Late at night, some of the lights go out

Opening nights can be difficult for jazz musicians after a long trip from the East Coast. And the potential fatigue factor Monday for the Kenny Barron quintet, fresh into Bel-Air after the flight from New York City, was upped further by the Vibrato club’s 10 p.m. start time.

No doubt eager to get the musical juices flowing quickly, Barron started with a high-spirited original, “New York Attitude.” His players -- vibraphonist Stefon Harris, flutist Ann Drummond, bassist Kiyoshi Kitagawa and drummer Kim Thompson -- responded with a surprisingly vigorous romp, led by Barron’s characteristically precise piano chording.

The tempo and mood shifted dramatically when he moved into a solo rendering of “Willow Weep for Me,” emphasizing his exquisite touch and remarkable capacity to generate autumnal-hued tone from the piano. (He was not aided, however, by the club’s PA system, which muddied the usually crystalline qualities of his sound.)

By midset, however, the energy level dropped considerably. Despite the attractive textural blending of piano, flute and vibes, despite the articulate rhythmic interaction between Kitagawa and Thompson, the musical ignition too often seemed to be misfiring.

Occasionally there were sudden reminders of the players’ real capabilities -- Harris’ extraordinary solo during a duo with Barron on “You Don’t Know What Love Is”; a revitalized solo from Thompson in the final number. By the end of the evening, however, one was left with the distinct feeling that a good night’s rest was needed by all.

The late start, along with a relatively small turnout and the high admission price ($50 cover charge plus a $45 food-drink minimum), raised the question of whether Vibrato is focusing on the venue’s kitchen rather than its music room. If so, that would seem an odd choice of priorities.

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Kenny Barron Quintet

Where: Vibrato Grill & Jazz, 2930 Beverly Glen Circle, Bel-Air

When: Tonight, 10

Price: $50 cover charge with $45 minimum purchase

Contact: (310) 474-9400