Bassist Michael Bates is launching Clockwise, the third CD by his quartet, Outside Sources, a band that happily navigates outward from roots in Sergei Prokofiev and Ornette Coleman. Joining Bates are saxophonist Quinsin Nachoff, trumpeter Russ Johnson and drummer Jeff Davis. Sept. 11.

Since migrating to San Francisco a decade ago, trumpeter Darren Johnston has developed a substantial reputation in improvised music circles, working regularly with such Bay-area luminaries as Larry Ochs and Fred Frith, and garnering inclusion in DownBeat magazine’s recent survey of “young trumpeters who demand attention.” On visits home he’s more apt to emphasize his roots, bringing a thoughtful, probing approach to post-bop and free-bop. Here he’s leading a quintet with a frequent associate, saxophonist Evan Francis, and a rhythm section made up of pianist David Braid, bassist Jon Maharaj and drummer Nick Fraser. Sept. 18 and 19.

John Coltrane’s birthday is a very important date in the Rex’s calendar. Each year tenor saxophonists Pat LaBarbera and Kirk MacDonald pay an extended tribute to the giant whose playing was once described as “sheets of sound.” LaBarbera and MacDonald are accompanied by pianist Brian Dickinson, bassist Kieran Overs and drummer Bob McLaren. Sept. 25 to 27.

Composer Rob Mosher’s Storytime is a New York–based 10-member band that mixes jazz and classical sonorities—including oboe, clarinet and French horn—to create a luminous clarity. Among the group’s outstanding soloists are trumpeter Micah Killion and guitarist Nir Felder. Sept. 12.

The Rex is host to an assortment of local big bands as well: Tao, the Toronto Art Orchestra led by Tim Booth, which is also releasing an album, Sept. 14; the Dave McMurdo Jazz Orchestra, Sept. 15; PRO, the Paul Read Orchestra, Sept. 20; and trumpeter John MacLeod’s Rex Hotel Orchestra, Sept. 29.

Also appearing: Will Vinson Quartet, Sept. 4 and 5.—Stuart Broomer