T Lavitz to Kick Off Jazz Series

GARDEN GROVE —  Keyboard player T Lavitz launches a new Thursday jazz series tonight at Papa G’s in the Hyatt Regency Alicante. A former member of the Dregs, Lavitz (who insists that the initial “T” in his name is not followed by a period) says he loves jazz and rock equally, and feels “equally at home playing either one.”

“I feel really fortunate to have been born when I was,” adds Lavitz, 35--”old enough to appreciate acoustic instruments, young enough to be open minded about electronic instruments and, hopefully, wise enough to realize what both can do for my music.”

Lavitz made three albums with the Miami-based Dregs. More recently, he has been leading his own group, T Lavitz and the Bad Habitz. At Papa G’s, where he also plays May 2 and 9, he’ll be accompanied by bassist Tom Lilly and drummer Ray Brinker.

The jazz series continues May 16, 23 and 30 with guitarist Ric Flauding and June 6, 13 and 20 with percussionist/composer Andrea Marcelli. Showtime is 8:30 p.m.

T Lavitz plays tonight and May 2 and 9 at 8:30 p.m. at the Hyatt Regency Alicante, 100 Plaza Alicante, Garden Grove. Admission: $7. Information: (714) JAMMING.