Monday: For those not going to Nnenna Freelon at Duke, an alternative is pianist Robert Griffin (aka Griffanzo) & trombonist Danny Grewen at Imbibe in Chapel Hill. They've been performing together for almost two years now & have the jazz songbook & Griffanzo's smart-ass jazz down pat. I also been told an interesting young singer has been joining them 7p.
Tuesday: If I wasn't going to see the best singer in the world, Cecile Salvant, at Duke with marvelous pianist Sullivan Fortner, I'd check out local saxophonist (& wine merchant) Noel Sher, accompanied by fine guitarist Scott Sawyer at Sharp Nine 8p.
Thursday: Those interested in Catherine Russell will be happy, but consider Al Strong's Durham Hotel jazz jam 7p. Don't worry about the evening cold; they keep the roof top plenty warm.
Friday: If I wasn't seeing Jazzmeia Horn, the best young jazz singer around, at Duke, I'd finally catch up with Marimjazzia, led by Juan Alamo, at Sharp Nine 8p.
Saturday: If I wasn't going to see excellent occasionally locavore pianist Joey Calderazzo (with UNCG bassist Steve Haines & the Mighty Engine, drummer Kobie Watkins) at the Carrboro Arts Center 8p, I'd definitely see singer Rene Marie at Duke 8p. If not Rene Marie, I'd see singer Autumn Rainey at Irregardless 9p.
Sunday: Locavore/extravore singer Kate McGarry & guitarist husband Keith Ganz are joined by pianist Gary Versace at Duke Perfs 8p, to cap the vocal fest.
What an incredible vocal week! And Ann Hampton Calloway has two shows at Sharp Nine 12/14...