The Claudia Quintet

Thu., Oct. 11, 8 p.m., $12, Philadelphia Art Alliance, 251 S. 18th St., www.arsnovaworkshop.com.

by Shaun Brady

jazz

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For their fourth CD, For (Cuneiform), the Claudia Quintet has punned the album's number with a series of dedications, to friends, mentors and even music teachers in general. Given the group's distinctive sound and the fertile imagination of leader/composer John Hollenbeck, it's unclear whether the honorees provided before-the-fact inspiration or are simply being provided post-facto shout-outs (probably safe to say that the ode "Pity," for Mary Cheney, falls squarely and sarcastically into the latter category). In either case, the music can be summed up with the most direct dedication, "For You": This disc continues the band's explorations into making music that is accessible but rewards close attention; it's pop-flavored but layered and intricate. The five members — drummer Hollenbeck, vibraphonist Matt Moran, accordionist Ted Reichman, clarinetist/saxophonist Chris Speed and bassist Drew Gress (whose in-demand status necessitates his replacement by organ bassist Gary Versace for this gig) — are all inspired players with diverse interests who combine to create a sound wholly their own.

Thu., Oct. 11, 8 p.m., $12, Philadelphia Art Alliance, 251 S. 18th St., www.arsnovaworkshop.com.