Coming in the New Year!

The Jazz Beat — January, 2025

Wyatt Parks | January 2, 2025

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

Here you’ll find the shows and events this month that I think are the real standouts, unique events that you won’t find every day in the city. Here you’ll find the shows and events this month that I think are the real standouts, unique events that you won’t find every day in the city.

Colleen Orender – Wednesday, January 8 – 9:00 PM (The 5 Spot)

Nashville-based vocalist Colleen Orender is a “sultry jazz dream with pop sensibilities,” blending effortlessly the classic sounds of jazz with modern pop.

Crooked Rhythm Band No. 1 – Saturday, January 11 – 8:00 PM ($24) (Rudy’s)

This band is a rather unique project featuring some of Nashville’s most accomplished musicians, with a focus on expanding the possibilities of rhythm. The members combine all their wide range of influences, including collaborations with Antibalas, The Black Keys, Dr. Dog, J. Cole, and many others. The music pays tribute to the rhythmic brilliance of the late Fela Kuti while expanding into an original sound. The band features Jake Botts (sax), Ray Mason (trombone), David Linaburg (guitar), Alec Newnam (bass), Raynier Jacildo (keys), Eric Slick (drums), and Brandon Newsome (percussion).

Chrisette Michele (2 shows) – Saturday, January 18 – 6:00 PM & 9:30 PM ($62-75) (City Winery)

Singing a mixture of R&B, Soul, and Jazz, vocalist Chrisette Michele is a Grammy winning artist. At this show you’ll hear some of the singer’s brand new music, as well as some of her classic tunes like “A Couple of Forevers,” “Love Is You,” and more.

Isaac Eicher Quartet – Saturday, January 18 – 8:00 PM ($18) (Rudy’s)

For a more unique jazz experience, check out the Isaac Eicher Quartet. Eicher is a mandolinist and a rising star in the acoustic jazz scene. His quartet features prominent local players Giovanni Rodriguez on bass, Jesus Agreda on drums and Will Barrow on piano. They will perform many of Eicher’s original compositions as well as some classic jazz favorites.

John Arrucci – Friday, January 24 – 7:30 PM ($35) (NJW)

Percussionist and composer John Arrucci makes his Nashville debut with his quartet, which he will lead on vibraphone. The group also features Josh Karas on piano, Thomas Altman on bass, and Brian Czach on drum set. Arrucci has performed all over the world, and lists performances or recordings with names such as Michael Brecker, Mariah Carey, David Byrne, and many more on his resume.

Cam Gallagher & the Tasty Soul – Tuesday, January 28 – 8:00 PM (The Basement)

I always feel I should mention this band at least once in these columns because I really love their energy. Led by saxophonist Cam Gallagher, the band is comprised of young and energetic musicians bringing jazz and funk music to the everyday Nashville scene.

Mei Semones – Tuesday, January 28 – 8:00 PM (Ryman Auditorium)

Though this is a supporting act (for Hippo Campus’s tour), I thought I would mention this artist as I really enjoy her mixture of jazz into her pop-oriented music. You’ll hear the influences of classic jazz vocal performances in her style of guitar-vocal combination.

Sungazer – Wednesday, January 29 – 7:00 PM (The Vinyl Lounge)

Jazz fusion electro-progressive band Sungazer describe themselves as “Animals as Leaders meets Nerve meets Xenakis.” A highly original and experimental group, I think any fan of modern jazz and fusion music would be interested in this show.

Altin Sencalar Quartet – Friday, January 31 – 5:30 PM ($15)

Highly acclaimed NYC-based trombonist Altin Sencalar remains in high demand across the country as a performer, educator, and composer. He has shared the stage with such names as Christian McBride, Michael Bublé, The Four Tops, David Sanborn, and many others.

Analog at Hutton Hotel

 

Analog Soul (multiple shows) – Sundays, January 5 & 19 – 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. Both shows this month will feature Will Davenport and The Smoke Show. These shows are 21+.

Analog Soul Presents Sunday Serenade w/ Anthony Q – Sunday, January 19 – 12:00 PM ($20-50)

The Analog presents a special brunch edition of the Analog Soul series, featuring soul and blues artist Anthony Q from Memphis. $20 gets you General Admission, $40 gets you GA with the continental breakfast, while the highest tier at $50 will get you all this plus bottomless mimosas.

 

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

Jeff Bradshaw – Sunday, January 5 – 7:30 PM ($35-45)

Rescheduled from last year, this show was featured in our November edition. Bradshaw is a Grammy nominated jazz and soul trombonist who is returning to the road after a long hiatus.

Chrisette Michele (2 shows) – described above

Derrick Hodge – Monday, January 27 – 7:30 PM ($20-32)

Prolific composer, bandleader, bassist and producer Derrick Hodge has been featured on some of music’s most iconic albums and composed or arranged an extensive catalog of music, including film and television scores. He has been awarded two Grammy’s and named a Sundance Composer Fellow.

Najee (2 shows) – Friday, January 31 – 6:00 PM & 9:30 PM ($48-65)

Saxophonist and composer Najee graces the Main Stage. Najee’s career has now spanned more than three decades, and has featured Gold-selling records  

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

David Rodgers “Home” Album Release – Saturday, January 11 – 7:30 PM ($35)

Pianist and composer David Rodgers returns as bandleader for the first time in more than a year to celebrate the release of his third studio album “Home.” The show will feature his longtime musical collaborators Emmanuel Echem on trumpet, Jay White on bass, and Marcus Finnie on drums. Originally from California, Rodgers is now based in Nashville and has shared the stage or studio with names like Peter Frampton, Keb Mo, Taj Mahal, Ricky Skaggs, and many m

MTSU Faculty – Saturday, January 18 – 7:30 PM ($35)

The jazz faculty of MTSU come to the Cave to present an evening of swinging music. The combo will be led by Jazz Program head Jamey Simmons on trumpet and flugelhorn and will feature Don Aliquo on saxophone, Desmond Ng on trombone, Julia Rich on vocals, Jack Aylor on bass, Pat Coil on piano, and Miles Damaso on drums.

John Arrucci – described above

John Alvey Album Release – Saturday, January 25 – 7:30 PM ($35)

Drummer John Alvey makes his NJW debut to perform music from his album “Loft Glow,” which features Nashville mainstay musicians Roland Barber (trombone), Joel Frahm (tenor sax), Jovan Quallo (alto sax), Matt Endahl (piano), and Jacob Jezioro (bass).  

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.

Abigail Flowers – Friday, January 3 – 5:30 PM ($14)

Flowers is widely considered one of Nashville’s finest jazz vocalists, and is known for here ukulele playing as well as her ability to sing in a number of different languages, including French, Spanish, Portugues, Italian, and Hawaiian.

Jamey Simmons Sextet – Friday, January 3 – 8:00 PM ($23)

Trumpeter, composer, arranger, and educator Jamey Simmons appears at Rudy’s leading a sextet, featuring compositions using the classic sound of the great 3-horn jazz groups. The group will feature Don Aliquo (sax), Desmond Ng (trombone), Pat Coil (piano), Jack Aylor (bass), and Jordan Perlson (drums).

Pat Bergeson Trio (2 shows) – Wednesdays, January 8 & 22 – 6:00 PM ($13)

Originally from Illinois, guitarist and harmonica player Bergeson was brought to Nashville by Chet Atkins after a decade in NYC. Bergeson then appeared on two of Atkins’ recordings, after which he worked with a number of industry legends, including Dolly Parton, Johnny Cash, Tommy Emmanuel, and many others. He now presents his own trio featuring Charles Treadway and Chris Brown.

“Jazz Fusion” w/ Mr. Mayo – Thursday, January 9 – 9:00 PM ($14)

Jazz fusion group Mr. Mayo presents an evening of quintessential fusion music, featuring classics from the repertoire from the likes of Allan Holdsworth, Marcus Miller, Herbie Hancock, and others, as well as original compositions from the four fusion fanatics that comprise the band. Kent Crawley on guitar, Matt Twaddle on keys, Leland Nelson on bass, and Jake Robinson on drums.

Ellisa Sun – Friday, January 10 – 5:30 PM ($15)

Guitarist Ellisa Sun is an original artist combining elements of R&B, soul, jazz, and bossa nova in her music, some of which has been featured in major TV shows like “LA’s Finest,” “Dollface,” and “Kung Fu.” Her debut full-length album was released in February 2024 after a successful crowdfunding campaign.

ACE Horns – Friday, January 10 – 8:00 PM ($23)

This trio of horn players returns to Rudy’s with their original group. 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, presented here. The trio is backed up by a rhythm section featuring Jon Cowherd, Akil Thompson, and Marcus Finnie.

Jose Gobbo Trio – Friday, January 10 – 11:00 PM ($10)

Brazilian guitarist Jose Gobbo returns with his trio featuring Max Beckman on bass and Jay Ferguson on drums. Gobbo now teaches in Illinois, but has appeared all over the country in performances and competitions. He now makes regular appearances at Rudy’s.

The Ted Ludwig Quartet – Saturday, January 11 – 5:30 PM ($16)

Highly acclaimed New Orleans seven-string guitarist Ted Ludwig performs with his quartet.

Crooked Rhythm Band No. 1 – described above

Alec Newnam Quartet – Saturday, January 11 – 11:00 PM ($10)

Originally from New Jersey, bassist Alec Newnam was born to musician parents who worked with Frank Sinatra, James Brown, Tony Bennett, Ray Charles, and more, so music has been an intrinsic part of his life since he was born. Now based in Nashville, Newnam has made a name for himself in his own right, having performed with greats like Jeff coffin, Rory Hoffman, Rahsaan Barber, and more, and performed multiple times on the Grand Ole Opry stage as well as at the Ryman. His quartet features Kevin Gatzke on tenor sax, Bill Alexson on piano, and Nate Felty on drums.

Ladies of Jazz – Sunday, January 12 – 6:00 PM ($18)

Another Ladies of Jazz show at Rudy’s, featuring an excellent lineup of Nashville women, including Wendy Burns, jazz flutist and vocalist, and Roz Clark-Thompson, a highly acclaimed jazz vocalist who performed the Tony Award winning role of “Aunt Em and Glenda the Good Witch of the South” in the Broadway musical “The Wiz.”

The Music of Thad Jones w/ the Bruce Dudley Quartet – Thursday, January 16 – 9:00 PM ($15)

All-star Nashville pianist Bruce Dudley presents a special concert featuring the music of legendary trumpeter and composer Thad Jones. The show will be in quartet format, featuring Don Aliquo on sax, Rob Linton on bass, and Ryan Brasley on drums.

Marc Payne Trio – Friday, January 17 – 11:00 PM ($10)

One of Nashville’s most talented up-and-coming pianists Marc Payne will lead his trio. 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.

Isaac Eicher Quartet – described above

Coffin/Perlson/Krauss w/ Jon Cowherd & Rod McGaha – Saturday, January 18 – 8:00 PM ($28) Saxophonist and industry legend Jeff Coffin leads an all-star powerhouse group of some of the best jazz musicians in the business today. These names practically need no introduction as they are mainstays here in Music City. The group features Jordan Perlson on drums, Viktor Krauss on bass, Jon Cowherd on keys, and Rod McGaha on trumpet.

Sarah Jane Nelson – Sunday, January 19 – 6:00 PM ($20)

Vocalist Sarah Jane Nelson combines influences from country, jazz, blues, and musical theater for a unique voice that has earned her descriptions as a “knock-‘em dead singer,” “sultry jazz goddess,” and “a first rate singer”.

Lyle Mays Tribute w/ the Pat Coil Quintet – Thursday, January 23 – 9:00 PM ($14)

Prominent Nashville pianist and Rudy’s regular Pat Coil leads a quintet for a special tribute to Lyle Mays, with whom Coil had a personal and professional relationship. Along with Pat Metheny himself, Mays was the other powerhouse that drove the Pat Metheny Group, composing and arranging a huge portion of the group’s music. This quintet will feature Danny Gottlieb, Beth Gottlieb, Craig Nelson, and Don Aliquo.

Jerome Degey Jazz Quartet – Friday, January 24 – 5:30 PM ($15)

Degey is a Nashville-based guitarist originally from Paris, France. His family heritage also features Afro-Caribbean roots, and together with his longtime interest and study of Brazilian culture, these influences create a rather unique musical blend. This quartet will feature Don Aliquo on saxophone, Danny Gottlieb on drums, and Charles Treadway on keys.

The Aaron Lessard Group – Friday, January 24 – 11:00 PM ($10)

Jazz and fusion guitarist Aaron Lessard returns to Rudy’s with his trio, featuring Brook Sutton on bass and Nioshi Jackson on drums.

MILEStones: Tribute to Miles Davis – Saturday, January 25 – 5:30 PM ($20)

This Miles tribute act returns to Rudy’s, now under the leadership of drummer Brian Czach. The quintet is made up of some of Nashville’s top jazz talent, and pays special attention to the two “great quintets” Davis led in the 50’s and 60’s.

Walters, Sutton & Brown – Saturday, January 25 – 8:00 PM ($20)

A special jazz trio presented by three of Nashville’s top players. Chris Walters is a pianist who served as music director for Barbara Mandrell and toured with the band Alabama for many years, among many other positions he has held. Brook Sutton is a bassist with an accomplished stage and studio career. Chris Brown is one of Nashville’s most sought-after drummers who players constantly throughout town.

Will Padgett Trio – Saturday, January 25 – 11:00 PM ($10)

Pianist Will Padgett brings his trio to Rudy’s, featuring Thomas Altman on bass and Brad Covington on drums. The group will present some of Padgett’s original compositions, which can be heard in a number of different mediums, including TV, video games, film festivals, advertisements, and more.

Crystal & Friends – Sunday, January 26 – 6:00 PM ($15)

Soulful jazz vocalist Crystal Miller returns to the Rudy’s stage once again to offer her moving interpretations of classic music.

Rebecca Carlson – Thursday, January 30 – 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.

Altin Sencalar Quartet – described above

Sofia Goodman Group – Friday, January 31 – 11:00 PM ($10) Award-winning Nashville-based drummer and composer Sofia Goodman returns to the Rudy’s stage. Her music has been highly praised by publications like DownBeat magazine, as well as industry titans like Jeff Coffin.

Rudy’s Regulars

PT Gazell & The Side Effects – Thursday, January 2 – 9:00 PM ($12)

Jazz harmonica player PT Gazell brings his band back to the Rudy’s stage.

Don Aliquo (multiple performances) – Friday, January 3 – 11:00 PM ($10) & Friday, January 31 – 8:00 PM ($23)

One of Nashville’s most active and accomplished saxophonists, Aliquo will be leading performances twice this month, the first in trio format and the second in quartet. This quartet performance will feature prominent NYC jazz pianist Michael Jefry Stevens.

Bruce Dudley Trio – Saturday, January 4 – 5:30 PM ($16)

Bruce Dudley is a Steinway Concert Artist who has over 40 years of experience performing jazz all throughout North and South America. He has recorded a number of albums as bandleader, as well as performed with big industry names like Aretha Franklin, Herb Ellis, and Crystal Gale. The trio will feature Jim Ferguson on bass and Josh Hunt on drums.

Jody Nardone Trio – Saturday, January 4 – 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 performances) – Saturdays, January 4 & 18 – 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.

Sully’s Swingin’ Sunday Supper – Sunday, January 5 – 6:00 PM ($12)

Every other Sunday, Rudy’s features a Sunday dinner, with one of Music City’s top bassists Jimmy Sullivan leading a swingin’ jazz band featuring rotating special guests, for which a unique dinner special is served just for the show.

Viktor Krauss – Monday, January 6 – 6:00 PM ($10)

Viktor Krauss is a bassist that has called Nashville home since 1992, and has over 600 credits to his name as either bassist, composer, or producer.

Re-Evolution – Mondays, January 13, 20, 27 – 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.

Bizz Bigsby – Wednesday, January 15 – 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, January 17 – 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.

Pat Coil’s “Music for Humans” – Friday, January 17 – 8:00 PM ($21)

Renowned Nashville pianist Pat Coil will perform this month with his special act Music for Humans, which will feature Jovan Quallo on saxophone, Hunter Strasser on guitar, Brian Allen on bass, and Wes Little on drums.

Stephanie Adlington – Friday, January 24 – 8:00 PM ($23)

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.

Dana Robbins Quintet – Wednesday, January 29 – 6:00 PM ($12)

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).

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 (bass/vocals), Melvin Macias (piano/vocals), Jesus Agreda (Timbales), Lorenzo Molina Ruiz (Trumpet), and Manuel ‘Manotas’ Ramierez (multi-Percussion).

Regi Wooten & Friends – Every Wednesday (except January 1) – 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.

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 Guthrie Trapp Trio – Every Monday – 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.

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.

Mr. Mayo w/ Candid Antics – Friday, January 10 – 9:00 PM ($10)

Featured in the Rudy’s section above, jazz fusion group Mr. Mayo presents an evening of quintessential fusion music, featuring classics from the repertoire from the likes of Allan Holdsworth, Marcus Miller, Herbie Hancock, and others, as well as original compositions from the four fusion fanatics that comprise the band. Kent Crawley on guitar, Matt Twaddle on keys, Leland Nelson on bass, and Jake Robinson on drums. They will be supported by Candid Antics.  

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!

Nightly Jazz at Skull’s Rainbow Room.  

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