This year’s Memorial Day Weekend is brimming with live jazz! Beyond my suggestions below and Electric Red on Friday, remember to check out our Jazz Calendar for details on jazz shows around town.
Shows To See This Week
Thursday, May 22nd (7-9pm): “It’s ’bout Time!” – Remembering Hank Marr at Jazz Academy (4th floor of the Lincoln Theatre). The Jazz Arts Group’s Spotlight Series pays tribute to Columbus musical legend Hank Marr. Guitarist Tom Carroll and drummer Jim Rupp, the rhythm section of the Hank Marr Trio, will anchor a performance featuring the great Columbus vocalist Mary McClendon and longtime Hank Marr student Jon Eshelman on organ. Following the performance, there will be a Q&A with the artists, audience, and special guests focused on sharing the community’s many memories of Marr. There will also be an introduction of, and celebration for, the 2014 winner of the Hank Marr High School Jazz Award, Christopher Thompson-Taylor.
Saturday, May 24th: La Charanga Tres at Bungalow Jazz. The local Latin jazz outfit, led by flutist Kris Keith, brings the sweet music of Cuba to the celebrated house party venue. I have enjoyed what I’ve seen of the band recently, and a holiday weekend show in those cozy environs should be a special treat.
Sunday, May 25th: Honk Wail & Moan‘s Sun Ra Centennial Celebration at Dicks Den. The longtime local jazz collective presents its 21st annual tribute to the jazz titan, likely the foremost influence on the band’s development. This year’s renewal will honor Ra’s 100th birthday, this May 22nd. This performance will feature special instrumentation in a loving remembrance of Ra’s compositions and inspiration.
Wednesday, May 28th: Mark Flugge Tribute at Natalie’s. The jazz community is still recovering in the wake of Flugge’s tragic death last week. Though a formal remembrance concert is still being planned, some of his closest collaborators and friends are using this date, on which Flugge was scheduled to play, to present a tribute to his music. Details are still being worked out, but the night will feature performances from Natalie Adams, Jim Rupp, and Dave DeWitt.