Archive for May, 2015

Avishai Cohen’s Triveni – Dark Nights

Posted in Music with tags , , , on May 14, 2015 by David McInerny

  

Avishai Cohen’s third album with Omer Avital (bass) and Nasheet Waits (drums) is a pensive and attractive project that adds a bit of additional flavor to the first two Triveni efforts. Avishai’s sister, Anat, plays clarinet in two tracks, with Gerald Clayton on keyboards and Keren Ann singing on one track. 

The album was recorded “live,” with no more than two takes per song and with the ensemble playing together in the studio without headphones. Cohen (an Israeli born New Yorker) plays a trumpet that is often subtle but always creative and vibrant. The ten songs are a mix of original compositions as well as standards, with Mingus’ Goodbye Pork Pie Hat being a highlight. 

The trio is playing in Kansas tonight as I write, at the Take Five in Overland Park. Cohen is having fun and the crowd is responding well to his improvisations. His playing, much like his stage conversation, is understated with bursts of energy, all in a manner that attracts attention. His set started with two songs from the disc, Dark Nights, Darker Days, and You in all Directions, as well as October 25 from the first Triveni. 

He was kind enough to chat with me before his set and told me the new disc is dedicated to his father, “also David.” A wonderful, musical tribute. Now I shall close and listen some more. 

  

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Take Five Coffee + Bar

Posted in Food, Music, Travel with tags , , , , , on May 7, 2015 by David McInerny
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The Huntertones, 5/7/15

Overland Park, Kansas is giving the KC jazz music scene a welcome addition with the advent of the Take Five Coffee + Bar. Named after Dave Brubeck’s 5/4 time-signatured classic, Take Five is already gaining a reputation of hosting the better local bands, as well as bringing in acts from the coasts. This week alone boasts the Brooklyn band Huntertones (formerly the Dan White sextet) as well as Kansas City’s own phenom Steve Lambert. Cover charges typically range from gratis to $10, with a jazz brunch on Sundays.

Not only will Take Five quickly join the ranks of classic KC venues as the Green Lady, Majestic, and Phoenix with its fantastic acoustics and comfortable atmosphere, but it also has a full bar with its complete coffee and tea selections. The food menu is extensive and fairly priced, making this a not-for-long hidden gem for jazz lovers and foodies alike.

Take Five, being minutes from my home, has already become a regular haunt for me. I love the quality art on the walls depicting Miles, Billie, Dave and Charlie. I love that the baristas don’t panic when I request four shots in my latte. I love that the owners step out from behind the bar and frequently swing with the music. Give Take Five a visit and let them know their project is welcome here in Overland Park!

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