Zoo tracks: Sounds of smooth jazz for animal lovers

Animal lovers can enjoy the smooth sounds of jazz on warm summer nights during the annual Indianapolis Zoo Animals and All that Jazz concert series this summer.

The 30th Animals and All That Jazz series continues every Thursday night through Aug. 3. The programs are 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. The 2017 is showcasing a range of artists from longtime favorites to acts new to the zoo stage.

The concerts this year are taking place inside the Bicentennial Pavilion. The shaded, airy structure combines the atmospheres of both indoor and outdoor venues. With its convenient location near the front of the zoo, with plenty of animal exhibits nearby, guests can enjoy a full day at the zoo along with the free evening performance.

This year’s Animals and All That Jazz series includes:

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Today: Appalatin

Bridging the musical traditions of Latin and American folk, the band’s foot-stomping, hip-swinging sounds have been in the spotlight on festival stages around the Midwest.

Menu: “Southern Comfort” with Louisiana po’boys, salad bar and warm bread pudding.

July 20: Cowbell Jazz featuring Yvonne Allu

With musical influences from the jazz, funk and pop genres, Cowbell Jazz featuring the soulful and rich vocals of Yvonne Allu will offer something for everyone in the audience.

Menu: “Tex-Mex” with build-your-own burrito or burrito bowl, salad bar and churros.

July 27: West Central Quartet

From classic to contemporary, this high-energy foursome showcases an eclectic mix of music that reaches across multiple jazz genres. Their unique approach to entertaining is sure to get crowds up on their feet.

Menu: “Taste of Italy” with pasta bar, salad bar and cheesecake.

Aug. 3: Mark Buselli’s BSU Gatos

The concert series finale will offer a one-of-a-kind combination of big band and Latin jazz music, blended beautifully by an accomplished composer, arranger and educator.

Menu: “Sizzling Fajitas” with fajitas, salad bar and sopapillas.

In addition to regular Zoo fare, each concert will feature a different menu of specialty food options. Adults can also enjoy samples of craft beers from a rotating list of local breweries, including Metazoa Brewing Co., Sun King Brewery and TwoDEEP Brewing, as well as a cash bar.

Concerts will go on rain or shine. Tables and seating inside the Pavilion are available to guests on a first-come, first-served basis.

Animals and All That Jazz concerts are free to Zoo members and included with regular admission. Guests can purchase discount tickets at Indiana Members Credit Union locations and enjoy the full day at the Zoo. Advance tickets are also available at IndianapolisZoo.com.