If you're a drummer in the know, Brian Blade needs no introduction. Besides releasing a handful of acclaimed albums with his band and other jazz greats Wayne Shorter and Joshua Redman, he also laid down some stellar tracks for the now-ailing Joni Mitchell. If you own Mitchell's Taming the Tiger (1998), Travelogue (2002), or Shine (2007), you already know how consistently good he is. On this rare occasion, however, he will be one of two bandleaders joined by a bevy of guests including Shorter (Weather Report), Joe Jackson, Kurt Elling, Kris Kristofferson, Joe Jackson, Tom Scott, Mark Isham, and many others. And while the "Songbird" herself may be overcome with health problems at present, this night promises to be a spectacular outing for fans of hers and the many artists offering their services. Mitchell will be honored with the SFJAZZ Lifetime Achievement Award.
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