Jeff “Tain” Watts – Watts

Drummer Jeff “Tain” Watts is perhaps best known for his work with the Marsalis brothers, Wynton and Branford. Here, he strikes out as a leader with his unique abilities, but surrounded by talents of equal prowess: Terence Blanchard on trumpet, Branford on sax, and Christian McBride on acoustic bass. The musicians pulse through bluesy selections, a ballad and odd-humored material with “Devil’s Ring Tone: the Movie” and “The Devil’s Ring Tone.” Branford’s been known for his comedic approach to music, but this is “Tain”‘s show and he is its joking, pounding and rocking dynamo.  –forrest green III