As summer approaches us, so does the promise of essential albums, new vinyl, upcoming gigs, and a reminder of what it all means to those who love jazz.  

In the world of jazz, few musicians are as revered as the great trumpeter and vocalist Louis Armstrong. That being said, one can imagine the joy felt by fans when Verve Records proudly announced the July 12 release of “LOUIS IN LONDON,” his last great performance. 

The performance was recorded live at the BBC on July 2, 1968. “Pops” as he is affectionately known, delivered such tunes as “Ole Miss,” “What a Wonderful World,” “Mack the Knife,” and “Hello, Dolly.” Armstrong also performs my personal favorite, “When the Saints Go Marching In,” among other songs. 

In additional exciting news, “Ten” from Jason Moran, Kennedy Center artistic director of jazz, pianist, composer and bandleader is getting its first-ever vinyl release on June 21 in Blue Note Records Classic Vinyl Series. His 2010 release celebrated its 10^th anniversary of The Bandwagon, Moran’s acclaimed trio featuring drummer Nasheet Waits and bassist Tarus Mateen. He’s no stranger to the Twin Cities, so let’s hope the trio makes another local appearance in the near future.

Meanwhile, Waits has been busy recording with other groups. I’m also anticipating these albums out on June 28, featuring Waits in a supporting role and as a leader. First, “You Think This America” from the Tarbaby trio consisting of pianist Orrin Evans and bassist Eric Revis. Secondly as a leader, “New York Love Letter (Bitter Sweet)” with saxophonist Mark Turner, vibist Steve Nelson, and bassist Rashaan Carter. 

This month we must remember the great saxophonist Ornette Coleman on the 9^th anniversary of his passing on June 11, 2015. Born on June 11, 1920, jazz pianist and singer Hazel Scott, who was a musical prodigy (discovered the piano at the age of three), was admitted to the prestigious Juilliard School of Music at the age of eight. On June 10, we wished a happy 81^st birthday to the legendary NEA Jazz Master pianist and composer Kenny Barron. 

All of the artists scheduled for upcoming performances in the Twin Cities share a certain kind of brilliance and will no doubt bring a bit of much-needed sparkle our way. 

Featuring at the Dakota: Visionary guitarist Stanley Jordan—June 29 (7 p.m.); vocalist T. Mychael Rambo presents Summer Breeze—July 1 (7 p.m.); NOLA Brass, Rebirth Brass Band—July 19 (6:30 p.m.); legendary trumpeter and flugelhorn virtuoso Arturo Sandoval with the JazzMN Orchestra—July 10 (6:30, 8:30 p.m.); and July 11 Arturo Sandoval (6:30, 8:30 p.m.).

I was listening to a livestream of WBGO.org (88.3 FM) out of Newark, NJ, recently, and host Awilda Rivera played the swingin’ song, “Blue Minor” by pianist Sonny Clark. I immediately thought of a list that I’ve been putting together featuring signature songs I would introduce to people unfamiliar with but interested in jazz. I’ll give other recommendations each month. This is just the first. 

For those of you who’ve been following along with me on this 20-plus-year jazz journey, you know I try to keep things fresh. Yet lately, I’ve found myself reflecting back to the early days of my exposure to jazz. And I think it’s good to have a refresher session from time to time. So, I’m challenging myself to go back to the beginning and remember why this music means so much to me and others. 

Starting next month, I’ve decided to rewatch “Jazz” by filmmaker Ken Burns—an in-depth look at the most original American art form. This 10-part series tracks the growth and development of jazz music, and watching it left a great impression on me early on. 

As I’m reflecting back, I invite you to do the same. Perhaps there’s something we’ve missed, or maybe we’ll be reminded of something important from our history, or just help push us forward into the future.  

As I ran across a clip from “Jazz” on YouTube, I couldn’t help but wonder, can this quintessential music continue to help us learn about ourselves, each other, and teach us how to get back to appreciating the extraordinary men and women who gave their lives for this music? After all, this might be the best time of any for jazz to bring the soul of this nation together when we need it the most.