And Dial 251 for Jazz, a D.C.-based straight-ahead jazz sextet (albeit with a shot of R&B), managed to pay tribute to both and burn through their own music that night in a single set at Twins Jazz. Dial 251 is a crisp, cohesive unit with gifted soloists and a great deal to say. On the waltz version of the theme to “Game of Thrones,” easily the set’s highlight, Leonhardt got better and better as he progressed. Guitarist Johnson was similarly formidable, with a clear tone and a master’s ear for harmony, also understated but used to great effect on the “Game of Thrones” theme. Still, “always leave them wanting more” has the ring of truth — especially when you have a second set that same night.

Source: Washington Post September 25, 2016 19:42 UTC