Saxophonist Willie Akins, a master of bop, blues and ballads
in the classic style, is a St. Louis favorite who's always worth hearing
It's mid-summer, and that means it's pretty much Doldrum City here in St. Louis with regard to touring jazz acts. However, the flip side of this momentary lull is that it's an excellent time to check out some of the St. Louis musicians you've been meaning to hear, but haven't just yet. With summer vacations in progress, the pace is bit more relaxed, local nightspots may be a bit less crowded, and musicians perhaps may even be inclined to stretch out and try some new stuff.
On Friday night, I'd recommend checking out the excellent pianist Ptah Williams and vocalist Erika Johnson at Cookie's in Webster Groves; vocalist Erin Bode, who's performing around the block at Crossings, or saxophonist Dave Stone at Mangia Italiano down on South Grand. On Saturday, you can't go wrong with Willie Akins' early gig at Spruill's in midtown, or you can catch Bode performing at Brandt's in University City, or get a taste of the bygone days of Gaslight Square with Trio Trés Bien and vocalist Danita Mumphard at Cookie's.
You can see more jazz options for the weekend at the St. Louis Jazz Notes calendar. And if you are a musician or venue who would like to have your gig listed, email me with your info at stljazznotes at yahoo dot com.
(edited to fix typos 7/29/05)
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