Whoever decides such things, it's nice that Jazz Appreciation Month happens in April. After a long winter of hibernation, that the emerging masses are encouraged to spend part of their spring listening to jazz can only be a good thing (now let's get more clubs out of the basements). And as the warmer weather approaches, that means more leaves on the trees. Novelist Betty Smith said that a tree grows in Brooklyn. In this issue we have the mini-followup: A (large number of) jazz club(s) grow(s) in Brooklyn. Take a look at the final installment of our multi-part feature on jazz venues in the new decade with a focus on Brooklyn, just in time for the annual Central Brooklyn Jazz Consortium Festival, happening at spots throughout the borough this month. But don't think that you necessarily have to leave Manhattan to hear some great music. Legendary saxophonist George Coleman (On the Cover), who has worked with Max Roach, Miles Davis, Elvin Jones and others in addition to his work as a leader, spends a week at Dizzy's Club. Pianist Larry Willis (Interview), veteran of the bands of Jackie McLean and Joe Henderson and well-documented as a leader, appears twice this month: at Smalls as part of Steve Davis' band and in duo with Mike DiRubbo at The Kitano. And saxist Donny McCaslin (Artist Feature), a star that has firmly risen, most recently through his tenure with Dave Douglas and Maria Schneider, leads groups at Rosy O'Grady's and Smalls. And finally check out our Encore feature on saxist Bunky Green, who makes a remarkably rare NYC appearance at Jazz Standard co-leading a band with fellow altoist Rudresh Mahanthappa.
There's plenty more where that came from, with a full calendar of concerts throughout the boroughs. And a fine crop of CDs, perfect soundtracks for those warm-weather picnics and barbecues.
Get outside already and hear some music...We'll see you out there.
