Back in the 1990s, the Hotel Sofitel presented some of the metro’s best jazz on Friday nights. The Sofitel was home to the original edition of the Phil Aaron Trio with bassist Gary Raynor and drummer Jay Epstein. After a long hiatus, the “old” Phil Aaron Trio returned to action at Vieux Carré in downtown […]
Continue ReadingWhat would have happened if eccentric genius Thelonious Monk had encountered four of the best Twin Cities jazzmen? Trumpeter Steve Kenny, pianist Peter Schimke, bassist Billy Peterson, and drummer Kenny Horst first asked that question in 2010 at the Artists Quarter, and the quartet has gathered together seeking more answers over the past […]
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“Freedom, discipline, daring, passion, swing, broken rhythm, orchestral textures, interactive sparring, shocking dynamics, astounding creativity and authority. Want to know what jazz is really about? Listen to Billy Hart.” –-Mark Stryker, Detroit Free Press That drummer Billy Hart, now in his mid-70s, has been a powerful force on the American jazz scene for the past […]
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A long-time monthly fixture at the Artists Quarter, the Pete Whitman X-Tet kept a lower profile after the AQ closed at the end of 2013. In 2016, however, fans of this savvy little big band (as well as newbies) have again enjoyed the unique harmonies and original music of the X-Tet at such venues as […]
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Drawing a full house nearly every time they take the bandstand, the swinging Travis Anderson Trio, with Steve Pikal and Nathan Norman, makes its Dunsmore Room debut at Crooners Lounge on June 14, 7 pm. Although the venue is best known for its intimate setting and “listening room” ethic, the trio is best known for […]
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