An absolutely not-to-be-missed evening is guaranteed when this stellar 19-piece big band, founded in 1966 by New Orleans trumpeter, Junius Courtney, miraculously packs itself onto the Freight stage to execute a powerhouse repertoire of merciless swing, blues, and gutsy improvisation.

While Junius sadly passed away last summer, Detroit-born multi-instrumentalist George "Jazzbeaux" Spencer carries on the torch as musical director, keeping the music alive and swingin' as the best possible tribute to the late great bandleader. Special guest Denise Perrier brings to the stage the sultry, powerful vocals she's been perfecting for decades in performances all over the world and collaborations with Louis Armstrong, Ruth Brown, and Etta Jones.

Developing from a core of long-term veterans who performed alongside Sy Oliver and John Coltrane, the big band delivers hot and soulful readings of exquisitely arranged material. From early tunes like "Sweet Lorraine" to lush classics like "Caravan" and the supercharged "Wind Machine," the Junius Courtney Big Band exemplifies all the sophistication and soul of authentic swing.