On Thursday evening, I was set to see the legendary Shelia Jordan (almost 90 now!). Unfortunately, she called in sick, but she asked Kendra Shank to fill in. At first I was disappointed, but wanted to hear some live jazz, so after snacking at Otto's Tacos--just around the corner on 7th ave so.--my friend and I joined some more friends and went to the club. Kendra performed with the same bassist and pianist as Shelia was to play with: Cameron Brown and Albeto Piribi, respectively. It was fantastic. Kendra had that bee-bop swing thing going on, as did the other musicians. "Blue Monk", and Abby Lincoln's "Throw It Away" were two of the highlights in a solid set. Afterwards I spoke with Kendra for 5-10 min--we bonded, and exchanged cards. She is steeped in the tradition and worked/studied with many jazz greats including Abby, Shelia, Jay Clayton, Shirley Horn and the great drummer, Matt Wilson. I hope to get another chance to see Shelia though...