Wayne Tucker has built an impressive resume as he's gotten his music career off to a solid start. A talented trumpeter, he brought a series of favorites from his earlier CDs along with new numbers from upcoming recordings to Birdland Theater. In his element, Tucker, alongside his solid band, the Bad Motha's, had the crowd settling in for a serene evening of delectable jazz numbers. I felt the strength of this show lay within Hila Kulik on the piano and the ability of the band to create an amorous atmosphere of rhythmic tunes. Each song compelled the listener with a near irresistible urge to move. It's fitting that one of my favorite numbers would therefore be aptly titled "Humans Groove Harder."

The next couple weeks while Wayne is on tour, his trusty band members (and roommates), Dave Linard (keyboard player) and Miles Tucker (brother and saxophonist) will lead the band to play beautiful jazz, soul, and funk numbers in Wayne's absence. You can except the same amorous amposphere while occasionally bringing on the element of surprise, a special guest musician to feature with them.

The Bad Motha's Residency at Wild Birds every Wednesday night.