The Jazz Beat — July
Hello, all, and welcome back to this regular column here at Music City Review. Here, we will update you with the most can’t-miss jazz events happening in Music City, so you can be sure to catch all your favorites, as well as discover new ones along the way. Get out there and support your local musicians and keep Music City thriving! We are always looking to promote great music that may not get the attention it deserves. Have an event you think should be included in the next issue? Email me at: [email protected]
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This Month’s Highlights
Hello, all, and welcome back to this regular column here at Music City Review. Here, we will update you with the most can’t-miss jazz events happening in Music City, so you can be sure to catch all your favorites, as well as discover new ones along the way. Get out there and support your local musicians and keep Music City thriving! We are always looking to promote great music that may not get the attention it deserves. Have an event you think should be included in the next issue? Email me at: [email protected]
Big Band Dances at Centennial Park (multiple shows) (FREE)
Over the course of the summer, the Centennial Park Bandshell will be hosting over a dozen local swing and jazz ensembles for free community concerts, even featuring free dance lessons by Dynamic Ballroom and Performing Arts. Lessons start at 7:00 PM, with the concert at 7:30. I have listed the ensembles below. Music City Big Band – Saturday, July 12 South Jackson Street Band – Saturday, July 19 5 Points Swing – Saturday, July 26
The Budos Band – Wednesday – July 16 – 8:00 PM (Basement East)
Brooklyn-based Budos Band is an instrumental group that draws on many different musical worlds, from psychedelia to funk to ‘70s hard rock and jazz. For anyone who loves the jam-band style, this is one to see!
Jazz on the Cumberland – Sunday, July 20 – 5:30 PM (FREE)
After the Mother’s Day and Father’s Day editions of this concert series were canceled for weather, this free summer jazz concert is back! The exact details of who will be performing this time have yet to be released, but the Jazz on the Cumberland folks always find top-tier talent for these great family-friendly concerts.
Daniel Villarreal – Friday, July 25 – 7:00 PM (The Blue Room)
Originally from Panama and now based in Chicago, Daniel Villarreal is a drummer known for his incredible versatility and deep knowledge of many different genres, starting in the progressive punk and hardcore scenes of his native Central America and stretching all the way to traditional Latin music and everything in between. In addition to his solo act, he is an integral member of several acclaimed music groups, including Dos Santos, Valebol, and the Neal Francis 11-Piece Band.
Sunny Side – Wednesday, July 30 – 6:00 PM ($15) (Rudy’s)
Sunny Side is a 7-piece jazz band from New Orleans. The group brings a full New Orleans-style jazz experience, with three-part harmonies, a solid rhythm section, and an energetic vocalist and dancer. Presenting music inspired by some of the founding jazz legends such as Louis Armstrong, Cab Calloway, and Fats Waller, among others, the group is sure to give a stellar performance.
Jason Marsalis Vibes Quartet: Tribute to Lionel Hampton – Thursday, July 31 – 9:00 PM ($20) (Rudy’s)
A member of the legendary Marsalis family of musicians, Jason Marsalis comes to Music City leading a quartet to pay a special tribute to American jazz vibraphonist, pianist, percussionist, and bandleader Lionel Hampton. Like his other family members, Jason has made a name for himself in his own right in today’s jazz scene, and has been an integral part of a number of important ensembles.
Analog at Hutton Hotel
Analog Soul – Every Sunday – 7:00 PM (Free GA / $20 reserved seating)
The Analog continues its Analog Soul series, featuring some of the city’s most promising emerging talent who are redefining soul music. All shows feature Will Davenport and DJ Smoke. These shows are 21+.
Saycouth – Wednesday, July 30 – 8:00 PM ($12 advance / $20 day-of-show)
Nashville-based neo-soul band Saycouth ignores genre boundaries by beautifully mixing jazz, soul, and many other genres to bring out songs with deep storytelling and soulful vibes. Last year they released their debut EP A Full Moon Night in Sheffield, and have been praised as “redefining the boundaries of neo-soul” (Static Media).
Arrington Vineyards
With the warming weather Arrington Vineyards is bringing back their musical offerings in force. Every weekend you’ll be able to catch live jazz here, at both the Hillside Stage and on the Lawn. You can always find some of Nashville’s top jazz talent here, and this month is no exception. I’ve listed the acts appearing below.
Jazz on the Hillside
Friday, July 4 – 12:00 – 4:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo
Saturday, July 5 – 3:00 – 7:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Sunday, July 6 – 1:00 -5:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
Friday, July 11 – 4:30 – 8:30 PM – San Rafael Band
Saturday, July 12 – 3:00 – 7:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo
Sunday, July 13 – 1:00 – 5:00 PM – The Reed Pittman Band
Friday, July 18 – 4:30 – 8:30 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
Saturday, July 19 – 3:00 – 7:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Sunday, July 20 – 1:00 – 5:00 PM – Josh Karas Trio
Friday, July 25 – 4:30 – 8:30 PM – San Rafael Band
Saturday, July 26 – 3:00 – 7:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo
Sunday, July 27 – 1:00 – 5:00 PM – Triple Dare Jazz Band
Jazz on the Lawn
Saturday, July 5 – 3:00 – 7:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo
Sunday, July 6 – 1:00 – 5:00 PM – Josh Karas Trio
Saturday, July 12 – 3:00 – 7:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Sunday, July 13 – 1:00 – 5:00 PM – Miles Damaso Group
Saturday, July 19 – 3:00 – 7:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
Sunday, July 20 – 1:00 – 5:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Saturday, July 26 – 3:00 – 7:00 PM – Miles Damaso Group
Sunday, July 27 – 1:00 – 5:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo
City Winery Nashville
Nashville’s City Winery is a beautiful venue that consistently features top-talent acts that span genres from Jazz to Americana to Hip Hop. The below performances showcase a mix of several genres, but will certainly be of interest to any jazz audience. Enjoy these concerts accompanied by a stellar selection of wine and delicious bites.
Main Stage
Anthony David – Saturday, July 5 – 7:30 PM ($20-40)
Anthony David is a Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter who has often been compared to the legendary Bill Withers for his soulful voice and powerful, introspective lyrics. Since his debut album in 2004, David has continued to produce critically acclaimed releases, and as he has toured the US and Europe, his emotional and socially conscious music has garnered him a dedicated fan base.
The Lounge
Indigenous – Saturday, July 12 – 7:00 PM ($30 advance / $35 day-of-show)
Since 1998, blues and rock band Indigenous has been a powerful voice advocating for indigenous people in America. Formed by indigenous youth from the Yankton Sioux Reservation in South Dakota, the band quickly found success with their first releases, eventually catching the eye of blues legend B.B. King, who asked them to play on his annual B.B. King’s Blues Tour. The band eventually disbanded, with the individual members going their separate ways, but frontman Mato Nanji carried on under the Indigenous name.
Dylan Triplett – Sunday, July 13 – 7:00 PM ($18 advance / $22 day-of-show)
Emerging blues singer and musician Dylan Triplett from St. Louis has already made a significant mark on the blues scene. A 2023 Blues Award winner, Triplett is known for his combination of classic blues with his own modern style.
The Nashville Jazz Workshop
Moving on to Music City’s other great jazz venue, the Jazz Cave at the NJW is a venue with world-class acoustics, which consistently ranks in Downbeat Magazine’s list of Great Jazz Venues in the world. Tickets can be purchased through the Workshop website.
Jazz Cave
Haley Schattschneider Album Release Show – Friday, July 25 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Vocalist Haley Schattschneider, now based in Nashville, is originally from Wapakoneta, Ohio, the hometown of Neil Armstrong. Known for her versatile and unique sound, she is releasing her debut album, Over the Moon, a collection of eight remakes of classic jazz tunes about the moon, to align with the anniversary of the Apollo 11 moon landing. Heretofore focused on session and contract work, she has provided live or session vocals for artists like Sheryl Crow, Tim Davis, Stephen Curtis Chapman, and many others.
Stairway to New Adventures – Saturday, July 26 – 7:30 PM ($35)
On July 25, a new jazz arrangement of Led Zeppelin’s rock masterpiece Stairway to Heaven will be released on all streaming platforms. This is primarily the work of vocalist Gary Brumburgh and pianist Stephan Oberhoff, but features performances by many other musicians. The stellar musicians who worked on this project are all now heading off to new musical journeys, and felt a concert featuring this new work as well as many others would be a perfect way to celebrate and send them off to new adventures. The show will feature Brumburgh on vocals, along with Crystal Miller and Laura Pursell, and Oberhoff on piano, with Kevin McClellan on bass and Larry Aberman on drums, and special guest Michael Morton on flute.
Roland Barber Quintet ft. Joel Frahm – Sunday, July 27 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Stellar trombonist and Nashville native Roland Barber returns to the Jazz Cave with his quintet for a final time before leaving his hometown for North Carolina to pursue his doctorate. This special show will feature star tenor saxophonist Joel Frahm. The quintet will also feature Christian Burgs on drums, Alex Murphy on piano, and Jack Aylor on bass. The band will play music from Barber’s first record, as well as new music written just for this occasion..
Rudy’s Jazz Room
And now we move on to Nashville’s premier jazz club, with its cozy, intimate setting. I’ll start with some of the unique highlights for this month, then follow up with the great regular acts performing. Please note that some shows are one dollar cheaper if you purchase advance tickets. I have listed the door price for all shows.
Rudy’s Highlights
Below are the performances for this month that I’ve picked out as the real can’t-miss shows, some featuring touring artists from out of state, others featuring local artists giving specialized, unique performances. With the new year there are many new faces and new combinations appearing at Rudy’s this month, so now is the perfect time to catch a great new show!
Will Padgett Quintet – Wednesday, July 2 – 6:00 PM ($14)
Pianist Will Padgett brings a unique blend of music with his band, offering a combination of modern fusion, samba, swing, hip hop, and much more. His Quintet is committed to performing new music at every show. The band features Casey Brefka on trumpet, Dan Hitchcock on sax, Thomas Altman on bass, and Brad Covington on drums.
Rougarou 6-Piece New Orleans Brass Band – Thursday, July 3 – 9:00 PM ($14)
Continuing its running “SINdustry night” series on the first Thursday of the month, this New Orleans-style brass band returns to Rudy’s to showcase the club’s Cajun roots. Led by New Orleans native Chris Walters on piano, this band offers as authentic a brass band experience you can find without traveling to the French Quarter. Service industry workers with some form of proof of their employment will receive half off the door price and half price draft beer.
Christina Watson w/ the Bruce Dudley Quartet – Saturday, July 5 – 8:00 PM ($22)
A regular face at Rudy’s, pianist Bruce Dudley will lead his quartet backing up a new face, vocalist Christina Watson. A Berklee graduate, Watson has released four albums as leader, and has appeared as a guest artist on numerous recording projects. She also sings in the four-person vocal group Third Coast Vocals, active since 2011. Dudley’s quartet will feature Dan Hitchcock on sax, Roger Spencer on bass, and Larry Aberman on drums.
Bob McChesney Quintet – Sunday, July 6 – 6:00 PM ($16)
Known for his lightning-fast technique and emotional delivery, trombonist Bob McChesney is internationally recognized as a trombone soloist. He has performed on a number of Grammy-winning albums and has scored hundreds of television shows and movies. Now he leads a quintet featuring other top Nashville jazz talent Jon Cowherd (piano), Steve Kovalcheck (guitar), Rob Linton (bass), and Josh Hunt (drums).
MF Art of Listening – Thursday, July 10 – 9:00 PM ($15)
This highly improvisational group makes its return to Rudy’s, led by drummer Marcus Finnie, who has assembled a highly talented group of musicians to create this unique experience. Finnie himself has toured the world with a host of artists, including Keb’ Mo’, Taj Mahal, Donna Summer, Billy Preston, and many more.
Pat Bergeson ft. Bruce Forman – Friday, July 11 – 5:30 PM ($15)
Guitarist and harmonica player Pat Bergeson joins fellow guitarist Bruce Forman for an interesting combo featuring Charles Treadway on organ and Chris Brown on drums. Both guitarists have many years of experience delving deep into the roots of the music they love.
Alec Newnam Trio – Friday, July 11 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Bassist Alec Newnam has quickly become a staple of the Nashville music scene. Born to musician parents who worked with some of the legends, including Frank Sinatra and Ray Charles, music has been in Newnam’s blood since he was born.
Efajemue Etoroma Jr., Alex Murphy & Antoine Katz – Sunday, July 13 – 6:00 PM ($17)
LA-based drummer Etorama has worked with artist such as Moonchild, Scary Pockets, Cat Pack, and more. Now he visits Music City, performing with pianist Alex Murphy and bassist Antoine Katz.
Connor Gehlert and Company – Monday, July 14 – 6:00 PM ($14)
Nashville-based guitarist and producer Connor Gehlert has spent years backing his peers as support on stage and in the studio. Now he steps up to the front as a lead. This group for this set will feature Gehlert on guitar, Aaron Lawson on drums, Steve Haan on bass, and Kiran Gupta on keys, with guest vocalists Ellisa Sun and Evan Doan Jenkins.
The Karas Committee – Wednesday, July 16 – 9:00 PM ($15)
Josh Karas’s jazz fusion group returns to Rudy’s, playing an exciting mix of Karas’s high-energy compositions and arrangements, and their interpretations of classic fusion tunes from the likes of Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea, and Stevie Wonder. Karas has been noted as one of the most promising up and coming pianists on the Nashville scene, and his group has already played for sold-out crowds.
Dave Potter & Retro Groove – Thursday, July 17 – 9:00 PM ($15)
Drummer Dave Potter honed his skills for more than ten years with modern jazz legend Jason Marsalis. Now, he’s taken to the road as leader of his own ensemble. This project features jazz arrangements of modern classics from artists like Michael Jackson, Chaka Khan, Living Colour, The Doobie Brothers, and many more. This ensemble features Potter on drums, Miguel Alvarado on saxophones, Angelo Versace on piano, and Rob “El Tón” Linton on bass.
Ricardo Grilli Quartet – Friday, July 18 – 8:00 PM ($22)
Longtime NYC guitarist Ricardo Grilli comes to Rudy’s leading a quartet. Grilli has performed with renowned artists such as Chris Potter, Mark Turner, Joe Martin, and many more.
Bob Harsen Quartet – Saturday, July 19 – 5:30 PM ($16)
Drummer Bob Harsen leads a quartet featuring pianist Jody Nardone, legendary bassist Jeff Berlin, and guitarist Jonathan Rogerson.
Coil, Frahm, Ludwig, Jezioro & Gottlieb – Saturday, July 19 – 8:00 PM ($23)
Rudy’s regular and Nashville jazz staple pianist Pat Coil leads a group of some of Music City’s other top jazz talent, including award-winning saxophonist Joel Frahm, acclaimed seven-string jazz guitarist Ted Ludwig, staple bassist Jacob Jezioro, and none other than the drummer for the original Pat Metheny group, Danny Gottlieb.
Ladies of Jazz – Sunday, July 20 – 6:00 PM ($18)
Vocalist Wendy Burns’s popular series Ladies of Jazz returns, this time featuring Annabella Gelmetti, a multi-instrumentalist, singer-songwriter and producer whose music blends elements of jazz, alternative, and folk, and Johnnie Baltimore, a vocalist known for her rich tone and timeless style.
Andy Reiss Quartet – Wednesday, July 23 – 6:00 PM ($14)
Grammy-winning guitarist Andy Reiss leads a stellar quartet of some of Nashville’s top musicians. Reiss, a member of the Time Jumpers, is a prolific recording session musician in Nashville, having recorded with greats like Slim Pickens, Pig Robbins, and Rebe McEntire, among others. His long career and life in music has given him a wide range of influences, from Jimi Hendrix and the Grateful Dead to Charlie Christian and Joe Pass.
Ryan Devlin Trio (2 shows) – Friday, July 25 – 8:00 PM ($22) & Saturday, July 26 – 5:30 PM ($18)
Boston-based saxophonist and educator returns to the Rudy’s stage for two sets at Rudy’s. His trio features Michael Santos on bass and Cassius Green on drums.
Lindsey Miller Quintet – Sunday, July 27 – 6:00 PM ($15)
Guitarist Lindsey Miller returns to Rudy’s leading a quintet featuring Mike Rojas on keys, Chris Donohue on bass, Josh Hunt on drums, and Brandon Moore on sax. Miller has been a steady session and touring guitarist across a wide array of genres. Based in Music City since 2012, she has toured with artists like Brett Eldredge and Kevin Max, and performed on records for Brian Blade, Dennis Chambers, and more.
Sunny Side – detailed above
Jason Marsalis Vibes Quartet: Tribute to Lionel Hampton – detailed above
Rudy’s Regulars
Pat Coil Trio – Saturday, July 5 – 5:30 PM ($15)
All-star Nashville pianist Pat Coil returns with a trio performance, featuring Craig Akin and Danny Gottlieb. As you all probably know by now, Coil is a highly in-demand pianist in Nashville and just about everywhere else, having toured extensively both nationally and internationally.
Don Aliquo (multiple performances)
One of Nashville’s most active and accomplished saxophonists, Aliquo will be leading performances several times this month, both in trio and quartet format.
Don Aliquo Trio (multiple shows)
Saturday, July 5 – 11:00 PM (w/ special guest Steve Kovalcheck) ($10)
Saturday, July 19 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Friday, July 25 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Don Aliquo Quartet – Saturday, July 12 – 8:00 PM ($20)
PT Gazell & the Side Effects – Wednesday, July 9 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Harmonica player PT Gazell returns to Rudy’s with his band the Side Effects, always redefining the way we see the instrument.
Stephanie Adlington – Friday, July 11 – 8:00 PM ($22)
Another frequent visitor to the Rudy’s stage, award-winning vocalist, songwriter and vocal coach Stephanie Adlington is known as the “Siren of the South,” with an “unrivaled” take on the Great American Songbook.
Jody Nardone Trio (2 shows) – Saturday, July 12 – 5:30 PM ($17) & Saturday, July 26 – 8:00 – PM ($22)
Prominent Nashville pianist Jody Nardone brings his trio to Rudy’s for a classic jazz set. With a growing national reputation, Nardone seamlessly shifts from the “whispered beauty of Bill Evans to the percussive flights of McCoy Tyner.” (Michael McCall, Nashville Scene)
Geoff Pfeifer Quartet (2 shows) – Saturday, July 12 & 26 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Playing a mix of Wayne Shorter tunes and originals, Geoff Pfeifer brings gritty, edgy, genuine NYC-style jazz to Rudy’s stage with his Quartet.
Bizz Bigsby – Wednesday, July 16 – 6:00 PM ($15)
Nashville native Bizz Bigsby shares his very personal music which tells the story of his life, influenced by everyone from Bill Withers to George Jones to James Taylor.
Cliff Richmond & the CliffNotes – Friday, July 18 – 5:30 PM ($14)
Guitarist and vocalist Cliff Richmond’s band always features some of Nashville’s top talent, and presents a great blend of soulful, swinging, and funky jazz.
Alex Murphy Trio – Friday, July 18 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Rising star pianist Alex Murphy performs leading a trio.
Rebecca Carlson – Thursday, July 24 – 9:00 PM ($14)
Jazz and blues vocalist Rebecca Carlson has made a name for herself across the country, taking stints based in New York City, Tucson, Los Angeles, and now Nashville. An extensive touring and recording career has made her quite an in-demand performer.
Dana Robbins Quintet – Friday, July 25 – 5:30 PM ($15)
GRAMMY-winning saxophonist Dana Robbins pays tribute to the Soul Jazz sound of the late 60’s and early 70’s, celebrating artists such as Les McCann, Eddie Harris, Jimmy Smith, and more. Robbins has either recorded or performed with many artists, including Keb’ Mo’, Aretha Franklin, Taj Mahal, Keith Urban, and more. Her band features David Santos (bass), Wes Little (drums), Phil Hughley (guitar), and Darius Mines (piano/B3 organ).
Re-Evolution – Every Monday (except July 14) – 6:00 PM ($12)
This five-piece band is heavily influenced by classic jazz cutting-edge artists like Thelonius Monk, Wes Montgomery, John Coltrane, Bill Evans, and more. The band consists of Brian Cornish on saxophone, Regi Wooten on bass, Daryl Johnson on drums, Adam Charney on guitar and Alex Murphy on piano.
Regi Wooten & Friends – Every Wednesday (except July 16) – 9:00 PM ($15)
Coming from a distinctly talented musical family, Regi Wooten is one of the most innovative and dynamic musicians on the scene today, pushing the boundaries of the traditional genres. Equally at home playing Hendrix as Wes Montgomery, Wooten assembles a group of some of Nashville’s best musicians to offer a night steeped in funk, jazz, soul, blues and rock.
Giovanni Rodriguez & 12 Manos – Every Monday – 9:00 PM ($15)
A favorite on the Nashville Latin and jazz scene, multi-instrumentalist Giovanni Rodriguez presents an electric night of salsa, along with his band consisting of Rodriguez (timbales/vocals), Melvin Macias (piano/vocals), Yosvany Cordero (congo/bongo), Michael S. Morton (flute/vocals), and Isoel Villarrubia (bass).
Hot Club Gypsy Jazz – Every Thursday – 6:00 PM ($12)
Every Thursday night, Rudy’s honors its New Orleans and French roots by celebrating the vibrant music of Gypsy Jazz. These nights feature a variety of small groups either led or curated by New Orleans native Brook Sutton, all performing music in the style of the great Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grapelli. The bar will feature French Quarter-inspired cocktails as well as gumbo and beignets. Come out for as authentic a night as you can get without a trip to the French Quarter.
Rudy’s Jazz Jam – Every Sunday – 9:00 PM ($10)
I couldn’t make a list of Rudy’s events without including a shout-out for the regular weekly Jazz Jam the club hosts every Sunday night. Whether you are a jazz musician and you want to jam with your fellow artists, or you just want to come and enjoy what the local talent has to offer, the Jazz Jam is a great way to end your weekend.
The Underdog Nashville
Jack Ruch and Adam Wakefield Trio – Every Thursday– 7:00 PM ($10)
Jack Ruch returns this month with his organ trio, a classic jazz format.
Guthrie Trapp Trio – Mondays, July 7 & 28 – 8:00 PM ($10)
One of Nashville’s preeminent guitar talents will perform several times at the Underdog. More blues and country than jazz, Trapp’s intricate and highly technical guitar playing will surely interest those who love the technicality of jazz music. His trio features Jordan Perlson on drums and Tim Marks on bass.
Regular Nashville Hangs
Bohemia After Dark: Live Jazz Band with Andrew Golden – Every Monday – 8:00 PM (Old Glory)
Tuesday Bluesday w/ Shantelle & The Juke Joint Band – Every Tuesday – 6:30 PM (Rawhides)
Weekly blues night with a different special guest each week.
Dinner & A Show – Live Jazz Band – Every Friday – 7:00 PM (Flamingo Cocktail Club)
Living Room Sessions – Every Friday & Saturday – 8:00 PM (W Nashville Hotel)
Regular weekly showcase featuring local indie, jazz, funk, and R&B bands.
Eastside Jam – Every Sunday – 9:00 PM (Inglewood Lounge)
This is not a traditional jazz jam playing standards, but rather an improv jam, but any jazz player or listener will still be interested!
Live Jazz at Wilburn St. Tavern – Tuesday Evenings
Nightly Jazz at Skull’s Rainbow Room
Nightly Jazz at Sinatra Bar & Lounge
Live Jazz at Skye Lounge – Every Friday & Saturday – 7:30 PM
NJW at Char Steakhouse – Evenings and Sunday Brunch
- About the Author
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Wyatt Parks is a music industry professional and musical artist based in Nashville, TN. Originally from East Tennessee, he has played and performed music since the age of nine. He earned an Associates degree in Music from Pellissippi State Community College in Knoxville, and a Bachelor’s degree in Music Industry with a Jazz Guitar focus from Middle Tennessee State University. Now living in Nashville with his two cats, he writes music as an independent artist, and occupies a vital role on the Digital Sales team at Naxos of America, a music distributor with a specialty in Classical and Jazz.
