Jazz Police

Pianist/vocalist/composer Larry McDonough has long been known for his unique approach to jazz standards and original compositions, as well as leadership of a long-running quartet. All forces merge in the coming week as Larry and his quartet perform original music and poetry at Khyber Pass Cafe on Thursday, January 5, followed by his trio celebration […]

After a standing-room-only blow out last month, Thursday Night Jazz at Reverie brings back the Rodney Ruckus double header on January 5.  Presented by Illicit Productions and curated by Steve Kenny, drummer Ruckus returns with two bands — Ruckus Hip Hop Jazz, a sextet featuring incendiary drummer Arthur LA Buckner (9 pm) and a new […]

Renowned pianist and educator Jimmy Hamilton was perhaps best known as Prince’s first music teacher, but at least in the Twin Cities area, he was also known as one of the “Jazz Elders.” One-time member of the Ray Charles Orchestra, a veteran of such venues as the Poodle Club and Carleton Celebrity Room, and a […]

One-time Twin Cities resident and renowned saxophonist Dick Oatts makes a rare local appearance this week, spending two nights in the Dunsmore Room of Crooners Lounge, January 3-4, shows at 7 and 9 pm. Joining Oatts will be a formidable cast–pianist Bill Carrothers, bassist Billy Peterson, and drummer Joe Pulice. Dick Oatts is a native of […]

“Terence Blanchard has always been forward thinking, but with E-Collective he shoots straight into tomorrow, adding all sorts of different types of electricity and attitude to a new set of tunes.  …it’s still the tough but tender, timeless but vital unique tone that marks Terence’s horn as one of the truly great and classic jazzmen.” […]