The Jazz Beat — August 2026
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.
Mohini Dey – Sunday, August 9 – 7:30 PM (City Winery)
A rare female face in the world of virtuoso bassists, Mohini Dey has become known for both her technical mastery and incredible musicality. If you need any proof of how good she is, she has collaborated with iconic top-tier musicians and famously demanding leaders like Quincy Jones and Steve Vai. Her style offers sounds from everything from jazz and fusion to global and contemporary styles, making her performances incredibly versatile.
Innlet – Sunday, August 9 – 8:00 PM (Cannery Hall)
Innlet is a band from Long Beach Island, New Jersey, comprised of a group of high school friends. The band incorporates many styles, fusing indie rock with elements of jazz and surf music. The band has taken off quickly, forming only two years ago and now on the road opening for various artists along the East Coast.
Sunny Side – Sunday, August 9 – 6:00 PM (Rudy’s)
7-piece traditional jazz band straight from New Orleans Sunny Side returns to Rudy’s. 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 like Louis Armstrong, Cab Calloway, and Fats Waller, among others, the group is sure to give a stellar performance. Last year, the band embarked on their fifth national tour, and don’t show any signs of slowing down.
Bebel Gilberto: Tanto Tempo 25th Anniversary – Friday, August 14 – 7:30 PM (City Winery)
Brazilian singer Bebel Gilberto celebrates the 25th anniversary of her landmark album Tanto Tempo, which helped launch her global career. Born into Brazilian music royalty, Gilberto has the music of her country in her blood, but she also blends this tradition with newer styles, including live beats. In fact, on this tour she will be joined on stage by a local DJ from each city. This special anniversary show will celebrate this critical album, but also many other works from throughout her career.
The Philharmonik – Saturday, August 15 – 8:00 PM (Exit/In)
The Philharmonik is the stage name of Christian Gates, multi-instrumentalist, producer, engineer, and artist. He was the 2024 Tiny Desk Contest winner, and has since garnered himself quite the audience, with over fifty thousand monthly listeners on Spotify. His music incorporates elements of jazz, funk, and hip-hop, among other styles.
Buddy Guy 90 – Wednesday, August 19 – 7:30 PM (Ryman Auditorium)
How else is one of the most legendary blues guitarists of all time going to celebrate his 90th birthday, than a tour? Recently appearing in a short but impactful cameo in Ryan Coogler’s hit movie Sinners, Buddy Guy continues to show that his career will continue to grow and develop, even at 90 years old. One of the pioneers of Chicago’s West Side blues sound, Guy has produced some of the most iconic and famous blues albums of all time, earning him nine Grammy awards along the way. Guy has made clear that he will soon step away from extensive touring, so this is your chance to see the legend in person.
Marco Mendoza – Thursday, August 20 – 8:00 PM (Basement East)
Marco Mendoza is a versatile bassist, mostly known for his work in rock music with artists like Thin Lizzy, Whitesnake, The Dead Daisies, and others, but is equally at home in jazz and fusion and other genres, currently touring with legendary fusion artists Steve Vai and Joe Satriani in the SatchVai Band.
Fareed Haque w/ the Pat Coil Trio (2 shows) – Friday, August 28 & Saturday, August 29 – 8:00 PM (Rudy’s)
Internationally acclaimed guitar virtuoso Fareed Haque comes to Rudy’s, backed by the incredible Pat Coil Trio, featuring Coil on piano, Jacob Jezioro on bass, and Ryan Brasley on drums. Haque is widely known for his extreme versatility, drawing on influences from jazz, classical, fusion, and world music for a style that is truly unique. Born to a Pakistani father and Chilean mother, he was exposed to wide array of musical traditions from a very early age. His career has spanned more than four decades, including co-founding the acclaimed jazz fusion group Garaj Mahal, as well as collaborating with artists like Sting, Joe Henderson, Paquito D’Rivera, and many more.
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 (except August 23) – 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. This will as usual feature Will Davenport, and this month will also feature DJ artist TIKAAFTERDARK.
Sarah Aili – Thursday, August 13 – 8:00 PM ($15 GA / $25 reserved seating)
Artist Sarah Aili excels in many mediums, and is known for her work in music, theater, and storytelling. She was recognized by the Nashville Scene as one of the city’s top actors for her roles in Waitress and Innocent with Nashville Rep. She continues to delve into new and different creative projects, and this month at the Analog she presents a night of original songs, timeless American Songbook classics, and unexpected covers.
The MF Band with Aaron Smith & RDAA – Friday, August 21 – 8:00 PM ($20)
Two drummer-led bands split the bill at the Analog. The MF Band is led by drummer Marcus Finnie, where the group gets its name. Originally from Memphis, Finnie has become a familiar face in the Nashville music scene, collaborating with many other artists and musicians in town, as well as leading his own projects. He has toured with legendary artists like Donna Summer and Billy Preston, and collaborated with Keb’ Mo’, Taj Mahal, and Lady Antebellum, among many others. The other half of the bill is Aaron Smith and his band RDAA, who are an original jazz, fusion, and soul band that has played for audiences across the Midwest and the South.
The Jazz Room: A Journey to the Heart of New Orleans (2 sets) – Friday, August 28 – 6:00 PM & 9:00 PM ($32+)
The Analog offers a program which explores the very roots of jazz music, the sounds and rhythms of New Orleans. Each performance will feature a selection of carefully chosen classic, the timeless melodies of which will be recognizable to any audience, as well as space for spontaneous improvisation, that element so indicative of this music. The Analog will offer this on two different nights this summer, with two sets on each day.
Adam Levy – Monday, August 31 – 8:00 PM ($35)
Adam Levy is a guitarist whose style brings together wide influences from jazz, blues, folk, and American roots. He has become known for his originality in his writing and his virtuosity on his instrument. Levy has released a number of recordings under his own name as bandleader, and along the way has collaborated with well-known artists like Tracy Chapman, Amos Lee, Lizz Wright, and more. His band for this evening will feature Rob Burger and Marlon Patton.
Arrington Vineyards
As temperatures heat and we enter highsummer, Arrington Vineyards continues 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, August 1 – 3:00-7:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Sunday, August 2 – 2:00-6:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Saturday, August 8 – 3:00-7:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Sunday, August 9 – 2:00-6:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
Saturday, August 15 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Triple Dare Jazz Band
Sunday, August 16 – 2:00-6:00 PM – Miles Damaso Group
Saturday, August 22 – 3:00-7:00 PM – The Lilliston Effect
Sunday, August 23 – 2:00-6:00 PM – 9 Volt Romeo Band
Saturday, August 29 – 3:00-7:00 PM – Andrew Carney Quartet
Sunday, August 30 – 2:00-6:00 PM – Josh Karas Trio
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
Trey Daniels – Thursday, August 6 – 7:30 PM ($30+)
Award-winning saxophonist Trey Daniels appears at the Winery. Known for his smooth tone and high-energy performances, Daniels blends jazz, funk, R&B, and hip-hop into a unique sound all his own. Launching his career with his breakout single “86th St.” Daniels has since toured with Grammy-winner Anita Baker, and appeared at major festivals including Montreux, North Sea, and Monaco. Already having cemented his place in the contemporary jazz scene at a young age, Daniels looks to have an incredibly promising career ahead of him.
Mohini Dey – detailed above
Will Downing (2 shows) – Wednesday, August 12 & Thursday, August 13 – 7:30 PM ($80+)
More on the soul side of things, jazz nonetheless seeps into singer Will Downing’s music in its grooves and beats. Now with 27 albums to his name, Downing has proved himself as a singer many times over. His latest project, Soul Rising, was born after the devastating loss of his daughter, offering a deeply personal look into the singer’s journey of grief and recovery.
Bebel Gilberto: Tanto Tempo 25th Anniversary – detailed above
Kenny Lattimore (2 sets) – Friday, August 21 – 6:00 PM & 9:00 PM ($60+)
Singer Kenny Lattimore has built a recording career that spans from hit movie soundtracks like Love Jones and Lion King 2, to Billboard #1 songs, to Grammy nominations. His style draws equally from classical, jazz, and gospel. He now comes to the Winery for back-to-back Friday night sets.
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, so get your tickets now!
Jazz Cave
Vinéecia Buchanan Sings Hoagy Carmichael – Saturday, August 1 – 7:30 PM ($35)
One of Nashville’s best jazz vocalists presents an evening of music from Hoagy Carmichael, one of the most important songwriters of the last century, whose songs like “Skylark” and “Georgia On My Mind” have become true standards. Vinéecia Buchanan is an acclaimed vocalist here in Nashville who draws on a background which spans many genres for a unique style, blending classical, jazz, R&B, and musical theater.
Lunch Break Jazz Ensemble – Sunday, August 2 – 6:00 PM (FREE)
This quintet of rising local jazz artists brings a fun, easygoing spirit to their music. Blending jazz classics with unreleased original music, this free performance will feature the live debut of two of their songs, “Crabwalk” and “Longing For.” The band is made up of bassist and bandleader Spencer Padway, drummer and percussionist Jesus Agreda, guitarist Erik Abernathy, pianist Nathan Duncan, and saxophonist and clarinetist Christian Montilla.
Jerry Tachoir Group – Friday, August 7 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Grammy-nominated vibraphonist Jerry Tachoir brings his quartet back to the Cave for a special performance on his 71st birthday. One of the most accomplished mallet artists in all of contemporary jazz, Tachoir has performed at jazz festivals and concert halls across the US, Canada, and Europe, including the legendary Montreux Jazz Festival. He has also led masterclasses and clinics at institutions worldwide. His quartet features pianist Marlene Tachoir, bassist Roy Vogt, and drummer Danny Gottlieb.
“The Great Crooners” w/ Cliff Richmond & Russel Hospedales – Saturday, August 8 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Trinidad-born baritone vocalist Russel Hospedales presents a special evening of music honoring the legacies of the great jazz crooners, including Frank Sinatra, Tony Bennett, Nat King Cole, and Mel Torme. Backing him up is guitarist Cliff Richmond and his band the CliffNotes, who have been a mainstay voice in the Nashville jazz scene for decades.
Second Sunday Jam Session – Sunday, August 9 – 4:00 PM (FREE)
The NJW monthly jam session returns. All levels are welcome for the jam, and of course listeners are also more than welcome to just come and hang out. Hosted by saxophonist Evan Cobb.
Residency, In Pieces: Jon Cowherd – Tuesdays, August 11 & 25 – 7:30 PM ($25)
Top-tier Nashville pianist Jon Cowherd continues his bi-monthly residency at the Workshop, which began last month. This month he is returning again to the format most demanding of his instrument: the piano trio. He will be joined by Marlon Patton on drums and Paul Bryan on bass.
High Score: A Night with Steve Pardo’s Interactive Jazz Quartet – Saturday, August 15 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Saxophonist and composer Steve Pardo returns to the Cave with his quartet for a rather unique evening of music, an experience you are unlikely to find anywhere else. Pardo, in addition to being a great jazz musician, has also made a name for himself in the world of videogame scores. This show will feature a live videogame performance, the quartet scoring the action as it happens on screen.
Scott Bradlee & Friends: In Search of Lost Melody – Tuesday, August 18 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Pianist Scott Bradlee and his trio take a tour through the 20th century, exploring melodies from the 1920’s up to today. Bradlee is the founder of Postmodern Jukebox, a collective of musicians reimagining pop hits of today as the sounds of yesteryear. Started in a Queens basement, the project has become an internet phenomenon, with over six million subscribers and two billion views on YouTube. Tonight, Bradlee, his trio, and a rotating cast of singers and players present a wide exploration of some the greatest songs of the previous century.
ACE Horns – Friday, August 21 – 7:30 PM ($35)
This trio of horn players, having appeared several times over at Rudy’s, now comes to the Jazz Cave. Roy Agee (trombone), Evan Cobb (sax), and Emmanuel Echem (trumpet) worked together as touring and session musicians for many years before forming their own group. This project highlights original music and arrangements by all three horn players, backed up by a stellar rhythm section.
Rougarou Brass Band – Saturday, August 22 – 7:30 PM ($35)
If you’ve been paying attention to this newsletter recently, you’ll recognize this band from their now bi-monthly Thursday night performances at Rudy’s. They now make their NJW debut, with all the same New Orleans-inspired energy. While the band normally features of a rotating lineup of some of Nashville’s best, at the core of the group you’ll find founders Brook Sutton (bass, sousaphone, tuba) and Chris Walters (piano, bandleader), as well as Jerome Degey (guitar), Chris Brown (drums), Andrew Carney (trumpet), Josh Scalf (trombone), and Chris West (saxophone).
Fascinating Rhythm: Monica Ramey Sings George Gershwin – Friday, August 28 – 7:30 PM ($35)
Beloved Nashville vocalist Monica Ramey continues her year-long monthly residency at the NJW, this time paying homage to indisputably one of the greatest and most important composers in all of modern music, George Gershwin. His compositions mixed many styles of the day and created some of the most enduring songs of all time, including “I Got Rhythm,” “Summertime,” “Embraceable You,” and so many more, many of which went on to become jazz standards still called at jam sessions to this day.
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Random Sample
Random Sample is a cozy and intimate art gallery in West Nashville which frequently hosts a variety of events, from musical performances to film screenings.
Ben Garnett & Cameron Knowler – Friday, August 14 – 8:00 PM ($14)
Guitarists Cameron Knowler and Ben Garnett present their new acoustic duo which draws on American traditional music and improvisation, interwoven with tape loops and electronic sampling. You’ll find elements of old fiddle tunes, jazz standards, and folk repertoire in their music.
Keefe Jackson-Jakob Heinemann Quartet – Monday, August 31 – 7:00 PM ($14)
This jazz quartet is an international collaboration weaving the musical cultures of three different cities, Chicago, LA, and Oslo. The project consists of a core band of Keefe Jackson (saxophone/bass clarinet), Adam Shead (drums), and Jakob Heinemann (bass), who together released their debut album Stinger in August of last year, which received strong critical response, described as “glorious stuff” (Free Jazz Collective). Now, augmenting the band’s musical diversity is reedist Andre Royston, a rising star on Oslo’s thriving musical scene. Together the quartet debuts a new collection of compositions while maintaining their commitment to collective interpretation and improvisation.
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.
Walters, Sutton, Wyatt & Raudabaugh – Saturday, August 1 – 5:30 PM ($16)
To start off the month we have an all-star quartet led by bassist Brook Sutton. Drawing on a wide array of influences from jazz, New Orleans music, blues, Americana, and funk, the group emphasizes spontaneous live interaction. Featuring Chris Walters on piano, Zander Wyatt on guitar, and Mark Raudabaugh on drums. Together, these musicians have performed, recorded, or toured with artists like Jeff Coffin, Béla Fleck, Sierra Hull, Alabama, and the Wood Brothers, among many others.
Bruce Dudley “We’re In This Together” – Saturday, August 1 – 8:00 PM ($25)
Pianist Bruce Dudley leads an evening of music featuring some of Nashville’s best vocalists, including Christina Watson, Liz Johnson, and Joel Freel. Each one of these great singers has decades of experience honing their craft. If vocal jazz is your thing, this will definitely be one to see.
Pat Bergeson Organ Trio – Friday, August 7 – 5:30 PM ($15)
Join Nashville guitar staple Pat Bergeson as he performs in one of the most enduring guitar-based formats in jazz, the organ trio. Bergeson, who cut his teeth in NYC, was originally brought to Nashville by none other than Chet Akins after hearing him play on a demo tape. He has since gone on to work with legends like Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, and Tommy Emmanuel, among many others. For this organ trio, he will be joined by none other than Charles Treadway, who is widely considered the top organist in Nashville.
Andy Reiss & Joe Settlemires Quartet – Friday, August 7 – 8:00 PM ($23)
Two incredible guitarists come together for an evening of straight-ahead jazz. Andy Reiss has been a critical part of the Nashville music scene for decades, arriving from San Francisco in the 80’s. He has since become a studio mainstay, playing on literally hundreds of records for artists like Miranda Lambert, Willie Nelson, Kenny Rogers, and many more. Joe Settlemires, on the other hand, is one of Oklahoma’s most prolific musicians. Starting his professional music career at the young age of 14, he’s since played with a Who’s Who of music legends, including Joe Pass, Loretta Lynn, Pat Martino, Jamie Aebersold, and more. He is known for his jazz expertise. The two guitarists are currently completing their album together, to be released in the near future.
Margherita Fava Quartet – Saturday, August 8 – 8:00 PM ($25)
Italian native Margherita Fava is an acclaimed young pianist, composer, and bandleader. Born to parents who are both baroque specialists, music is practically in Fava’s blood. She has released two recordings of original music, an EP in 2022 and an album in 2023, which receive a 4-star review in DownBeat Magazine. Last year she released her second full-length album, Murrina. She now leads her quartet featuring Bob Reynolds on saxophone, Ken Perkerwicz on bass, and Madison George on drums.
Colleen Orender – Saturday, August 8 – 11:00 PM ($10)
The sultry jazz vocals of Colleen Orender return to Rudy’s, transforming the club into a smoldering Mississippi juke joint for the evening.
Sunny Side – detailed above
Nashville Trio w/ Barbash, Picker & Raudabaugh – Monday, August 10 – 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.
Melvin Macias Afro-Cuban Jazz Quintet – Wednesday, August 12 – 6:00 PM ($18)
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 Beatles: A Jazz Tribute – Thursday, August 13 – 9:00 PM ($16)
Miles Damaso brings his quartet’s Beatles tribute project back to Rudy’s. Featuring some of Nashville’s heavyweights (Don Aliquo on sax, Brian Allen on bass, and Jon Cowherd on piano), the group features original jazz arrangements from bandleader Damaso of some of the most well-known songs in pop music, all from the Beatles discography.
An Evening of Soul & Jazz w/ Ellisa Sun, Jason Threm & Co. – Friday, August 14 – 5:30 PM ($18)
Join guitarist Ellisa Sun and saxophonist Jason Threm for an evening of original music from the two composers. Sun’s music has been featured in a number of popular TV dramas, including HBO’s hit Heated Rivalry. She’s known for her textured sound and heartfelt lyricism. Her album Sarabi was released in 2024 and received critical acclaim. Jason Threm, after a decade spent as a sideman, composer, and producer, now begins his journey as bandleader with his forthcoming LP Unapologetic. His music combines traditional jazz and blues with more contemporary influences from funk, hip-hop, and soul music.
Aaron Lessard Group – Saturday, August 15 – 5:30 PM ($15)
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.
Legend Meets Brilliance w/ Don Aliquo & Marc Payne – Saturday, August 15 – 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.
Ladies of Jazz – Sunday, August 16 – 6:00 PM ($18)
Vocalist Wendy Burns’ popular show highlighting the female figures in jazz returns, this time featuring Teri Reid and Jennie Hoeft. Reid is a vocalist and pianist who has been a fixture on the Nashville scene for many years, becoming one of the city’s most critically acclaimed solo performers and bandleaders. She is currently a featured weekly perform at Ray Stevens’ CabaRay. Hoeft is a drummer living in Nashville for over three decades, working with top acts in the industry like the Wooten Brothers, among many others.
Dave Potter Quartet (2 shows) – Friday, August 21 – 5:30 PM ($16) & Saturday, August 22 – 8:00 PM ($24)
Atlanta-based all-star drummer Dave Potter returns to Rudy’s leading a quartet of some of Nashville’s best musicians. Potter stays busy touring with the Jason Marsalis Vibes Quartet, Greg Tardy, and Marcus Roberts, as well as with his main project as leader, Retro Groove. Now back in a more traditional jazz format, he will be joined by Jon Cowherd on piano, Miguel Alvarado on tenor sax, and Rob “El Tón” Linton on bass.
Shaun Munday – Saturday, August 22 – 5:30 PM ($12)
Bassist Shaun Munday returns to the Rudy’s stage with his full band. Munday has studied and performed with some of the industry’s greats, including John Mayer, Esperanza Spalding, and Antonio Sanchez, among others.
Miguel Alvarado Trio – Saturday, August 22 – 11:00 PM ($10)
If you’ve been paying attention to this newsletter, you’ll know that top Nashville saxophonist Alvarado has been leading a monthly residency of tribute concerts these last few months, focusing on the towering figures of the jazz saxophone. He now returns, but leading his own trio.
David Ian Trio – Monday, August 24 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Pianist and multi-instrumentalist David Ian comes back to Rudy’s. Ian has frequently come to Rudy’s during Christmas time, performing music from his Vintage Christmas series of albums, but now he comes with a traditional piano trio, performing standards from the Great American Songbook. His trio features Blake Branch on upright bass and Sean McDonald on drums.
Daniel Mandrychenko / Dann Zinn Quartet – Thursday, August 27 – 9:00 PM ($18)
Two innovative musicians and composers come together to present their unique take on the jazz idiom. Daniel Mandrychenko is a multi-genre guitarist who has been an active member of the Nashville music scene for some time. He has performed with various groups at large jazz festivals including San Francisco Jazz Festival and Reno Jazz Festival, among others. Dann Zinn is a saxophonist who has worked with the likes of Joe Henderson, Freddie Hubbard, David Weiss, and many others. The pair now present their original compositions, a blend of jazz, funk, indie rock, and avant-garde.
Fareed Haque w/ the Pat Coil Trio – detailed above
Charlie Parker Birthday Tribute w/ Don Aliquo – Saturday, August 29 – 5:30 PM ($18)
Top Nashville saxophonist and Rudy’s regular Don Aliquo leads an all-star quartet to pay homage to the one and only Charlie Parker on the late great saxophonist’s birthday. Joined by Bruce Dudley on piano, Jack Aylor on bass, and Larry Aberman on drums, the quartet will honor the indescribably important legacy of “Bird” with Parker classics, bebop masterpieces, and timeless standards alike.
Isaiah Cross: Trio Sketches – Saturday, August 29 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Originally from New Haven, Connecticut, pianist Isaiah Cross is now a rising voice in Nashville’s jazz scene. He now premieres his new trio concept Sketches with this debut performance. Joined by bassist Lucas Giordano and drummer Will Stenberg, the trio is inspired by some of the legendary piano trios of the past, led by Brad Mehldau, Keith Jarret, and Ahmad Jamal, among others. They will interpret classic jazz standards as well as contemporary repertoire.
Rudy’s Regulars
Don Aliquo
One of Nashville’s most active saxophonists and a very familiar face at Rudy’s, Don Aliquo returns leading groups twice this month. The first is under what he is calling the “Feel Good Trio,” which is a tenor sax/organ trio featuring Charles Treadway on organ and Chris Brown on drums. The group will perform classic pieces for the format, including works from Stanly Turrentine and Jimmy Smith, among others. His second show will see him back in a more traditional quartet format, featuring Marc Payne on piano, Jack Aylor on bass, and Larry Aberman on drums.
Don Aliquo and the “Feel Good Trio” – Saturday, August 1 – 11:00 PM ($10)
Don Aliquo Quartet – Friday, August 14 – 8:00 PM ($21)
Jimmy Sullivan’s Swingin’ Scene – Sundays, August 2 & 23 – 6:00 PM ($12)
One of Nashville’s most exciting jazz bassists, Jimmy Sullivan continues his bi-monthly residency at Rudy’s. Over his illustrious career Sullivan has performed with top jazz talents like Laila Biali, Nicole Zuraitis, Joel Frahm, and many more.
Daniel Kuk Quartet – Monday, August 3 – 6:00 PM ($12)
Daniel Kuk is a young up-and-coming pianist who, as you can tell from other lineups listed in this newsletter, is already making waves in the scene and proving himself in-demand. He has lived in Nashville most of his life, and started studying music at a very early age. His major influences include Bill Evans, McCoy Tyner, and Bud Powell. His quartet will feature Baily Johnstone on bass, Marlon Patton on drums, and Dan Hitchcock on sax.
Jody Nardone Trio – Wednesday, August 5 – 6:00 PM ($15) & Saturday, August 15 – 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)
Rougarou 6-Piece New Orleans Brass Band – Thursdays, August 6 & 20 – 9:00 PM ($17)
Continuing its running Thursday “SINdustry night” series, 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.
Joshua Constantine Quartet (3 shows) – Friday, August 7 – 11:00 PM ($10) & Mondays, August 17 & 31 – 6:00 PM ($12)
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, Michael Green on drums, and Dan La Maestra on piano.
Marc Payne Quartet – Saturday, August 8 – 5:30 PM ($16)
One of Nashville’s most talented up-and-coming pianists Marc Payne will lead his quartet this month. Payne has been praised for his diversity and wide knowledge of many jazz styles. He has spent his life in Nashville soaking up many different sounds and styles, and this diversity comes through in his masterful playing.
Geoff Pfeifer Quartet – Fridays, August 14 & 28 – 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, August 19 – 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, August 21 – 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.
Rebecca Carlson – Friday, August 21 – 11:00 PM ($10)
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, August 28 – 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).
Bruce Dudley Quartet – Sunday, August 30 – 6:00 PM ($16)
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 returns to Rudy’s this month leading a quartet featuring Don Aliquo on sax, Ryan Brasley on drums, and Jack Aylor on bass.
Regi Wooten & Friends – Every Wednesday (except August 26) – 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
Hank Born – Tuesdays, August 4 & 25 – 7:00 PM ($10)
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.
The Broomestix – Tuesday, August 4 – 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 – Thursday, August 6 – 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.
Adam Wakefield – Thursday, August 27 – 8:00 PM ($10)
Singer/songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Adam Wakefield, frequently seen at the Underdog performing with guitarist Jack Ruch, now leads his own group.
Other Worthy Mentions
MERJ
Local Nashville jazz band MERJ will be playing three times this month. The band fuses an array of influences from straight-ahead jazz to blues, fusion, and other modern styles for a unique sound that’s both traditional and modern. The band consists of saxophonist Jordan Frederick, guitarist Rob Foglia, bassist Eddie Cartagena, and drummer Mel Flores. Their debut album is set to release this fall.
Sundays, August 9 & 16 – 6:00 PM (Drifter’s BBQ)
Tuesday, August 18 – 6:00 PM (Tennessee Brew Works)
The Lilliston Effect – Saturday, August 29 – 6:00 PM (Tennessee Brew Works)
Jean-Paul Lilliston is a guitarist and songwriter based here in Nashville. Making frequent appearances at Arrington Vineyards for their Jazz on the Hillside series, his band now appears a little closer to home. Among his influences, Lilliston lists figures like Booker T. Jones, Grant Green, Ray Charles, and Howlin’ Wolf, among others. The band comprises Lilliston and a rotating lineup of great local musicians.
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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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.
