Matt LoRusso Trio
2017-02-01 20:00 (America/Detroit)
Local guitar trio lead by Matt LoRusso, an MSU jazz studies student.

WSU Open Jam w/ Chris Collins
2017-01-29 18:00 - 22:00 UTC
Wayne State University’s long history of producing world class musicians is one of the great attributes for the City of Detroit. Hosted by Professor Chris Collins, the WSU Director of Jazz Studies, the WSU open jam starts out with a rotating blend of professors performing a energetic set of “hard bop” with their students. As the night moves on, the impressively capable students take over to lead the open jam session. Instrumentalists and vocalists are welcome to sit in.

Roger Jones and Higher Calling
2017-01-28 21:30, 2017-01-27 21:00 (America/Detroit)
Roger L. Jones II is a native of Flint who has worked professionally with various artists in the USA, Japan, Europe, and Turkey since 1989. Roger discovered his musical abilities as a child at church while listening to organist Henry Moore. The church, Greater Holy Temple COGIC, was a musical proving ground for young musicians, and Roger’s gospel background provided a springboard to his passion for playing jazz. After graduating from high school, Roger attended Oberlin Conservatory of Music in Oberlin, Ohio, where his musicianship and reputation grew exponentially. Roger has performed with Wynton Marsalis, Joe Henderson, Wallace Roney, and JJ Johnson, among others, and in 2004 released his first CD, “Out of the Wilderness.”
Roger has developed into a cutting-edge band leader. His band, “Roger Jones & Higher Calling” is comprised of phenomenal musicians dedicated to inventing fresh and innovative ways to approach the execution of music. Mixed with a soulful and modern approach, the music of this band is innovative, relevant to the current generation, and swings ridiculously hard. There is no doubt that Roger L. Jones II will be heralded as one of the most explosive and innovative pianists of his generation.

GFK Trio
2017-01-26 08:00 - 17:00 (America/Detroit)
GFK Trio formed in the spring of 2013 with the idea of acknowledging, extending and revitalizing the classic instrumental jazz organ trio. Each member’s love for the funky and soulful tradition pioneered by artists like Jimmy Smith, mixed with influences from pop, rock, funk, hip hop and electronic, have lead to the trio’s sound: an intense, soulful, energetic and entertaining musical experience. Dan Gruszka’s mix of classic soul jazz guitar influence and a pedal board ready to create a Pink Floyd-esque wall of sound brings a breath of fresh air to the organ jazz genre. Layer that on top of Scott Kulik’s exacting command of the Hammond Organ locked with Eric “Fil” Fillip’s funk and breakbeat inspired drumming and you have the recipe for an exciting night of music. You can expect to hear both modern and classic tunes however you will be surprised at how flawlessly the group integrates fresh new sounds, rhythms, grooves and exciting solo sections. The audience may want to dance, or they may listen intently to the group’s musical synergy. Either way, GFK Trio has a passion for music and they want to share it with you.
GFK is Dan Gruszka (Guitar), Eric “Fil” Fillip (Drums) and Scott Kulik (Organ).

The Quick Organ Trio
2017-01-22 18:00 - 22:00 (America/Detroit)
Jason Quick works as a performing musician primarily in the NW Ohio area. Current projects: Guitarist and composer for the jazz group QuickTrio, Guitar and Vocalist for funky rock blues band Quickness, Electric Bass and Vocals for Longtime Local Jam Band favorites, Stonehouse. There is also The Microphonics, Blues Duo with Jason on Guitar and Vocals and John Potts on Harmonica. OWE’ er EZ is a regular 2nd saturday morning singer songwriter showcase. Jason also performs solo, mixing it up with cover tunes, old time mountain music and blues and originals. Jason has also performed in the region extensively with Jeff Tucker and On the Beach. He has also performed and recorded in New Orleans with Vocalist
& Songwriter Lisa Lynn.

Michael Zaporski's FutureVisions
2017-01-21 21:30 (America/Detroit)
Michael Zaporski creates astonishing music that merges American jazz traditions with a West-African-influenced rhythmic dialogue. Serving as the pianist for the late Detroit saxophonist Sam Sanders, Zaporski traveled to West Africa, playing and teaching jazz through the U.S. State Department. This long-time association led to performances with such renowned jazz artists as Jackie McLean, Frank Foster, Art Blakey, Pharaoh Sanders, and Donald Byrd.
Through his own group, FutureVisions, Zaporski has garnered headlining performances at jazz festivals and colleges, and has released several recordings—including one for orchestra, chorus, and jazz quartet—to critical acclaim. Combining adrenaline-pumping energy levels with African rhythms and haunting melodies, Zaporski continues the pursuit of excellence and individuality that is the essence of the American jazz tradition.

Alise King
2017-01-20 21:00 (America/Detroit)
Detroit Native, Alise King better known as The Soulful D.I.V.A is a POWERHOUSE vocalist with IMPECCABLE stage presence! Her dynamic voice takes you on a journey and her outstanding live performance leaves you wanting more. She is the TRUE definition of SOUL! Alise refers to herself as a D.I.V.A… a Divine Instrument Vocalizing Her Ability.
Alise has performed all over the city of Detroit playing some the of most popular and prestigious Venus and festivals. She has also performed in Chicago, Indiana, Lansing and more.
Alise has won multiple competitions recently becoming the 2016 Winner of The Detroit Tigers “Detroit Stars Singing Competition”. Alise has also won The 107.5fm “New Soul Singer” competition, The Arts Beats and Eats “Be a Rockstar” competiton, The Michigan Idol competition as well as being crowned The Detroit winner of The BET Apollo Live contest.
Alise has made the COVER of The Michigan Citizen Newspaper as well as The Detroit Free Press. She has also been published in The Michigan Chronicle, The Metro Times, Macomb Daily, The Michigan Chronicle, The Detroit News as well as Between the lines magazine.
Alise has done radio interviews with 910AM, HOT 107.5 FM & 105.9 Kiss FM.
In 2015 Alise was crowned “Best R&B Female Artist by The Detroit Black Music Awards.
Alise has performed on Local 4 news Live in the D, Fox 2 News “The Nine” and Channel 7/ TV20
Most recently Alise King opened for Funk Legend George Clinton & Parliament Funk, CeCe Peniston, Klymaxx and The Emotions.
Recently Alise won The 2016 “Best Female Soul Artist of The Year by The Detroit Honor Awards! She is currently nominated for 2 awards by Tgr Best in Black Awards.. For Best Local Artist and Best Live Band.
www.aliseking.com

Organissimo
2017-01-19 20:00 (America/Detroit)
You might notice of something different at an organissimo performance. The audience isn’t the typical homogenous “jazz” audience. You’ll see a healthy mix of people from all walks of life; young and old, black and white, from hippies to corporate professionals and everything in between. organissimo’s music skirts over fences and satisfies a diverse range of tastes. You’re as likely to see people dancing as a group of folks intently listening.
As American cultural critic Elvis Mitchell wrote after witnessing a show at Baker’s Keyboard Lounge, “The group’s toned, muscular playing keeps the crowd rapt, a condition noticeable by the fact that almost no one is talking.“
Organissimo formed in November of 2000 with the goal of bringing jazz back to the people. organissimo’s sound is instantly identifiable yet constantly evolving, infusing elements of funk, gospel, blues, progressive rock, and Latin rhythms into a solid foundation of jazz. Shifting meters, deep grooves, melodic finesse and tight ensemble interplay are hallmarks of the organissimo sound.

Open City: The Tale of Three Cities
2017-01-16 18:00 UTC
“…an organization that helps people turn their business ideas into reality by providing them with the necessary tools, resources, and support network in Detroit…” -Matthew Lewis, Model Media

Open City is a monthly forum for aspiring and current business owners to exchange ideas and information about doing business in Detroit.Open City will take place on the third Mondays of every month, from October to April. Each month, speakers are invited to generate discussion on a new topic. Meetings are free and open to all. No RSVP required.

Rob Crozier 5tet
2017-01-14 21:30 (America/Detroit)
“Rob is an incredible musician. We’ve seen him perform solo and with small jazz combos. The musicianship is always excellent and wows the crowd. He can bring any type of show and brings his “A game.” His relationship with so many different musicians ensures that when he performs for you, it’s a home run.”

Rob Crozier is a professional musician, educator, composer/arranger and entrepreneur living in the Southeastern Michigan area. Mr. Crozier holds a BFA for Jazz and Contemporary Improvisation in Double Bass from University of Michigan. His work with the Celtic fusion band Nessa can be heard on both CDs and the latest single “The Grey Selkie.” Rob’s business, Eventjazz, provides live music to weddings and parties throughout Southeastern Michigan.

Kevin Thibodeau and the Cast Iron Horns
2017-01-13 21:00 (America/Detroit)
An artist with a wide range, Kevin writes, records, and performs his own music. The Detroit, Michigan native has a voice which will fill up any space with an uncompromising warmth over top his array of broken down styles including Soul, R&B, and singer/songwriter.
The 28 year old creates an experience of optimism and love. With his concrete and intricate rhythms as well as rich melodic soundscaping, Kevin’s mission is simple; to create music which helps people grow and let go.

Ian Fitzgerald with Special Guests Danny Kroha and Libby Decamp
2017-01-12 20:00 (America/Detroit)
Ian Fitzgerald is a folk singer and songwriter. Based in New England, he has toured throughout the United States. Ian has independently released four albums of original material and has become known for his storytelling and skillful use of language.
Fitzgerald is a polished songsmith who is high atop a field of great artists breaking through to festivals and folk concerts throughout the states… He is a tender songwriter who composes with a flair and golden heart, seeking out faith over all obstacles and the burning flame of hope; his songs really take you on a journey

Danny Kroha is a singer, songwriter, guitar player, record producer, and performer who has been working and performing in Detroit since the 1980s. In the last thirty years, he has been a member of 8 bands, including the influential blues-punk group the Gories (singer and rhythm guitarist) and the minimalist, performance art garage trio the Demolition Doll Rods. Danny has recorded albums and singles which have been released by various record labels in the U.S. and Europe. His tours have taken him across the U.S., through Europe and to Brazil. His work has been extensively written about, including his first solo full-length album, Angels Watching Over Me, released in 2015, featuring traditional gospel, blues, and folk songs performed on a range of instruments including mouth harp, diddley bow, and slide guitar.

Libby Decamp’s honeyed vocals ride atop of banjo and guitar-led ballads, chanties, toe-tappers, and blues propelled by unconventional percussion and accent instruments with a ragtime-era warmth. Steeped in the rich cuttings of American roots music and sprigs of inspiration from the curiosities of man and nature, Libby delivers a heartfelt and engaging live performance with passionate, playful relevance to causes both near and dear, and dusty bygones. Dabbling in an array of genres, the soundscape is captivating; innocently dark and best described as “Broken Folk.”

Closed
2017-01-11 12:00 - 20:00 (America/Detroit)
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The Jazz Cycle
2017-01-08 18:00 (America/Detroit)
Jack Rock—-keyboards
Trained in classical piano with more recent study with notable jazz musicians, Matt Michaels and Tad Weed, Jack’s love of jazz has made him a fresh voice in the Detroit jazz community. His sound evokes the harmony and lyricism of Bill Evans and reflects influences of other jazz greats like Thelonius Monk and Dave Brubeck. More contemporary influences are Gene Harris and Jeff Lorber.

Dennis Biernott—-Percussion
Studied percussion under Ray Parker at the Conservatory of Music, also studied with Joe Morello from the Dave Brubeck group – Jazz Work Shop.
Dennis recorded and toured throughout the U.S. and Europe in bands such as The Techniques, The U.S. Army Marne Glee Club, The Lions Den, Renaissance, and Friends of The Family, Goodtime Convention, Future Shock, and The After 5 Jazz Ensemble.
He has performed in Las Vegas at the Sahara and The Thunderbird and during the late 70’s with Wayne Newton’s Agency (Newton, Amato, & Newton). He also had the privilege to perform with Sunny Stitt and the original Jazz Messengers.
Dennis has done studio work for various recording studios across the country. In Detroit Dennis recorded at Golden World Records.

Joe LoDuca—-Guitar
Joe is an accomplished guitarist and bass player with his own unique playing style. Listening to Joe’s solos one can hear Earl Klugh, George Benson and Wes Montgomery mixed into his own style of play.
When you listen to Joe play bass you hear a little Jaco in his style of play.
Joe has played with all the local great talent around the Detroit Metro Area.

Bill Grazia—-Bass
Bill Grazia (aka L.B.) Started studying piano at the age 12. Move on to playing Tuba, Baritone and Bass guitar in high School. In the 70 and early 80 played in numerous, wedding, jazz big bands and rock bands. The last ten years has played with a few jazz trios around town. (Gordy Schelist Trio and Jazz Eloquence Trio). From 2011 through 2013 played with Identity Crisis of Michigan rock/top forty bands.

Eric Lundquist—-Saxophones & Flute
Eric is an accomplished musician. He has performed with some outstanding groups such as The Johnny Trudell, Tommy Sanders, Brookside Jazz Ensemble, Gary Greenfelter Big Band, and the Rea Deal Big Band. .
Eric has performed at the Detroit International Jazz fest, Michigan Jazz Festival, and Bakers Keyboard Lounge.

The Alex Levine Quartet
2017-01-07 21:30 (America/Detroit)
A Metro-Detroit native, and graduate of the University of Michigan jazz program, guitarist Alex Levine relocated to New York City in 2012, where he is active as a performer, composer, and bandleader. The Alex Levine Quintet is an outlet for the original compositions of its band members, including renowned Detroit and Ann Arbor musicians Ian Finkelstein, Marcus Elliot, Joe Fee, and Julian Allen. In addition to original compositions, the band draws upon the vast continuum of the jazz repertoire. It is improvised music that reflects the contemporary sensibilities of the band, but still relates deeply to the tradition of music-making in Detroit and the lineage of masters that continue to sustain the jazz tradition.
Featuring:
Alex Levine – Guitar
Marcus Elliot – Saxophone
Ben Rolston – Bass
Stephen Boegehold – Drum Set
alexlevinemusic.com

The Alex Levine Quartet
2017-01-06 21:00 (America/Detroit)
The Alex Levine Quartet was formed in Detroit, Michigan in 2010. Featuring some of the Midwest’s most engaging young musicians, Marcus Elliot, Ben Rolston, and Stephen Boegehold, the group has developed through intensive periods of touring and residencies/workshops, and has presented concerts in venues around the United States and Europe. Guitarist and bandleader Alex Levine relocated to New York City in 2012, but has continued to maintain a strong relationship with the Detroit music scene, and commitment to this project. Alex is a founding member of Polyfold, a collective of musical artists who have joined together to develop, and present creative works. Founded in Detroit, Polyfold produces concerts and recordings, hosts outreach events and educational workshops, and fosters creative community in Detroit and beyond. The Alex Levine Quartet released their debut album, Towards The Center, in Fall 2016.

Featuring:
Alex Levine – Guitar
Marcus Elliot – Saxophone
Ben Rolston – Bass
Stephen Boegehold – Drum Set
alexlevinemusic.com

Lucas Kadish
2017-01-04 20:00 (America/Detroit)
21-year-young jazz guitarist, Lucas Kadish, was born and raised in Northeast Ohio. There he spent his formative years discovering a deep love for many types of music. In his late teens he began studying and playing with Theron Brown, Dan Wilson, Bobby Selvaggio, and many other staples of the scene.
By graduation he had already been named a National YoungArts finalist and a semi-finalist in the United States Presidential Scholars of the Arts for jazz guitar. He was admitted to The New School for Jazz on the President’s Scholarship and moved to NYC. In his first year of college, Lucas was selected for the prestigious international Betty Carter’s Jazz Ahead Residency for composition.
Since, Lucas continues to grow as a working musician and composer. He has shared the stage and played with jazz luminaries such as Les McCann, Javon Jackson, Jeff “Tain” Watts, Dominick Faranacci, Bobby Selvaggio, and many others. He has performed internationally with Nick Dunston’s Dinner Party at the Bern Jazz Festival and Devon Gillingham’s Trio at the Winnipeg Jazz Festival. Lucas has also performed around the country at Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Appel Room (NYC), the Kennedy Center’s Millennium Stage (DC), The New World Center (Miami), E.J. Thomas Hall (Akron), Lyric Theatre (Lexington), The Kent Stage, Blu Jazz+ (Akron), Chris’ Jazz Café (Philly), Andy’s Jazz Club (Chicago), Cliff Bell’s (Detroit), WhyNot Jazz Room (NYC), Shapeshifter Lab, NightTown (Cleveland), The Bop Stop, Silvana, Club Bonafide, and many, many more.
Lucas has his own group, called the Tundra 4tet, comprised of Theo Walentiny, Nick Dunston, and Connor Parks. They play a wide range of jazz, blues, and freely improvised music.

Closed for New Years Day
2017-01-01 00:00 - 23:59 UTC

The Third Coast Kings
2016-12-31 22:00 (America/Detroit)
The Third Coast Kings are an eight element proper deep funk and soul outfit from Michigan. They make it a point to remain true to the style and technique of playing proper deep funk and soul to a live audience that might otherwise only be heard on dusty 45s. They are proud to be a part of the growing number of acts putting the right kind of funk back onto the stage, bringing the hot heat to wherever they perform, like only the Kings can. These cats will put the dip back into your hips and the jive in your stride.
http://www.thirdcoastkings.com/

Late night advance tickets here.

New Year's Eve at Cliff Bell's
2016-12-31 00:00 - 23:59 (America/Detroit)
For a night to remember, you can join us at Cliff Bell’s to ring in the New Year with an evening of live entertainment and an amazing 5 course menu. At midnight, we will count down to 2017 with a toast, and finish the night with delicious late night snacks. The New Year’s Eve package is $100 per person and reserves a table for the entire evening. Pricing does not include tax and gratuity. Reservations can be made at 313 961-2543 and require a credit card to hold your space.

If you just want to join the party, after 10 pm we will offer live entertainment, a midnight toast and late night snacks for $25 per person. There is no guarantee of seating with this entry, bar area only. No reservations, but to guarantee entry you can purchase a ticket here.

The Curtis Taylor Quartet
2016-12-30 21:00 UTC
Grammy Award winning trumpeter Curtis Taylor’s lyrical and melodic improvisational style displays a level of maturity far beyond his counterparts. His unique blend of soulfulness, harmonic sensibilities and rhythm melt together for an unforgettable sound that directly connects with the soul of the listener. According to Taylor, “ When played honestly, music is the ultimate conveyer of truth and beauty.”
Taylor has performed and recorded with Patrice Rushen, Billy Childs, Gary Novak, Bob Sheppard, Ed Motta, Marvin “Smitty’ Smith, Rodney Whitaker, Antonio Hart and great gospel luminaries Karen Clark-Sheard, Kierra Sheard and the Singletons. More extensively Taylor’s stint with jazz pianist Cyrus Chestnut included a notable concert performance at Kennedy Center recorded for NPR’s Jazzset, an appearance at the Spoleto Jazz Festival, and a week long engagement at Dizzy’s Club in NYC. In addition, Taylor had the great opportunity to tour internationally with virtuosic saxophonist James Carter’s Quintet, performing in: Germany, France, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Canada, and Austria. Rounding out the experience, was a week long stint at Yoshi’s in California again with the James Carter Quintet.
www.curtistaylor.net

Glenn Tucker's Sacred & Profane
2016-12-29 20:00 (America/Detroit)
Glenn Tucker is a member of the youngest generation in the lineage of Detroit pianists. He is known for enthusiastic versatility and a balance between youthful energy and dedication to history. Tucker has performed with George “Sax” Benson, the late Allan Barnes, Michael Henderson, and the Detroit Symphony Orchestra, among many others. “Tucker has a ringing piano tone, a percussive pop to his articulation and a natural fluency and clarity…that grabs your ear and holds your attention.” – Mark Stryker, The Detroit Free Press.

Glenn Tucker’s Sacred & Profane
Jake Shadik – Sax & Electronics
Ian Finkelstein – Rhodes & Synths
Glenn Tucker – Hammond organ
Kayvon Gordon – Drums

The Jarrod Champion Trio
2016-12-26 20:00 (America/Detroit)
Formed on the foundation of old New Orleans piano music, , this trio plays early American music including New Orleans-style jazz, jump blues, early soul and rock and roll, swing country and more and will quickly take any party to the next level.
http://jarrodchampion.com

Closed for the Holiday
2016-12-25 00:00 - 23:59, 2016-12-24 00:00 - 23:59 (America/Detroit)

Aguanko
2016-12-22 20:00 (America/Detroit)
Aguankó, the ensemble led by percussionist and composer Alberto Nacíf, is a talented group of Michigan based musicians who are steeped in the tradition of jazz infused Son-Salsa. In La Bicileta and Chiquita, for example, you might hear shades of Conjunto Libre or Eddie Palmieri’s La Perfecta Orchestra. And, like the Fort Apache Band, there are Afro-Cuban folkloric rhythms, as in the percussive Rumba Elemental. The overall feel on Elemental is relaxed; the Jazz is sophisticated, but accessible in essential ways. It’s graced with a driving funk and sabor that comes only from years of developing a musical sensibility that speaks from both the heart and soul of the band members. With Paul Vornhagen, Javier Barrios, Patrick Prouty, Wesley Reynoso, Paul Finkbeiner, Russ Miller, Chris Smith, Alex Nacif and special guest percussionist José “Pepe” Espinosa. Top notch stuff, this. Very Highly Recommended. – elWatusi

The show will be the official album release of Aguanko’s Christmas CD.
“…we predict that the ensemble Aguankó will soon become one of your favorites. This elegant Latin jazz group is led by conguero Alberto Nacif, former host of WEMU’s “Cuban Fantasy” program which is now hosted by Marc Taras. Expect rave reviews and international attention for “Elemental” by Aguankó. WEMU is honored to be the first radio station on the planet to play this beautiful, inspirational Latin Music.” – WEMU NPR Radio station

http://www.aguanko.com/

Olin Clark Trio
2016-12-21 20:00 (America/Detroit)
Local guitar trio lead by Olin Clark, an MSU jazz studies student.

Holiday Celebration Live Recording Featuring The Marcus Elliot Quartet and De'Sean Jones & Knomadik Project
2016-12-20 20:30 UTC
Price of admission gets you a copy of Marcus’ new CD!
“One of the most important elements of Detroit’s jazz legacy is that it’s a living tradition.” -Mark Stryker, Detroit Free Press
Featuring:
Marcus Elliot, saxophone
Ben Rolston, bass
Steven Boegehold, drums
Michael Malis, piano

Marcus will be joined this evening by De’Sean Jones and Knomadik.
Marcus Elliot is a saxophonist/composer/educator of the Metro-Detroit area who is quickly gaining recognition for his imaginative improvising, and fervently thoughtful voice on the saxophone. Marcus has been playing professionally in the Detroit Jazz scene where he is studying, practicing and composing the music you will hear every Tuesday night.
http://www.marcuselliotmusic.com/

Speakeasy Sundays - Burlesque and Merriment
2016-12-18 21:00 (America/Detroit)
Holly began performing the art of burlesque in Indianapolis as a member of the troupe Crème de les Femmes. Along with other local talents, Holly quickly set herself apart as a dancer with over-the-top glamour. She still performs regularly with Crème and is an active member of the Indy burlesque community.
In 2012, Miss Holly Hock moved to Detroit, Michigan to pursue Burlesque. Since then, she has been featured along side the world’s top Burlesque performers at internationally recognized events like the Dirty Show Erotic Art Exhibition, the Burlypicks, and the Great Southern Exposure, among others. She continues to pursue pin-up, burlesque in Detroit and Indy, and art.

Tickets here.
