This weekend, The Jazz Gallery is proud to welcome drummer Johnathan Blake and his quartet to our stage for two nights of performances. Blake is one of the leading drummers of his generation, holding down the drum chair in groups led by jazz luminaries like Kenny Barron and Tom Harrell (whose group is featured in the video below).One reason that Blake is a top-call for so many bandleaders is that his playing is simultaneously unique and personal, yet fits into a wide variety of musical contexts. The kind of relaxed openness that Blake brings to his work as a sideman colors his work as a bandleader as well. In an interview with Jazz Times below, Blake talks about trusting the musical instincts of his bandmates, just as the bandleaders he plays with trust his. For his two nights at the Gallery, Blake will convene such a group filled with strong and diverse musical personalities—saxophonist Jaleel Shaw, guitarist Lage Lund, and bassist Ben Street. Don't miss out seeing this all-star assemblage stretch out in unexpected directions this weekend.Drummer Johnathan Blake performs at The Jazz Gallery on Friday, December 2nd, and Saturday, December 3rd, 2016. Mr. Blake will be joined by Jaleel Shaw on saxophone, Lage Lund on guitar, and Ben Street on bass. Sets are at 7:30 and 9:30 P.M. each night. $25 general admission ($12 for members) for each set. Purchase tickets here.