Originally founded as an imprint for his own projects, Orrin Evans’s Imani Records started putting out albums by his peers and mentees in 2018. Over the past several years, Imani has become a musical community organizer as well, particularly in Evans’s home city of Philadelphia. During the height of COVID, Evans turned his yard into “Club Patio,” providing a novel outlet for live music.

Out of these Club Patio performances came the Imani Records All Stars, a rotating cast of players from the label’s extended family.

This weekend, the All Stars will assemble at The Jazz Gallery to record a live album. The band is multi-generational, featuring longtime Philly trumpeter John Swana, emerging bandleaders like Caleb Wheeler Curtis and Tim Brey, and next-generation talents like drummer Mehki Boone. Evans and Gallery favorite Jaleel Shaw will guest for one night each.

The Jazz Gallery presents The Imani Records All Stars on Friday, January 20 and Saturday, January 21, 2023. The group features John Swana on trumpet & EVI, Caleb Wheeler Curtis on saxophones, Tim Brey on piano, Nathan Pence on bass, and Mehki Boone on drums. Special guests include pianist Orrin Evans (Friday) and saxophonist Jaleel Shaw (Saturday). Sets are at 7:30 and 9:30 P.M. E.S.T. each night. $30 general admission ($15 for members, $10 for student members), $40 reserved cabaret seating ($25 for members) for each set. Saturday livestream is $20 ($5 for members). Purchase tickets here.