Bobby Hutcherson was born in 1941, made his debut on Blue Note as a
bandleader in 1965, and is the second most famous vibraphonist in
jazz history (Milt Jackson is in first place). Hutcherson has
played with almost all of the great figures of his time—Jackie
McLean, Herbie Hancock, and, of course, the genius above all geniuses,
Eric Dolphy. Those who know Dolphy’s Out to Lunch know that
Hutcherson is an American giant. (Jazz Alley, 2033 Sixth Ave,
441-9729. 7:30 and 9:30 pm, $27.50, all ages. Through Sun May 18.)

Charles Mudede—who writes about film, books, music, and his life in Rhodesia, Zimbabwe, the USA, and the UK for The Stranger—was born near a steel plant in Kwe Kwe, Zimbabwe. He has no memory...