2008 Spring Jazz Preview

Critic’s Pick : S.F. JAZZ Collective

S.F. JAZZ Collective is one of the hottest bands going in jazz, a genuinely all-star aggregate that works, writes, and interacts like an inspired “collective.” For this season, the band presents both new arrangements of Wayne Shorter tunes and its own originals. Thu., Mar. 20, 8pm. Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St. Call 963-0761 or visit lobero.com.

Chuck Manning

With an unusual flexibility to switch between “inside” and “outside” playing, tenor saxist Chuck Manning comes to town, following a European tour and the release of Notes from the Real (TCB). Thu., Mar. 27, 8pm. Muddy Waters Cafe, 508 E. Haley St. Call 966-9328 or visit myspace.com/muddycafesb.

McFerrin, Corea & DeJohnette

The Granada will have its first brush with jazz in high style, with the team up of Bobby McFerrin, Chick Corea, and drummer Jack DeJohnette-voice, piano, and drum legends, respectively. This promises to be one of the most interesting jazz shows of 2008. Tue., Apr. 1, 8pm. Granada Theatre, 1216 State St. Call 899-3000 or visit granadasb.org.

Critic’s Pick : Charles Lloyd Quartet

Santa Barbara’s own gift to the jazz world at large, tenor saxist Charles Lloyd-now 70-returns to his favorite stomping ground, the Lobero, with an exciting new band, on the heels of Rabo de Nube (ECM). Sun., June 1, 8pm. Lobero Theatre, 33 E. Canon Perdido St. Call 963-0761 or visit lobero.com.

Kate McGarry

Many singers are busy working in the zone between jazz and pop, but few do it with such grace and strong personal style as Kate McGarry, who has chops, tonal control, and taste to spare. Mon., June 16, 8pm. SOhO, 1221 State St. Call 962-7776 or visit sohosb.com.