Swan Songs

As fans of Denver's 9th and Lincoln Orchestra know, this is one big band that's not likely to break into "Cherokee" during its monthly gigs at Dazzle. A conglomeration of musicians from such progressive bands and ensembles as the Czars, Hamster Theater and the Future Jazz Project — as well as the music faculties of various universities — 9th and Lincoln sets itself apart with a meaty rhythm section that includes vibe-player Greg Harris, outré guitarist Dave Devine and lots of electronic gadgetry. The group, culled by leader Tyler Gilmore, represents a local surge toward a kind of modern, improv-heavy big-band music that is gaining favor nationwide.

The orchestra proves its point tonight by taking the Dazzle stage for The Music of Björk — featuring new, forward-thinking arrangements of music from the Icelandic diva's long career. "It's the kind of intellectual pop music that begs to be devoured and dissected by jazz people," Gilmore says of Björk's eclectic and delightfully eccentric repertoire. The Dancing Queen had long captured the imaginations of several of Gilmore's bandmates — some had even written Björk arrangements — so it seemed an obvious direction for the band to take.

Leave your swan dress at home, but bring an appreciative ear to 930 Lincoln Street at 7 p.m.; admission is $7 to $10. Call 303-839-5100 or visit www.dazzlejazz.com for details.
Sun., Nov. 26, 7 p.m.