Harmonica fans who enjoy the handiwork of local legends Jim Liban and Steve Cohen will want to The Jazz Estate, 2423 N. Murray Ave., Thursday night to absorb the unique stylings of harp virtuoso Howard Levy.

Levy plays the diatonic harmonica in a style that defies comparison, because it is a style of his own. The blues comes to mind when the harmonica is mentioned, however, Levy explores his musical vision with jazz, Latin, classical and world music.

Listening to Levy is pure bliss for the enthusiast of this tiny reeded instrument, and, at the same time perplexing for a player who tries to comprehend the sound Levy produces with such grace. Levy's trance-inducing, exotic sounds evoke saxophone and piano
chords in a mesmerizing mélange.

Spectators should arrive early, because the venue promises to be crowded with fans who know a genius when they hear one. Levy will play two sets with the Dave Wake Quartet. Show time is 9 p.m. and the event will be smoke-free.