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DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20251229T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20251229T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251111T162935Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251229T164951Z
UID:10008499-1767036600-1767043800@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:William Hill 111
DESCRIPTION:SHOWTIMES ARE AT 7:30PM & 9:30PM FOR THIS PERFORMANCE. Doors open at 6pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 9pm.\nWilliam Hill III is a pianist\, arranger\, composer\, and bandleader from Detroit\, Michigan. Hill is a graduate of the Detroit School of Arts\, and is currently studying at the prestigious Manhattan School of Music undergoing his baccalaureate education. In Hill’s pre-collage years\, he has been a member of the Detroit Symphony’s Civic Youth Jazz program performing in the Creative Jazz Ensembe and the Civic Jazz Orchestra and the Michigian State Univeristy Spartan Youth Jazz Program. \nHill has had the opportunity to participate in many summer extensive jazz camps such as Jazz House Kids\, Jr. Jazz Academy at Lincoln Center\, Berklee Summer Programs\, Interlochen Center for the Arts\, Motown Lyric Project\, Keeping an Eye Summer Jazz Workshop located at the Conservatorium van Amsterdam\, and many others. \nHill is honored to receive awards from programs such as the National YoungArts Foundation\, a multi-year winner in the instrumental contemporary category for the NAACP ACT-SO National Competition\, and the West Virginia Univeristy International Jazz Piano Competition. Musicians that Hill has worked alongside and have been mentored by include Marion Hayden\, Ralphe Armstrong\, Wendell Harrison\, Joe Farnsworth\, Marc Cary\, Aaron Parks\, Ari Hoenig\, Wynton Marsalis\, Buster Williams\, Christian McBride and many more. \nHill has had the opportunity to perform at the Detroit International Jazz Festival\, Baker’s Keyboard Lounge\, Cliff Bells\, Blue Llama Jazz Club\, Montclair Jazz Festival\, Smalls Jazz Club\, The Django\, and many others to name a few. Hill’s passion in life as a musician is to spread joy to everyone around the world with the music that he produces.
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/the-william-hill-111-trio-3/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20251230T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20251230T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20240318T194417Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251116T163950Z
UID:10004748-1767123000-1767130200@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Smoke Jones
DESCRIPTION:Showtimes are at 7:30p & 9:30p for this performance. Doors open at 6pm for dinner. Seating begins at 6pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 9pm.\nHailing 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. \nIn 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. \nSmoke’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. \nA 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. \nThe 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. \nAs anticipation builds for his latest EP\, “Say Less”\, Smoke prepares to unveil his latest sonic masterpiece at Cliff Bell’s in Detroit on May 4\, 2024. With each soulful melody and heartfelt lyric\, Smoke Jones reaffirms his rightful place as Detroit’s premier purveyor of soulful rhythms and timeless melodies.
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/smoke-jones/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20251231T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260101T000000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251023T140840Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251023T140840Z
UID:10008480-1767209400-1767225600@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:New Year's Eve Celebration featuring Drey Skonie and the kLOUDS
DESCRIPTION: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.\nDrey 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. \nIn 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. \nThe 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. \nCurrently “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.
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/new-years-eve-celebration-featuring-drey-skonie-and-the-klouds/
CATEGORIES:Featured
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260102T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260102T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251106T154839Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T183123Z
UID:10007246-1767382200-1767389400@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Trunino Lowe Quintet featuring Rodney Whitaker
DESCRIPTION: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.\nFeaturing:\n\nTrunino Lowe – Trumpet/ Band Leader \nRodney Whitaker – Bass \nIan Finklestein – Piano \nLouis Jones III – Drums \nJeffrey Trent – Saxophone \n\n\n\n\n\nTrunino has performed with some of the finest musicians the world has to offer. He’s played with the likes of Marion Hayden\, Wendell Harrison\, Marcus Elliot\, Rodney Whitaker\, Ralphe Armstrong\, Pamela Wise\, Kris Johnson\, Dee Dee Bridgewater\, Terri Lynn Carrington\, Jazzmeia Horn ( playing on her upcoming release )\, Karriem Riggins\, Endea Owens\, Russell Hall\, Sean Jones\, Stefon Harris\, Carl Allen\, Charles Tolliver\, Willerm Delisfort\, & others. A JAS Academy student in 2021\, A member of the Paradise Big Band led by Kris Johnson and He’s performed on some very prestigious stages such as\, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola (NYC)\, Jazz Showcase (CHI)\, Detroit Jazz Festival\, Baker’s Keyboard Lounge (DET). He’s Also performed internationally in France\, Germany\, and Denmark. Trunino believes that music has the ability to enhance our lives and guide us to different levels of consciousness\, ultimately improving human interactions on personal\, social\, and cultural levels globally. \n\n\n\n \n\nInternationally renowned bassist and Origin Records recording artist\, Rodney Whitaker\, currently holds the titles of Professor of Jazz Bass and Director of Jazz Studies at Michigan State University where he has built one of the leading jazz degree programs and performing faculty in the world. He is considered one of the leading performers and teachers of the jazz double bass in the United States. He is also the Artistic Director of the Michigan State University Professors of Jazz\, former Artistic Advisor of Jazz @ Wharton Center\, Director of Detroit Symphony Orchestra’s Civic Jazz Orchestra and a former member of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. Whitaker received his first national recognition performing with the Harrison/Blanchard Quintet. \nRodney is one of the hardest working and swinging bass players on the scene and has recorded with great musicians such as Roy Hargrove\, Pat Metheny and Wynton Marsalis. Featured on more than 100+ recordings — from film to compact discs — Whitaker’s film scores\, China\, directed by Jeff Wray\, was released on PBS Fall 2002 and Malaria and Malawi\, released on PBS Fall 2010. Also\, Whitaker has a DVD release featuring Michigan State University’s Jazz Department entitled\, “Inside Jazz”. In 2011\, he was nominated for an EMMY for the ‘Original Music’ category\, “Malawi and Malaria: Fighting to Save the Children” produced by Robert Gould and Sue Carter. \nA proven and committed jazz educator\, Whitaker has presented numerous master classes across the nation at locations such as Duke University\, Howard University\, University of Iowa\, University of Michigan\, Barbican in London\, the New School (NY)\, Lincoln Center\, and the Detroit International Jazz Festival. In addition\, he is a consultant with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in the development of the jazz education department\, and has served on the faculties of University of Michigan and Julliard Institute of Jazz.
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/trunino-lowe-quintet-featuring-marion-hayden-2/2026-01-02/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260103T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260103T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251106T154839Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T183123Z
UID:10008495-1767468600-1767475800@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Trunino Lowe Quintet featuring Rodney Whitaker
DESCRIPTION: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.\nFeaturing:\n\nTrunino Lowe – Trumpet/ Band Leader \nRodney Whitaker – Bass \nIan Finklestein – Piano \nLouis Jones III – Drums \nJeffrey Trent – Saxophone \n\n\n\n\n\nTrunino has performed with some of the finest musicians the world has to offer. He’s played with the likes of Marion Hayden\, Wendell Harrison\, Marcus Elliot\, Rodney Whitaker\, Ralphe Armstrong\, Pamela Wise\, Kris Johnson\, Dee Dee Bridgewater\, Terri Lynn Carrington\, Jazzmeia Horn ( playing on her upcoming release )\, Karriem Riggins\, Endea Owens\, Russell Hall\, Sean Jones\, Stefon Harris\, Carl Allen\, Charles Tolliver\, Willerm Delisfort\, & others. A JAS Academy student in 2021\, A member of the Paradise Big Band led by Kris Johnson and He’s performed on some very prestigious stages such as\, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola (NYC)\, Jazz Showcase (CHI)\, Detroit Jazz Festival\, Baker’s Keyboard Lounge (DET). He’s Also performed internationally in France\, Germany\, and Denmark. Trunino believes that music has the ability to enhance our lives and guide us to different levels of consciousness\, ultimately improving human interactions on personal\, social\, and cultural levels globally. \n\n\n\n \n\nInternationally renowned bassist and Origin Records recording artist\, Rodney Whitaker\, currently holds the titles of Professor of Jazz Bass and Director of Jazz Studies at Michigan State University where he has built one of the leading jazz degree programs and performing faculty in the world. He is considered one of the leading performers and teachers of the jazz double bass in the United States. He is also the Artistic Director of the Michigan State University Professors of Jazz\, former Artistic Advisor of Jazz @ Wharton Center\, Director of Detroit Symphony Orchestra’s Civic Jazz Orchestra and a former member of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. Whitaker received his first national recognition performing with the Harrison/Blanchard Quintet. \nRodney is one of the hardest working and swinging bass players on the scene and has recorded with great musicians such as Roy Hargrove\, Pat Metheny and Wynton Marsalis. Featured on more than 100+ recordings — from film to compact discs — Whitaker’s film scores\, China\, directed by Jeff Wray\, was released on PBS Fall 2002 and Malaria and Malawi\, released on PBS Fall 2010. Also\, Whitaker has a DVD release featuring Michigan State University’s Jazz Department entitled\, “Inside Jazz”. In 2011\, he was nominated for an EMMY for the ‘Original Music’ category\, “Malawi and Malaria: Fighting to Save the Children” produced by Robert Gould and Sue Carter. \nA proven and committed jazz educator\, Whitaker has presented numerous master classes across the nation at locations such as Duke University\, Howard University\, University of Iowa\, University of Michigan\, Barbican in London\, the New School (NY)\, Lincoln Center\, and the Detroit International Jazz Festival. In addition\, he is a consultant with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in the development of the jazz education department\, and has served on the faculties of University of Michigan and Julliard Institute of Jazz.
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/trunino-lowe-quintet-featuring-marion-hayden-2/2026-01-03/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260104T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260104T193000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251106T154731Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251208T183046Z
UID:10008494-1767547800-1767555000@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Trunino Lowe Quintet featuring Rodney Whitaker
DESCRIPTION: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\nFeaturing:\n\nTrunino Lowe – Trumpet/ Band Leader \nRodney Whitaker – Bass \nIan Finklestein – Piano \nLouis Jones III – Drums \nJeffrey Trent – Saxophone \n\n\n\n\n\nTrunino has performed with some of the finest musicians the world has to offer. He’s played with the likes of Marion Hayden\, Wendell Harrison\, Marcus Elliot\, Rodney Whitaker\, Ralphe Armstrong\, Pamela Wise\, Kris Johnson\, Dee Dee Bridgewater\, Terri Lynn Carrington\, Jazzmeia Horn ( playing on her upcoming release )\, Karriem Riggins\, Endea Owens\, Russell Hall\, Sean Jones\, Stefon Harris\, Carl Allen\, Charles Tolliver\, Willerm Delisfort\, & others. A JAS Academy student in 2021\, A member of the Paradise Big Band led by Kris Johnson and He’s performed on some very prestigious stages such as\, Dizzy’s Club Coca-Cola (NYC)\, Jazz Showcase (CHI)\, Detroit Jazz Festival\, Baker’s Keyboard Lounge (DET). He’s Also performed internationally in France\, Germany\, and Denmark. Trunino believes that music has the ability to enhance our lives and guide us to different levels of consciousness\, ultimately improving human interactions on personal\, social\, and cultural levels globally. \n\n\n\n \n\nInternationally renowned bassist and Origin Records recording artist\, Rodney Whitaker\, currently holds the titles of Professor of Jazz Bass and Director of Jazz Studies at Michigan State University where he has built one of the leading jazz degree programs and performing faculty in the world. He is considered one of the leading performers and teachers of the jazz double bass in the United States. He is also the Artistic Director of the Michigan State University Professors of Jazz\, former Artistic Advisor of Jazz @ Wharton Center\, Director of Detroit Symphony Orchestra’s Civic Jazz Orchestra and a former member of the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra. Whitaker received his first national recognition performing with the Harrison/Blanchard Quintet. \nRodney is one of the hardest working and swinging bass players on the scene and has recorded with great musicians such as Roy Hargrove\, Pat Metheny and Wynton Marsalis. Featured on more than 100+ recordings — from film to compact discs — Whitaker’s film scores\, China\, directed by Jeff Wray\, was released on PBS Fall 2002 and Malaria and Malawi\, released on PBS Fall 2010. Also\, Whitaker has a DVD release featuring Michigan State University’s Jazz Department entitled\, “Inside Jazz”. In 2011\, he was nominated for an EMMY for the ‘Original Music’ category\, “Malawi and Malaria: Fighting to Save the Children” produced by Robert Gould and Sue Carter. \nA proven and committed jazz educator\, Whitaker has presented numerous master classes across the nation at locations such as Duke University\, Howard University\, University of Iowa\, University of Michigan\, Barbican in London\, the New School (NY)\, Lincoln Center\, and the Detroit International Jazz Festival. In addition\, he is a consultant with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra in the development of the jazz education department\, and has served on the faculties of University of Michigan and Julliard Institute of Jazz.
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/trunino-lowe-quintet-featuring-marion-hayden/
CATEGORIES:Featured
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260107T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260107T190000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20241122T161905Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251008T131628Z
UID:10008462-1767812400-1767812400@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:the Swing Syndicate Jazz Lab
DESCRIPTION:Schedule of performances\n\n7:00 – 7:45  high school jazz band performance\n8:15 – 9:15  Swing Syndicate Big Band performance\n9:30 – 10:00  Jam session hosted by the Swing Syndicate\n\nSwing Syndicate is a 16 piece Big Band formed by Travis Cook and Mike Wiese.  Both seasoned veterans of the Metro-Detroit jazz scene\, Cook and Wiese wanted to play in a band that performed with power and style to make an indelible impression on the Detroit jazz scene.  The resulting group is a hard-hitting combination of Metro-Detroit’s finest talent performing traditional Big Band Jazz at it’s finest. \nIn coordination with Cliff Bell’s commitment to Jazz mentorship the Swing Syndicate will be featuring a different High School Jazz Band to perform with them every month.  All performances will be followed by a open Jam Session. If you’re a local band director and would be interested in having your High School Band perform at Cliff Bell’s please reach out to Phil@cliffbells.com. \n \n 
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/the-swing-syndicate/2026-01-07/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260108T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260108T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20160915T223118Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251122T151648Z
UID:10000268-1767900600-1767907800@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Alise King
DESCRIPTION: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.\n\n\nAlise King is a multi award winning R&B Soul Artist who has opened for the likes of Chaka Khan\, Aretha Franklin\, George Clinton\, Monica\, Kelly Price\, Musiq Soulchild\, Bobby Brown\, Dej Loaf\, Rickey Smiley\, Cece Peniston\, Todrick Hall\, DruHill\, 702\, NEXT\, Brownstone\, Cynthia Erivo\, Shanice\, Christopher Williams\, Adina Howard\, Michel le\, Glen Jones\, Chant’e Moore & Tinashe just to name a few. Alise has traveled touring & performing around the world… She has graced stages in North Carolina\, Washington\, D.C.\, Oregon\, Minnesota\, Indiana\, Tennessee\, New York\, California\, Boston\, Atlanta\, Ohio\, Pennsylvania\, Maryland and more! Ms. King is more than just a powerhouse vocalist with empeccable stage presence! She is a creative with a purpose and a passion for people!  She is the true the embodiment of SOUL! Alise continues to use her gift of song to bring the ultimate entertainment experience\, spread love\, positivity and peace to people across the world! Alise King is the definition of a D.I.V.A … a Divine Instrument Vocalizing her Ability! Alise was awarded The Spirit of Detroit Award by The Entire Detroit City Council for being a trailblazer and leaving such a stellar imprint for others to follow by using her musical talents to give back to her hometown!\n 
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/alise-king/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260109T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260109T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251112T154708Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251116T163957Z
UID:10008502-1767987000-1767994200@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:The Detroit Jazz Project
DESCRIPTION: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.\nThe Detroit Jazz Project is the creation of Mark Hershberger who began studying Jazz and playing in the  University AFRAM Big learning from greats including Marcus Belgrave\, Sam Sanders\, Jimmy Allen\, Doc Holiday\, and Ed Pickens.  The big band hosted special guest legends such as the Jones brothers. He later studied Jazz and Classical Music and played in the Jazz and Concert Bands at Eastern Michigan University. During and after attending The University of Michigan\,   Mark led and played in multiple Jazz groups in Ann Arbor and Detroit.  Mark began playing professionally as a solo artist and in small latin jazz groups and then formed a music publishing company in 1980.  He performed in Motown with STAX greats such as “Sam and Dave” and Cecil Womack. \nIn his early twenties he began in Ann Arbor playing Jazz clubs such as Del Rio\, Jazz West\, Delta Lady\, The Ark\, and The Ann Arbor Art Fair. Through the years of performing and recording he expanded his \nreach and performed at historic Baker’s Keyboard Lounge in Detroit and The Flint Jazz Festival as well as the legendary Bert’s Place and The Detroit International Jazz Festival.  He also performed venues in Ann Arbor and in London. Mark has worked with artists such as Gayleynn McKinny\, Ibrahim Jones\, Jerry LeDuff\, Badal Roy\, Martha Reeves\, George Clinton\, Marion Hayden\, Michael Colone and Muruga Booker.to name a few.  He has earned a Detroit Music Award for “Outstanding World Recording Group” with artist Muruga Booker as well as “Outstanding Modern Jazz Group” with The Detroit Jazz Project.
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/the-detroit-jazz-project-2/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260110T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260110T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251112T155009Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251116T164007Z
UID:10008503-1768073400-1768080600@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Gwenyth Hayes
DESCRIPTION: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.\nGwenyth Hayes\, a bassist\, song stylist\, vocalist\, and recording artist hailing from Ann Arbor\, captivates audiences throughout the Metro Detroit area with her distinctive performances. Gwenyth’s unique reinterpretations showcase a fusion of classic tunes and soulful covers & originals across various genres\, and are centered by her sultry vocals\, groove-infused bass lines\, and tight instrumental arrangements. \nSince 2012\, Gwenyth’s ensembles have graced numerous festivals and venues across Southeastern Michigan\, Chicago\, and Honolulu\, including: Arts\, Beats\, and Eats\, Dally In The Alley\, Harvest Festival\, Ann Arbor Summer Festival\, Ann Arbor Jazz Festival\, University of Michigan’s Gift of Arts\, and the North Atlantic Blues Festival.  \nIn 2023\, Gwenyth was inducted as a fellow with the Amplify Fellowship based in Washtenaw\, a recognition that granted her valuable resources to begin finalizing her forthcoming recording project set for release in 2024. Alongside this\, Gwenyth is an active member of Detroit Bass Players and has been prominently featured in various publications\, including Buddy Guy’s Legends Magazine\, University of Michigan’s Newsletter\, Ann Arbor News\, and Big City Rhythm and Blues Magazine. \n \nThroughout her musical journey\, she has served as a professional bassist\, lending support to fellow artists in the realms of blues\, pop\, and soul. Notable milestones in her career include opening for B.B. King alongside Murali Coryell\, the son of the late Larry Coryell\, and subsequently embarking on a tour with Murali. Additionally\, she graced the stage at The Chicago Blues Festival in both 2010 and 2013 with Quintus McCormick and Khalif “Wailin'” Walter. Her participation in the 2009 Detroit Blues Festival at Chene Park Amphitheater\, now recognized as the Aretha Franklin Park\, further underscores her impactful contributions. \nDuring her residency in Chicago from 2010 to 2013\, Gwenyth performed regularly as a blues bassists at renowned venues such as Buddy Guy’s Legends\, Kingston Mines\, and B.L.U.E.S. on Halsted\, with Alligator and Delmark Records recording artists Maurice John Vaughn\, Quintus McCormick\, & Toronzo Cannon. Later\, her musical pursuits extended to touring with Detroit Music Awarding winning recording artist Laura Rain and the Caesars and performing with other notable metro detroit artists. \nGwenyth’s musical roots trace back to her upbringing in a family deeply connected to music\, exposing her to a diverse range of genres\, from classical and jazz to rock and R&B. With her mother and grandmother as pianists and her father\, William Hayes\, a renowned conductor\, composer\, educator\, and performer\, along with her brother\, Matt Hayes\, a celebrated drummer\, music is woven into the fabric of her life. \nHer modern approach to music serves as a conduit for reinventing popular soul\, jazz\, soft rock\, and blues standards\, infusing them with a sensual and contemporary vibe. Gwenyth’s sound resonates with diverse audiences\, aiming to evoke nostalgia for many generations to come.
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/gwenyth-hayes/
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END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260111T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260111T193000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251112T155315Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260105T183855Z
UID:10008504-1768152600-1768159800@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Mason Bays
DESCRIPTION:Showtimes are at 5:30p & 7:30p for this performance.\nDoors open at 4pm for dinner. Seating begins at 5pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 7pm.\n \nFeaturing: \n\nColin McCahill– alto/soprano sax\nHayden Cusmano– guitar\nMatthew Balos– piano\nJackson Stone– bass\nRoland Chandler– percussion\nChris White– drums\n\nMason Bays is a Detroit based Jazz Musician who’s introduction to jazz began in the 9th grade in the Goodrich HS Jazz Band. He attended and graduated from Oakland University\, with Bachelor of Arts in Music\, with a minor in Jazz studies. He has performed at OU with Regina Carter\, Scott Gwinell\, John Douglas\, Rayse Biggs\, and others with Pat Cronley\, Bill Myers\, Gwen Hemphill\, John Hill\, Gary Greenfelder Orchestra\, Kennebec Avenue Group and many others. \nAll of these influences led him to form his own jazz/funk ensemble that has appeared at the Dirty Dog Jazz Cafe\,  Homegrown Brewing Company\, Grav Cap\, Arts Beats and Eats festival\, and now he debuts his band for the first time at Cliff Bell’s!
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/mason-bays-2/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/Mason-Bays-07.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260114T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260114T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251118T180949Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T180949Z
UID:10008515-1768419000-1768426200@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Houston Patton Quartet and Session
DESCRIPTION: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.\nMusicians pay no cover when they bring their instrument. \nSaxophonist 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.  \nPatton 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.  \nIn 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.  \nIn 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.  \nHouston plays on SYOS mouthpieces.
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/houston-patton-quartet-and-session/2026-01-14/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/Houston_Patton_BnW.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260115T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260115T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251028T141859Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251103T152641Z
UID:10008484-1768505400-1768512600@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Everything Yes
DESCRIPTION: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.\nADVANCED TICKETS AVAILABLE HERE \nEverything Yes is an American jazz fusion band spearheaded by the drummer Zack Graybeal\, known famously as ZackGrooves on his platforms\, Sean Reeser\, prolific composer\, producer and tenor sax master & Cole Sipe\, composer\, sound engineer and magistral bassist. \nThis powerhouse of a band brings a fresh take on the style while staying true to the roots. Let’s meet the members! \nZack Graybeal (DRUMS) : Born in Atlanta GA\, there was no question that this man was destined for greatness. His unstoppable determination and discipline are a force to be reckoned with. He spent his  entire education at East Carolina University in the top bands at the school. He is exactly as he presents himself on YouTube. There is no filter or mask that could ever cover his unique and raw personality. \nSean Reeser (MAIN COMPOSER & TENOR SAX) : From York PA\, this genius producer and tenor saxophone master first met Zack at East Carolina when they were both given the same audition slot. This was the beginning of Everything Yes. Just like Zack\, Sean spent his time at ECU in all the top bands. Their styles and discipline heavily influenced each other during this crucial time. His vast knowledge of theory and composition are an integral part of the unique sound Everything Yes brings. \nCole Sipe (BASS): Also from York PA\, Cole and Sean have been playing together since they were fifteen. Having both attended the Inspire Studio of the Arts\, an excellent school in York directed by Cole’s father Curt\, they bring over a decade of musical kinship to Everything Yes that most bands would kill to have. Cole’s moves and grooves bring life to the room. His style and finesse on the bass is the perfect fit and a staple of the EY sound. \nNathan Graybeal (ALTO SAX): A young artist from North Carolina\, most well-known for his YouTube persona “Saxologic”. Originally an avid artist then animator\, he has transferred his love for art to saxophone. He spreads his infectious passion to inspire others to find the joy of improving in music. Nathan obtained a bachelor’s degree in both jazz and classical saxophone performance from East Carolina University. He attended the Frost School of Music at University of Miami for his Masters and currently attends University of Memphis for his DMA.
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/everything-yes/
CATEGORIES:Featured
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/winter_arc_4X4_blank-min_2500x2500.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260116T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260116T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251118T180514Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T180514Z
UID:10008509-1768591800-1768599000@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Allen Dennard
DESCRIPTION: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.\nAllen Dennard is a trumpeter\, composer and bandleader who was born and raised in the city of Detroit\, Michigan. Allen has made three appearances as a sideman in the Detroit Jazz Festival\, one being with the great saxophonist Wendell Harrison (2015)\, one being with Detroit bassist Ali Bey (2017)\, and lastly with the Detroit Jazz Festival All-Star Alumni Band (2019). In January 2019 Allen was chosen by the Detroit MetroTimes as one of ten artist they thought would become famous in that year. Soon after that Allen was approached with many interview requests\, one being with Detroit Public Television/ PBS and the other being with Honeysuckle Magazine\, a New York City based magazine company. Aside from that Allen has worked with several artist from the Detroit Music Factory label\, such as Gayelynn McKinney\, De’Sean Jones and Sean Dobbins. He has also worked with Detroit saxophonist David McMurray from the Blue Note record label. Adding to that\, Allen also got the opportunity to share the stage with New York based saxophonist J.D Allen\, who is with HighNote Records. \nIn October 2018 Allen had the opportunity to work with famous R&B artist Ray J\, being a member of the pit orchestra in a play that Ray J was in. In the same year Allen was chosen to be in the horn section for the MC5 reunion in Detroit\, sharing the stage with musical icons such as Wayne Kramer. Following after that Allen went on to record on one of Alice Copper’s latest albums in 2019. Allen is a bandleader and has three of his own groups\, the Allen Dennard Trio\, the Allen Dennard Quartet and the Allen Dennard Quintet.
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/allen-dennard-2/2026-01-16/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Allen11.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260117T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260117T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251118T180514Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T180514Z
UID:10008510-1768678200-1768685400@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Allen Dennard
DESCRIPTION: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.\nAllen Dennard is a trumpeter\, composer and bandleader who was born and raised in the city of Detroit\, Michigan. Allen has made three appearances as a sideman in the Detroit Jazz Festival\, one being with the great saxophonist Wendell Harrison (2015)\, one being with Detroit bassist Ali Bey (2017)\, and lastly with the Detroit Jazz Festival All-Star Alumni Band (2019). In January 2019 Allen was chosen by the Detroit MetroTimes as one of ten artist they thought would become famous in that year. Soon after that Allen was approached with many interview requests\, one being with Detroit Public Television/ PBS and the other being with Honeysuckle Magazine\, a New York City based magazine company. Aside from that Allen has worked with several artist from the Detroit Music Factory label\, such as Gayelynn McKinney\, De’Sean Jones and Sean Dobbins. He has also worked with Detroit saxophonist David McMurray from the Blue Note record label. Adding to that\, Allen also got the opportunity to share the stage with New York based saxophonist J.D Allen\, who is with HighNote Records. \nIn October 2018 Allen had the opportunity to work with famous R&B artist Ray J\, being a member of the pit orchestra in a play that Ray J was in. In the same year Allen was chosen to be in the horn section for the MC5 reunion in Detroit\, sharing the stage with musical icons such as Wayne Kramer. Following after that Allen went on to record on one of Alice Copper’s latest albums in 2019. Allen is a bandleader and has three of his own groups\, the Allen Dennard Trio\, the Allen Dennard Quartet and the Allen Dennard Quintet.
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/allen-dennard-2/2026-01-17/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Allen11.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260118T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260118T193000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251118T180545Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T180545Z
UID:10008508-1768757400-1768764600@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Allen Dennard
DESCRIPTION:Showtimes are at 5:30p & 7:30p for this performance. Doors open at 4:30pm for dinner. Seating begins at 5pm for “Dinner & a Show”. The second show starts seating at 7pm.\nTrumpeter Allen Dennard has one foot firmly planted in the classic jazz canon. The 2016 graduate of the University of Michigan’s School of Music\, Theatre & Dance leads his own rotating jazz ensemble while also regularly playing with the likes of Detroit legends Marion Hayden\, Wendell Harrison\, and David McMurray. This April saw his first release Stepping In\, which evokes the sounds of Miles Davis’ classic quintet. \nThat said\, he’s not just a strict jazz classicist. His other foot is firmly planted in the melting pot that is the Detroit music scene. Dennard also sits in and records with acts ranging from hip-hop (Kulture) to rock ‘n’ roll (the MC5’s “MC50” 50th anniversary tour)\, blues (Robert Bradley)\, soul (Ray J)\, and gospel (J. Drew Sheard II). \nDennard comes from a musical family: His aunt Elreta Dodds played bass clarinet with the ’70s avant-garde jazz ensemble Griot Galaxy. His father sings\, his mother used to play the trumpet and piano\, and his older sister played clarinet. But Dennard says he got his start on trumpet on accident. “In 5th grade I wanted to play trombone\, but my school didn’t have enough\,” he says. “I thought that trumpet was the next best thing. From then on I just never put it down.” \nIt also helps that Detroit has an amazing legacy of mentorship within the jazz community. Dennard praises his first teacher\, jazz flutist Deblon Jackson\, for starting him off with ear training before diving into music theory. He also praises trumpeters John Douglas\, Dwight Adams\, and Rayce Biggs for helping him learn his instrument. \nBut Dennard’s biggest mentor was none other than Marcus Belgrave\, the jazz icon who died in 2015. Dennard says that connection was forged thanks to his aunt\, who was best friends with the pianist Geri Allen\, who set up Dennard’s first lesson with Marcus when he was in high school. \nIt wound up being a crucial connection. “At U of M he saved my career\,” Dennard says. When Dennard was first given his trumpet\, there was no one to teach him the correct way to play\, so he found his own way to do it. But by the time he got to college\, he found out that his embouchure\, or how the mouth is applied to the mouthpiece\, was no longer working for him.\n“That way got me really far — it got me a scholarship to U of M\,” Dennard says. “But in college my notes started cracking and I couldn’t hold a note.” Dennard compares it to being “as bad as breaking your leg if you just got there on a basketball scholarship.” He almost quit.\nAt a U-M master class\, Marcus could tell Denard was struggling\, and took him aside for private home lessons for more than a year. “He kind of sensei-ed me through\,” Dennard says. \nNow\, Dennard says he’s inspired by artists like Houston singer\, pianist\, and producer Robert Glasper. “For me personally\, Robert Glasper created this new wave of jazz that’s similar to ’70s jazz fusion\,” Dennard says. “Hip-hop evolved into other things\, and he put that in his music and created a whole new wave of other artists doing it. It’s common around Detroit.”\nDennard says he just calls it “modern music.” “I love it\,” he says. “I think it’s good for the evolution of music. Everything’s always changing — politics\, life\, all that. Music should too.” \nby Doug Coombe January 02\, 2019 Detroit Metro Times \nhttps://m.metrotimes.com/detroit/allen-dennard-takes-jazz-into-the-future/Content?oid=19038380
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/allen-dennard-3/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Allen11.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260121T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260121T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251118T181204Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T181257Z
UID:10008528-1769023800-1769031000@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Jauron Perry and Session
DESCRIPTION: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.\nJauron Perry is an upcoming Detroit trumpeter\, composer\, bandleader\, and educator in jazz studies at Michigan State University. Recognized with the Next Generation of Talent award\, Jauron has gained extensive experience working with Detroit jazz masters like Rodney Whitaker\, Regina Carter\, Wendell Harrison\, as well as sensations such as Jazzmeia Horn\, Marquis Hill\, and Wynton Marsalis\, and performing as a current Geri Allen Gathering Orchestra Fellow. He has been featured in prominent events such as the Detroit Jazz Festival and the Jazz at Lincoln Center’s Jack Rudin Jazz Championship. Jauron recently won the 2024 Michigan Jazz Festival Rising Horn Competition\, and also toured Japan at just 19 years old. He is now a recorded artist with the new collective group Quintessential from Detroit\, MI\, on their debut album “Here We Are” and with his own band\, the Jauron Perry Quintet that won the 2024 Detroit Jazz Festival Combo Competition. The quintet performed their debut set at the 2024 Detroit Jazz Festival\, creating Jauron’s debut album as a bandleader.
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/jauron-perry-and-session-3/2026-01-21/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/Jauron-Perry-on-DJF-Main-Stage.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260122T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260122T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251118T182242Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T183114Z
UID:10008557-1769110200-1769117400@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Jonathon Muir-Cotton
DESCRIPTION: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.\nFeaturing: \n\nJonathon Muir-Cotton-(Bass Bandleader)\nLouis Jones III- Drums\nWyatt Forhan- Trombone\nZach Sommerfeld- Guitar\nBrendon Davis- Piano (January 22rd\, 24th\, 25th)\nJordan Anderson – Piano (January 23rd)\n\nJonathon S. Muir-Cotton is a multi-award winning young\, up and coming double bassist and bassist trained in both the jazz and classical traditions; playing many genres including jazz\, funk\, gospel\, blues\, R&B and neo-soul. Under the mentorship and tutelage of great Detroit bassists like Marion Hayden\, Robert Hurst\, Rick Robinson\, Rodney Whitaker and Ralphe Armstrong\, Jonathon is working towards making his own mark in the music world.  \nJonathon has continued to garner great opportunities to perform internationally\, with consistent rotations in  Detroit\, New York\, Ann Arbor\, and many other venues across the country. Jonathon is a student at Michigan State University pursuing his Bachelors in Jazz Studies.  \nJust this summer Jonathon made is tv scoring debut for the show Mo Season 2 on Netflix! Show was produced by Common\, Karriem Riggins\, Mohammed Amher.  \nJonathon is currently touring with artist such as Christian Sands\, Ulssyess Owens\, Luther Allison\, Domo Branch\, Ashley Pezzotti\, Brandon Woody. \nMuir-Cotton has performed/ toured with various renowned artists\, including  Common\,Karriem Riggins\,\, Christian Sands\, \, Ulyesses Owens Jr Joe Farnsworth\, \, Luther Allison\, Ali Jackson\, Esperanza Spalding\, Ian Finkelstein\, Soul Science Lab\, and Kamau Kenyatta. He has his own talented and versatile extended band Expressions\, and is an often sought bassist for other artists\, their bands\, and studio work. Jonathon continues to hone his craft\, hopes to tour the world\, and eventually become a music educator\, teaching jazz at the collegiate level as well as be an inspiration and give back to the next generation of students and aspiring musicians.  \n 
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/jonathon-muir-cotton/2026-01-22/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/IMG_9281.pdf.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260123T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260123T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251118T182242Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T183114Z
UID:10008558-1769196600-1769203800@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Jonathon Muir-Cotton
DESCRIPTION: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.\nFeaturing: \n\nJonathon Muir-Cotton-(Bass Bandleader)\nLouis Jones III- Drums\nWyatt Forhan- Trombone\nZach Sommerfeld- Guitar\nBrendon Davis- Piano (January 22rd\, 24th\, 25th)\nJordan Anderson – Piano (January 23rd)\n\nJonathon S. Muir-Cotton is a multi-award winning young\, up and coming double bassist and bassist trained in both the jazz and classical traditions; playing many genres including jazz\, funk\, gospel\, blues\, R&B and neo-soul. Under the mentorship and tutelage of great Detroit bassists like Marion Hayden\, Robert Hurst\, Rick Robinson\, Rodney Whitaker and Ralphe Armstrong\, Jonathon is working towards making his own mark in the music world.  \nJonathon has continued to garner great opportunities to perform internationally\, with consistent rotations in  Detroit\, New York\, Ann Arbor\, and many other venues across the country. Jonathon is a student at Michigan State University pursuing his Bachelors in Jazz Studies.  \nJust this summer Jonathon made is tv scoring debut for the show Mo Season 2 on Netflix! Show was produced by Common\, Karriem Riggins\, Mohammed Amher.  \nJonathon is currently touring with artist such as Christian Sands\, Ulssyess Owens\, Luther Allison\, Domo Branch\, Ashley Pezzotti\, Brandon Woody. \nMuir-Cotton has performed/ toured with various renowned artists\, including  Common\,Karriem Riggins\,\, Christian Sands\, \, Ulyesses Owens Jr Joe Farnsworth\, \, Luther Allison\, Ali Jackson\, Esperanza Spalding\, Ian Finkelstein\, Soul Science Lab\, and Kamau Kenyatta. He has his own talented and versatile extended band Expressions\, and is an often sought bassist for other artists\, their bands\, and studio work. Jonathon continues to hone his craft\, hopes to tour the world\, and eventually become a music educator\, teaching jazz at the collegiate level as well as be an inspiration and give back to the next generation of students and aspiring musicians.  \n 
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/jonathon-muir-cotton/2026-01-23/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/IMG_9281.pdf.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260124T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260124T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251118T182242Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T183114Z
UID:10008559-1769283000-1769290200@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Jonathon Muir-Cotton
DESCRIPTION: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.\nFeaturing: \n\nJonathon Muir-Cotton-(Bass Bandleader)\nLouis Jones III- Drums\nWyatt Forhan- Trombone\nZach Sommerfeld- Guitar\nBrendon Davis- Piano (January 22rd\, 24th\, 25th)\nJordan Anderson – Piano (January 23rd)\n\nJonathon S. Muir-Cotton is a multi-award winning young\, up and coming double bassist and bassist trained in both the jazz and classical traditions; playing many genres including jazz\, funk\, gospel\, blues\, R&B and neo-soul. Under the mentorship and tutelage of great Detroit bassists like Marion Hayden\, Robert Hurst\, Rick Robinson\, Rodney Whitaker and Ralphe Armstrong\, Jonathon is working towards making his own mark in the music world.  \nJonathon has continued to garner great opportunities to perform internationally\, with consistent rotations in  Detroit\, New York\, Ann Arbor\, and many other venues across the country. Jonathon is a student at Michigan State University pursuing his Bachelors in Jazz Studies.  \nJust this summer Jonathon made is tv scoring debut for the show Mo Season 2 on Netflix! Show was produced by Common\, Karriem Riggins\, Mohammed Amher.  \nJonathon is currently touring with artist such as Christian Sands\, Ulssyess Owens\, Luther Allison\, Domo Branch\, Ashley Pezzotti\, Brandon Woody. \nMuir-Cotton has performed/ toured with various renowned artists\, including  Common\,Karriem Riggins\,\, Christian Sands\, \, Ulyesses Owens Jr Joe Farnsworth\, \, Luther Allison\, Ali Jackson\, Esperanza Spalding\, Ian Finkelstein\, Soul Science Lab\, and Kamau Kenyatta. He has his own talented and versatile extended band Expressions\, and is an often sought bassist for other artists\, their bands\, and studio work. Jonathon continues to hone his craft\, hopes to tour the world\, and eventually become a music educator\, teaching jazz at the collegiate level as well as be an inspiration and give back to the next generation of students and aspiring musicians.  \n 
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/jonathon-muir-cotton/2026-01-24/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/IMG_9281.pdf.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260125T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260125T173000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251118T182510Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260125T203641Z
UID:10008563-1769362200-1769362200@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Jonathon Muir-Cotton
DESCRIPTION:Canceled to to weather\nJonathon S. Muir-Cotton is a multi-award winning young\, up and coming double bassist and bassist trained in both the jazz and classical traditions; playing many genres including jazz\, funk\, gospel\, blues\, R&B and neo-soul. Under the mentorship and tutelage of great Detroit bassists like Marion Hayden\, Robert Hurst\, Rick Robinson\, Rodney Whitaker and Ralphe Armstrong\, Jonathon is working towards making his own mark in the music world.  \nJonathon has continued to garner great opportunities to perform internationally\, with consistent rotations in  Detroit\, New York\, Ann Arbor\, and many other venues across the country. Jonathon is a student at Michigan State University pursuing his Bachelors in Jazz Studies.  \nJust this summer Jonathon made is tv scoring debut for the show Mo Season 2 on Netflix! Show was produced by Common\, Karriem Riggins\, Mohammed Amher.  \nJonathon is currently touring with artist such as Christian Sands\, Ulssyess Owens\, Luther Allison\, Domo Branch\, Ashley Pezzotti\, Brandon Woody. \nMuir-Cotton has performed/ toured with various renowned artists\, including  Common\,Karriem Riggins\,\, Christian Sands\, \, Ulyesses Owens Jr Joe Farnsworth\, \, Luther Allison\, Ali Jackson\, Esperanza Spalding\, Ian Finkelstein\, Soul Science Lab\, and Kamau Kenyatta. He has his own talented and versatile extended band Expressions\, and is an often sought bassist for other artists\, their bands\, and studio work. Jonathon continues to hone his craft\, hopes to tour the world\, and eventually become a music educator\, teaching jazz at the collegiate level as well as be an inspiration and give back to the next generation of students and aspiring musicians.  \n 
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/jonathon-muir-cotton-2/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Make-a-protest-sign-that-says-_Closed-do-to-Weather_.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260125T200000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260125T200000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251023T174741Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260125T203605Z
UID:10008481-1769371200-1769371200@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Bill Laurance (Solo Piano)
DESCRIPTION:To Be Rescheduled\nGrammy Award-winning pianist\, composer\, and producer Bill Laurance is internationally celebrated for his genre-defying sound and innovative collaborations. With over 25\,000 followers on Facebook and 40\,200 on Instagram\, Bill has cultivated a devoted global audience drawn to his distinctive blend of jazz\, classical\, and electronic music.\nAs a founding member of Snarky Puppy\, Bill has earned five Grammy Awards\, including Best Contemporary Instrumental Album for Empire Central (2023)\, Live at the Royal Albert Hall (2020)\, Culcha Vulcha (2017)\, and Sylva (2016)\, as well as Best R&B Performance in 2014 for the Snarky Puppy collaboration with Lalah Hathaway.\nBill’s versatility has made him a sought-after collaborator and composer across film\, television\, and dance. His music has featured in international ad campaigns for Apple and Sky\, and in films such as Un Traductor (2018) and Initials S.G. (2019)\, for which he composed several original themes. He also collaborated closely with the late David Crosby\, including on the acclaimed documentary Remember My Name (2019).\nLaurance’s compositions have been reimagined by renowned ensembles such as the WDR Big Band Cologne and Metropole Orkest and commissioned for performances at the Cello Biennale. He has composed extensively for contemporary dance\, working with Alvin Ailey’s Hope Boykin (ReDefine US\, From The Inside OUT\, 2021; Here WE Are\, 2020) and companies including Matthew Bourne’s Adventures in Motion Pictures\, Phoenix Dance\, Northern Ballet Theatre\, and English National Ballet.\nHis solo work explores the intersections of acoustic and electronic music\, often framed by conceptual and narrative themes. A prodigious performer since childhood—playing his first Soho residency at just 14—Bill’s musical journey has been marked by curiosity and fearless experimentation. His creative partnership with Michael League continues to flourish through their duo projects and collaborative performances around the world.\nIn recent years\, Bill has released two celebrated albums: Keeping Company (with Michael League\, 2024) and his 12th solo album\, Lumen (2025). Together\, they mark the latest chapters in a career defined by innovation\, collaboration\, and an ever-evolving musical vision.\n\n \nhttps://billlaurance.com/ \nhttps://billlaurance.bandcamp.com/
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/bill-laurance-solo-piano/
CATEGORIES:Featured
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/10/Make-a-protest-sign-that-says-_Closed-do-to-Weather_.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260128T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260128T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251219T173746Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260306T153204Z
UID:10008585-1769628600-1769635800@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Kasan Belgrave and Session
DESCRIPTION: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\nSaxophonist Kasan Belgrave is a ascending talent newly emerging in the role of a compositional leader. His energetic playing style and improvisational finesse derives from influences of early bebop and jazz\, as well flares of fusion and gospel. His musical prowess has more recently been shown through new innovative compositions. \nThe record “Dual Citizen” is an introductory reflection of Kasan’s own consciousness through experience of musical nurturing & professional practice from the Detroit jazz mentorship empire\, led by his father\, trumpeter Marcus Belgrave. It provides a glimpse of Kasan’s endless curiousness of sonic ingenuity. \nIn the formative years of his career\, that same mentorship was present in the musical institutions\, as he studied with Andrew Bishop\, Benny Green\, and Robert Hurst at the University of Michigan then held an assistantship under the direction of Diego Rivera and Rodney Whitaker at Michigan State University. \nKasan has toured as a multi-woodwind instrumentalist with Jazz @ Lincoln Center w/ Wynton Marsalis\, performed in multiple residencies curated by Terri Lynn Carrington\, performed with Karriem Riggins\, and Etienne Charles. The 27-year-old multi-woodwind instrumentalist has also made rounds performing in every corner of the Detroit music scene\, immersing himself in Latin\, R&B\, and techno. \nBelgrave is just one of many who was nurtured in the realm. The lineup for “Dual Citizen” might be the most outright product of that very circle of mentorship. Bassist Jonathan Muir-Cotton\, finishing his degree at MSU\, is currently rotating in Christian Sands Trio; Louis Jones aka “WavyLou”\, a gun-slinging drummer who has the likes of the Haynes’ and Roach’s\, recently hit with ELEW and Johnny O’Neal in Detroit; Brendon Davis\, a virtuosic voice on piano shortly studying with the great Chick Corea\, is established in composition and arranging of the gospel scene ; the enigmatic Allen Dennard has a trailblazing trumpet sound\, recently sharing stages with Dwele and Mike Phillips; and Michael Abbo\, the genial menace on both trombone and bass\, recently played with Johnny Oneal and Dafnis Prieto. The close fellowship of this group is a sentiment to the power of their sound as the Kasan Belgrave Sextet.
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/kasan-belgrave-and-session/2026-01-28/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/05/kasan2.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260129T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260129T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251118T184649Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251118T184650Z
UID:10008301-1769715000-1769722200@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Langston Kitchen's Mahogany Collective
DESCRIPTION: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.\n\n\n\n\nBorn in Detroit\, possessing familial roots in Harlem\, and known for his big sound on the bass\, Langston Marcelles Kitchen is the winner of the Louis Armstrong Jazz Award\, Essentially Ellington Regional Best Musicianship Award\, and the Detroit Jazz Festival Collegiate Combo Competition. He is a Geri Allen Fellow and jazz major at Michigan State University\, under the tutelage of University Distinguished Professor of Jazz Bass and Director of Jazz Studies\, Rodney Whitaker. \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\nWithin a short period of time\, he has begun to master his instrument and has studied under some of the most respected jazz musicians\, including Robert Hurst\, Xavier Davis\, Sean Dobbins\, and Marcus Printup and has performed with Michael Dease\, Dan Wilson\, Xavier Davis\, Walter Blanding\, and Randy Napoleon. In the words of Louis Armstrong\, “To jazz\, or not to jazz\, there is no question!” Kitchen loves jazz and is driven by his pursuit to play with conviction\, purpose\, and feeling. He has performed at Smalls Jazz Club\, the Detroit Jazz Festival\, Jazz Festival at Caramoor\, East Lansing Summer Solstice\, the Roxy Bar\, City Opera House\, the Dirty Dog Jazz Cafe\, Cliff Bell’s\, and Blue Llama Jazz Club. With the goals of becoming a touring musician and a distinguished professor\, Kitchen continues to pursue his dreams and hopes to one-day help young musicians with the same spirit of reciprocity that his mentors share with him.  \n\n\n\n\n  \n 
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/langston-kitchens-mahogany-collective-and-session-2/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/Langston-scaled.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260130T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260130T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251118T183900Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T190018Z
UID:10008564-1769801400-1769808600@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Hearts and Minds
DESCRIPTION: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.\n“. . . raucous and scintillating” – Nate Chinen\, Jazz Times  \nSoon after the catchy synth-bass line that opens Electroradiance\, listeners will start to suspect they’re in for something different. The synth-bass line has a herky-jerky contour that does fit a basic pattern of power-rock bands over the decades\, but the bass clarinet melody that follows? Not so much. And halfway through\, when the bass line becomes a vamp\, and the improvisation enters a realm of altissimo squawks and thrillingly convoluted deep runs – well\, we’re not in Kansas anymore\, are we? Electror diance\, the captivating new collection of grooves and freedom from Chicago trio Hearts & Minds\, teems with such episodes. “Future Told” marches to a humorously ominous riff rooted in the cartoonish melodies of Raymond Scott in the 1930s. The dance-inducing beat of “Step’n” supports a stuttering melody from bass clarinet – and then some whole-tone keyboard swaths\, pockmarked by synthesized percussion blips – before shifting to a fast swing beat and back again. That same dynamic comes into play on “Slippery Slope\,” while a modified New Orleans street beat drives “Shreveport”. On the other hand\, though\, “Treeline” opens with a mournful melody and retains its lovely rubato tempo for the first portion; and the title track offers a space-agey tone poem – night-lonely and a little eerie – in which synthesized keyboard sounds and bass clarinet gargles become almost interchangeable. Hearts & Minds is the brash and ballsy brainchild of Jason Stein and Paul Giallorenzo\, who have remained friends since they met as grade-school classmates almost three decades ago. Employing an unusual\, not to say bizarre\, instrumentation\, they make music that loops the solar system but maintains an irresistibly grounded pulse (despite the lack of a bassist). Giallorenzo’s keyboard work reaches back to the fledgling electronics of the 60s to encompass synth lines as well as asymmetrical tones and textures\, which embrace Stein’s rangy command of bass clarinet techniques. Joining them for the first time on disc\, drummer Chad Taylor simmers or percolates\, utilizing his wealth of experience with such artists as Chicago tenor-sax legend Fred Anderson and his Chicago Underground cohorts Jeff Parker and Rob Mazurek. Taylor’s history made him the perfect choice to replace Hearts & Minds’ original drummer\, Frank Rosaly (who moved to Europe shortly after the trio’s debut recording). Working with Fred Anderson allowed him to learn from a free-jazz contemporary of Cecil Taylor\, Ornette Coleman\, and Pharoah Sanders\, whose pioneering improvisations of the 1960s are one touchstone for Hearts & Minds. And Taylor’s collaborations with trumpeter-electronicist Rob Mazurek honed his ability to support and shape music made by electronics – the other major inspiration for Hearts & Minds\, whose music\nreverberates with memories of Sun Ra and the jazz fusion of Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock. \nAs the title of the opening track indicates\, this ability to go “Back And Forth” between two seemingly opposed camps distinguishes Hearts & Minds – as does the ability to find a fusion path that skirts them both. This same dialectic applies to the name of the band itself\, as these musicians seek to achieve an aesthetic unification of expressionistic energy (heart) and intellectual formalism (mind) – all with a 21st-century voice that refers to but does not imitate past influences. \n \nJason Stein​ is among the mere handful of improvisers who play the bass clarinet exclusively (rather than doubling on it as a change of pace). He occasionally performs for more people in one night than most jazz musicians see in a year: his free-jazz trio Locksmith Isidore has opened arena shows for comedian Amy Schumer (his half-sister). In addition to that trio and his own quartet\, he contributes to several of the leading bands on Chicago’s new-music scene\, and has brought a vital voice to the freest of free-jazz jams. But he has also stated a fondness for playing actual tunes\, such as those that fill the repertoire of Hearts & Minds. And while several of these songs provide a section for free improvisation\, their initial frameworks provide a uniquely inviting showcase for Stein’s extraordinary expertise on the bass clarinet\, which ranges from powerful post-bop lines to ear-grabbing wails in the altissimo range. Chicago writer Neil Tesser notes that his playing has “a rawboned swagger particular to Chicago jazz in all its manifestations – from the trad playing of Bud Freeman and Jimmy McPartland in the 20s\, through the tenor titans of the 50s\, through the adventurers who formed the AA CM in the 60s\, and right up to the city’s renowned modern cadre of new-music improvisers.” \nPaul Giallorenzo\,​ in addition to leading his own groups – particularly his GitGo quintets and the widely admired acoustic piano trio heard on the 2018 album Flow – has emerged as a leading virtuoso on the analog synthesizer. Giallorenzo’s work has been praised for its “inside-out” nature – his ability to push the boundaries of “conventional” jazz toward more freedom but also\, on the other side\, to bring a measure of structure to more avant-garde material. In addition\, he is a co-founder of Elastic Arts\, an important Chicago performance space and gallery\, where he curates concert series\, produces individual programs\, and performs. Writing in the online journal Point Of Departure\, John Litweiler said\, “His solos and aggressive duets are gems of after-Bop\, after-Bley melody\,” while AllAboutJazz.org lauded music that “smudges the lines between the tradition and the avant-garde.” Stein and Giallorenzo first met in sixth grade in Rockville Centre\, a mid-sized Long Island suburb of New York City. Giallorenzo attended Northwestern University just north of Chicago; Stein\, studying at University of Michigan\, traveled frequently to Chicago before graduation\, then moved there in the early 2000s. Each settled quickly into the city’s burgeoning jazz/new-music environment\, which by then was attracting attention throughout North America and Europe. They first performed in the format that evolved into Hearts & Minds in 2003; Frank Rosaly came on as drummer in 2005\, ably succeeded by Chad Taylor\,​ who grew up in Chicago and now lives in New York. His discography includes more than a dozen albums under the Chicago Underground rubric\, starting with the Chicago Underground Duo formed by him and Rob Mazurek; multiple albums recorded with Fred Anderson\, guitarist Jeff Parker\, and award-winning flutist and composer Nicole Mitchell; and one of the most critically respected albums of 2017\, trumpeter Jamie Branch’s Fly Or Die. \n \nChad Taylor is a prominent American jazz and experimental drummer and composer who made his initial mark on the Chicago music scene in the 1990s. He is a founding member of the long-running Chicago Underground ensembles (Duo\, Trio\, Quartet\, Orchestra) with multi-instrumentalist Rob Mazurek.\nBorn in 1973 in Tempe\, Arizona\, Taylor grew up in Chicago and began his professional performing career there at age 16. He is known for his versatile and “big-hearted Chicago swing feel” combined with a detailed New York style\, performing with a wide range of acclaimed artists including Fred Anderson\, Pharoah Sanders\, Marc Ribot\, Jeff Parker\, Jaimie Branch\, and James Brandon Lewis. Though he left Chicago in 2001 and currently lives in Philadelphia\, his work with the Chicago Underground collective and other Chicago-based musicians has left a lasting impact. In addition to his collaborative work\, Taylor leads his own groups\, including the Chad Taylor Trio and Circle Down.\nChad Taylor is also an educator and a scholar\, holding a master’s degree in Jazz History and Research from Rutgers University. As of 2024\, he serves as the director of the Jazz Studies Program at the University of Pittsburgh.
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/hearts-and-mind/2026-01-30/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/image0-3.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260131T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260131T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20251118T183900Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260127T190018Z
UID:10008565-1769887800-1769895000@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Hearts and Minds
DESCRIPTION: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.\n“. . . raucous and scintillating” – Nate Chinen\, Jazz Times  \nSoon after the catchy synth-bass line that opens Electroradiance\, listeners will start to suspect they’re in for something different. The synth-bass line has a herky-jerky contour that does fit a basic pattern of power-rock bands over the decades\, but the bass clarinet melody that follows? Not so much. And halfway through\, when the bass line becomes a vamp\, and the improvisation enters a realm of altissimo squawks and thrillingly convoluted deep runs – well\, we’re not in Kansas anymore\, are we? Electror diance\, the captivating new collection of grooves and freedom from Chicago trio Hearts & Minds\, teems with such episodes. “Future Told” marches to a humorously ominous riff rooted in the cartoonish melodies of Raymond Scott in the 1930s. The dance-inducing beat of “Step’n” supports a stuttering melody from bass clarinet – and then some whole-tone keyboard swaths\, pockmarked by synthesized percussion blips – before shifting to a fast swing beat and back again. That same dynamic comes into play on “Slippery Slope\,” while a modified New Orleans street beat drives “Shreveport”. On the other hand\, though\, “Treeline” opens with a mournful melody and retains its lovely rubato tempo for the first portion; and the title track offers a space-agey tone poem – night-lonely and a little eerie – in which synthesized keyboard sounds and bass clarinet gargles become almost interchangeable. Hearts & Minds is the brash and ballsy brainchild of Jason Stein and Paul Giallorenzo\, who have remained friends since they met as grade-school classmates almost three decades ago. Employing an unusual\, not to say bizarre\, instrumentation\, they make music that loops the solar system but maintains an irresistibly grounded pulse (despite the lack of a bassist). Giallorenzo’s keyboard work reaches back to the fledgling electronics of the 60s to encompass synth lines as well as asymmetrical tones and textures\, which embrace Stein’s rangy command of bass clarinet techniques. Joining them for the first time on disc\, drummer Chad Taylor simmers or percolates\, utilizing his wealth of experience with such artists as Chicago tenor-sax legend Fred Anderson and his Chicago Underground cohorts Jeff Parker and Rob Mazurek. Taylor’s history made him the perfect choice to replace Hearts & Minds’ original drummer\, Frank Rosaly (who moved to Europe shortly after the trio’s debut recording). Working with Fred Anderson allowed him to learn from a free-jazz contemporary of Cecil Taylor\, Ornette Coleman\, and Pharoah Sanders\, whose pioneering improvisations of the 1960s are one touchstone for Hearts & Minds. And Taylor’s collaborations with trumpeter-electronicist Rob Mazurek honed his ability to support and shape music made by electronics – the other major inspiration for Hearts & Minds\, whose music\nreverberates with memories of Sun Ra and the jazz fusion of Miles Davis and Herbie Hancock. \nAs the title of the opening track indicates\, this ability to go “Back And Forth” between two seemingly opposed camps distinguishes Hearts & Minds – as does the ability to find a fusion path that skirts them both. This same dialectic applies to the name of the band itself\, as these musicians seek to achieve an aesthetic unification of expressionistic energy (heart) and intellectual formalism (mind) – all with a 21st-century voice that refers to but does not imitate past influences. \n \nJason Stein​ is among the mere handful of improvisers who play the bass clarinet exclusively (rather than doubling on it as a change of pace). He occasionally performs for more people in one night than most jazz musicians see in a year: his free-jazz trio Locksmith Isidore has opened arena shows for comedian Amy Schumer (his half-sister). In addition to that trio and his own quartet\, he contributes to several of the leading bands on Chicago’s new-music scene\, and has brought a vital voice to the freest of free-jazz jams. But he has also stated a fondness for playing actual tunes\, such as those that fill the repertoire of Hearts & Minds. And while several of these songs provide a section for free improvisation\, their initial frameworks provide a uniquely inviting showcase for Stein’s extraordinary expertise on the bass clarinet\, which ranges from powerful post-bop lines to ear-grabbing wails in the altissimo range. Chicago writer Neil Tesser notes that his playing has “a rawboned swagger particular to Chicago jazz in all its manifestations – from the trad playing of Bud Freeman and Jimmy McPartland in the 20s\, through the tenor titans of the 50s\, through the adventurers who formed the AA CM in the 60s\, and right up to the city’s renowned modern cadre of new-music improvisers.” \nPaul Giallorenzo\,​ in addition to leading his own groups – particularly his GitGo quintets and the widely admired acoustic piano trio heard on the 2018 album Flow – has emerged as a leading virtuoso on the analog synthesizer. Giallorenzo’s work has been praised for its “inside-out” nature – his ability to push the boundaries of “conventional” jazz toward more freedom but also\, on the other side\, to bring a measure of structure to more avant-garde material. In addition\, he is a co-founder of Elastic Arts\, an important Chicago performance space and gallery\, where he curates concert series\, produces individual programs\, and performs. Writing in the online journal Point Of Departure\, John Litweiler said\, “His solos and aggressive duets are gems of after-Bop\, after-Bley melody\,” while AllAboutJazz.org lauded music that “smudges the lines between the tradition and the avant-garde.” Stein and Giallorenzo first met in sixth grade in Rockville Centre\, a mid-sized Long Island suburb of New York City. Giallorenzo attended Northwestern University just north of Chicago; Stein\, studying at University of Michigan\, traveled frequently to Chicago before graduation\, then moved there in the early 2000s. Each settled quickly into the city’s burgeoning jazz/new-music environment\, which by then was attracting attention throughout North America and Europe. They first performed in the format that evolved into Hearts & Minds in 2003; Frank Rosaly came on as drummer in 2005\, ably succeeded by Chad Taylor\,​ who grew up in Chicago and now lives in New York. His discography includes more than a dozen albums under the Chicago Underground rubric\, starting with the Chicago Underground Duo formed by him and Rob Mazurek; multiple albums recorded with Fred Anderson\, guitarist Jeff Parker\, and award-winning flutist and composer Nicole Mitchell; and one of the most critically respected albums of 2017\, trumpeter Jamie Branch’s Fly Or Die. \n \nChad Taylor is a prominent American jazz and experimental drummer and composer who made his initial mark on the Chicago music scene in the 1990s. He is a founding member of the long-running Chicago Underground ensembles (Duo\, Trio\, Quartet\, Orchestra) with multi-instrumentalist Rob Mazurek.\nBorn in 1973 in Tempe\, Arizona\, Taylor grew up in Chicago and began his professional performing career there at age 16. He is known for his versatile and “big-hearted Chicago swing feel” combined with a detailed New York style\, performing with a wide range of acclaimed artists including Fred Anderson\, Pharoah Sanders\, Marc Ribot\, Jeff Parker\, Jaimie Branch\, and James Brandon Lewis. Though he left Chicago in 2001 and currently lives in Philadelphia\, his work with the Chicago Underground collective and other Chicago-based musicians has left a lasting impact. In addition to his collaborative work\, Taylor leads his own groups\, including the Chad Taylor Trio and Circle Down.\nChad Taylor is also an educator and a scholar\, holding a master’s degree in Jazz History and Research from Rutgers University. As of 2024\, he serves as the director of the Jazz Studies Program at the University of Pittsburgh.
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/hearts-and-mind/2026-01-31/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/image0-3.jpeg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260201T173000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260201T193000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20260105T135333Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260108T174624Z
UID:10008614-1769967000-1769974200@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Louis Jones III featuring Allen Dennard
DESCRIPTION: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.\nLouis M. Jones III is a dynamic drummer and composer emerging from the heart of Detroit’s storied music scene. From playing rhythms on pots and pans with wooden spoons to gracing festival stages\, Louis has developed into a versatile and emotionally expressive artist with a voice rooted deeply in the city’s rich musical legacy. \n\nBy age 13\, he had committed to a life in music\, honing his craft with sticks\, brushes\, and mallets. He studied under Detroit jazz luminaries such as Wendell Harrison\, Marion Hayden\, and Sean Dobbins—mentors who\, along with his father’s guidance\, shaped his artistry and connection to Detroit’s diverse soundscape. \nKnown for his ability to move fluidly across genres\, Louis has performed and recorded with artists including Wayne Shorter\, Pamela Wise\, Karriem Riggins\, ELEW\, and Johnny O’Neal. As a leader\, he debuted his album Motions at the 2025 Detroit Jazz Festival to critical acclaim—marking a bold and personal statement in his evolving career. \nIn addition to performing\, Louis is deeply committed to education and community engagement\, mentoring young musicians and investing in the future of Detroit’s music scene. With a rare blend of precision\, soul\, and innovation\, Louis M. Jones III continues to carry the torch of Detroit jazz—while forging a sound all his own. \n\nhttps://louisjonesdrums.com/#nanogallery/my_nanogallery/72177720308687496\n\n\nhttps://open.spotify.com/artist/46FWioc6SN476KEfqKYjLb?si=ufoQsv6JQrqs49talJ8kqQ\n\n  \n 
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/louis-jones-iii-5/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/lj111-25.jpg
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260204T190000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260204T190000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20241122T161905Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20251008T131628Z
UID:10008463-1770231600-1770231600@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:the Swing Syndicate Jazz Lab
DESCRIPTION:Schedule of performances\n\n7:00 – 7:45  high school jazz band performance\n8:15 – 9:15  Swing Syndicate Big Band performance\n9:30 – 10:00  Jam session hosted by the Swing Syndicate\n\nSwing Syndicate is a 16 piece Big Band formed by Travis Cook and Mike Wiese.  Both seasoned veterans of the Metro-Detroit jazz scene\, Cook and Wiese wanted to play in a band that performed with power and style to make an indelible impression on the Detroit jazz scene.  The resulting group is a hard-hitting combination of Metro-Detroit’s finest talent performing traditional Big Band Jazz at it’s finest. \nIn coordination with Cliff Bell’s commitment to Jazz mentorship the Swing Syndicate will be featuring a different High School Jazz Band to perform with them every month.  All performances will be followed by a open Jam Session. If you’re a local band director and would be interested in having your High School Band perform at Cliff Bell’s please reach out to Phil@cliffbells.com. \n \n 
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/the-swing-syndicate/2026-02-04/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/11/School-Nights.png
END:VEVENT
BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260205T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260205T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20260105T154051Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260126T154554Z
UID:10008575-1770319800-1770327000@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Cliff Bell's 20th Anniversary featuring the Sean Dobbins Organ Trio
DESCRIPTION: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.\nWe invite you to join us this weekend and throughout the year as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Cliff Bell’s re-opening. Over the past two decades\, Cliff Bell’s has evolved from a smokey haunt on a dark block on the edge of downtown\, known only to a handful of local musicians and their fans\, to an internationally recognized destination for the world’s best jazz. We are deeply grateful to the Detroit community for its ongoing support of live jazz\, and to our dedicated ownership\, management\, and staff. Special thanks go to the musicians—both local and international—who have made Cliff Bell’s their home for live jazz in Detroit. \nWe’re kicking off our anniversary with three nights of Jam Sessions hosted by some of the original guardians of our stage. Drummer\, educator and composer Sean Dobbins performs and hosts the exact date of the anniversary February 5th. One of the greatest pianists to every play on our stage\, Mike Jellick will be returning from New York on Friday February 6th. And closing out the weekend is Marcus Elliott who held down our Wednesday night Jam session for so long we really don’t remember when it began or ended! \nJazz drummer Sean Dobbins got his start as sought-after Detroit area jazz sideman at a young age\, when he would regularly play with Blue Note artist Louis Smith. As Sean’s Career progressed\, he found himself the recipient of many awards and accolades including the “Woody Herman Jazz Award”\, an award for outstanding musicianship\, as well as the Louis Armstrong Scholarship. Due to Sean’s great talent both as a player and an educator\, he has been the focus of countless news articles and jazz radio programs. \n \nThough still young by jazz standards\, Dobbins has amassed an impressive list of playing companions. He has performed/toured/recorded with Johnny Basset\, Benny Golson\, Dr. Lonnie Smith\, Frank Morgan\, Joey DeFrancesco\, George Cables\, James “Blood” Ulmer\, Marcus Belgrave\, Larry Willis\, Rodney Whittaker\, Claude Black\, Johnny O’Neal\, Paul Keller\, Tad Weed\, Kurt Krahnke\, Jon Hendricks\, David “Fathead” Newman\, Donald Walden\, Cyrus Chesnut\, Barry Harris\, David Baker\, Randy Johnston\, Marion Hayden\, Mose Allison\, and a host of other great musicians. \nSean’s sound can best be described as hard-driving\, solid rhythm with refreshing melodic sensibility. Some of Sean’s influences include Art Blakey\, Jeff Hamilton\, Jeff “Tain” Watts\, Ed Thigpen\, Sonny Payne\, and also Detroit area greats Gerald Cleaver and the one and only Elvin Jones. A product of the Ann Arbor Public Schools\, Sean has stayed devoted to education throughout his life. Early mentor Louis Smith\, an Ann Arbor Public Schools band teacher\, impressed the importance of a good education upon Sean at an early age. Sean is known in his community as a band director\, drum teacher and positive influence for many. \n 
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/cliff-bells-20th-anniversary-2/
CATEGORIES:Featured
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Art-Deco-Poster-for-Cliff-Bells-20th-anniversary-with-Detroit-background.jpg
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BEGIN:VEVENT
DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260206T193000
DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260206T213000
DTSTAMP:20260403T194558
CREATED:20260105T155218Z
LAST-MODIFIED:20260126T154538Z
UID:10008576-1770406200-1770413400@cliffbells.com
SUMMARY:Cliff Bell's 20th Anniversary featuring the Michael Jellick Quartet
DESCRIPTION: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.\nWe invite you to join us this weekend and throughout the year as we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Cliff Bell’s re-opening. Over the past two decades\, Cliff Bell’s has evolved from a smokey haunt on a dark block on the edge of downtown\, known only to a handful of local musicians and their fans\, to an internationally recognized destination for the world’s best jazz. We are deeply grateful to the Detroit community for its ongoing support of live jazz\, and to our dedicated ownership\, management\, and staff. Special thanks go to the musicians—both local and international—who have made Cliff Bell’s their home for live jazz in Detroit. \nWe’re kicking off our anniversary with three nights of Jam Sessions hosted by some of the original guardians of our stage. Drummer\, educator and composer Sean Dobbins performs and hosts the exact date of the anniversary February 5th. One of the greatest pianists to every play on our stage\, Mike Jellick will be returning from New York on Friday February 6th. And closing out the weekend is Marcus Elliott who held down our Wednesday night Jam session for so long we really don’t remember when it began or ended! \n \nMichael L. Jellick\, born in New Delhi\, India\, and raised in Livonia\, MI. Now based in NYC as well as Detroit\, he has become a mainstay on the Detroit Jazz scene and beyond. A well sought-after pianist\, Michael has had the pleasure of playing with\, and/or recording with an incredible array of greats such as Bobby McFerrin\, The Harlem National Big Band\, Christian McBride\, Common\, Ingrid Jensen\, Joel Frahm\, Rodney Whitaker\, James Carter\, Sheila Jordan\, Michelle Dorrance and Dorrance Dance\, Max Pollack and Rhumba Tap\, Claudia Rahardjanoto\, Marcus Belgrave\, Ron Blake\, Karriem Riggins\, Marion Hayden\, Dwight Adams\, Jesse Palter\, as well as a versatile array of others. His ten-year long weekly Wednesday night jam with his trio at Detroit’s Northern Lights Lounge since 2011-2020 became a vibrant hub for seasoned professionals and the cultivation of aspiring musicians alike. When not performing in NYC\, Detroit\, and beyond\, he is often found immersed in his equal love of teaching masterclasses across the U.S.\, working with his private students in NYC\, as well as composing and arranging. Among other albums\, you can also find him on the Blue Note Records release\, Detroit Jazz City — an album that opens a window onto\, and celebrates Detroit’s jazz legacy past and present. \n 
URL:https://cliffbells.com/event/cliff-bells-20th-anniversary-3/
ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://cliffbells.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/Art-Deco-Poster-for-Cliff-Bells-20th-anniversary-with-Detroit-background.jpg
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