The Plain Dealer     You should hear... Friday, March 03, 2006 John Benson Special to The Plain Dealer Northcoast Jazz Collective, post-bop jazz Hometown: Cleveland. Years performing: five Day gig: Ranges from professional musicians to special education school teacher. When the Northcoast Jazz Collective formed five years ago, its mission was to perform modern arrangements that challenged people's perceptions. In addition to original compositions, the quartet performs obscure post-bop covers (John Coltrane, Miles Davis, Joshua Redman, Michael Brecker, et al.) that are decidedly under the average jazz fan's radar. Not only does this keep the act on its toes, but it has attracted a diverse and educated fan base. "I'm hoping that we can bring back jazz to the city so it's what Cleveland is known for because there's a lot of good players out there," said drummer Mark Grey, a special education teacher in Beachwood. Having released its self-titled debut last summer, the Northcoast Jazz Collective is hoping to return to the studio this spring. In the meantime, the foursome is in the middle of a month-long run. You can see the group's free show from 8 to 11 p.m. every Monday (through March 20) at Sunset Lounge, 1382 West Ninth St., Cleveland. Call 216-535-0001.