Javon Jackson performs at the Blue Wisp

By Mike Breen for CityBeat

Acclaimed Jazz saxophonist Javon Jackson got his start as part of Art Blakey and the Jazz Messengers and, along with his successful career as solo artist and bandleader, he would go on to tour and/or record with the likes of Elvin Jones, Donald Byrd, Freddie Hubbard and many others. But it was a chance teaming with Jazz icon (and Lexington native) Les McCann in 2007 that has informed many of his musical projects of late.

The legendary pianist/singer was in a bind before a San Francisco gig when his organist was unable to perform, so on a whim he called the widow of Jazz great Eddie Harris, a frequent collaborator of McCann’s over the years. She connected the two players and their pairing has been a fruitful one ever since. The cross-generational collaboration comes to the Blue Wisp Jazz Club Friday, June 15 and Saturday, June 16 (two shows each night) to celebrate the release of Jackson and McCann’s latest project, the album Lucky 13. Joining the pair all weekend will be ace local players Dan Faehnle (guitar), Art Gore (drums) and Bill Jackson (bass). Shows are at 8:30 p.m. and 10:30 p.m. both nights. Tickets are $25; reservations are recommended (513-241-9477). Blue Wisp Jazz Club. 700 Race St., Downtown. www.thebluewisp.com .

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