Alison Crockett & Thad Wilson: The Jazz Sides of Chaka Khan

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Alison Crockett blends neo-soul; new-school, uptown jazz; and city blues into something that’s logically political and personally defiant. She has the laggard rhythm of an Erykah Badu, the dance instinct of a Chaka Khan, and the maverick relationship to the jazz canon of a Lizz Wright. Trumpeter Thad Wilson has been a presence on the D.C. jazz scene, and a cornerstone of the straight-ahead jazz circles. He plays trumpet and flugelhorn in a highly lyrical, almost romantic style. He’s as comfortable weaving sonic portraits with a big band as he is playing out in the small combo setting. The pair joins forces to pay tribute to funk legend Chaka Khan, exploring her lesser-known jazz works.