JEFF BALLARD TRIO

One of the most highly appreciated drummers of his generation, Jeff Ballard has kept time for such notables as Brad Mehldau and Chick Corea. This time, he heads in to present his first album recorded as a bandleader, Time’s Tales, with a trio filled out by astonishing Benin guitarist Lionel Loueke, a Festival fave, and excellent Puerto Rican saxophonist Miguel Zenon. Expect a powerful and lively repertoire that shifts silkily from jazz to classical to rock. Solid.