What's happening.

* There's music in the air and ethnic beats pulsate everywhere during the month of July when a number of jazz fetes take place throughout the world. Most notable is the Montreaux Jazz Festival which began in Switzerland in 1967, and lasted only three days. Since then, MJF has been a rocking celebration of international fusion and mainstream jazz spiced with blues, soul, rock, reggae, and Latin beats performed by musical giants and newcomers. This year, the festival turns 36 with a 16-day celebration of rhythms performed by old and new favorites from July 5-20. For more information on artists and events, visit www.montreuxjazz .com/default.htm

* It promises to be a soulful close when the Godfather of Soul, James Brown, signs off on the 37th annual San Sebastian Jazz Festival in Spain, July 24-29. Most of the other performances will highlight a variety of modern, avant garde, and Spanish jazz players. Check out Chick Corea, Abdullah Ibrahim, McCoy Tyner, and Maceo Parker. For more information, log on to www.jazzaldia.com

* Jazz artist Gerald Albright performs multiple musical tasks on his latest release Groovology. Albright blows soprano, alto, tenor, and baritone sax as well as alto flute. He also hits the keyboards, drums, bass guitar, and pitches in on background vocals. A myriad of talented musicians are featured on the album, including Sheila E.--S.A.