what’s hot
Mulgrew Miller Trio, May 26-28, 8/9:30pm
Do yourself a favor this weekend and head down to Culver City’s jewel, The Jazz Bakery. Pianist extraordinaire Mulgrew Miller is slated to do several shows and he is not to be missed. The amazingly prolific, Greenwood, Mississippi native has played and recorded with the likes of The Betty Carter Trio, Artie Shaw’s band, the Ellington Orchestra and so many more. Mulgrew discovered the ivories at age six, and is from a post-bop pianist firmly rooted in the Delta Blues. His influences include R&B, country, classical and gospel. It wasn’t however, until Miller discovered Oscar Peterson that he decided to be a jazz pianist. He is a remarkably versatile performer and never fails to leave his audience both satisfied and in awe. Jazz Bakery, 3233 Helms Ave., CC, 310.271.9039, www.jazzbakery.org, $25/$30 Sat. & Sun.
20th Annual UCLA Jazz & Reggae Festival, May 28 & 29, 11am-7pm
Feeling Irie, Mon? If you’re not now, you soon will be! UCLA’s 20th Annual Jazz & Reggae Festival returns to the Intramural Field this Sunday and Monday for another two-day celebration. Sunday is Jazz Day, and will feature such artists as Dianne Reeves, Floetry and Kenny Burrell. Monday is Reggae Day, and performing will be Buju Banton, Bushman, Irie Love and others. There will also be ethnic food and craft vendors on hand. In the name of all that is Marley – don’t miss this! Jah Rastafari! UCLA, Intramural Field, 301 Westwood Plaza, 310.825.2101, www.jazzreggaefest.com, $15 one day/$25 two days
