Monday, March 22
It’s a soulful night on the Night Train as the show marks birthdays of guitarists George Benson and Melvin Sparks. We’ll hear Benson as a leader and with Miles Davis and Dr. Lonnie Smith, and Sparks from his own releases and along with Papa John DeFrancesco and Hank Crawford. The Women’s History Month feature continues with selections from the Brianna Thomas Band, the Firm Roots duo with Lara Driscoll, baritone saxophonist Claire Daly, and vocalist Lizz Wright. And there’s new music from Edward Simon, Henry Robinett, Joe Chambers, the Delvon Lamarr Organ Trio, and Cory Weeds.
Tuesday, March 23
Good vibes tonight on the Night Train with birthday salutes to vibes players Stefon Harris (featured in a special in hour two) and Dave Pike. We’ll also hear music from pianist and songwriter Dave Frishberg (also born on this date), Blossom Dearie and Jazzmeia Horn (for the March Women’s History Month feature), and new titles from Joe Farnsworth, Chris Rottmayer, and Hendrik Meurkens.
Wednesday, March 24
In conjunction with the March Women’s History Month feature, Night Train marks the birthday of pianist, composer, and producer Renee Rosnes with music from the supergroup Artemis and in a concert special in hour two of pianist Bill Charlap, along with music from pianist Dena DeRose and violinist Regina Carter. There’s also music from saxophonist Sherman Irby (featured guest on a new album from Latin jazz giant Papo Vazquez) and pianist Steve Kuhn- both born on this date, and new titles from saxophonist Bobby Watson and guitarist Nelson Riveros (with a Latin jazz take on Wes Montgomery).
Thursday, March 25
Birthday salutes tonight on the Night Train include pianist Makoto Ozone, Shadowfax member Chuck Greenberg, drummer Paul Motian (as part of the legendary Bill Evans Trio), Latin music giant Johnny Pacheco (with George Benson and McCoy Tyner), and the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin (including early jazz recordings in hour one and a special tribute in hour two of the show) – along with new music from guitarist Charlie Apicella and the long-running saxophone quartet, the Tiptons.
