The Legendary Count Basie Orchestra

Jazz pioneer William 'Count' Basie was 79 when he died, which puts his old band in an odd position: they've now been around for nearly as long as he was. Currently celebrating their 77th year, the group have passed through a succession of bandmasters since Basie passed away in 1984, with present director Dennis Mackrel holding the distinction of being the last drummer to have been hired by the Count himself. Jazz chanteuse Keiko Lee will be joining the group for their swingin' three-night residency at the Blue Note, which marks their first visit to the capital since last year's Tokyo Jazz fest.