Matt Wilson, May 5-6, 8/9:30pm
With memorable efforts such as Smile, As Wave Follows Wave and Arts and Crafts, Matt Wilson established his desire to avoid being pigeonholed. This Knoxville, Illinois native is a very inventive drummer, often recognized for his unconventional approach to musical composition. As a result of this, he has crafted some of the more challenging original group material of the last couple of decades. Get ready to be delighted and surprised as Wilson showcases his post-bop, boogaloo, blues and avant-garde stylings for you.
The Jazz Bakery, 3233 Helms Ave., CC, 310.271.9039, jazzbakery.org, $30
Lisa Haley and the Zydecats, May 6, 2pm
Known as “The Girl with the Blue Fiddle,” Lisa Haley is a fourth generation fiddler, combining elements of Cajun, country-rock and zydeco into her musical mosaic. She has recorded with the likes of Randy Newman, Toad the Wet Sprocket, John Hyatt and Dramarama. On what is likely to be yet another of our sun-soaked, Southern California days, Haley comes to our beloved Santa Monica Pier. Stop by to enjoy this free concert that’s sure to make your toes tap, your stomach flap and your liver quiver.
Santa Monica Pier, Pier’s Central Plaza, 310.458.8900, santamonicapier.org, all concerts, free
