Commonly Uncommon

A Web search reveals that Carlos Martinez is the name of quite a few significant men, including a character on HBO’s Oz and various professional athletes the world over. Proving it’s not that comprehensive (or reliable) a resource, however, the Wikipedia entry for the name omits the Carlos Martinez performing at Jardine’s (4536 Main, 816-561-6480) tonight, despite the fact that his résumé includes a Grammy Award earned with the Neville Brothers. These days, the Hurricane Katrina refugee plays Latin percussion around these parts, alongside such local talents as sax man Loren Pickford and pianist Roger Wilder. Carlos Martinez and the Tropicalia Rhythm Band will perform this afternoon in Topeka before playing two sets — 7:30 and 9 p.m. — onstage at Jardine’s.

Sun., Jan. 4, 7:30 & 9 p.m., 2009