By JOSH KERNS
KIRO Radio

The holiday season is bringing plenty of musical gifts to our area, with plenty of big names coming to town over the next few days.

You don’t hear a whole lot about Seattle’s jazz scene, but it’s one of the best. Just look at the masters coming to town for long runs, like master pianist Ahmad Jamal. The legend kicks off a three night run Thursday at Dimitrios Jazz Alley.

Meanwhile, New Orleans greats the Preservation Hall Jazz Band brings the south to the north – the north sound that is. The big band keeps the spirit of Dixieland alive at the Edmonds Center for the Arts.

Friday night is all about some big names from the indie rock world. Former Husker Du leader Bob Mould turns the volume down, but not the heat at the Triple Door. He’ll be joined by Seattle’s own Telekinesis. Michael Lerner and his band just back from a wildly successful European swing. Expect plenty from the upcoming new Telekinesis release.

Over at the Showbox Market, Portland’s Dandy Warhols bring their psych sound to town. You have to admit, “Bohemian Like You” is one of the catchiest riffs of the last decade.

Saturday night brings a bittersweet show at the Showbox Market. Mudhoney, Shabazz Palaces and other Sub Pop stalwarts gather for a benefit for the family of Andy Kotowicz, who was killed in a car accident in October, leaving a wife and young daughter behind.

Also Saturday, relive the 90’s with Southern rockers the Black Crowes. You can on a healthy dose of hits from “Hard to Handle” to “She talks to Angels.” They’re at the Emerald Queen.

The big ticket of the week is Monday and Tuesday at McCaw Hall. Dave Mathews teams up with master guitarist Tim Reynolds for what’s always an amazing night when they get together. But it will cost you. The show is sold out and checking on Craigslist, the cheapest tickets are going for about $150.

Coming next week: Roger Waters rebuilds The Wall in Tacoma.