JAZZ
What: A Christmas Carol with the Victoria Jazz Orchestra
Where: Alix Goolden Performance Hall, 907 Pandora Ave.
When: Saturday, Nov. 16, 7:30 p.m. (doors at 7)
Tickets: $40 from eventbrite.ca or by phone from the Victoria Conservatory of Music (250-386-5311)
Why: This fundraiser for the Single Parent Resource Centre will showcase an array of Vancouver Island favourites in a holiday-themed setting, from the Victoria Jazz Orchestra, singer Maria Manna and Grammy-nominated pianist Andrew Homzy to saxophonist Monik Nordine and Victoria’s Cathedral School Choir. Fifty per cent of the proceeds will go toward purchasing clothing and gifts for the non-profit Single Parent Resource Centre, which could always use a boost at Christmas.
LATIN JAZZ
What: Orquesta Akokán with Pablo Cardenas
Where: McPherson Playhouse
When: Thursday, Nov. 14, 8 p.m.
Tickets: $53-$65 from the Royal McPherson box office, online from rmts.bc.ca or by phone at 250-386-6121
Why: Mainstays from New York City and Havana, Cuba, are at the foundation of this 13-member musical melting pot, which records for the estimable Daptone Records imprint that was home to both Sharon Jones and Charles Bradley. Whereas those artists mined straight-up soul music, Orquesta Akokán explores the classic mambo, son and salsa from the 1940s and ’50s, when musical leaders such as Tito Puente were at their best. With a lineup that includes members of Los Van Van and Irakere, among others, this will be the Latin jazz event of the year, hands down.
BLUES
What: Rick Estrin & the Nightcats with David Vest
Where: V-Lounge at the Red Lion Inn, 3366 Douglas St.
When: Saturday, Nov. 16, 8 p.m.
Tickets: $30 from victoriabluessociety.ca; $35 at the door
Why: Alligator Records is home to some of the best blues artists in the world, a list that includes Rick Estrin and the Nightcats. Contemporary, the band’s new album on the Chicago label, blends the many talents of Estrin (who plays harmonica and sings) with the hot guitar playing of Kid Andersen, a combination that has put the San Francisco group in good stead with audiences across North America. The band will play V-Lounge (which is quietly becoming the city’s home for the blues) on Saturday in what should be a sizzling showcase.
