CenterPeace
In a town with more jazz legends than we remember, Dr. James Polk outshined them all. His Sixties group James Polk and the Brothers, which included W.C. Clark, Angela Strehli, and Martin Banks, was one of the first integrated bands in Austin. Following a decade with Ray Charles as keyboardist, composer, and arranger, Polk lectured on music history at Texas State, joined Elias Haslanger’s scene staple Church on Monday, and led Centerpeace. Though it’s been just over a year since he passed, Centerpeace keeps Polk’s repertoire alive. Forget fireworks – for ATX jazz fans, there’s no better Independence Day party. – Michael Toland
