Sonny Rollins and his sextet. The band was in cracking form, particularly on the opener, "Sonny Please." I was worried Sonny's presence was going to be ceremonial, like a latter-day Lionel Hampton, as the first song began with a very long trombone solo followed by guitar. What about Sonny? After about 12 minutes, he got his solo and quickly dispelled any fears. What is it with jazz musicians who are 70+? I've seen Brubeck, Rollins, Sam Rivers and they've all put on great shows that would put most over-35 rockers to shame.
Vinny Golia/Bobby Bradford Quarter followed by the Indigo Trio: Nicole Mitchell, Harrison Bankhead, Hamid Drake. Great double bill. I was particularly impressed with each group's respective bassists (Ken Filiano was with the Golia group), neither of whom I had heard before.
Misha Mengelberg/Joe Williamson/Dylan van der Schyff: Bit of a yawner. Mengelberg spent as much time talking as playing and he never really gelled with the rhythmn section.
Arch Enemy: Had never been to a metal concert before, but this was a riot. Arch Enemy are a Swedish-based band fronted by a female German vocalists who growls better than any guy out there. There were three other acts, whose mildy-demonic names escape me.
Looking forward to seeing Ornette Coleman for the first time next month.