Stanley Clarke was a highlight at the San Jose Jazz Festival, but there was much more great music to enjoy. Marina Crouse Band As we wandered into the grounds of the festival, Marina Crouse was singing a soulful and funky version of “Cisco Kid.” We arrived midway through her band’s set but enjoyed a few minutes on the grassy law at the Blues Stage. LMR Jazz Orchestra Featuring Tierney Sutton Next we headed indoors for a real treat – Tierney Sutton singing a set with a well-arranged and conducted Big Band. The band was made up of LA session regular, the kind of musicians who can read any chart perfectly. ...

Ollie and I hiked a 3.5 hour loop to the top of Windy Hill and back. I love that we have such an amazing hike right from our front door. There was a cool breeze from the fog at the coast, but we had sunshine all the way. A perfect day for the hike! When I first moved to California, my landlady informed me that the appearance of Amaryllis Belladonna (first flower picture) means “Back to School.” ...

Saturday night’s alright for retro punk, with Geri Vahey and the Seagulls making the scene. Micah and I met up in San Francisco and did a bike ride on the waterfront to Fort Mason and back. Then after some tasty empanadas at the Ferry Building, we headed to the Mission to check out Geri’s band. First up was a teenage band doing their best Green Day. Meanwhile we took in the vibe of run-down, dimly lit bar – cash only, mind you. ...

I pulled out my best western shirt to join Audrey and a sea of pink cowboy hats at the Chicks concert. “With 33 million certified albums sold and sales of 27.9 million albums in the US, the Chicks have become the best-selling female band and best-selling country group in the US.” (per Wikipedia) Audrey knew all the words and was not shy about singing and dancing along to the two hour set. ...

In celebration of Jacob’s birthday and Father’s Day, we visited the new Guild venue to “take a journey” with Kamasi Washington and his powerful band. With two drummers, the beat was always intense and funky. Kamasi also brought a singer, keyboard player, trombone and flute/sax. It was my first time at The Guild and I loved the new space. Also enjoyed seeing our ushers, Patti and Larry. Tunes included a wonderful new song for Kamasi’s newborn and the powerful closing “Fists of Fury.” ...