Crossroads – Brian Jones “Redhead”

Crossroad’s has been hosting live music for a long time, but recently their lineup has had some of the best jazz in Richmond.

November 18, 2011; 6:00 AM • by Aaron Williams

A few weeks ago, Selba was the center of attention for their ever expanding lineup of jazz. This week, Crossroads is the focus. Crossroads has been hosting live music for a long time, but recently their lineup has had some of the best jazz in Richmond.

Crossroads Coffee and Ice Cream
3600 Forest Hill Avenue, Richmond, Va. 23225

Located South of the James River on Forest Hill Ave., the coffee shop offers a unique family experience for listeners and musicians alike. Instead of being a dark club with late start times, it is easy to stop by Crossroads with the family for music at 7pm. While they still have an extensive selection of beer, their menu extends beyond standard bar fare and they even have a large selection of ice cream and desserts.

Wednesday night, drummer Brian Jones teamed up with saxophonist J.C. Kuhl, trumpeter John D’earth and bassist Randall Pharr to perform music from Jones’ album “Redhead” and some jazz standards.

The chemistry between these four musicians was remarkable. Kuhl and Jones spent five years on tour with Agents of Good Roots and Kuhl and D’earth play weekly at Miller’s in Charlottesville. Pharr and Jones have recorded countless records and have shared the stage with a frightening variety musicians. As a combo, they had a remarkable ability to read each other’s minds while at the same time constantly surprising each other.

Richmond’s healthy music scene can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, at different times and in different environments. More options enable more people to enjoy the music which is better for the scene and it will be interesting to see where the next spot is.

Next Wednesday night, JC Kuhl returns with Beerded Ladeez. 3/4ths of the band Modern Groove Syndicate, Beerded Ladeez explores new territory as a trio. Kuhl shreds tenor and baritone saxophone as Todd Herrington plays bass creating countless layers of sound and Joel Denunzio lays down funky beats. They will be joined by Trey Pollard on guitar and pedal steel guitar.