For fans of the music of Sam Bush, David Grisman and the late Vassar Clements — musicians who have navigated the terrain between bluegrass and jazz — there is now a new gig in town. Since early spring, the Jazz Factory (815 W. Market St.) has offered a monthly “Bluegrass Meets Jazz” evening in which multi-genre instrumentalists take the stage. Jazz Factory co-owner Ken Shapero says the show is part of the club’s commitment to showcasing the musical flavor of the region. The core group of collaborators includes Stephen Couch of the Americana band the Betweeners, Steve Cooley of the bluegrass outfit Hog Operation (pictured above) and Craig Wagner of the jazz combo the Java Men. While the lineup rotates, audiences can count on a high-energy show. The musicians “push each other into areas they don’t (normally) go,” says Shapero, “for example, playing bluegrass tunes to a Latin jazz beat.” The next show will be Wednesday, June 7, with sets at 7:30 and 9:30. $5. For more information visit www.jazzfactory.us or call 992-3242.
