| We’re cool, we’ve definitely got the blues and we’re showcasing original music all in the month of May. Cool, because the New Calgary Jazz Festival "Rebirth of the Cool 2007" announced its lineup last Wednesday for its June performances. However, if you’re looking to get serious jazz in anticipation of the fest, just check what’s happening over the next few weeks.
Juno nominee Michael Occhipinti is in town to host a double header at the new C-Jazz office on May 4 and 5. That same weekend, veteran horn man Al Muirhead is playing the Beatniq with sidemen John Dewaal, John Hyde and Willie Joosen. Expect strictly original stuff coming out of Verismo, a partnership formed between local sax men Pat Belliveau and Jeremy Brown. Described as "realism in music," Verismo, committed to original compositions and performance, is slated for gigs at Beatniq on May 18 and 19.
Maybe you’re looking for the big band experience or maybe you’re a blues hound. Either way, mid-month and month’s end will fit the bill. Look for Doug Fox and Friends big band playing May 11 at First United Church (3818 14A St. S.W.). Don’t miss blues legend David "Honeyboy" Edwards playing at the Red Onion on Macleod Trail, May 18. This Mississippi Delta, WC Handy Award winner is 92 years old and it’s a one-night-only performance. Still feeling the blues? Don’t miss Ellen McIllwaine this weekend at the Red Onion and, if you’re feeling sort of psychedelic, check Wild T and the Hendrix Experience at the Red Onion on Saturday, May 19.
Now is probably a good time to buckle up for what’s in store for June because the "Rebirth of the Cool" slated for June 19 to 24 has revealed its all-star lineup. The fest will feature famed sax player Joshua Redman and ramp up all the way to a wicked double header with Antibalas Afrobeat Orchestra paired with The Bad Plus. Redman’s playing the Gateway Lounge (SAIT) on June 22. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see him up close and personal.
Small settings seem to be the pattern for this year’s "Rebirth of the Cool" and it’s a prime opportunity to seed the city from downtown to the ’burbs with a natural hub at Beatniq featuring acts every night of the festival. Close by, watch the Auburn for everything from Mr. Something Something funk collective to Cocoa Zhao, an avant garde vocalist from China. And, since you’re in the neighbourhood, check out Cantos for jazz acts like The October Trio or hop the C-Train and hit Quincy’s for Lynn Olagundaye and The Guerrilla Funk Allstars.
There’s something for everyone everywhere during the Rebirth of the Cool – "Jazz on the Avenue" free on Stephen Avenue Mall throughout the week of the festival and, still free, watch for Happy Hour Jazz on Barclay Parade. June is definitely Jazz month. |
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