Daniel Bennett & Steve Kuhn

In solo settings, pianist Kuhn trades his hard bop touch for something a bit more gossamer, and as his recent update of the classic “Trance” reminds, his way with lilt shouldn’t be underestimated. Speaking of the softer side, saxophonist Bennett (who also curates this new Upper West Side series) makes hay with an airy approach that’s buoyant enough to conjure notions of East African guitar riffs and Steve Reich’s pastoral repetition. See if you think his band warrants inclusion in the “folk-jazz” ranks.

Fri., May 27, 9:30 p.m., 2011