Jazz Beat: Gerald Spaits Quartet featuring Charles Perkins, at the Blue Room

Charles Perkins’ alto sax has soared since standing out in the 1980s’ New Breed Orchestra. Whether quoting, note for note, a Charlie Parker solo or rapidly weaving in and out of his own smartly conceived, complex lines, Perkins has always been worth seeking out. Then there’s Gerald Spaits, a musician whom other musicians seek out. You might find the versatile bassist backing Marilyn Maye, Karrin Allyson or the Trumpet Summit, or filling in with the People’s Liberation Big Band. Thursday night, the Gerald Spaits Quartet, featuring Charles Perkins, fills the Blue Room with jazz by some of KC’s long-recognized best.