Hey jazz fans, hope you're staying warm out there! This week, we're excited about April Varner at Zinc Bar, and Cyrus Chestnut's "Birthday Celebration Week" at Smoke Jazz Club. Plus, we've got a few more under-the-radar gigs that we think you'll really dig.
Editor's Picks
Sun, Jan 18 @ 7:30 PM • Close Up • Lower East Side
Green's quartet offers a richly textured take on vocal jazz, layering post-bop harmonies with intimate storytelling for a warmly immersive experience.
Tue, Jan 20 @ 7:00 PM • Zinc Bar • Greenwich Village
Catch this LA vocalist's Zinc Bar debut for a taste of her original, R&B-infused jazz compositions.
Wed, Jan 21 @ 6:00 PM • Smoke Jazz Club • Upper West Side
Catch this hard bop master's "Birthday Celebration Week" for his signature blend of swing, gospel, and classical influences.
Thu, Jan 22 @ 6:00 PM • Smalls • West Village
Catch Branch's quintet at Smalls for a dose of rhythmically inventive, groove-heavy contemporary jazz that nods to funk and R&B.
Fri, Jan 23 @ 6:00 PM • Mezzrow • West Village
For fans of piano-led swing, this trio balances Peterson-esque virtuosity with modern harmonic ideas, promising both warmth and rhythmic intrigue.
Spike Wilner
Venue Owner & Pianist • Smalls Jazz Club
Spike Wilner is the owner of Smalls Jazz Club and Mezzrow, two vital hubs for New York City jazz. As a pianist and passionate advocate, he has cultivated a vibrant scene where both seasoned professionals and rising stars can thrive. His commitment to preserving the legacy of jazz while fostering new talent makes him a cornerstone of the NYC jazz community.
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Miles Davis's Boxing Ring
Miles Davis was a dedicated boxer, often using it as a form of stress relief and discipline. He even installed a boxing ring in his Manhattan apartment during the 1980s, inviting sparring partners over for regular training sessions amidst his musical pursuits.
— Miles: The Autobiography by Miles Davis with Quincy Troupe
See the full lineup of jazz shows this week on our calendar.
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