Newport Jazz Festival 50th Anniversary Tour

jazz

Although intended as a commemoration of the Newport Jazz Festival, which in fact celebrates its 49th season this summer, this all-star jam more closely resembles another institution from jazz's storied past: Norman Granz's Jazz at the Philharmonic. Back in the late '40s, Granz's JATP tours united swing and bebop stars on stages across the country, with a common denominator of foot-stomping, crowd-pleasing swing. The same will likely happen here, as bebop sax legend James Moody joins forces with the likes of hard-bop piano king Cedar Walton, baby boomer trumpeter Randy Brecker, jack-of-all-trades guitarist Howard Alden, and avant-traditional saxophonist James Carter. The repertoire will most likely feature well-known standards, although you never know what Moody might think up. As an intergenerational study, the show should be fascinating. As a night of music, it might be a highlight of the season. Whatever happens, old-fashioned sparks are sure to fly.

Wed., Jan. 21, 8 p.m., $26-$68, Kimmel Center, 260 S. Broad St., 215-893-1999.

—Kyle Parker

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