" data-original-title="" title="">George Wein created the event) some are better than others. None are bad, some years it leaned a little toward disappointment (probably the worst that's ever been said in Saratoga). Others ranged from good to excellent. The 46th festival at Saratoga Performing Arts Center pushed the meter toward excellent.

Four two days, the music was outstanding, covering various genres beyond jazz—as festivals must now do in order to survive—but in each case the level of musicianship was high and the performances were potent and energetic. It's presented on two stages. One is SPAC's main amphitheater stage, where rock and pop bands hold court throughout the summer season (as well as some orchestra and ballet sessions). The other stage is a small, though no less professional, at the rear of the scenic grounds. There is no musical demarcation. Excellence is continually displayed on both.

The festival's first amphitheater act on Day One bolted out of the gate and set the tone for the weekend. It was a no-holds-barred set by Cindy Blackman Santana and her group. The music was jazz fusion with an edge, raucous and driving, steered and stoked by Blackman's polyrhythmic drumming. She brought a helluva band that included