I've had the privilege of seeing Grant Stewart live an in person at Smalls (obviously several years ago). After seeing him live, I've seemed to pick up anything he's on. Great show and great experience.
FYI I'm also a fan of Eric Alexander and have seen him live with One For All. Since I'm too young to have seen the original masters at their prime, I perhaps am more inclined to appreciate and even be influenced by the those living the scene today. Who knows. Perhaps it is a function of, for example, only having seen a shell of Lou Donaldson at his age live. [shrugs] Sonny Rollins on the other hand was still bringing it even ~five years ago when I saw him.
Maybe my perspective is skewed given my age. I'm just happy people are still making vibrant music and this jazz music we all love is managing to carry on.
As for Smalls I've been a longtime financial supporter and may even sponsor a show one of these days. It's a great venue and I always try to visit when I am visiting New York.