Charles McPherson Quintet
Charles McPherson, Terell Stafford, Jeb Patton, David Wong, Billy Drummond
Smoke Jazz Club2751 Broadway, New York 10025
Alto saxophonist Charles McPherson leads a hard-swinging quintet with trumpeter Terell Stafford, pianist Jeb Patton, bassist David Wong, and drummer Billy Drummond. This performance is part of the group's 12-show, five-night run at Smoke.
Born in Joplin, Missouri, and raised in Detroit, McPherson became a central bebop voice after moving to New York, including a 1960 to 1972 tenure with Charles Mingus. His playing is rooted in blues and bebop; Jazziz wrote that no jazz musician of the past 60 years has more palpably channeled the sound of Charlie Parker.
Smoke Jazz Club offers a refined evening where jazz takes center stage in a space defined by its candlelit tables, plush red velvet curtains, exposed brick walls, and antique chandeliers. The club spans two connected rooms: one designed for focused listening with impeccable acoustics and iconic jazz photography, and a second lounge featuring a historic full-length bar and café seating. Guests can enjoy classic American cuisine during the first set, which begins at 7pm, creating a supper club experience that blends dining with world-class performances. The venue showcases a mix of legendary artists, contemporary masters, and emerging talents, making each night a unique encounter with jazz artistry. The recent expansion has enhanced comfort without losing the close proximity to the stage that defines the club’s appeal.