LA is a vast metropolis where hundreds of languages are spoken. Part of this cultural mosaic is the huge number of local shows that keep popping up. I want to mention ten upcoming shows that caught my eyes and ears.
1) Laila Biali: Theatre Raymond Kabbaz (West Los Angeles) Fri 9/27/13
Baili is a superb young singer and pianist who has a growing following. She does both indie and jazz material with verve and aplomb. This is her LA debut.
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2) Tribute to Arsenio Rodriguez – Granada (Alhambra) Sun 9/29
Rodriguez was one of Cuba’s musical titans, producing some of the tastiest and most powerful music during the 1950s and 60s. This show features top LA Latin stars
3) Dori Caymmi – Anne & Jerry Moss Theater @ New Roads School (Santa Monica) Fri 9/27
One of my favorite Brazilian musicians, this is my 2nd Up Close! concert. I’ll be up there on stage as we listen to Dori perform songs from his famous family and talk about Brazil and its rich musical history.
4) Keith Jarrett – UCLA Royce Hall (Westwood) Sat 9/28
One of the more unpleasant interviews I’ve experienced, yet an original and iconic pianist. Also one of the most passionate fan bases of any jazz musician.
Bosnian-born Gypsy jazz & funk at its best.
6) South African Festival – Grand Performances (Downtown) Fri-Sun Oct 4-6
Films, Music to celebrate a vibrant culture. Music includes iconic superstars like Hugh Masakela, the Mahotella Queens, and newer acts like Jozi’s Zulu hip hop mix.
7) Ethio-Cali – Blue Whale (Downtown) Sun 10/20
A blend of jazz and Ethopian grooves, this large collective put on one of the best show this past Summer. A must see!
8) Terakaft – El Rey Theater (Mid City) Wed 11/6
If you like Tinariwen, you will love the desert blues and modal grooves of Terakaft, one of my favorite Tuareg bands.
9) Rokia Traore – Luckman (Cal State LA) Sat 11/23
Malian superstar’s return to LA.
10) Dafnis Prieto – Red Cat Theater (Downtown) Sun 10/13
An accomplished drummer and teacher, Cuban Dafnis Prieto has won Latin Grammies, and a MacArthur Fellowship as well. Here is a chance to hear him in a small venue, the black box theater in the Disney Hall complex downtown.
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