Closed for the Holiday
2024-11-28
Happy Thanksgiving!

Chris Codish Trio
2024-11-29 19:30 - 21:30 (America/Detroit)
Showtimes are at 7:30p & 9:30p for this performance. Doors open at 5pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 9pm.
Chris Codish is one of the most sought-after musicians working in Metro Detroit today, playing piano, organ, keyboards, and synth.
His exciting mix of jazz, funk, and blues, layered with his unique voice captivates any crowd. It’s his unique ability entertain his audience while maintaining his artistic point of view that sets Chris apart.
He has been playing professionally for over 30 years, and has won over 40 Detroit Music Awards in the process. Chris honed his skills by touring internationally with some of the world’s top jazz and blues artists, including Hiram Bullock, Alexander Zonjic, Harvey Mason, Roy Ayers, The Blues Brothers, Lucky Peterson, Johnnie Bassett, Larry McCray among countless others.
Chris is an in-demand session musician as well, having recorded over 80 commercial releases, and dozens of independent albums as well. He produced the “Gentleman of the Blues” Johnnie Bassett’s final two albums for Mack Ave. Records/Sly Dog Records: The Gentleman is Back, and I Can Make That Happen. Chris has also provided keyboard for some of Detroit best artists including Carl Craig, Don Was, Sponge, Alexander Zonjic, Ben Sharkey, Laith Al-Saddi, Thornetta Davis, Johnnie Bassett, Larry McCray, and many many others as well as providing entertainment for corporate clients like Mercedes Benz, AISIN, Henry Ford House, The Detroit Medical Center, and the DAC.
He performs solo and with his eponymously named trio at and weekly house gigs at two of Metro Detroit’s finest restaurants; the famed London Chop House downtown, and Eddie V’s in Troy. He has also played Hammond organ every Sunday at Godland Unity Church in Detroit since 1997.

Dave Bennett
2024-11-30 19:30 - 21:30
SHOWTIMES ARE AT 7:30PM & 9:30PM FOR THIS PERFORMANCE.
Doors open at 5pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 9pm.
“Bennett is a player superbly well balanced between purity and power. Bennett injects three heady shots of adrenalin that bring the music sharply to life.”

Downbeat Magazine

Dave Bennett doesn’t fit the mold.
For starters, you don’t find many jazz clarinet players who name Alice Cooper, Stevie Ray Vaughan, and Chris Isaak among their influences. You won’t find many musicians who are equally conversant with the music of Benny Goodman (the “King of Swing”) and Roy Orbison (“The Soul of Rock and Roll”). In fact, you may not find even one other clarinet virtuoso who breaks from his Swing Era repertoire to sing rockabilly hits while accompanying himself at the piano or electric guitar.
Dave began his national touring career at the age of 14. He has been a featured soloist at Carnegie Hall with The New York Pops (2013) and has been featured with 35 other US and Canadian orchestras including Nashville, Houston, Detroit, Rochester, Omaha, Toronto, Calgary, Vancouver, Orlando, San Antonio, Jacksonville, Portland, OR and Portland, ME. Some of his annual appearances include The Elkhart Jazz Festival, The Suncoast Classic Jazz Festival, The Arizona Classic Jazz Festival, The Sacramento Hot Jazz Jubilee, The Clambake Music Festival, and The Redwood Coast Music Festival.
Dave has been featured on NPR Radio’s “Jazz at Riverwalk.” He made his European debut in 2008 at The Bern Jazz Festival (Switzerland) in a combo with jazz legends and Benny Goodman alumni guitarist Bucky Pizzarelli and vibraphonist Peter Appleyard. He has also shared the stage with Ken Peplowski, Byron Stripling, Marcus Printup, Aaron Diehl, and Bria Skonberg.
He has been featured soloist on several jazz cruises, performing with Harry Allen, Warren Vache, Allan Vache, Banu Gibson, and Tardo Hammer.
Dave is a recording artist on jazz label Mack Avenue Records. His second release, Blood Moon reached No. 24 on the Billboard Jazz charts in 2018.
In March 2022, Dave and his band performed to a sold-out audience at New York City’s Birdland Theater.
During the isolation of the pandemic, fate steered Dave’s time off the road into a bold new direction. He put his guitar pedal to the metal and stepped away from his beloved clarinet. A songwriter stepped forward. Road songs, reverb-laded guitar solos that could power a surf documentary, and memories of loves and lives lost are the mile markers that makeup his latest release “Nowhere Fast”. His first full-length rock album is a deep, soul-searching joyride through the back streets of his mind.
Dave has recently joined forces with guitarist/vocalist/pastor Tom Hampton for Dave’s first gospel project. Release is planned for late 2024.

Bob Mervak Trio
2024-12-01 17:30 - 19:30
Showtimes are at 5:30p & 7:30p for this performance.
Doors open at 5pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 9pm.
Bob Mervak is a Detroit-based pianist, vocalist, songwriter, and studio writer who’s dynamic range spans everything from pop to jazz, rootsy indy original songs to Ben Folds-esque intelligent, introspective, and unapologetic compositions. He’s blessed and honored to have worked with musicians he considers to be some of the most important in the game, throughout Detroit and all over the goddamn place.
Bob was the main composer on Dax Shepard’s major motion picture, “Hit & Run (2012),” as well as the writer/performer of the theme to Dax’s new podcast, “Armchair Expert (2018).” He was also the pianist/vocalist featured in director George Clooney’s hit American political Drama, “The Ides Of March,” in 2011. Bob has been a session musician, writer, and arranger on many varied record releases over the years, including Samantha Fish’s “Chills and Fever,” which rose to the no.1 spot on iTunes blues charts in 2017. In December, 2020, he performed his reimagining of “Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas” with Kristen Bell on The Tonight Show with Jimmy Fallon. Winter 2021 brought the musical release of “We are Supported By,” and original song by Bob Mervak, featuring Sara Bareilles, originally written for Kristen Bell and Monica Padman podcast of the same name.
Bob lives in Detroit, MI like a badass with his profoundly wonderful wife, Isabel, their two children, 1 cat, and sadly, no dogs.

Thy Bearings featuring Kasan Belgrave
2024-12-04 19:30 - 21:30
SHOWTIMES ARE AT 7:30PM & 9:30PM FOR THIS PERFORMANCE.
Doors open at 5pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 9pm.
Musicians pay no cover when they bring their instrument.
Multi-woodwind-instrumentalist and Detroit native Kasan Belgrave is well-rounded within the Detroit music community. His musical heritage of passing down the knowledge and exposure of Detroit music to the youth; like his father, late trumpeter Marcus Belgrave. Kasan has worked with many greats in his young career such as the Queen of Soul Aretha Franklin, Wynton Marsalis & Jazz @ Lincoln Center, Dee Bridgewater, Karriem Riggins, Theo Crocker, Etienne Charles, and many others; in his scholar years at University of Michigan he studied under Robert Hurst, pianist Benny Green, and Andrew Bishop, then continued his studies at MSU under the direction of Diego Rivera and Rodney Whitaker. Deeply rooted in the tradition of Black American Music, Kasan is also congruently involved in parallel domains of the strong techno scene in Detroit; he appeared on the track “On My Own” with Jon Dixon & Moodyman; he has also performed with Scott Grooves, Carl Craig, Shigeto, and Kyle Hall. Facebook – Kasan Belgrave Instagram – @baskasanball

Pre Game Hang at Cliff Bell's
2024-12-05 17:00
Join us from 5pm-8:30pm to help support our league leading Detroit Lions as they make their way to yet another victory over the Green Bay Packers.
We will be closing after our fans head to the game.
There will not be any live entertainment this evening due to the big game. There will still be drinks flowing along with our full menu to fill up on before heading to the stadium.

Detroit's Queen of the Blues: Thornetta Davis
2024-12-06 19:30 - 21:30
SHOWTIMES ARE AT 7:30PM & 9:30PM FOR THIS PERFORMANCE.
Doors open at 5pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 9pm.
Crowned “Detroit’s Queen of the Blues” in 2015, Thornetta Davis is a multi-talented International Singer and Songwriter from Detroit MI, USA and winner of 30 Detroit Music Awards, including a sweep of the 2017 DMA’S winning 8 awards. Thornetta’s strong voice, melodic command and smooth delivery have been exciting and wowing audiences around the world for over 30 years now. Backed by a great band of veteran Detroit musicians, she tells her stories with incredible delivery, always leaving her audiences wanting more.
Having shared the stage with legendary blues and R&B greats such as Ray Charles, Gladys Knight, Smokey Robinson, Etta James, Buddy Guy, Koko Taylor, Junior Wells, Lonnie Brooks, Johnnie Johnson and many more, her history is extensive and performances memorable. Most recently she appeared with Taylor Mac in his historic 24-hour performances of American music, in New York, and also in New Zealand. Other major appearances for television include “Jimmie Kimmel Live” with Kid Rock, and performances with Bob Seger and the Silver Bullet Band on “The View” and “The David Letterman Show”. Thornetta Davis is a Detroit institution and a cultural ambassador for the blues and the Motor City.

Lemon Bucket Orkestra
2024-12-08 17:30 - 19:30
Advanced Tickets Available Now!
Doors open at 4pm for dinner. Showtimes are at 5:30p & 7:30p for this performance. Seating for the shows begins at 4pm for the first show & 7pm for the second show.
Lemon Bucket Orkestra are Toronto’s original Slavic-Balkan-Klezmer-Party-Punks. The multi-award-winning ensemble has been heralded as a groundbreaking, genre-bending phenomenon by media and fans alike, and over the past 13 years they have performed all over the world from WOMAD in New Zealand and Pohoda in Slovakia, to Festival D’Été in Québec City, and Luminato in Toronto. The Guardian proclaimed that their performances are “gorgeously sung and passionately played” and The New York Times declared them “charismatic…handsome and ambitious.”
Equal parts exhilarating precision and reckless abandon, LBO’s live shows are a truly immersive experience ranging from the ecstatic to the cathartic and all points in between. Now they weaved that unique blend of energy and emotion onto their latest album Cuckoo. Released May 17 2024, the new record combines powerful Ukrainian polyphony, driving Balkan rhythms, and modern Western musical elements. This mixture of Eastern Europe and the America’s is further elevated with the special feature of Macedonian master trumpeter Nizo Alimov, formerly of Kocani Orkestar.

Kasan Belgrave Residency and Session
2024-12-11 19:30 - 21:30, 2024-12-18 19:30 - 21:30

ELEW
2024-12-12 19:30 - 21:30
There will be two separate seatings at 7:30pm & 9:30pm for this performance.
Doors open at 5pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 9pm.
With Detroit’s own Louis Jones on the drums and Jeff Pedraz on bass.
A native of Camden, New Jersey, Eric Lewis began his musical studies at 2 years old and would ultimately receive the Rodger’s and Hammerstein full merit scholarship to the Manhattan School of Music. A Dean’s List student, upon graduation, he toured the world, recorded and performed with Wynton Marsalis & the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Elvin Jones, Cassandra Wilson,
Roy Hargrove, and John Hendricks among others. In 1999, Eric won the Thelonious Monk International Piano Competition, at the time, the most
coveted prize in all of Jazz. A decade into his career, he reemerged as ELEW and began fusing his piano techniques with rock guitar-based ideas and experimental prepared piano methods, generating a powerful crossover brand he coined “Rockjazz”. Over the course of multiple award winning, critically acclaimed albums, ELEW has re-imagined songs by The Killers, Nirvana, Coldplay and Michael Jackson to name a few. Throughout his career he has built an elite fanbase of some of the most distinguished leaders and celebrities such as Leonardo DiCaprio, Gerard Butler, Barack and Michele Obama, Prince Albert II, Will Smith, Eli Roth, Al Pacino and the list goes on… Inspired by the European masters of Baroque Counterpoint, ELEW has innovated the technique of simultaneously executing two independent melodies which precisely detail harmonic forms bursting with idiomatic verisimilitude and wide ranging historical references while flawlessly maintaining the idiosyncratic Afrocentric timing at the core of Jazz improvisation.
He has named this technique Counterbop. His album Cubism – ELEW plays Rosenwinkel, a solo piano exploration of contemporary jazz legend Kurt Rosenwinkel provides perspective an insight into the nature of what Counterbop is and how it may be implemented. In addition to piano performance, appearing in and scoring for film, ELEW is a prominent international DJ. He has has created disco infernos for multiple events such as The World Economic Forum, TED, Art Basel, A-list Oscar parties, the Monte-Carlo Gala, the Cannes Film Festival and multiple celebrity birthdays and weddings. In some cases, ELEW places the turntables within the piano, seamlessly executing transitions and improvisations all while generating a pleasing frenzy on the dance floor. This has lead to him creating yet another brilliant innovation he calls Piano Turntablism . He literally plays two different yet recognizable songs simultaneously as a Dj would but on the Piano. All while maintaining the type of euphoric atmosphere one would experience at an over-the-top Las Vegas mega club or an epic music
festival. ELEW is a genuine master of the piano and artistic genius.

ELEW
2024-12-13 19:30 - 21:30, 2024-12-14 19:30 - 21:30
There will be two separate seatings at 7:30pm & 9:30pm for this performance.
Doors open at 5pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 9pm.
With Detroit’s own Louis Jones on the drums and Jeff Pedraz on bass.
Every once in a while, an artist comes along who changes everything. Producing something completely new and meaningful, this person fills a void within the fabric of our culture—a hole we didn’t even know was there. Past generations have laid claim to this type of iconoclast—Liszt, Warhol, and Coltrane are among the artistic beacons of years gone by. Today, another joins their number—an innovator, musical revolutionary and unmatched performer: ELEW, aka Eric Robert Lewis. Fusing traditional jazz with elements of modern rock and pop, ELEW’s masterful originals and blistering re-interpretations have ignited the interest of the country’s tastemakers and those in the cultural know. But more than this, he possesses that ineffable spark that we only associate with true genius. Everything that he creates bears his singular mark—the stamp of something that we have never seen or heard, but have always wanted to feel.
A native of Camden, New Jersey, ELEW began his musical studies at a young age. After being granted a full scholarship to the Manhattan School of Music, he set his sights toward making noise on a grand scale. Upon graduation, he toured the world, recorded, and performed continuously with Wynton Marsalis and the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra, Elvin Jones, Cassandra Wilson, Roy Hargrove, and Joe Henderson among others.
1999 offered a formal confirmation of what was rapidly becoming clear when ELEW won the Thelonious Monk International Piano Competition. It’s a contest that goes beyond simply rewarding musical proficiency, instead recognizing the elusive combination of knowledge, command, passion and expression that define a true piano master.
Today, bolstered by his virtuosic quartet, ELEW has created a riveting new sound that is at once fresh and classic. In the jazz tradition of interpreting popular tunes of the day, much like Art Tatum and John Coltrane, ELEW manipulates and performs renditions of rock and pop songs by today’s top artists. A musical contortionist, his compositions twist, turn, and careen between styles, sounds, and emotions, resulting in a stunning aural experience. His new style is becoming so popular that his gigs are beginning to extend into the realm of film industry, opening new doors for his talent to be recognized.

Go Lions! Closed for the Game!
2024-12-15
Go next door to Volmers and watch the game with the cool kids!

Drey Skonie and The kLOUDs Band 10th annual Grateful Christmas
2024-12-19 19:30 - 21:30
Join us for the 10th Annual Grateful Christmas Clothing & Blanket Drive, hosted by Drey Skonie & The Klouds Band! Help usher in a warm and inviting holiday season by bringing any new or lightly worn winter blankets or garments to be distributed by the kLOUDs to those in need.
Showtimes are at 7:30p & 9:30p for this performance. Doors open at 5pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 9pm.
Featuring:

Jessica Care Moore
Charity
Hazmat Live

Drey Skonie and The kLOUDs Band a.k.a. “Skonie and The kLOUDs” emphasis on the loud. Hailing from the motor city, Detroit, MI. Skonie and The kLOUDs are retro style band, with a new flare. They call themselves the new, old school.

In the past few years, The kLOUDs Band has been shaking up the Detroit Music Scene making the industry take notice. In 2023 Drey Skonie lead singer of the band won “Artist Of The Year” at Motown Museum’s Hitsville Next Amplify Sound Of Detroit singing competition. Then only a month later Skonie and The kLOUDS were also crowned winners of Masterpiece Sound Studios’ Cover Song Contest in honor of the late, legendary Motown songwriter and producer Sylvia Moy with their captivating rendition of Moy’s classic Stevie Wonder Motown hit, “I Was Made To Love Her”. During the competition, Drey met Jackie Wilson’s daughter Brenda Wilson, who was a judge for the competition. Brenda then knew from Drey’s showmanship, that she wanted Drey to play her Dad. Fast forward Drey now plays Jackie Wilson in a TV series entitled “Higher And Higher” coming soon.
The latest album “Rolling Skone” is available on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, and more. They have appeared on stages from The D to Los Angeles rocking crowds with a multifaceted soul, funk, RnB, and techno sound.
Currently “Skonie and The kLOUDs” are recording live in the studio. You can also hear new material and watch performances of the band on YouTube, as well as Instagram @dreyskonie and @thekloudsband.

James Carter Organ Trio
2024-12-20 19:30 - 21:30, 2024-12-21 19:30 - 21:30
Showtimes are at 7:30p & 9:30p for this performance. Doors open at 5pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 9pm.

The organ combo reigned for several decades as jazz’s meat-and-potatoes mainstay, a populist vehicle for blues-drenched blowing. In the hands of James Carter, one of jazz’s most sophisticated improvisers, the organ trio is no less meaty and satisfying. But his virtuosic saxophone chops elevate the organ combo to a rarefied realm defined by delectable soul, a gourmet repertoire, and consistently inspired group interplay.
Featuring the lithe and muscular keyboard work of Detroit’s rising B3 star Gerard Gibbs and the propulsive drum support of Motor City trap master Alex White, the multigenerational James Carter Organ Trio is now in its seventeenth year.

More information HERE!

James Carter Organ Trio
2024-12-22 17:30 - 19:30
Showtimes are at 5:30p & 7:30p for this performance.
Doors open at 4pm for dinner. Seating begins at 5pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 7pm.

The organ combo reigned for several decades as jazz’s meat-and-potatoes mainstay, a populist vehicle for blues-drenched blowing. In the hands of James Carter, one of jazz’s most sophisticated improvisers, the organ trio is no less meaty and satisfying. But his virtuosic saxophone chops elevate the organ combo to a rarefied realm defined by delectable soul, a gourmet repertoire, and consistently inspired group interplay.
Featuring the lithe and muscular keyboard work of Detroit’s rising B3 star Gerard Gibbs and the propulsive drum support of Motor City trap master Alex White, the multigenerational James Carter Organ Trio is now in its seventeenth year.

More information HERE!

Closed for the Holiday
2024-12-24 - 2024-12-25

Karim Gideon Quartet
2024-12-26 19:30 - 21:30, 2024-12-27 19:30 - 21:30
Showtimes are at 7:30p & 9:30p for this performance.
Doors open at 4pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 9pm.
Karim Gideon musical journey began in middle school by joining the school band and learning the trumpet at the age of 10. By the time he reached high school, Karim showed a growing interest in jazz music that caught the attention of Dr. Teddy Harris Jr., who was an accomplished musician, arranger, and educator. Upon graduation, Karim would enlist in the United States Navy. While in the navy, stationed in Yokosuka, Japan, 40 miles from Tokyo, where he was working in the jazz Scene. His military career took him from Tokyo, Dubai, Norfolk, and Afghanistan. After receiving an honorable discharge from active duty, Karim pursued a degree in music at Wayne State University.
Karim has performed with Randy Weston, Sean Jones, Danilo Perez, Scott Gwinnell, Omar Sosa, Glen Hall, and
Bernie Koenig He is currently a member of In the Tradition Jazz Ensemble under the Direction of Olujimi Tafatooa.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC6WbPcT4QtYockYxIeYHFsw
https://www.instagram.com/karimgideonmusic/

New Year's Eve Celebration featuring Smoke Jones
2024-12-31 19:30 - 2025-01-01 00:00
Doors open at 6pm. Showtimes are at 7:30p, 10:30p. We also will have a countdown at midnight to ring in the New Year with a 3rd set of music.
***Advanced Tickets available here
Hailing from the heart of Detroit, Smoke Jones emerges as a luminary figure in the city’s rich musical landscape. An emotive guitarist, award-winning band leader, and soulful crooner, Smoke weaves together elements of jazz, blues, and soul to create an enchanting musical tapestry that resonates deeply with audiences.
In January 2024, Smoke marked a milestone in his musical journey with the release of his debut single, “I’ll Be Good To You”, a soulful collaboration co-written by the legendary Billy Davis. This track showcases Smoke’s velvety vocals and masterful guitar work of Billy Davis and Josh Ford, setting the stage for what promises to be an illustrious career.
Smoke’s musical prowess extends beyond the studio, as evidenced by his notable collaborations and accolades. His soul-stirring performance on the 2022 Detroit Music Award-winning Outstanding Blues Recording, “Sooner Come Later”, alongside the esteemed Bobby Murray, pays homage to the rich legacy of jazz and blues. Notably, Smoke’s contribution to “Some Better Days”, penned by the acclaimed Jeff Scott, garnered a nomination for Outstanding Americana Recording at the Detroit Music Awards.
A true virtuoso, Smoke embodies the spirit of Nat King Cole in Sky Covington’s esteemed Take 5: All Male Jazz Revue, captivating audiences with his evocative interpretations and magnetic stage presence. His appearances on television and radio, including a memorable performance on the 2022 Ford Fireworks Show on WDIV alongside friend and vocalist Laura Rain, have solidified his status as a beloved musical force.
The Smoke Jones Band’s distinction as the Best Jazz/Blues Band in WDIV’s “Vote 4 The Best” Contest in 2021 serves as a testament to their unparalleled artistry and enduring appeal. From prestigious venues to bustling festivals, Smoke’s magnetic performances continue to captivate audiences across Detroit and beyond.

Urban Tropical
2025-01-04 19:30 - 21:30
SHOWTIMES ARE AT 7:30PM & 9:30PM FOR THIS PERFORMANCE.
Doors open at 5pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 9pm.
Alina Morr/Urban Tropical is the hottest new group to come out of Southwest Detroit’s lively music scene . The brain-child of Alina Morr, Pianist/Arranger for the legendary Grammy Nominated jazz group Straight Ahead, the band features the city’s hottest Latin and Jazz Players….a powerful mix
Alina Morr cut her musical teeth playing in Detroit’s blues scene, gaining valuable experience in playing Roots Music, then ventured into the jazz scene. She spent several years living in the Spanish Caribbean: living and performing music in Santo Domingo, the Dominican Republic; making 3 trips to Cuba, and performing with a Latin Music Group, Los Hidalgos, on various cruise ships throughout the Caribbean. She then spent a year in Boston, studying at the Berklee College of Music, before returning to Detroit, where she was invited to join the groundbreaking jazz group, Straight Ahead, along with band members Marion Hayden, Gayelynn McKinney and Regina Carter.
Her unique blend of musical influences, as well as her skill and imagination in writing and arranging music have resulted in the creation of a powerful and authentic take on modern Latin Music.
Urban Tropical’s musical crew are: John Douglas, Trumpet; Eddie Caraballo, Bass and Vocals; Armando Vega, Lead Vocals and Congas; Christopher Kaercher, Tenor Saxophone and Flute; Djallo Djakate, Drum Set; and Alina Morr, Pianist/Arranger/Director.

Zoe Ny
2025-01-05 17:30 - 19:30
Showtimes are at 5:30p & 7:30p for this performance.
Doors open at 4pm for dinner. Seating begins at 5pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 7pm.
Described as “a quiet yet depthless power, and a timeless kind soul,” the Michigan born, Nashville based vocalist Zoe Ny is making her debut at Cliff Bells. The recent Berklee College of Music graduate is an Americana songwriter who seamlessly incorporates her influences in soul, jazz, and folk music. Zoe has performed everywhere from Broadway, to Carnegie Hall, to countless East Nashville dives. Though her versatility as a vocalist has brought Zoe to unique places, she always finds her way back to the classics. Her most recent single, “What it’s All About,” produced by Micah Tawlks-is out on all platforms now.

https://zoenymusic.com/

Tariq Gardner's Evening Star and Session
2025-01-08 19:30 - 21:30, 2025-01-15 19:30 - 21:30
SHOWTIMES ARE AT 7:30PM & 9:30PM FOR THIS PERFORMANCE.
Doors open at 5pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show is a open jam session and starts seating at 9pm. Those who attend the 7:30pm show are welcome to stay for the jam session.
Evening Star is a Space Odyssey led by Detroit Drummer and 2018 U of M SMTD graduate Tariq Gardner. The group has its roots in Detroit’s expansive musical tradition blending the city’s rich Jazz legacy. With its history of musicians being largely malleable to fit into a wide array of musical styles traveling to the different galaxies of music of the African Diaspora (jazz, neo-soul, Afro-Cuban, Negro spirituals, hip-hop etc.). Evening Star brings listeners light years into the cosmos while staying true to the roots of the Motherland.

Neon Jungle
2025-01-10 19:30 - 21:30
SHOWTIMES ARE AT 7:30PM & 9:30PM FOR THIS PERFORMANCE.
Doors open at 5pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 9pm.

Modern popular music with a martini twist!
The days when music oozed kitsch, drama, sci-fi, sexiness, the absurd and the exotic have returned…it’s Neon Jungle, your mid-century modern ambassadors.

Neon Jungle is the brainchild of pianist/singer Jarrod Champion. They focus on taking modern pop music of the last few decades and marrying it with the kooky sounds of the Mid Century Modern movement. Concentrating on the lounge-y sounds of the era, they tap such sub genres as exotica, surf/spy, go-go, spaghetti western, space age pop and more, as they filter your favorite tunes through this window into the past, while including some music from the era itself.

Jarrod Champion is a pianist, singer, multi-instrumentalist, songwriter, producer and audio engineer. He was born and raised in the Detroit area and has been a part of Detroit’s rich music scene since he was a teen, almost three decades ago. Jarrod has worked as a side-man, session musician and bandleader in just about every musical genre imaginable. He has written and recorded vast amounts of music under various names, has provided music for stage plays, film and video productions and has performed all over the world in some of the most iconic music venues around.

Featuring:

Drums/percussion – Brandon Reeves
Upright bass – Sam Copperman
Guitar/pedal steel – Erik Alderink
Keys/vocals – Jarrod Champion
Saxophone – Joshua James
Lead vocals – Vanessa Cuccia

Sky Covington’s Satin Doll Revue
2025-01-11 19:30 - 21:30
SHOWTIMES ARE AT 7:30PM & 9:30PM FOR THIS PERFORMANCE.
Doors open at 5pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 9pm.

Prepare for an enchanting evening filled with soul-stirring performances by Detroit’s finest vocalists! These powerhouse women, backed by a stellar live band, will transport you through the timeless classics of jazz and blues, bringing the unforgettable artistry of these legends to life.

Featuring:

Nina Simone, performed by Faye Bradford
Faye Bradford brings the profound depth and passion of Nina Simone to life with her powerful voice and dynamic performances. Known for her emotional intensity and strong stage presence, Faye has captivated audiences with her renditions of Simone’s iconic songs. Her tribute to Nina Simone is not just a performance but an experience that delves into the heart and soul of Simone’s music. Faye’s ability to convey the raw emotion and social commentary embedded in Simone’s work makes her a compelling and authentic performer. Prepare to be moved by the profound artistry of Faye Bradford as she honors the legacy of Nina Simone.
Etta James, performed by Tosha Owens
Tosha Owens channels the raw power and bluesy grit of Etta James, delivering performances that are both electrifying and soulful. With a voice that can move mountains, Tosha has earned a reputation as a powerhouse performer. Her tribute to Etta James captures the spirit and intensity of James’ legendary career, from her heart-wrenching ballads to her high-energy blues anthems. Tosha’s deep connection to the material and her commanding stage presence ensure an unforgettable evening. Audiences will be transported back in time, experiencing the magic of Etta James through the incredible talent of Tosha Owens.
Dinah Washington, performed by Nina Simone Neal
Nina Simone Neal embodies the versatility and vocal prowess of Dinah Washington, delivering performances that are both powerful and nuanced. A gifted singer, Nina has a unique ability to convey the emotion and depth of Washington’s music. Her tribute to Dinah Washington covers the breadth of Washington’s career, from her jazz standards to her blues and R&B hits. Nina’s rich, expressive voice and dynamic stage presence make her a standout performer. Audiences will be treated to an evening of exceptional music that honors the legacy of the legendary Dinah Washington.

Billie Holiday, performed by Sky Covington
Sky Covington brings the haunting beauty and emotional intensity of Billie Holiday to life with her captivating voice and heartfelt performances. Known for her deep connection to the material, Sky has a talent for conveying the pain and passion in Holiday’s music. Her tribute to Billie Holiday is a deeply moving experience that captures the essence of one of jazz’s most iconic figures. Sky’s soulful interpretations and intimate performances make her an exceptional performer. Prepare to be transported by the timeless music of Billie Holiday, as brought to life by the incredible Sky Covington.
With:
Gerard Gibbs (Piano):** A virtuoso pianist with unmatched versatility, Gerard Gibbs brings soul, sophistication, and a deep emotional connection to every note. Whether interpreting a moody Billie Holiday ballad or the vibrant swing of Dinah Washington, Gibbs’ artistry provides the heartbeat of the Duke Ellington Band.
Terence Neal (Drums):** Known for his impeccable timing and rhythmic creativity, Terence Neal drives the band with energy and precision. His ability to seamlessly transition from the sultry grooves of Nina Simone to the fiery intensity of Etta James keeps every performance fresh and captivating.
Ibrahim Jones (Upright Bass):** Ibrahim Jones delivers the soulful foundation of the Duke Ellington Band with his warm, resonant basslines. His artistry ties together the band’s sound, whether grounding the smoky tones of Billie Holiday or propelling the swing rhythms of Duke Ellington’s classics.
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Houston Patton
2025-01-12 17:30 - 19:30
Showtimes are at 5:30p & 7:30p for this performance.
Doors open at 4pm for dinner. Seating begins at 5pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 7pm.
Saxophonist Houston Patton is a rising star in Detroit’s Jazz community. Following in the footsteps of his father, Houston began playing the saxophone at a very young age. Under the mentorship and tutelage of saxophonists such as Harry Patton, Daryl Beebe, Jordan Vanhemert, Wendell Harrison, and Andrew Bishop, Houston has explored many genres ranging from gospel to hard bop.
Patton started his professional career at the age of 20, performing with Kevin Jones & Tenth World, at Grand Rapids jazz club, GRNoir. This led to many more opportunities as a sideman and bandleader in the Grand Rapids and Detroit music scenes. To this day, Patton continues to perform with Kevin Jones & Tenth World, and a host of Detroit and West Michigan Groups.
In 2023, Houston spent four months in New York as a student in the “New York Arts Program.” During this time he interned as an assistant to Brandon Ross, and as an archiver and stage manager at Roulette Intermedium. This time also allowed him to explore the jazz scene, by playing at countless jam sessions, which led to gigs with notable musicians such as drummer, Winard Harper, and pianist, JC Hopkins. Houston leads ensembles of varying sizes, playing at venues, such as Cliff Bell’s, Blue Llama, and GRNoir. He has also performed sets at The Muskegon Shoreline Jazz Festival, the Lansing Shoreline Jazz Festival, Dirty Dog Jazz Cafe, Preservation Hall, Mahogany Jazz Hall, Minton’s Playhouse, and a host of other notable venues.
In April 2024, Patton released his first album as a band leader, entitled “Here We Are” featuring a quintet of young Detroit jazz musicians named, “Quintessential”. Patton decided to officially form this group after a series of successful gigs with these specific musicians. After a very special night at Detroit’s Cliff’s Bells, Quintessential received a standing ovation. There was a clear desire for the group to record their sound, so in January of 2024 Quintessential decided to have their original compositions recorded by Benjamin Green. Along with Houston on saxophone, the album features Jauron Perry on trumpet, Dylan Sherman on bass, William Hill III on Rhodes, and Samuel Melkonian on drums.
Houston plays on SYOS mouthpieces.

De'Sean Jones Trio
2025-01-16 19:30 - 21:30
SHOWTIMES ARE AT 7:30PM & 9:30PM FOR THIS PERFORMANCE.
Doors open at 5pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 9pm.
De’Sean Jones is a Detroit based saxophonist, billboard charting recording artist and grammy nominated arranger. Over the past 20 years De’Sean has toured the world recording or performing with music Icons like Stevie Wonder, Faith Evans, along with a host of Detroit Legends; Marcus Belgrave, The Clark Sisters, Kierra Sheard and techno pioneer Mad Mike Banks of Underground Resistance.
As a bandleader & producer Jones has curated an eclectic approach that is widely viewed as progressive and undeniably rooted in the rich history of black culture. De’Sean actively pushes the boundaries of social consciousness through music in ways that are authentic, emotionally dynamic and intellectually stimulating.

All musical projects from De’Sean Jones can be accessed through his record label KNMDK Records.
