Now's the Time: Kahil El'Zabar

Jazz purists might initially be alarmed when they first glance at the lineup of the American Jazz Museum’s 18th & Vine Jazz and Blues Festival.  Blues and R&B acts make up a significant portion of the offerings.  A closer inspection reveals a handful of jazz-oriented gems.  I’m most enthused by the presence of Kahil El’Zabar.  The Chicago based percussionist is closely associated with his city’s Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians.  El’Zabar is slated to perform with an ensemble led by Dennis Winslett.