Sat. Dec. 21 -- Headhunters/Miles windman Bennie Maupin leads an exceptional Afro-grooving sextet featuring drummer Kenny Sara, percussionist Eric McCain, bassist Darek Oles, pianist David Arnay and trumpeter Chris Williams; read my review of a recent show here. At the Blue Whale on the third level of Weller Court Plaza, south of East First Street between South Los Angeles Street and South San Pedro Street, Little Tokyo 90012; 9pm-midnight; $35; 21+; parking $9 underneath off Second Street at the sign of the P in a circle; (213) 620-0908; www.bluewhalemusic.com.
Thurs. Dec. 26 -- Big-brained saxist David Binney continues his residency with a corps of handpicked young talent. At the Blue Whale on the third level of Weller Court Plaza, south of East First Street between South Los Angeles Street and South San Pedro Street, Little Tokyo 90012; 9pm-midnight; $15; 21+; parking $9 underneath off Second Street at the sign of the P in a circle; (213) 620-0908; www.bluewhalemusic.com.
The metal shows that had been scheduled for this week -- Machine Head, Hate, As I Lay Dying -- canceled within the last month. Wassamatta, devils? Scared of Xmas in the City of Angels?