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Easy Company: The Jay Epstein trio

Local jazz fans may not realize the Twin Cities has quite the local jazz scene, and a lot of it’s centered at St. Paul’s own jazz club The Artists’ Quarter. Tonight sees the release of the latest effort from local jazz drummer Jay Epstein and his trio, comprising bassist Anthony Cox and pianist Bill Carrothers. The trio’s new album Easy Company features another set of what the Jazz Times calls “energetic, sometimes dark and eerie” music from the acclaimed jazz masters. (9 p.m. Fri. & Sat. $10. All ages. The Artists’ Quarter, 408 St. Peter St. 651-292-1359.)

Craving a Southern-style dinner after the show? Head to Creole-inspired eatery Brasa, which serves such mouth-watering meaty options as rotisserie chicken, slow-cooked pork shoulder, braised beef, and more. (There are vegetarian options too for you herbivores.) (777 Grand Av. 651-224-1302.)

In other local jazz news, the Hot Summer Jazz Festival is happening next weekend, June 18-20 in Mears Park. The premier jazz event in the Twin Cities includes such big names in the jazz scene as Allen Toussaint, Esperanza Spalding, and The New Standards. It coincides with the weekly Music in Mears series; next Thursday’s edition features local jazz singer Chastity Brown. (Look to Juleana Enright’s Off the Beaten Path blog for St. Paul STAYcation next week for more on the festival.)