Drew Simpson w/ B-Side Quartet

Drew Simpson plays Central Market North on Thursday, August 13, with the B-Side Quartet backing him. It's a jazz night in the middle of a grocery store, which is just one of those things that makes Austin feel like Austin.

Simpson is the main feature here, and the B-Side Quartet fills out the sound around him. The set sits in the jazz and smooth jazz territory, so it's the kind of music that works as well if you're paying close attention as it does if you're just letting it run in the background while you hang out. If you've spent any time around the local jazz scene, you know the drill: a small group, a few hours of playing, and the kind of relaxed energy that fits a Thursday evening.

Central Market North is at 4001 N Lamar Blvd, right in the heart of the North Lamar stretch. It's a spot you probably already visit for your groceries, and that's part of the appeal — you can swing by for a few things and stay for the music. The show starts at 6 PM, which is early enough that you're not sacrificing your whole night, but late enough to be a proper evening out. If you're coming from work, it's a straight shot on Lamar.

So, Drew Simpson and the B-Side Quartet, Thursday, August 13, at Central Market North, 4001 N Lamar Blvd. The music starts at 6 PM.