WOODSTOCK
The Usual Suspects Big Band at City Center
The audience will likely be up and on its feet to the sounds of this versatile, horn-laden outfit. Although it's rooted in the classic tradition of the big bands helmed by Count Basie, Tommy Dorsey, Glenn Miller and others, the Usual Suspects spike the mix with doses of jazz, blues, Broadway tunes, swing and pop. Singer-songwriter Taryn Chidebelu-Eze leads the charge on vocals with the 17-piece band behind her. Some may recognize Chidebelu-Eze as a founding member of Invitation, a Christian jazz quintet. Those who bring a can of soup, stew or chili to donate to Papa's Pantry receive a complimentary drink during intermission.
7:30 p.m. July 21. $10 advance; $12 at the door. City Center, 8534 Main St., Woodstock. 678-494-4251, www.elmstreetarts.org.
SANDY SPRINGS
Joey Sommerville at Ray's on the River
The event lawn at this longstanding eatery plays host to the final installment of its jazz concert series, which benefits local charities. Smooth jazz trumpeter Joey Sommerville brings his contemporary sound to the stage for this afternoon show. Expect to hear cuts from his latest release, "The Get Down Club." Tickets purchased online include a 20 percent discount on lunch the day of the show. Lunch seatings are at noon and 12:30 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the Upper Chattahoochee Riverkeeper, which focuses on keeping the waters of the Chattahoochee clean. Leave outside food and drinks, pets and chairs at home. Seats are first come, first serve and blankets are allowed.
2 p.m. July 21. $35. Ray's on the River, 6700 Powers Ferry Road, Sandy Springs. 770-955-1187, http://raysjulyconcert-eorg.eventbrite.com.
MARIETTA
Col. Bruce Hampton and "Basically Frightened" at Earl Smith Strand Theatre
Hampton, a bona fide Southern music treasure, sprang from the bizarre school of Beefheart and Zappa in the '60s and evolved into the jam band elder statesman he is today. The documentary "Basically Frightened: The Musical Madness of Col. Bruce Hampton, Ret.," which sold out two nights at this year's Atlanta Film Festival, tracks his mind-bending, influential career. Dave Matthews, Billy Bob Thorton and members of REM and the Grateful Dead are among those who bow to Hampton in the doc. This event includes a screening of the film, followed by a Q&A session and a live concert by Hampton.
8 p.m. July 21. $12 advance; $15 day of the show. Earl Smith Strand Theatre, 117 N. Park Square, Marietta. 770-293-0080, www.earlsmithstrand.org.
About the Author
