CYRUS CHESTNUT

A masterful jazz pianist and Baltimore native, Cyrus Chestnut balances his lithe technical skill with a robust, soulful style that speaks to his deep gospel roots and love of swinging hard bop. Raised in the church, he learned how to infuse his swinging, classically trained style with a warm gospel sound, a style that first marked his work as a sideman, backing legendary vocalists Jon Hendricks and Betty Carter, as well as with instrumentalists like Donald Harrison and Wynton Marsalis. Expect a unique and unforgettable show as he takes the stage at Keystone Korner Baltimore.

Cyrus Chestnut, piano
Tim Green, saxophone
Obasi Akoto, bass
Eric Kennedy, drums

Tickets: $35.00 ~ $45.00 +fee
Streaming: $15.00 +fee

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Requisites

Nights At The Keystone ~ Dexter Gordon | By Eddie Carter

Dexter Gordon’s return to the United States generated significant excitement among his fans. After his triumphant return to the Village Vanguard and his 1976 performance, which produced the album Homecoming, he began touring regularly. This morning’s album from the library features the tenor saxophonist and his quartet at one of San Francisco’s notable jazz clubs. Nights At The Keystone (Blue Note BABB-85112) is a two-record set documenting his performances over several nights in 1978 and 1979 at the Keystone Korner. George Cables on piano, Rufus Reid on bass, and Eddie Gladden on drums round out the group. The copy I own is the 1985 U.S. stereo release.

The album opens with the quartet’s tender rendition of Sophisticated Lady by Duke Ellington. Dexter introduces the song with a dreamy melody, which he sustains with remarkable sensitivity in his opening statement. George’s subsequent solo evokes a bygone era of innocence and joy. Dexter returns to add a few final gentle thoughts before the closing ensemble and audience’s applause. Gordon speaks to the audience and introduces It’s You or No One by Jule Styne and Sammy Cahn. The quartet launches into a spirited theme, then Gordon takes charge on the first solo, soaring into the stratosphere. Cables tackles the following solo at a brisk pace, then Gordon trades lively choruses with Gladden, paving the way for a swift return to the theme and a spirited finish.

The rhythm section opens Dexter Gordon’s Antabus with an energetic introduction. The quartet then is off to the races with a brisk melody. Dexter ignites the opening interpretation with fiery tenor saxophone lines. George continues cooking with agility in the following statement, then Dex takes the reins again briefly before the quartet takes the song out. Easy Living by Ralph Rainger and Leo Robin comes from the 1937 film of the same name and slows the ensemble down for the pianist’s introduction, segueing to the quartet’s gentle theme. Dexter’s opening statement is sure to melt all the tension in your body away with delicacy and tender warmth. Cables responds with a deceptively elegant approach that picks up the pace to midtempo ahead of Gordon’s return for the theme’ restatement and ending.

The tempo moves upward again to begin side three with the quartet’s lively version of Tangerine by Johnny Mercer and Victor Schertzinger. The rhythm section provides a lush foundation for Dexter’s melody to flow comfortably at an easy beat. Dexter takes the spotlight first with a down-home, soulful flavor that swings from the first note to the finale. George has the next spot and makes his presence felt preceding the closing chorus. More Than You Know by Vincent Youmans, Edward Eliscu, and Billy Rose begins with the group’s elegantly graceful introduction and melody. Gordon again shows off his sentimental side with a hauntingly tender lead solo. Cables steps up next for a short, serene statement that builds as it unfolds. Gordon has the final say ahead of the group’s gorgeous finale.

Side Four concludes the album with Come Rain or Come Shine, by Harold Arlen and Johnny Mercer, giving everyone a lengthy solo. The quartet’s medium tempo sets the song’s introduction and opening chorus in motion. Dexter is up first with a neatly paced stroll, then George delivers a splendid performance. Rufus walks with a soulful groove next, and Dexter and Eddie engage in a brief exchange before the quartet’s return and finale. Todd Barkan produced Nights at the Keystone, and Rich McKean managed the recording console. Malcolm Addey was the mixing engineer, and Rudy Van Gelder mastered the album.

The sound quality of this live album is exceptional, truly capturing the ambiance of Keystone Korner and offering an impressive soundstage that highlights The Dexter Gordon Quartet at their finest. If you’re searching for a top-notch live performance by one of jazz’s legendary tenor saxophonists, Nights at the Keystone by Dexter Gordon is well worth checking out during your next visit to the record store. It spotlights the tenor saxophonist in peak form, blending technical brilliance, improvisational flair, and deep musical chemistry throughout the set!

~ Homecoming (Columbia PG 34650) – Source: Discogs.com ~ Come Rain or Come Shine, Easy Living, More Than You Know, Tangerine – Source: JazzStandards.com © 2026 by Edward Thomas Carter

CALIFORNIA JAZZ FOUNDATION

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ALLAN HARRIS

Celebrate Black History Month with a powerful performance that honors the resilience, creativity, and legacy of Black Americans. Join us for Harlem After Dark: An Uptown Jazz Party, a vibrant tribute to Harlem’s golden era, featuring world-class musicians, dynamic tap dance, and soulful performances by Allan Harris, Maya Azucena, and AC Lincoln.

This electrifying evening celebrates the enduring legacy of Harlem’s jazz icons while embracing the energy of today’s music scene, making both productions must-see events that highlight the profound impact of Black history and culture.

Tickets: $25.00

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JOE GRANSDEN

Trumpeter Joe Gransden brings warmth, virtuosity, and joyful swing to his celebration of the music of Chuck Mangione, honoring one of jazz’s most beloved melodic voices. Known for his rich tone, effortless lyricism, and deep respect for the tradition, Gransden captures the soaring optimism and emotional clarity that made Mangione’s compositions timeless—while infusing them with his own dynamic phrasing and modern energy.

This tribute is less imitation than interpretation: a heartfelt homage that revisits iconic melodies and grooves, inviting audiences to rediscover the beauty, accessibility, and sheer joy at the heart of Mangione’s music through Gransden’s distinctive trumpet voice.

Tickets: $44.00

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ALLEN PAUL

WDNA is proud to announce February’s Jazz Encounters featuring pianist, band leader, composer, and recording artist Allen Paul performing in WDNA’s intimate Jazz Gallery. Known for genre-crossing arrangements, and a spirit of connecting audiences with the moment, he brings a feeling of joy and wonder into every performance. Allen will be joined by Brandon Lee Lewis on drums, and Mikailo Kasha on bass.

Allen’s captivating, high-energy performances blend elements of jazz, pop, gospel and world music into a harmonious and unpredictable whole that captivates and delights. Having performed in some of South Florida’s most prestigious venues, he works as a solo artist, accompanist, collaborator, and musical director, and has been evolving for over 25 years as a musician since his beginnings as a classical pianist at the University of Miami. He has performed alongside artists such as Chantae Cann, Anthony David, Raheem DeVaughn, Mike Phillips, and countless others in the jazz, R&B and gospel/Christian genres.

Tickets: $47.03

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