While nominally a classical performer, you don't have to stretch to hear a strong jazz influence in pianist Christopher O'Riley's interpretations of modern rock tunes.
While the performer stil does plenty of work within the classical repertoire, he's perhaps best known for his dramatic re-imaginings of the songs of British modern rock gods Radiohead. (His version of "Paranoid Android" ranks just a notch below Brad Mehldau's.)
He's gone on to tackle the work of kindred tunesmiths Nick Drake and Elliott Smith, with each album showcasing a winning mix of melodic repsect, artistic verve and improvisational daring.
Hear for yourself tonight, as he comes to town for an 8 p.m. performance at Yoshi's San Francisco. Tickets are $30.
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