Buffalo Live Jazz

I was thinking I could open this week's promo by referring to Clay as being "bi-coastal".  While fulfilling his teaching responsibilities at the esteemed Eastman School, he somehow manages to criss-cross the country playing gigs and recording.  It could be with Joe La Barbera in LA, or with our friend Pete Malinverni in New York.  But "bi-coastal", though seemingly accurate, is incomplete.  "Global" is more like it.  Just this past fall Clay spent 10 days in New Zealand performing the Miles Davis/Gil Evans treatment of "Porgy and Bess."  There are not too many endurance tests for a trumpet player more difficult than this late-1950's masterwork.  To quote an article in both a Rochester & a Texas newspaper (where he also appeared only last month) Clay said, "I really enjoy it.  It wasn't written to play live so it's really challenging.  You've got to be in shape to do those things because it's like an hour-long concerto.  It's on your mouth constantly the last 20 minutes.  There are no breaks.  If you get tired you're sunk."  New Zealand?  New York?  LA with Joe La Barbera?  Texas?  Bobby McGee's?  If I had a brain in my head I'd be nervous.  But we've done this before.  Clay has always been a gracious guest, and he comes to play.  And that's a testament to not only his world-class musicianship, but to his humanity.  No matter the venue, world-stage or Bobby McGee's, Clay brings his good nature and his musical intent to bear.  So don't miss the chance to hear another world renown artist at our continuing jazz experiment.  Bobby McGee's - in the Maple Ridge Plaza, Sweet Home & Maple Roads.  Jyl, Jennifer, steady Billy & quiet Mike - good music, good food, good people, chilled spirits, and a great hang.