Jazz Beat: Steve Cardenas Trio, at Take Five Coffee + Bar

Guitarist Steve Cardenas left Kansas City 20 years ago for New York, where, with his rich sound and compelling improvisations, he has performed and recorded with some top talent, including Charlie Haden, Paul Motian and Steve Swallow. Cardenas has also released four albums of his own, each replete with his distinctive, modern sound. This week, he returns to his hometown for two shows and brings with him esteemed bassist and composer Ben Allison. Thursday night at Take Five and Friday at the Blue Room, they’re joined by Kansas City drummer Brian Steever.