Jazz Classic

Golson is the composer of at least eight jazz classics that are played every night by jazz musicians all over the world. At age 81, he looks and plays like someone 20 years his junior. A solid crowd gathered to catch his performance.

As he reminded the audience several times, Mr. Golson enjoys talking. Indeed he spent almost as much time introducing the tunes as he did actually playing them. You pay attention because he's earned the right to do as he pleases -- but also because his stories are entertaining. This is a guy who could count the entire pantheon of jazz as true friends. Golson performed and provided the backstory on "Whisper Not," "Along Came Betty," and a poignant "I Remember Clifford."

The man can also play the saxophone. He was sublimely aided in that pursuit by an all-star band. Local legends Mike Wofford on piano and Bob Magnusson on bass provided support and offered breathtaking solos. Ex-Cannonball Adderly drummer Roy McCurdy kept the time rock-steady and traded fours and eights with aplomb. The combo finished their 90-minute set with an up-tempo romp on Coltrane's "Mr. P.C."

• Concert: Benny Golson Quartet
• Date: April 23
• Venue: Anthology
• Seats: general admission