Jazz Beat — May
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]
Here are the performances this month that I have picked out as really special, ones you won’t be able to catch any day of the week. They span across Nashville’s many great jazz venues and offer something of interest for everyone.
Michael Feinstein’s Tribute to Tony Bennett – Thursday-Saturday, May 7-9 – 7:30 PM (Schermerhorn)
Singer Michael Feinstein tours the country paying tribute to one of the most celebrated singers of all time, Tony Bennett, with whom Feinstein was close personal friends. Following its sold-out debut at Carnegie Hall, the program celebrates Bennett’s countless and invaluable contributions to music, featuring many of the songs he made famous, including “Because of You,” “I Left My Heart in San Francisco,” and many more.
Steve Vai & Joe Satriani – Thursday, May 7 – 8:00 PM (Ryman Auditorium)
Two of the most legendary modern guitarists come together, backed by an incredible band featuring Kenny Aronoff (drums), Marco Mendoza (bass), and Pete Thorn (guitar). Vai and Satriani have both separately had successful careers as solo acts, producing virtuosic instrumental music and constantly pushing the envelope of what the guitar can do, inspiring thousands of young aspiring guitarists along the way. Though their style doesn’t fall strictly into the jazz category, the virtuosity and improvisational aspect of their music will still be of interest.
Keiko Matsui – Saturday, May 9 – 7:30 PM (City Winery)
Keiko Matsui is one of contemporary jazz’s most celebrated voices. A pianist and composer, Matsui has enjoyed a career of more than three decades, and in that time has collaborated with iconic figures like Miles Davis and Stevie Wonder, among others. She has become known for her power on the instrument, as well as her blending of global rhythms into her music. Her landmark 30th release, Euphoria, was released in 2023.
Rebirth Brass Band – Saturday, May 9 – 8:00 PM (Eastside Bowl)
For an authentically New Orleans experience, the Rebirth Brass Band comes to Eastside Bowl. Formed in 1983 by brothers Phil and Keith Frazier, the band has been playing stages all over the country and around the world for over forty years. Blending traditional brass band sounds with modern funk, jazz, soul, and hip-hop, the band manages to pay homage to the New Orleans tradition while incorporating modern styles. In 2012 they won a Grammy for Best Regional Roots Music Album, and they have also been featured in the HBO series Treme.
Herbie Hancock – Wednesday, May 13 – 8:00 PM (Ryman Auditorium)
A true legend of legends graces the iconic Ryman stage this month. A true icon of modern music, I hardly think I need to say much about him. His work has transcended genre and style, and he has been a mainstay through practically every development in jazz and R&B music in the last 60 years, constantly expanding his creativity and contributions to the collective body of work.
Chester Thompson and Friends – Saturday, May 16 – 7:30 PM (NJW)
One of the most celebrated and accomplished jazz drummers in the world comes to the Cave, accompanied by some of Nashville’s finest. Thompson’s career has spanned decades, and he has collaborated with a wide roster of legendary artists. Perhaps best known for his decades-long tenure with Genesis and Phil Collins, he has also lent his talents to recordings and performances with Frank Zappa, Freddie Hubbard, Ahmad Jamal, John Fogerty, and many more. He will be joined by Chris Walters on piano, Brian Allen on bass, and Don Aliquo on saxophone.
Brock, Lanzetti, Ogaway – Saturday, May 23 – 5:30 PM (Rudy’s)
All members of legendary jazz fusion group Snarky Puppy, Zach Brock (violins), Bob Lanzetti (guitars), and Keita Ogawa (percussion), together make more experimental music, blending elements of jazz, folk, ambient, groove, and world music, described by All About Jazz as “a distinct musical blend which showcases accessibility as much as virtuosity.
Ricardo Grilli Quartet – Friday, May 29 – 8:00 PM (Rudy’s)
NYC-based guitarist Ricardo Grilli has been described as “a post-bop guitarist with a sideline interest in the cosmos and a taste for the ultramodern” (New York Times). Rising steadily through the ranks of the ultra-competitive New York jazz scene since 2012, he has since played with world-renowned artists like Chris Potter, Joe Martin, and Mark Turner, among many others. He is known for his unique approach to standards, as well as his original music.
Analog at Hutton Hotel
The Analog is a cozy and intimate venue at the heart of Nashville’s Hutton Hotel. Here you will find music of all types, from jazz and blues to folk to pop.
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. These shows will as usual feature Will Davenport, and this month will also feature DJ artist TIKAAFTERDARK.
Sofia Goodman Group – Monday, May 25 – 8:00 PM ($15 GA / $25 reserved seating)
Internationally recognized drummer and composer Sofia Goodman leads her trio to conclude their “Presence Tour.” Goodman’s arrangements and compositions have been described as “mesmerizing and compositionally rich” (DownBeat) and she has been called a “splendid composer and drummer” (All About Jazz). As a group, the Goodman Trio has toured the US and Canada, and appeared at many notable venues and festivals.
Arrington Vineyards
With spring finally around the corner, Arrington Vineyards brings back its weekend musical offerings. 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
Saturday, May 2 – 3:00-7:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Sunday, May 3 – 2:00-6:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Saturday, May 9 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Triple Dare Jazz Band
Sunday, May 10 – 2:00-6:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
Saturday, May 16 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Art Four Sale
Sunday, May 17 – 2:00-6:00 PM – Miles Damaso Group
Friday, May 22 – 4:30-8:30 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Saturday, May 23 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
Sunday, May 24 – 3:00-7:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Monday, May 25 – 1:00-5:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Saturday, May 30 – 3:00-7:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Sunday, May 31 – 2:00-6:00 PM – Josh Karas Trio
Jazz on the Lawn
Sunday, May 10 – 2:00-5:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
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
Keiko Matsui – detailed above
Regina Belle (2 sets) – Saturday, May 16 – 5:00 PM & 8:30 PM ($50+)
Regina Belle is a powerful singer who shines in a number of styles, including Gospel, R&B, and Jazz. She has won multiple Grammy awards, including Best Pop Performance by a Duo or Group for 1994’s “A Whole New World.” Since leaving school to go on tour with The Manhattans in 1985, her career has blossomed to include more than ten albums under her own name.
Paul Gilbert – Monday, May 18 – 7:30 PM ($30+)
Another legend of modern guitar, Paul Gilbert also falls a bit outside of the jazz style, but his virtuosity and melodic songwriting will peak the interest of any jazz fan. Gilbert is known for his incredible technique and sense of humor on stage. This set showcases music from Gilbert’s most recent release, WROC, but will also draw on material from across his career.
Ariella & Nicolaas – Saturday, May 30 – 7:30 PM ($30+)
Legendary bassist Victor Wooten described this husband-and-wife duo as one of his all-time favorite performers. Known for their rich, romantic sound, the duo offer everything from slow ballads to flamenco to jazz to electrifying rock, and have performed on stages across the US and in the UK.
The Nashville Jazz Workshop
Moving on to Music City’s premier 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. The Cave is packed with great performances this month, including many performances celebrating Black History Month, so get your tickets now!
Jazz Cave
Vinnie and the Hitmen – Friday, May 1 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Led by prolific session trumpeter Vinnie Ciesielski, who has over 7000 recording credits to his name, including over 25 Grammy winners, this 14-piece band is made up of some of Nashville’s finest studio and touring musicians. The band presents unique arrangements of tunes across many genres, including R&B, rock, and pop. Combined, the members of the band represent more than 25,000 recording credits, so you can rest assured that the level of musicianship will be top-tier.
Jazz AM: Dizzy Gillespie – Saturday, May 2 – 10:00 AM (FREE)
The NJW’s free family-friendly Saturday morning series continues, this time focusing on the music of trumpeter Dizzy Gillespie, one of the most pivotal figures in the early development of jazz.
From Brazil to Buchanan Street: Thea Danos & the Nashville Samba Society – Saturday, May 2 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Acclaimed Nashville jazz singer Thea Danos presents an evening celebrating the music of mid-century Brazil, accompanied by the Nashville Samba Society. Danos is known for expertise in this style of music, having spent time in Brazil mastering the phonetics of the Portuguese language to accurately represent the sounds of the Bossa Nova style. Expect to hear music from the catalogs of Jobim, Gilberto, Sinatra and Fitzgerald, among others, presented by someone who has spent years mastering the style.
NJW Jam Session – Tuesday, May 12 – 7:30 PM ($10 suggested donation)
The NJW brings back its monthly jam session, featuring an opening set from the host band before the floor opens up to other players. This host band will feature Tyler Jaeger on trumpet, Zach Tyler on sax, Jonathan Salcedo on trombone, Alex Murphy on piano, Brian Allen on bass, and Josh Hunt on drums. Players of all levels are welcome to sit in.
I Get a Kick Out of Cole! Monica Ramey Sings the Cole Porter Songbook – Friday, May 15 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Celebrated Nashville vocalist Monica Ramey begins a year-long residency at the Workshop with this first installment, singing tunes from the timeless Cole Porter songbook. Ramey has been a mainstay in Nashville since moving here over 25 years ago, and has collaborated with legendary jazz pianist Beegie Adair, recording multiple albums and selling out venues across the country. She has been described as having “impeccable” vocals and as “one of the best jazz vocalists” (Broadway World).
Chester Thompson and Friends – detailed above
Melvin Macias Afro-Cuban Jazz Quintet – Friday, May 22 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Born and raised in Havana, where he attended the city’s prestigious Manuel Saumell Conservatory, pianist Melvin Macias now calls Nashville home. Before moving to Music City, he was based in Miami, where he had an impressive career spanning the city’s Latin music scene, including sharing stages with Celia Cruz and Juan Gabriel. His quintet plays original compositions and high-energy arrangements that draw on influences from straight-ahead jazz, as well as Afro-Cuban and Brazilian music.
The Bean Tones – Sunday, May 24 – 7:00 PM ($35)
Vocal jazz ensemble The Bean Tones have captured the attention of global audiences with their innovative arrangements and undeniable energy. Having been compared to legendary harmony groups like The Hi-Lo’s and The Four Freshmen, the group is undeniably on a major upward trajectory. Their eclectic music appeals to jazz aficionados and casual listeners alike, so there is sure to be something for everyone.
Steve Leslie: Nothin’ Fancy – Friday, May 29 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Guitarist and Grammy-winning songwriter Steve Leslie now presents “Nothin’ Fancy,” a new project featuring original songs in the jazz style, diverging from his Country roots. Leslie has made his career as a professional songwriter, producing successful songs for artists like George Strait, Kenny Rogers, Ricky Skaggs, and more, and played an important role in the early careers of Erin Enderlin, Chris Stapleton, and Abbey Cone. For this performance he will be joined by Pat Coil on piano, Viktor Krauss on bass, Kyle Tupper on drums, and Monica Ramey on vocals..
Rudy’s Jazz Room
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.
Dave Potter & Retro Groove (2 shows) – Friday, May 1 & Saturday, May 2 – 8:00 PM ($22)
Drummer Dave Potter celebrates the release of his third album as leader, Retro Groove 2, a collection of clever arrangements of 80’s classics from artists as varied as Whitney Houston, Rush, The Isley Brothers, and more. Potter is one of the top drummers on the scene today, regularly performing with Jason Marsalis, Marcus Roberts, Greg Tardy, and many others. His band for this show features Miguel Alvarado on sax, Angelo Versace on piano, and Rob “El Tón” Linton on bass.
Jacob Jezioro Quartet – Friday, May 1 – 11:00 PM ($10)
One of Nashville’s most active and in-demand bassists Jacob Jezioro will now lead his own quartet, featuring Dan Hitchcock and Don Aliquo on saxophones, and Griffin Potoglo on drums.
“Some Enchanted Evening” w/ Jaimee Paul & the Richard Rogers Songbook – Saturday, May 2 – 5:30 PM ($16)
Vocalist Jaimee Paul, alongside her husband, Nashville trumpeter Leif Shires, showcase Paul’s new album, The Richard Rogers Songbook. As the name suggests, this albums draws on Rogers’ timeless songs, transporting listeners back to the golden era of Broadway. Paul will be joined by Jacob Jezioro on bass, Ryan Brasley on drums, and Mason Embry on piano.
Legend Meets Brilliance w/ Don Aliquo & Marc Payne (2 shows) – Saturdays, May 2 & 16– 11:00 PM ($10)
Two of Nashville’s best unite to offer their “no holds barred” approach to music, promising to bring an evening of raw energy and spontaneous music, fusing the classic traditions of jazz with contemporary styles. Don Aliquo is a celebrated saxophonist who has been active as performer, composer, educator, and recording artist for more than two decades, while Marc Payne is a young artist who has already made quite the reputation for himself as one of the most promising up-and-coming pianists in the area.
Chris Mondak Quartet – Wednesday, May 6 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Nashville-based composer and bassist Chris Mondak brings his quartet back to Rudy’s. Mondak is a graduate of the New England Conservatory and has studied with jazz legends like Cecil McBee, Dave Holland, and Bob Moses. He is known for his energetic hard-bop style compositions and performances.
Rougarou 6-Piece New Orleans Brass Band – Thursdays, May 7 & 21 – 9:00 PM ($17)
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. You’ll also be able to catch this band a second time two weeks later.
Bob Sabellico – Friday, May 8 – 5:30 PM ($14)
Often seen on the Rudy’s stage for the club’s regular “Guitar and B3 Night” performances, guitarist Bob Sabellico now leads his own band. Sabellico has been a mainstay guitarist for decades, touring with The Guess Who and other bands, and collaborating with figures like Dennis Chambers and Pat Martino, among others. His band will feature Michael Whittaker on piano/keys, Vail Johnson on bass, and Raymond Massey on drums.
Ladies of Jazz – Sunday, May 10 – 6:00 PM ($18)
Vocalist Wendy Burns’s popular series Ladies of Jazz returns, this time featuring fellow Monica Shriver and Katie Blomarz-Kimball. Schriver is a saxophonist, composer, bandleader, and educator known for her innovative artistic expression. She leads an experimental jazz ensemble, the Monica Shriver Quartet, and has released two albums, with a duo album planned for this year. Blomarz-Kimball has quickly become a well-known upright and electric bassist here in town, known for her expertise in a wide array of genres. She has shared stages with world-renowned names like Sister Sadie, Tommy Emmanuel, and more.
Sofia Goodman Trio (2 shows) – Monday, May 11 – 6:00 PM ($15) & Friday, May 22 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Internationally recognized drummer and composer Sofia Goodman leads her trio, performing originals and arrangements of her favorite standards. Goodman’s arrangements and compositions have been described as “mesmerizing and compositionally rich” (DownBeat) and she has been called a “splendid composer and drummer” (All About Jazz). As a group, the Goodman Trio has toured the US and Canada, and appeared at many notable venues and festivals. Her trio features Matt Twaddle on piano and Leland Nelson on bass.
Bruce Dudley: The Music of Saxophonist Sam Rivers – Thursday, May 14 – 9:00 PM ($15)
Bruce Dudley is an accomplished and acclaimed jazz pianist who is a Steinway Concert Artist and has been performing jazz for over forty years with many recording credits to his name, both as sideman and bandleader. He now leads a group presenting the music of Sam Rivers, a visionary saxophonist celebrated for his contributions to the evolution of jazz. Dudley will be joined by Don Aliquo on sax, Jack Aylor on bass, and Ryan Brasley on drums.
Jerome Degey Quartet – Friday, May 15 – 8:00 PM ($20)
Guitarist Jerome Degey returns to Rudy’s. Originally from Paris, France, Degey has a family history that is both French and Afro-Caribbean, and his wide geographical influences come out in his unique style of playing. He has collaborated with a wide array of artists, including Jonathan Edwards, Duffy Jackson, Daniel Levy, and many more. His quartet for this show will feature Charles Treadway, considered the top jazz organist in Nashville, Willie B Barthel, drummer since the age of two, and De Marco Johnson, a very talented multi-instrumentalist originally from Indiana.
Adam Larson Trio (2 sets) – Saturday, May 16 – 5:30 PM ($18) & 8:00 PM ($23)
Saxophonist and composer Adam Larson weaves a number of genres, ranging from Jazz to R&B to Classical, into his playing and compositions, now numbering over two hundred. His compositional originality has garnered him praise in Downbeat Magazine and the New York Times. This month he offers back-to-back sets at Rudy’s, joined by Jacob Jezioro on bass and Henry Conerway on drums.
Nashville Trio w/ Barbash, Picker & Raudabaugh – Monday, May 18 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Three of Nashville’s best join together again for an evening of genre-spanning music. Jeff Picker is an in-demand bassist who has worked with some of the biggest names in Country and Bluegrass, including stints with Ricky Skaggs’ band Kentucky Thunder, and he is currently a touring member of Nickel Creek. Saxophonist Eddie Barbash was a founding member of the house band for the Late Show with Stephen Colbert, and currently tours the world with Cory Wong, one of the biggest names in contemporary jazz and fusion music. And drummer Mark Raudabaugh keeps himself busy touring and recording with big industry names like Jeff Coffin, Sierra Hull, Grant Green Jr., and many more. The combination of this wide array of influences and experiences promises an incredibly unique performance.
Alyssa Allgood Quartet (2 shows) – Friday, May 22 & Saturday, May 23 – 8:00 PM ($23)
Vocalist Alyssa Allgood has twice been named DownBeat Magazine’s “Rising Star Female Vocalist” and Chicago Reader’s “Best Individual Jazz Musician.” She has become known for her captivating performances and innovative songwriting. She has just released her latest album, Leap, which received a 3.5 star review in DownBeat Magazine.
Brock, Lanzetti, Ogaway – detailed above
Aaron Lessard Group – Saturday, May 23 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Jazz and fusion guitarist Aaron Lessard returns to Rudy’s. His wide array of influences produce a unique style influenced by guitar greats like Pat Metheny, Mike Stern, John Scofield, and Robben Ford. He will be joined by a trio to back him.
Lisa Stewart and Her Jazz Combo – Sunday, May 24 – 6:00 PM ($16)
Highly acclaimed Nashville singer Lisa Stewart brings her group to Rudy’s. She is a BMI Award-winning songwriter, and her most recent single “The Man You Are Today” garnered Grammy consideration. Listeners can expect an evening of timeless jazz standards and reimagined favorites. Joining her will be Daniel Kuk on piano, Jack Aylor on bass, Stephan Dudash on fiddle, and Ryan Brasley on drums.
Blue Matter Project – Monday, May 25 – 6:00 PM ($12)
This band offers modern interpretations of straight-ahead and contemporary electric and pop jazz standards. Led by guitarist Robert Baglione, who has performed extensively with names like Michael Henderson, CeCe Peniston, Billy Dickens, and more, the band also features Anthony Belfiglio (keys), Brian Cornish (sax), Ric Fierbracci (bass), and Isaac Velasquez (drums).
Katie Blomarz-Kimball – Wednesday, May 27 – 6:00 PM ($15)
2024 NIMA Award Winner for Best Jazz Instrumentalist, bassist Katie Blomarz-Kimball brings her group to Rudy’s for the first time. Her influences include Paul Chambers to Ray Brown to Christian McBride, her repertoire ranging from straight ahead to contemporary jazz. Her band features Dan Hitchcock on tenor sax, Jon Cowherd on piano, and Marlon Patton on drums, with Abigail Flowers on vocals. She will also feature Sister Sadie bandmate Rainy Miatke for a few tunes during the set.
Miguel Alvarado “State of the Saxophone: Dexter Gordon” – Thursday, May 28 – 9:00 PM ($15)
Saxophonist Miguel Alvarado presents another installment in his “State of the Saxophone” series, this time paying homage to Dexter Gordon, the first tenor saxophonist to translate the bebop language of alto player Charlie Parker to the instrument. The program will feature timeless Gordon staples including “Cheese Cake,” “Fried Bananas,” “Guess I’ll Hang My Tears Out to Dry,” and more. You can rest assured that this tribute is in good hands, as Alvarado has been praised as “an incendiary soloist of the highest order” (Huffington Post).
Ricardo Grilli Quartet – detailed above
Bob Harsen Quartet – Sunday, May 31 – 6:00 PM ($15)
Drummer Bob Harsen returns to Rudy’s, this time leading a quartet. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Harsen has recorded or performed with names like Tiger Okoshi, the Paul Butterfield Blues Band, Randy Brecker, and others.
Rudy’s Regulars
Jimmy Sullivan’s Swingin’ Scene – Sundays, May 3 & 17 – 6:00 PM ($12)
One of Nashville’s most exciting jazz bassists, Jimmy Sullivan, takes the early Saturday set for a selection of hard-swinging jazz. If you’re a frequenter of Rudy’s, you’ll probably recognize Sullivan from his bi-monthly residency here on Sundays. Over his illustrious career he has performed with top jazz talents like Laila Biali, Nicole Zuraitis, Joel Frahm, and many more.
Jonathan Wires Quartet (2 shows) – Monday, May 4 – 6:00 PM ($12) & Friday, May 29 – 5:30 PM ($15)
Nashville bassist Jonathan Wires returns as bandleader in a quartet setting. These shows will feature Steve Pardo (sax), Adam Davis (guitar), Matt Endahl (piano), and Mark Raudabaugh (drums).
Pat Coil Quintet – Friday, May 8 – 8:00 PM ($25)
All-star Nashville pianist Pat Coil returns twice this month, in trio and quintet format. 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. This quintet will feature Keith Carlock on drums, Mark Douthit on sax, Barry Green on trombone, and Brian Allen on bass.
Miles Damaso Trio (2 shows) – Fridays, May 8 & 29 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Award-winning percussionist, educator, and composer-arranger Miles Damaso leads a trio at Rudy’s. Damaso has performed with a wide range of artists throughout the South and Midwest, and graced the stages of iconic venues like the Grand Ole Opry and the Lincoln Center, appearing alongside greats like Joel Frahm, pat Coil, John Raymond, and many more.
Jody Nardone Trio – Saturdays, May 9 – 5:30 PM ($17) & May 30 – 8:00 PM ($ 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)
Don Aliquo Quartet (2 shows) – Saturdays, May 9 – 8:00 PM & May 30 – 5:30 PM ($20)
One of Nashville’s most active and accomplished saxophonists leads a quartet twice this month, the first featuring Mark Payne on piano, Jack Aylor on bass, and Ryan Brassley on drums, the second featuring Payne, Aylor, and Josh Cook on drums.
Joshua Constantine Quartet – Saturday, May 9 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Saxophonist Constantine is a former member of Grammy-nominated UNT One O’Clock Lab Band, and student of world-renowned saxophonist Brad Leali. Currently an active performer and educator in Nashville, Constantine tends to pay homage to the classic giants of jazz, honoring composers and performers like John Coltrane, Thelonius Monk, Wayne Shorter, and more. His quartet will feature Sam Smith on bass, Danny McGonegle on drums, and Daniel Mandrychenko on guitar.
PT Gazell & the Side Effects – Wednesday, May 13 – 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.
Dana Robbins Quintet – Friday, May 15 – 5:30 PM ($16)
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).
Geoff Pfeifer Quartet (2 shows) – Friday, May 15 & Saturday, May 30 – 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, May 20 – 6:00 PM ($17)
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.
Stephanie Adlington – Friday, May 22 – 8:00 PM ($23)
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.
Regi Wooten & Friends – Every Wednesday – 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
The Underdog is another great local venue located in East Nashville, where it hosts musical performances of all types, ranging from rock and punk to jazz.
The Broomestix – Wednesday, May 6 – 9:00 PM ($10)
The Broomestix are a nine-piece band based right here in Nashville. The band channels the many influences of all its members into a unique form of R&B, featuring a powerful horn section, catchy R&B hooks, and attention-grabbing grooves. Their full-length album, Y’all Need Anything, was released in 2019.
Cam G & the Tasty Soul – Wednesday, May 13 – 7:00 PM ($10)
Led by saxophonist Gallagher and comprised of young and energetic musicians, this is one of Nashville’s premier funk bands. Great songwriting along with killer performance chops make these shows a ton of fun.
Hank Born – Tuesday, May 26 – 7:00 PM (FREE)
Nashville-based guitarist Hank Born returns to the Underdog. Born’s playing combines elements from influences like Herbie Hancock and George Benson, making this a can’t-miss performance for any modern jazz fan.
Ricardo Grilli – Thursday, May 28 – 9:00 PM ($10)
If a dive bar is more your scene over the intimacy of Rudy’s, you can catch guitarist Ricardo Grilli here at the Underdog instead.
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
Monday Night Jazz – Every Monday – 7:00 PM (Kingdom Café & Grill)
- About the Author
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Joseph E. Morgan is a father of two, husband, teacher and recovering guitarist in Middle Tennessee.
