I ALWAYS associate Latin American music with languid days and sunshine. From the subtly implied beats of Jobim and Gilberto, to the steamy dance rhythms of Alex Wilson's Anglo Cubano, through to hard-core Eddie Palmieri and Irakere, LA music is my meat.

Gente is the new album by Monica Vasconcelos and Nois 4, recorded in Brazil and their third on the Candid label. Sinuous and seductive though the songs are, since I know no Portuguese, for all I know they could be about athlete's foot or mending shoes. However, it is an aural treat from track one, which has spare solo guitar and voice introducing Influencia do Jackson, building through 11 dynamic tracks, seasoned variously with street choir, string section and full Latin rhythm.

Sharing the lead melodies with Vasconcelos are Ingrid Laubrock's saxophones (alto and soprano) and special guest, the Brazilian singer, guitarist and composer Guinga, who contributes two compositions. On his Cha De Panela, Guinga employs similar instrumental voicings to those used by fellow-Brazilian Hermeto Pascoal, with voices and instruments in unison, over softly implied rhythm.

Monica adds a sprinkling of atmospheric accordion on Choro Bandido, Guinga's piece above and a couple more. All of the group members contribute compositions. Drummer Chris Wells is also the producer and joint composer on two, while guitarist Ife Tolentino chips in with Why and Ingrid Laubrock and Monica have penned Leve.

Nois 4 appear regularly at local venues such as Scarborough and Wakefield Jazz.

Tonight's session at Wakefield Jazz is by the Tina May Band, featuring the flawless piano of Nikki Iles behind Tina's vocals. The rhythm section is the perfect bass and drums team of Alec Dankworth and Tristram Maillot. Details from 01977 680542.

Tonight's Jazz in the Sticks presentation at the Farmers Inn, Brafferton Helperby, is the piano and vocals, Nina and Karl duo of Fine and Mellow. Catch them again on Monday in York at the Rook and Gaskill, Lawrence Street.

Dave Brennan's Jazz Band is the trad attraction at Jazz in the Spa tomorrow night. The venue is the Trustees Hall, High Street, Boston Spa and you can find more details from 01937 842544.

There is a special jazz event in Howden on Sunday, when Danny Moss and Jeannie Lamb swing into the Shire Hall, Market Place. Tenor saxophonist Danny developed his solo style in a stint with the Humphrey Lyttelton Band and has led his own bands for many years. Together with singer Jeannie Lamb, expect an evening of quality jazz on Sunday. More details from 01430 431535.

Also on Sunday in York, the regular jam session at the Black Swan, Peasholme Green, offers the best in York jazz talent at York's favourite price - it is free.

On Tuesday, Scarborough Jazz welcomes the return of saxophonist Joel Purnell with the Mike Gordon Trio. Details from 01723 379818.

The following night, vocalist Julie Edwards joins with Kevin Dearden on saxophone at the Goodfellow-ship Inn, Cottingham Road, Hull. More details from 01482 492868.

Back in York on Thursday, blow away all your blues at the Old White Swan, Goodramgate, with the fun and frolics of the Mardi Gras Band.

Updated: 16:28 Thursday, October 14, 2004