Meat and Beats

Many cities have barbecue festivals, but few do it right. How could Portland, Oregon, known to George H.W. Bush as "Little Beirut" and home to a 24-hour vegan doughnut stand, attempt "Bones and Brew" in good conscience? How dare Brooklyn enjoy "Grillin' on the Bay"? And what right has Maryland to "Pork in the Park"? Ribs, jazz and the enjoyment of both in the comfort of a folding lawn chair belong to Kansas City. Reclaim your regional honor and soil your plastic bib today and Saturday at the fourth-annual Rhythm & Ribs Jazz Festival at 18th Street and Vine. This celebration of "the heart, the soul and the sauce" of KC features local and national performers, amateur barbecue contests and Jazz Links, a program that connects jazz musicians and students. Headliners include Fourplay, Angie Stone, George Duke, Robert Cray and Kansas City native Oleta Adams. See KCrhythmandribs.com for more inforation.
Fri., June 13; Sat., June 14, 2008