The biggest news is new news to me. Both WNCU's calendar & a Mama Jazz email told me Ellis & Jason Marsalis are playing at UNCG, in Aycock Auditorium at 8p. Having heard pianist Ellis Marsalis with his musical family a few years ago, I want to hear him again just for his sensitive touch on the keys. Plus, I've wanted to hear Jason Marsalis on the vibes when he's in the neighborhood.
Yes, they aren't local musicians! But, it doesn't matter; we need to hear what's happening elsewhere (in this case, New Orleans).
Anyway, we've got plenty of local choices too this week. There are regular gigs like Doug Largent at the Looking Glass Café & West End Wine Bar, or Friday night jazz at Cuban Revolution. And, for those who stay up later than I do, Jazz At the Mary Lou Center at Duke starts this Wednesday night at 9:30.
For Art of Cool fans, there's a "Hang" at Alley 26 in Durham Tuesday night, with live music in the background (or foreground, depending on where you're sitting/standing), & the AOC-approved Bilal concert at Motorco Friday night, with The Beast opening. Neo-soul & hip-hop meeting jazz is an intersection without stoplights or turn signals.
Finally, on Saturday night NCCU Jazz Program director & saxophonist Ira Wiggins begins his monthly school-year gig at Beyu. His warm tone is worth hearing.