Charles Lloyd. This is one of those names that separates those who know from those who don't. Yes it's jazz, at its highest form. One of our masters visits Los Angeles and he came to play.

I finally got a chance to go to the new Catalina Bar and Grill. There at the door to greet me was the lovely Catalina herself. I certainly praise those who stand for and represent, or in this case present, the best in straight ahead jazz music.

The new digs is wonderful. The atmosphere is just perfect for a jazz supper club. Charles, after being in the studio with the cats recording all day made his way to the stage for the second performance of the night. Before he begins, he steps to the mic to check to see if his peeps are in the audience. He calls out a few names and out of the dark the voices reply. Now he is ready. Ready with not to mention some of the best and no doubt some of he coolest players around. Geri Allen on Piano, Big Bob Hurst on Bass, and my man Eric Harland on drums.

Charles starts the second set with those long tones of beauty. Heavenly and spiritual and so soul rewarding, you close your eyes and you are in a fragrant garden of music. Eric was swingin' hard and dynamic but, when he pulls out those brushes it's nothin' but lovely love!

With the lyrical Big B holding down the bottom and Geri laying down sweet melodies and intense solos, Catalina�s on that Sunday night was the place to be!

"The Monk and the Mermaid" was one of the tightest tunes. Everyone got down. Awesome solos from the entire band!

Charles likes to listen as intently as he plays. You can see him frozen in thought and so connected to the music. When it is time he jumps back in with enthusiastic applause from the audience.

The show ended with "You are so Beautiful" and indeed it was. I know the guys were tired. The lights came on and the audience did not budge. They just clapped and roared until emerging from a dark corner, the great Charles Lloyd appears once again. He picks up the oboe and blows a duet with Hurst.

It is your responsibility to support live jazz music, especially when the masters come to your town. Don't miss them!

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