Nothing beats a weekend filled with good food, jazz and an action-packed movie. I lover foreign, independent films, and yes, I’m also a diehard lover of Jason Bourne (Matt Damon) films.
Last week I attended opening day of the new spy thriller “Jason Bourne,” which cashed in with more than $61 million over the weekend. This was Damon’s fourth Jason Bourne film, and each has been more exciting than the previous one. Thumbs up if you are looking for a movie with nonstop action and some unexpected twists.
Famous Toastery, 8680 Concord Mills Blvd., serves breakfast lunch and brunch. I stop by last week for a western omelet, cinnamon raisin toast and freshly squeezed orange juice. The staff was friendly, and partner/general manager Katie Heather does her best to make you feel at home. Hours are from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.
The 2nd Annual QC Summerfest took place last weekend with a preview event Thursday evening featuring trombonist Buff Dillard at BluNotes. Things then got heated with Boney James and Loose Ends Friday evening. I attended all three days, which included Jonathan Butler on Sunday. On Saturday, I saw Columbia native guitarist Terence Young, saxophonist Marion Meadows, BWB, (Norman Brown, Kirk Whalum and Rick Braun) and the lobby band featuring Charlotte favorite Peace and Love.
The show was spectacular, but it was Meadow’s drummer Steve “Jabari” Kersey who had me hypnotized. I’ve never seen a drummer play with so much energy and amusement. Sitting front row has its perks, and much to my delight, Jabari handed me his sticks after his incredible performance. I think it’s safe to say that, in my eyes, he stole the show. That was before I headed to the after show at Cleft Club, an impromptu nightclub setting at Stage Door Theater, which featured the legendary Lonnie Liston Smith for some smooth funk.
I hate it for you if you missed it, but mark your calendars for next year, July 28-30, for the 3rd Annual Summerfest.
Now for my weekend picks. I hope to see you on the town.
FRIDAY
First Ward Friday ~ The Next Level Band of Charlotte will perform hits from the 60s, 70s and Motown. I love the open, laid-back setting of First Ward Park (301 East Seventh Street). Food trucks will be on site. Coolers, blankets, and lawn chairs are welcome. No alcohol is permitted. Pet friendly. 6 p.m. – 9 p.m. More info.
SATURDAY
The Summer of God’s Film ~ A troubled young girl named Lillie reunites with her Afro Brazilian ancestry on a summer visit to north Brazil. Soon after her arrival, she encounters Orishas (African Gods) who join with her grandmother to help her find peace with a gift that has previously vexed her. Cross Roads High School (5500 N. Tryon St.) Cost $10. More info.
SUNDAY
Shaun Jones ~ Comedian Shaun Jones is known for truth, originality and humor, and he’s one of the hottest comics around. He is in town for one night at the Comedy Zone (900 North Carolina Music Factory Blvd). Doors open at 7 p.m. Showtime is 8 p.m. More info.
For a larger listing of local events, visit the Qcitymetro calendar page at www.qcity2021.flywheelstaging.com/events.
Toni Baker-Tyson is a social butterfly. Her entertainment picks are published each Thursday on Qcitymetro.com. Email Toni at toni@qcity2021.flywheelstaging.com, or join her Chocolate Social Network, a group for the mature (40-plus) but young at heart.
