TV REVIEW : A Showcase for Branford Marsalis

The fifth installment of Bravo’s seven-part “Birdland” series (at 7 and midnight tonight) is of special interest in that the main participant is saxophonist Branford Marsalis.

In his role as bandleader on “The Tonight Show,” Marsalis rarely has a chance to make more than fragmentary appearances, mainly leading into a commercial. On this evening’s show, taped in 1989, he is not only heard playing without interruption but also talks about why he plays as he does, what music means to him and the “hybrid mentality” of the jazzman that makes him so adaptable.

Marsalis is in characteristically energetic and creative form playing an original, “Aykrig,” backed by his regular rhythm section of Kenny Kirkland on piano, Jeff Watts on drums and Bob Hurst (who composed it) on bass. He then joins forces with British pianist Julian Joseph, who is represented as a composer on “Tyrannosaurus Rex” and “Miss Simmons.”

Joseph, who studied at Berklee in Boston and has toured with Marsalis in this country, is clearly compatible with him. Two other British musicians are heard backing Joseph: Mark Mondesir on drums and Alec Dankworth (son of saxophonist John Dankworth) on bass.

Produced by the BBC, this series is offering a helpful opportunity to keep abreast of both the British and U.S. jazz scenes. Joseph’s bold claim that “the new jazz developments in the ‘90s will come from London” may yet be borne out.