Alto saxophonist Bobby Watson has been a force in the straight-ahead jazz world for over 40 years. In 1977, Watson was recruited by Art Blakey along with a handful of other younger musicians to revitalize the Jazz Messengers. You can hear on that first album, 1977’s Gypsy Folk Tales, what Blakey heard: the ambitious, earnest tone that pierces through the band and holds your attention.

Watson is now a mainstay of the straight-ahead scene, a vaunted elder musicians and celebrated educator. Listen to his most recent album, Keepin’ It Real, and you’ll hear his tone now: more relaxed and unhurried, the product of years of shedding, study and touring.

Watson leads his group New Horizon for a set at the KeyStone Korner Club in Baltimore, which will livestream the event.

The link to the livestream will be emailed once you’ve registered for a ticket.

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