A worthy version of a pioneering band

The Jazz Crusaders are back again, kicking off a four-night run Thursday at Catalina Bar & Grill. Which Jazz Crusaders, you might say? In their first incarnation in the early ‘60s, they were an aptly named ensemble, enthusiastically advancing the cause of jazz at a time when rock was beginning to sweep the music scene. But a decade later, they gave in to the music business status quo, removing the word “Jazz” from their name in an effort to reach a larger audience. By the ‘80s and ‘90s, the band was beginning to implode, with dissension among the original members and music that had more to do with R&B; and funk than with jazz.

The current version -- once again bearing the Jazz Crusaders title -- includes only trombonist Wayne Henderson from the original ensemble. But with a front line featuring Everett Harp on saxophones, Bobby Lyleon on keyboards and Brian Price on guitar, with the strong rhythm team of drummer Tony Moore and bassist Dwayne “Smitty” Smith, the playing was first-rate Thursday.

At their best, the Jazz Crusaders were among the pioneers in discovering an appealing rapprochement among jazz improvisation, briskly rhythmic grooves and charismatic, rock-style presentation. All those elements were present in Thursday’s opening set, starting with the body-moving rhythms of “Stomp and Buck Dance,” moving into a jazz-tinged version of “Eleanor Rigby” and hitting a peak with “Put It Where You Want It.” Highlighting the band’s enthusiastic presentation, “Put It” showcased a gospel-drenched solo by Harp and a wildly inventive, crowd-pleasing set of choruses by Lyle.

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The Jazz Crusaders

Where: Catalina Bar & Grill, 1640 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood.

When: Saturday, 8:30 and 10:30 p.m. Sunday, 7:30 and 9:30 p.m.

Price: $22 on Saturday and $20 on Sunday.

Contact: (323) 466-2210.