The Week in Arts and Entertainment: Labor Day Weekend

Jazz Guitarist Steve Jones Back in Town ... for a Few Gigs

If you're a fan of formerly local guitarist Steve Jones and happened to miss his show with Bill Lezotte Thursday at , you'll have a few more chances to see him perform in Canton before he skips town once again.

Steve, who has played guitar since the age of 7, moved to Connecticut from Michigan, where he grew up, for a job at ESPN and lived in the area from 2001 to 2010. During that time he met rhythm man Bill Lezotte and, along with Dave "Bobo" Lavorgna, they formed the jazz project Swing 39. Steve, a legend in his own right who has shared the stage with some of Connecticut's and the world's best jazz musicians, moved back to Michigan in 2010 and is a full-time gigging musician, traveling around the country playing the guitar with various groups and doing solo performances and workshops.

His friends and fans will be treated to several opportunities to see him play at some of his favorite venues around town this week and next. 

Friday, the "reunited" Swing 39 performs at La Trattoria from 7-10 p.m. The restaurant is still accepting donations of non-perishable food items for the Canton Food Bank, and will provide a free appetizer to couples who bring in two or more items, perhaps left over from Hurricane Irene preparations. 

On Tuesday, Steve's solo performance at the  from 8-11 p.m. promises to be a special event in an intimate setting filled with old friends and neighbors, along with jazz guitar fans in general. Note that the start time for this show is earlier than normal at the Crown. 

Steve returns to La Trattoria on Thursday to play again with Bill Lezotte of Swing 39 from 7-10 p.m.

Check this column next week for details about shows on the 9th and 10th, Steve's final weekend in town.  

Crown and Hammer Restaurant & Pub

It's a full week of free entertainment at the Crown during the after-dinner hours!

Shawn Taylor performs Friday at 9:30 p.m., and albinoTree promises "live music for lovers of wine and song" on Saturday starting at 9:30 p.m.

Along with Steve Jones' Tuesday night show, which is unusual for the restaurant, the usual Acoustic Open Mic Night occurs on Wednesday at 9 p.m. Featured original artist Dan Reilert, a regular on the coffee house circuit, is slated to participate. And Thursday night at the Crown is Trivia Night, including prizes. 

Bridge Street Live

Brazil's long tradition of world-class singers continues with São Paulo native Luísa Maita, who performs tonight, Friday, at . She has been called the "New Voice of Brazil" by NPR and was recently recognized as "Best New Artist" by the Brazilian Music Awards. Meshing her contemporary sensibilities with her foundation in samba, bossa nova and other traditional acoustic styles, Luísa is sure to get everyone dancing. 

On Saturday, Lipbone Redding and the Lipbone Orchestra bring their unmatched sound and style to Bridge Street. Lipbone, who calls himself a "voicestrumentalist" as well as a guitarist and songwriter, performs his signature voice-trumpet as part of a performance influenced by the global music confluence of his current home, New York City's East Village. 

Blues guitar master Joe Louis Walker performs on Thursday with accomplished artist Murali Coryell, son of guitar great Larry Coryell, featured on vocals and guitar. 

Purchase tickets in advance at www.41bridgestreet.com. All shows this week are scheduled for 8 p.m. with doors open at 7 p.m.; the venue is all ages. 

The Shoppes at Farmington Valley

Rescheduled from last weekend, this Saturday evening at 6 p.m. "Movies, Music & More!" will be kicked off with the "Stanley Maxwell Jam," featuring bassist Mark Crino and special guests from fellow jazz-rock band Shack, trumpeter Stephen Haynes and guitarist Kevin O'Neil. Taking place in the main parking area near the barn, an outdoor screening of "Toy Story 3" begins at sunset after the music.

Tonight, Friday, musician Mike Feinberg performs in the bar area of starting around 8 p.m. 

The Fireplace Cafe

Con Doty & Friends entertains the crowd Friday, from 9 p.m. to 12 midnight at the Fireplace Cafe on River Street in Collinsville.   

Collinsville Farmers Market

The popular "rain or shine" Collinsville Farmers Market is back on track this Sunday after last week's rare cancellation due to Irene. Live music from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. will be provided by singer-songwriter Nathan Day.  

Free Weekly Events

The sign-up list fills up fast for the popular Open Mic Night held at each Friday night at 6 p.m. hosted alternately by Eric Paradine and Con "Coyote" Doty. Be sure to call ahead or arrive early if you'd like to play. 

Open Mic Night at the Fireplace Cafe continues on Tuesdays at 9 p.m. Regulars and new participants alike are welcome to join in the jam.  

The  (192 Albany Turnpike, Canton) hosts weekly Karaoke Nights on Wednesdays at 9:30 p.m. and Saturdays at 10 p.m.