Chewin’ on the Chicken Fat

New Jersey Jazz Society starts 2018 in style with Big Apple all-stars They’ll be jumpin’ for joy in Jersey in January when a seven of the Big Apple’s best jazz musicians sizzle at the 2018 Chicken Fat Ball from 2 to 5 p.m. Sunday, January 7, at The Woodland, 60 Woodland Road, in Maplewood, N.J.; 973-763-7955.The front line will feature two brassy Randys—trumpeter Randy Sandke and cornetist/trombonist Randy Reinhart—along with trombonist John Allred and clarinetist Adrian “The Professor” Cunningham. The all-star rhythm section includes pianist Conal Fowkes, drummer Paul Wells, and bassist/singer Nicki Parrott. This is clearly a combo to kill for! Seating is at tables, and concert-goers are encouraged to bring their own drinks and snacks. Admission costs $35. Last year, a few of the same musicians—notably Parrott and Cunningham—paid tribute to Benny Goodman and Django Reinhardt at the Chicken Fat fete. There’s no guitar or violin on this month’s gig, so no Django this year, but good chance the septet will recall the King of Swing. [caption