By Briana Younger, The New Yorker
The alto saxophonist Lakecia Benjamin plays jazz that is sprinkled with the rich flavors of funk and soul—she’s a crafty traditionalist who remains in step with the rhythms of the young generation. (One cut on her most recent album, “Rise Up,” reimagined Rihanna’s “Stay” through the sultry tones of her horn.) As part of this year’s Winter Jazzfest marathons, running Jan. 10-11 at venues around Manhattan, Benjamin presents music from her upcoming project, “Pursuance,” an homage to the brilliant, timeless work of Alice and John Coltrane.