CHARLES MCPHERSON

SMOKE JAZZ CLUB / MARCH 4-8

One of the last great boppers to emerge during the 1960s, alto saxophonist Charles McPherson has grown in stature with his burnished sound and lyrical improvisations. Working with masters like Charles Mingus and Barry Harris inspired his approach to composing and work as a bandleader. Now 86, Charles isn’t one to rest on his laurels, as his sets blend fresh settings of standards from the Great American Songbook, time-tested jazz favorites by past masters, plus compelling originals like his songs “Manhattan Nocturne” and “Bud Like.” Charles is constantly adding new songs to expand his considerable repertoire, and he enjoys refreshing his band instrumentation from time to time. Charles features special guests, including trombonist Steve Davis and drummer Kenny Washington, along with pianist Jeb Patton and drummer Boris Kozlov. – KD