Also this issue: Billy the Kidder Will Oldham is being difficult. -A.D. Amorosi Time and Tide Jon Langford talks about death and going it alone. -Sam Adams HearHere -Patrick Rapa Sam Jayne, Sam Beam, James Mercer -Chris Parker The 90 Day Men -Paul Burress Erykah Badu -Elisa Ludwig Joe Strummer/Clash Tribute -A.D. Amorosi Benny Golson Quartet -Kyle Parker

January 30-February 5, 2003

musicpicks

Miguel Zenón Quartet

Had he arrived a decade ago, alto saxophonist Miguel Zenón could easily have landed a major-label record deal and a blast of mainstream recognition. In today's insecure marketplace, the Puerto Rican-born, Berklee-educated 20-something is more of a best-kept-secret type. And for now, this serves just fine, as the saxophonist turns in fine work unspoiled by a producer's demands. Zenón has already been a distinguished sideman with David Sánchez, Danilo Pérez and Quite Sane, and his own debut -- Looking Forward, on Spain's Fresh Sound New Talent label -- proves his hefty leadership skills. The album is an impressive cauldron of styles: Rafael Hernandez brushing up against J.S. Bach. Throughout the album Zenón's improvisations are fleet-fingered and serpentine, with a thoughtful streak to match his earthy intensity. Here he matches wits with album-mates Luis Perdomo, Hans Glawischnig and Antonio Sánchez -- incidentally, several of the hottest jazz-Latin players on the scene.

Fri., Jan. 31, 5 p.m., free with museum admission, Philadelphia Museum of Art, 26th St. and the Parkway, 215-763-8100.

—Kyle Parker