BOBBY WATSON QUARTET

JAZZ CULTURAL / APRIL 3-4

When alto saxophonist Bobby Watson finished his college degree, his graduate school was a four-year stint with Art Blakey & the Jazz Messengers. Since 1981, Watson has led a number of acclaimed groups and established himself as a potent, instantly recognizable voice on his instrument. Bobby also has a knack for composing catchy songs, a number of which he penned while with Blakey, such as “In Case You Missed It” (aka “Fuller Love”) and “Wheel Within a Wheel,” which remained in the repertoire of the band for the remainder of its existence. The bandleader has also recruited many rising stars for his groups. Bobby has also been nominated for Grammy Awards four times. His band includes pianist Jordan Williams, bassist and longtime collaborator Curtis Lundy, and drummer Victor Jones. —KD