FUTURE THINGS ARE COMING >>>

I didn't expect to talk jazz last night during the Harmon's Pray For Snow Party. Sitting under snowflake decorations, jazz enthusiast Jerry and I discussed the jazz scenes of New York and San Francisco during the '50s. As we were jostled by hordes donning ski jackets and goggles, I asked Jerry if he's seen any recent jazz that blew him away.

"I recently saw this big band right here at the Harmon," he said pointing to the front of the room. "There must have been twenty guys, and a trumpeter was leading them. They worked this joint. It was cool."

Instantly, I knew he was speaking of Rich Wetzel's Groovin' Higher Jazz Orchestra. Wetzel and his big band have been popping up in local bars and restaurants, introducing folks to jazz of years gone by, as well as a few current numbers. Saturday, Wetzel and co. will blow away the kids at the all-ages Louie G's Pizzeria.

I caught up to Wetzel before his Saturday gig.

WEEKLY VOLCANO: When did you realize the music game would be your life?

RICH WETZEL: By junior high I knew. I was hooked. All through high school I had no doubt, this was what I would do. I listened to jazz constantly, attended live shows, played in every band I possibly could. I loved it ever since.

VOLCANO:  On stage you look as if your mind is going hundred miles an hour - directing traffic, counting beats, etc. Do you ever just fall into a musical trance onstage?

WETZEL: I never fall into a trance other than a few moments when I'm having a particularly good night, playing on another level, and in the moment enjoying the experience. Otherwise, I am having fun - but also directing traffic for solos, open sections and thinking of the show; making it entertaining.

VOLCANO: Do you have a special set scheduled for Saturday night?

WETZEL: Yes we do, a bit more emphasis on the jazz-rock fusion, some hot Latin jazz and some big band rock tunes from CHASE, Chuck Berry and James Brown.

VOLCANO: What's your go-to pizza?

WETZEL: Anything with lots of meat. I never go for those veggie pizzas (laughing).

VOLCANO: If you could have anyone, dead or alive, play next to you Saturday night, who would it be?

WETZEL: There are two people. I have been lucky enough to have the incredible Arturo Sandoval play with us and I got to play in his band in LA. The other, who has passed on - also a major inspiration to me - would have been the great Maynard Ferguson. He and his playing is what really lit my fire, got me passionate about playing.

[Louie G's Pizzeria, Rich Wetzel's Groovin' Higher Jazz Orchestra, Saturday, Nov. 5, 8-011 p.m., all ages, $5, 5219 Pacific Hwy. E., Tacoma, 253.926.9700]