the Artists Quarter where he currently holds the piano chair for Steve Kenny and the Bastids. You gotta hear this guy.

Zacc Harris

Tuesday, June 4. Busy jazz day! If it’s the first Tuesday of the month, then it’s Dean Magraw and Davu Seru at the Black Dog. This guitar/percussion duo has been holding intimate conversation at the Black Dog for the past year plus. Down the street at the Artists Quarter, it the first of three consecutive Tuesdays with Billy Peterson and Kenny Horst creating trio magic with one of the area’s finest – tonight with guitarist Zacc Harris. (Watch for Bryan Nichols and Brandon Wozniak in the following weeks.)

It’s big band night at Jazz Central, tonight featuring the Bill Simonsen Big Band. Trumpeter Simonsen may have one of the most eclectic resumes in the Twin Cities –from studying and leading bands in Norway to playing locally with the Wolverines Classic Jazz Orchestra, JazzMN Orchestra and Cedar Ave Big Band, from leading a band for the North Stars hockey team to backing such notables as Cab Calloway, Joan Rivers, Mitzi Gaynor, the Temptations, and the Four Tops. As Tom Surowicz noted in the Strib, Bill’s big band may be the best the you’ve never heard!

Vinnie Rose, Triose'

Café Maude on Penn Avenue continues to offer live music, including jazz, at least two nights per week. Tonight, it’s Triosé, the hip relatively new trio with Vinnie Rose, Jeremy Boettcher and Adrian Suarez. Nice to have the guys right in the heart of the city – you can usually catch them at one or another Shanghai Bistro on weekends.

Jana Nyberg

Wednesday, June 5. Another midday diversion – Maryann Sullivan and Rhonda Laurie team up as Sisters Swing over the lunch hour at Landmark Center.

And it’s a busy night in the Cities. The Jana Nyberg Group celebrates “Foodie Night” at the Dakota with their enticing takes on jazz classics, some pop covers, and some original music from vocalist/ flautist Jana.  Pianist Mike Vasich makes a guest appearance. Over at Jazz Central, the Illicit Sextet reprises their recent CD release gig, blowing tunes from Chapter Eleven. All original music!

Across the river at the Artists Quarter, free-improvising Pat Moriarty and Phil Hey recreate their 1970s duo collaboration, sandwiching  a duet set in between two sets of “Round Trip” with Chris Thomson and Tom Lewis, a recreation of their Ornette Coleman repertory band of the late 70s-early 80s.

Thursday, June 6.  It’s Vocal Night at Jazz Central, tonight featuring two swinging soulmates, vocalist Vicky Mountain and pianist Tanner Taylor.  At the Artists Quarter, Vicky’s usual pianist Chris Lomheim brings his trio to the stage – his instrumental gigs don’t come often enough!

More Jazz Every Night

Be sure to check live jazz calendars on Jazz Police and KBEM sites. Also find a growing number of events on the Jazz Near You site, a service of All About Jazz. A few more gigs of note:

Friday, May 31. Todd Harper at the Black Dog; Nachito Herrera at the Dakota followed by the Kevin Washington Quartet (Late Night)

Saturday, June 1. Jazz on the Prairie Big Band at Round Lake Park (Eden Prairie);  Paul Harper Trio at the Loring Pasta Bar; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske at the Lobby Bar (St Paul Hotel); Benny Weinbeck Trio at Parma

Sunday, June 2. Robert Everest, brunch at Maria’s Café;  Zacc Harris Trio at the Riverview Wine Bar; Jerry O’Hagan Orchestra with Charmin Michelle at Cinema Ballroom

Denny Malmberg

Monday, June 3. Southside Aces at Famous Dave’s (Uptown); Paula Lammers and Denny Malmberg at Fireside Pizza; Southside Big Band at Centennial Lakes; BBB Jazz Orchestra at Lake Harriet Bandshell; Jazz Implosion at the Icehouse with Bryan Nichols, Brian Courage, Jay Epstein and Park Evans; Tommy and the Liebermen at the Dakota; Russ Peterson Big Band with Charmin Michelle at the Old Log Theater

Tuesday, June 4. Cory Wong Quartet, early show at the Artists Quarter; Beasley’s Big Band at O’Gara’s

Wednesday, June 5. Connie Evingson with Dave Karr and Tanner Taylor, "Jazz in the Lounge" at the Minneapolis Woman's Club; Steve Kenny and the Bastids, early show at the Artists Quarter; Charmin Michelle and Denny Malmberg at Fireside Pizza; Maud Hixson and Rick Carlson at Three Crows (Delano)

Thursday, June 6. Rebirth Brass Band at the Dakota; Moonlight Serenaders at Wabasha Street Caves

Coming Soon!

. June 7, Sidewalk Café,  CD Release at the 318 Café

. June 7, Nicole Henry at the Dakota

. June 8, JazZen, “Weaving of Traditions” at Sundin Hall (Hamline University)
. June 8, Jazz at Studio Z, Young Lions (3 bands)
. June 8, Jake Baldwin and Courageous Endeavors, Late Night at the Dakota

. June 9, PipJazz Sundays with John Penny, Will Kjeer

. June 9, Dan Musselman CD Release at McNally Smith

. June 9, Connie Evingson and Jon Weber (Music of Dave Frishberg) at the Jungle Theater

. June 11, Hugh Masekela and Larry Willis at the Dakota

. June 13, Albare at the Dakota

. June 16, Sidewalk Café (Jazz in the Library), St Paul Central Library

. June 18-19, Reid Anderson, Liquid Music at 408 (SPCO)

. June 19, George Maurer Group (Jazz in the Library), Merriam Park Library

. June 19-20, Ramsey Lewis Trio with Dee Dee Bridgewater at the Dakota

. June 23-24, David Murray Infinity Quartet with Macy Gray at the Dakota

. June 26, Salsabrosa (Jazz in the Library), Riverview Library

. June 27-29, Twin Cities Jazz Festival with Cyrus Chestnut, Kenny Werner, Matt Slocum, Ariel Pocock, JazzMN Big Band, Jon Weber and more

. July 5-7, Iowa City Jazz Festival with Pharoah Sanders, Fred Hersch, Charlie Hunter, Christian Scott, Lonnie Smith and more

. July 8, Milo Fine Free Jazz Ensemble at Homewood Studios

. July 14, PipJazz Sundays with Louis Alemayehu at Landmark Center

. July 23, Badi Assad at the Dakota

. July 27, Dakota Street Fest (Nicollet Mall)

Hugh Masekela returns to the Dakota on June 11th with pianist Larry Willis

Jazz Face: Mulgrew Miller, 1955-2013

© Andrea Canter

I first encountered pianist Mulgrew Miller at a performance of the Contemporary Piano Ensemble at O’Shaughnessy Auditorium in St. Paul, probably around 1993 given the ensemble’s touring history and my limited memory. The ensemble was a unique collaboration of five jazz pianists ranging from a 20-something-year-old Geoffrey Keezer to veteran Harold Mabern, with Miller, James Williams and Donald Brown holding the “mid-career” chairs as performances featured four pianos going at any given moment, the pianists playing “musical piano benches.” Their repertoire was built around the under-appreciated works of Memphis pianist Phineas Newborn, and thus introduced me to this rip-roaring swinging artist whose name I had never heard before.

I’ve been a fan of these pianists ever since, although the Contemporary Piano Ensemble disappeared soon after. Mabern continues a long-standing association with saxophonist Eric Alexander and One for All; Williams led the jazz program at William Paterson and recorded some outstanding music before his untimely death in 2004; Brown continues to compose and perform pretty much under the radar; and Keezer has gone on to be one of today’s busiest and most lauded performers, arrangers and recording artists.

And Mulgrew Miller. Some of my favorite piano trio recordings are the double-volume sets of the Mulgrew Miller Trio, recorded live at Yoshi’s and Kennedy Center on MaxJazz in the past decade; I had the opportunity to see him with his trio (Ivan Taylor on bass and Rodney Green on drums) at the Dakota in 2006 and when he headlined at the 2010 Detroit Jazz Festival, appearing in several configurations including with his students at William Paterson University, where he succeeded friend James Williams as the Director of Jazz Studies in 2006.

Miller combined a lot of the elements that I have long admired in the “mainstream” pianists who were/are still active in the early 21^st century—Oscar Peterson and McCoy Tyner in particular. He could swing hard but always elegantly, always with respect for the melody.

Miller died today at age 57 following a stroke. He leaves behind a legacy of students, compositions, recordings…. And fans.

The Lead Sheet: Twin Cities Live Jazz, May 24-30

Maud Hixson sings the songs of Mickey Leonard

© Andrea Canter

Memorial Day Weekend is sort of the kickoff to summer – even if the weather doesn’t always cooperate. But one thing’s for sure—there will be plenty of hot music, from the return of the Bryan Nichols Quintet at the Artists Quarter to shows from Joe Krown and Patty Peterson at the Dakota, a new installment of Off the Cuff at the Aster Café, and more coming midweek with Maud Hixson’s much anticipated CD release at the Dakota and the monthly edition of Pete Whitman’s X-Tet at the AQ. And there’s a lot more.

Big Gigs This Week

Bryan Nichols., Mike Lewis, Brandon Wozniak

Friday-Saturday, May 24-25. It’s been a few months since Bryan Nichols brought his stellar quintet into the Artists Quarter, and a holiday weekend seems perfect for this reunion. With

the two sax frontline of Mike Lewis and Brandon Wozniak, the quintet features two of the most inventive horn players in the region, with Brandon typically on tenor and Mike switching between tenor and soprano. But the horns are only part of the story, as the rhythm section boasts more innovators in bassist James Buckley and drummer JT Bates… and of course Bryan Nichols himself.

Over at the Icehouse, the early dinner show presents two generations of magic when ace pianist Phil Aaron and young bass sensation Brian Courage get together. It’s a relaxing way to start the evening, and early enough to make it a double-header by heading to the Dakota, Artists Quarter or elsewhere for a nightcap.

Patty Peterson

Saturday, May 25. It’s always a holiday when Patty Peterson and Friends show up at the Dakota. One of Minnesota’s favorite singers and radio personalities, Patty comes to the stage tonight with some of her favorite “Friends,” with guitarist Billy Franze, keyboardist Tommy Barbarella, drummer Bobby Vandell, saxophonist Steve Cole, and brothers Paul (bass) and Ricky (B-3). Expect some samples of Patty’s latest recording, The Very Thought of You.

Graham O'Brien, Off the Cuff

Sunday, May 26. A few months ago, young bassist Andrew Foreman launched a new series of eclectic improvised music at the Aster Café, dubbed Off the Cuff. This will be the fourth installment, and features two quartets, each featuring two drummer. Set one includes Pete Hennig and Davu Seru, with guitarist Karl Koopman; set two includes Peter Leggett and Graham O’Brien on drums, with saxophonist Max Corcoran; Foreman handles the bass in both sets. The Aster is a pleasant St. Anthony Main venue with some good eats to supplement the music. And with Off the Cuff, the music is always a surprise.

Adam Meckler Orchestra

Tuesday, May 28. If it is Tuesday, it must be Big Band night at Jazz Central, and this week’s gig is the Adam Meckler Orchestra. With some of the best of a new generation of jazz performer, the orchestra generally covers original music written especially for this band. Enjoy big band up close, but not quite in your face and surprisingly not overpowering your ears despite the close quarters of the studio.

Tuesday Night Band-- On Tuesday night!

And for 15 years, Tuesday meant the Tuesday Night Band and B-3 Organ Night at the Artists Quarter. Although they disbanded more than a year ago, TNB reunites once in a while, and rarely on a Tuesday night! Downtown Bill Brown, Billy Franze and Kenny Horst can still bring it to the stage, set fire to it, and fan the flames of organcentric bop. These three veterans follow young upstarts—the Cory Wong Quartet, which plays for no cover every Tuesday at 7 pm.

Maud Hixson and Rick Carlson

Wednesday, May 29. Maud Hixson started out just over a decade ago, singing at area clubs and then with the Wolverines and Arne Fogel. Along came a grant from the Minnesota Arts Board to attend the Yale Cabaret Conference, and her musical direction expanded as she discovered the songs of Michael Leonard. A few trips back to New York put her in the company of pianist/arranger Tex Arnold, bassist Steve Laspina, and cornetist Warren Vache, and on the stage singing mostly obscure songs by Leonard. The plan to record an all-Leonard tribute became a reality with a successful Kickstarter campaign, and now Maud will hold her Minnesota release celebration tonight at the Dakota with her local team headed by husband Rick Carlson with Gordy Johnson and Phil Hey. It’s the first all –Leonard recording and the first time some of these tunes have appeared on any recording. Best of all – Don’t Let a Good Thing Get Away is one wholly satisfying recording. Hear it live tonight.

Phil Mattson

Phil Mattson has become a household name in local vocal music, leading his Phil Mattson Singers and providing piano accompaniment for a long list of area vocalists--which only makes sense given his extensive background as vocal coach, choir director, choral music arranger, and director of a number of national vocal events. But his piano chops are seldom on display in a leading role. Tonight at the Artists Quarter, he shows his stuff with quartet of heavy hitters--saxophonist Dale Mendenhall, bassist Tom Lewis, and drummer Nathan Norman.

Thursday, May 30. Where are all the jazz musicians tonight? Ten of the best are at the Artists Quarter for the nearly monthly reunion of the Pete Whitman X-Tet. And it is one of the true steals in local entertainment -- $8 for ten artists of the highest caliber? That’s less than one dollar per musician! Don’t put this off til next month!

More Jazz Every Night

Be sure to check live jazz calendars on Jazz Police and KBEM sites. Also find a growing number of events on the Jazz Near You site, a service of All About Jazz. A few more gigs of note:

Friday, May 24. Peter Schimke and Irv Williams, happy hour at the Dakota; Maud Hixson Trio at Parma; Erin Schwab at Hell’s Kitchein; Joe Krown Trio at the Dakota; Todd Harper Birthday Bash followed by Rhizosphere at the Black Dog; Triosé at Shanghai Bistro (Hudson, WI)

Saturday, May 25. Benny Weinbeck Trio at Parma; JoAnn Funk and Jeff Brueske at the Lobby Bar (St Paul Hotel)

Jerry O'Hagan with Charmin Michelle

Sunday, May 26. Zacc Harris Trio at the Riverview Wine Bar; Jerry O’Hagan Orchestra with Charmin Michelle at Cinema Ballroom

Monday, May 27. Charmin Michelle and Denny Malmberg at Fireside Pizza; Zack Lozier at Jazz Central; JT’s Jazz Implosion at the Icehouse (Artists Quarter closed)

Tuesday, May 28. Cory Wong Quartet, early show at the Artists Quarter

Wednesday, May 29. Charmin Michelle and Denny Malmberg at Fireside Pizza; Steve Kenny and the Bastids (no cover) followed by the Phil Mattson Quartet at the Artists Quarter; Wolverines at Hell’s Kitchen; Ted Olsen, Joe Mayo and Miguel Hurtado at Jazz Central

Thursday, May 30. Trio Bossa Nova at the Black Dog

Coming Soon!

. May 31, Talking Strings at the Black Dog

. May 31- June 1, Happy Apple at the Artists Quarter

. June 6, Rebirth Brass Band at the Dakota

. June 7, Reynold Philipsek CD Release at the 318 Café

. June 7, Nicole Henry at the Dakota

. June 8, JazZen, “Weaving of Traditions” at Sundin Hall (Hamline University)

. June 9, PipJazz Sundays with John Penny, Will Kjeer

. June 9, Dan Musselman CD Release at McNally Smith

. June 11, Hugh Masekela and Larry Willis at the Dakota

. June 13, Albare at the Dakota

. June 16, Sidewalk Café (Jazz in the Library), St Paul Central Library

. June 18-19, Reid Anderson, Liquid Music at 408 (SPCO)

. June 19, George Maurer Group (Jazz in the Library), Merriam Park Library

. June 19-20, Ramsey Lewis Trio with Dee Dee Bridgewater at the Dakota

. June 23-24, David Murray Infinity Quartet with Macy Gray at the Dakota

. June 26, Salsabrosa (Jazz in the Library), Riverview Library

. June 27-29, Twin Cities Jazz Festival with Cyrus Chestnut, Kenny Werner, Matt Slocum, Ariel Pocock, JazzMN Big Band, Jon Weber and more

. July 5-7, Iowa City Jazz Festival with Pharoah Sanders, Fred Hersch, Charlie Hunter, Lonnie Smith and more

. July 8, Milo Fine Free Jazz Ensemble at Homewood Studios

. July 14, PipJazz Sundays with Barbara LeShoure at Landmark Center

. July 23, Badi Assad at the Dakota

. July 27, Dakota Street Fest (Nicollet Mall)

 

Mike Lewis, at the Artists Quarter with Bryan Nichols this weekend, with Happy Apple next weekend