WHAT A DEAL !

It never ceases to make me feel good to see how special the Durham and environs jazz community has become.  The  value of being able to hear great jazz performances at limited expense (and in some cases no expense) is outstanding.  The jam sessions that happen on Monday night at THE SHED and Wednesday night at BEYU Caffe are examples.   Last night we were treated to The Ernest Turner II Trio at THE SHED ---  Ernest on piano, Kenny Phelps-McKeown on bass, Larry Q Draughn Jr on drums.  The extra added attractions ---  Al Strong on trumpet,  Daniel Stark on saxophone  - sitting in and swinging.  Hooray for the state of jazz in Durham, NC.  If you consider yourself part of this increasingly growing and vibrant community, musician and/or supporter, you owe it to yourself to come on out and enjoy.  A greeting to Leo and Jeanette from the Sunday jazz brunch at BEYU where Gary Brunotte was in his usual fine form.  Green Dolphin Street sounded just great, whatever key it was in.  A thank you to Noah Sager on keys, Eric Meyer on bass, and "Q" Larry Q. Draughn Jr on drums for making Sunday afternoon "go down easy" at the WEST END WINE BAR.  Thanks to Jay for the extra effort in making a great cup of tea.