After Fest: Langford at LeMieux, Jordan & Oliver Lake at Cafe Istanbul

The second weekend of Jazz Fest at night starts tonight

This year's Jazz Fest nightlife isn't as jam-heavy as previous years have been. There are certainly plenty of opportunities to hear funky jams, but there are other options this year for those who get their fill at the Fair Grounds. Tonight has two such shows of note.

Officially, Jon Langford of The Mekons and The Waco Brothers opened a new show of his art at LeMieux Galleries last Saturday night. Langford arrives in New Orleans today, and he'll be at the gallery tonight for an opening and what will likely be a solo performance. Langford also has a new album, Here Be Monsters, and its lead track gives the show its title: "Summer Stars."  The reception starts at 7 p.m.

Also tonight, Cafe Istanbul features a performance of improvised music by Kidd Jordan with World Saxophone Quartet member Oliver Lake. Fellow WSQ member Hamiet Bluiett was originally scheduled to play with Jordan, but he has suffered two strokes, and although he continues to play, he won't make the New Orleans date. Jordan and Lake will be joined on the gig by Alvin Fielder (drums), Darrell Levigne (piano), and Brian Quezerque (bass). The show starts at 9 p.m. and will also include spoken word from Chuck Perkins and Don Paul.