Groove to an eclectic mix of jazz ensembles every Thursday, 6–9 pm, Dominion Energy Jazz Café at VMFA’s Best Café. Open and Free to the public. Sponsored by Dominion Energy and the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, in conjunction with the Richmond Jazz Society. Light fare and (adult/alcoholic) beverages available for sale. Artists subject to change.
SCHEDULE
Artists subject to change
JUNE 14
SCOTT BURTON
Scott Burton on guitar, Cameron Ralston on bass and Scott Clark on drums bring a fresh perspective on jazz and ambient tunes written by Barney Kessel, Ornette Coleman, Hiroshi Yoshimura and the Jazz masters.
JUNE 21
KIA BENNETT
DC-based Kia Bennett sings Soul, Jazz and sophisticated funk that’s new and classy. Accompanied by Talton Manning on sax, Sam Brown on bass, John Walters on drums and Gerard Johnson on keyboard.
JUNE 28
QUINTESSENTIAL JAZZ
Enjoy the sounds of Jazz and R&B with William Prentiss on flute and tenor sax, Chris Mosley on trumpet and flugelhorn, Sam Craddock on bass, Hannon Lane on guitar, Eron Gray on drums, Keith Wallace on keyboard, and featuring Carlita Whitehead on vocals
Past Performances
JAN 11
DANKTET
The Danktet is a stylistically diverse instrumental jazz trio, featuring the talents of Dane Alderson (bass), Brian Mesko (guitar), and Forrest Young (drums). Their original compositions range from the soulfully poetic, to blazing up-tempo acrobatics. A groove pocket full of enough change to tip the scales in any audience’s favor, The Danktet aim to astound, hitting the bulls-eye every time!
JAN 18
CHARLES OWENS GROUP
A new groove oriented quartet with Charles Owens on sax, Andrew Randazzo on electric bass, Devonne Harris on keyboards and Kelli Strawbridge on drums featuring originals and covers from Marvin Gaye to Fleetwood Mac.
JAN 25
JASON JENKINS ENSEMBLE
Jason Jenkins is one of the premier bassist and group leaders on the Virginia jazz scene today.
This ensemble will thrill the audience with fresh takes on Jazz classics and world music.
FEB 1
BUTCHER BROWN
Butcher Brown takes careful note of the history and legacy of jazz and throws caution to the wind with wanton abandon. Garage-punk-jazz-funk on the low end of the dial gives way to delicate and elegant compositions as the band shows off without trying. Featuring: DJ Harrison on keys, Andrew Randazzo on bass, Morgan Burrs on guitar, Corey Fonville on drums, and Marcus Tenney on saxophone and trumpet.
FEB 8
DESIREE ROOTS & FRIENDS
JAZZ AROUND THE MUSEUM (MARBLE HALL) *
Desiree’s voice has been heard from Maine to Miami, Baltimore to Brazil, and Virginia to the Virgin Islands. This triple-threat performer’s first love of jazz keeps her busy. Celebrating her CD, Don’t Ever Stop Dreaming, she brings a mixture of straight-ahead jazz and contemporary classics with her all-star ensemble featuring Weldon Hill on keyboard, Mike Hawkins on bass, Billy Williams on drums, Carl Lester El on Guitar and other special guests.
*Refreshments in Marble Hall are available by cash only. An ATM is located in Best Café.
FEB 15
ATIBA TAYLOR GROUP
Recently returning from touring Brazil, Atiba and his group, Blue Nesta, are quickly becoming blues faves around town. Featuring: Morgan Burrs on guitar; Nefer Ra on Bass; New Jersey native, Roy Rolph on drums; and Atiba on sax and vocals
FEB 22
FUNKYFINGER
FunkyFinger is a feel-good and grooving jazz band that also plays original works and funky covers that get the crowd moving and music lovers tapping their toes. Featuring: John Creger on bass and vocals; Jeanette Creger on keys, synths, and vocals; Jon Saure on guitar and vocals; John Mitchell on keys, B3, and vocals; and Curvey “Curv Ali” Reid on drums and percussion
MAR 1
ANDREW ALLI and THE MAINLINE
This Richmond-based Blues Band was founded by drummer Chaz Hibbler in May 2011. The band’s unique sound is reminiscent of traditional Mississippi and Chicago style blues and strikes a chord in everyone! The band is composed of front man Andrew Alli (blues harp), Chaz Hibbler (drums), Ken Kellner (bass) and Mark Szafranski (keyboard).
MAR 8
MIKE HAWKINS
One of Virginia’s premier bassists, Mike Hawkins has traveled the US and abroad accompanying nationally renowned artists. Enjoy contemporary Jazz and popular hits with Hawkins (bass), Calvin Brown (piano), Billy Williams (drums) and James “Saxsmo” Gates (sax).
MAR 15
JARON LAMAR DAVIS QUARTET
California native Jaron Davis is one of the more versatile up-and-coming multi-instrumentalists in the industry. Davis brings a throwback “serve the music” mentality to his performances. Whether straight-ahead, funk, neo-soul, country, musicals, or studio sessions, Jaron offers a unique blend of ideas and authenticity reminiscent of the players of yesteryear.
MAR 22
RANDY JOHNSTON
Internationally acclaimed guitarist Randy Johnston plays Soul-Jazz at its finest. He combines a swinging Jazz style with down-home Blues and funky backbeats to create a sound that will have you tapping your feet and smiling. Accompanying Johnston will be Jonah Kane-West (organ) and Kelli Strawbridge (drums).
MAR 29
ELANA LISA & THE HOT MESS
Jazz standards and Neo-Swing featuring lead vocalist Elana Lisa with Eric Oritt (electric guitar and vocals), John Dacey (bass and vocals), Ken Bowie (drums and vocals) and Allen Burris (tenor and soprano sax, flute). A swing band with a twist!
APR 5
MARSHA MEEKINS ENSEMBLE
Jazz standards and popular favorites featuring Marsha Meekins on flute with Weldon Hill on keyboard; Matthew Steele on bass; Ronnie Cokes on drums and vocalist Marjorie Jones.
APR 12
LATIN JAZZ MESSENGERS
Led by renowned trumpeter Dr. Michael Davison, the Latin Jazz Messengers continue to thrill audiences with their high-energy arrangements and eclectic blend of Cuban, Brazilian, and American jazz. From the wall-of-sound horn section to the swinging rhythm section, the group guarantees a muy caliente experience!
APR 19
EASTERN BOUNDARY QUARTET
The Eastern Boundary Quartet is a collaborative quartet featuring Hungarian master musicians, Balazs Bagyi on drums and saxophonist Mihaly Borbely, with the long-standing bass/piano partnership of New York City favorites Joe Fonda and Michael Jefry Stevens. The group uses Hungarian folk rhythms and melodies in combination with Jazz harmonies and rhythms to form an original “hybrid” improvised music.
The band was formed with the imagination of connecting two worlds of the jazz scene today. This unique collaboration is a mixture of avant-garde jazz and ethno music from Hungary, like a cultural bridge between the USA and Eastern Europe. The group is touring the US in support of its fourth CD.
APR 26
THE LAWRENCE OLDS BAND
Lawrence Olds is known for his smooth vocals as he carries his audiences on a musical journey. This seasoned band features Lawrence Olds on vocals, Chris Whiteman on guitar, Charlie Kilpatrick on keyboard, Carter Blough on bass and Todd Woodson on drums.
MAY 3
BLUE PROTOTYPE
Featuring one of Richmond’s favorite guitarists, Connor Thompson, Blue Prototype is a group that seeks to combine traditional jazz elements with modern heavy metal energy. The band also features Larri Branch on piano, Brian Cruse on bass and Joe Lubman on drums.
MAY 10
Jazz Around the Museum, Marble Hall
Big New York & the Smooth Jazz All-Starz Justice League
Representing the D.C. area, these national recording musicians have a mission “to share the love of Smooth Jazz and keep instrumental music ALIVE!” Featuring Christian de Mesones on bass, Elliot Levine on keyboards, Eddie Baccus Jr. on sax, Tim Steele on drums, and Mike Gable on guitar.
MAY 17
SHARON RAE NORTH
Enjoy the sounds of recording artist Sharon Rae North who sings straight-ahead, contemporary, and smooth Jazz as well as standards. Her Latest CD “Sincerely Yours” is moving up on the charts.
MAY 24
JAY BROWN’S GRACE STREET SEVEN
Jay Brown’s Grace Street Seven is a vintage style Jazz Septet that performs songs in the tradition of early 20thcentury dance bands from the 1920s and 30s. These classy gents specialize in playing Victrola record transcriptions of classics. The band features trumpet, clarinet, saxophone, tenor banjo, piano, upright bass and percussion/drums.
MAY 31
M-LAW & THE PROPHETS OF JAZZ
M-Law & the Prophets of Jazz perform an eclectic combination of jazz-influenced music such as R&B, funk, neo-soul, and hip-hop. Straight out of Northern Virginia, Mary Lawrence (M-Law) leads this innovative group with her trumpet and flugelhorn. She is accompanied by Scott Chambers on bass, Larri Branch on keyboards, and Ronnie Thomas on drums.
JUNE 7
STEPHANIE NAKASIAN
Charlottesville-based vocalist Stephanie Nakasian aka “The Renaissance Woman of Jazz” sings Bebop, standards and swing
JANUARY 5
M-LAW & THE PROPHETS OF JAZZ
Jazz and Neo-Soul featuring Mary Lawrence Hicks “M-Law” on trumpet, Scott Chambers on bass, Larri Branch on keyboards, and Ronnie Thomas on drums
JANUARY 12
CURV APPEAL
Straight ahead Jazz with a funky, contemporary flair featuring Curvey Reid on vibraphone and congas with Thurman Hargrove on keyboards; Michael Hawkins on bass; and McCoy Eaton on drums
JANUARY 19
AFRO ZEN ALLSTARS
Fusing jazz, funk, and traditional world musics, Afro-Zen Allstars present compelling new arrangements of classic tunes from around the globe, with a focus on the danceable and haunting sounds created during Ethiopia’s “Golden Age” (late ’60’s-mid ’70’s).
JANUARY 26
BUTTERBEAN JAZZ QUARTET
The Butterbean Jazz Quartet specializes in traditional jazz standards as well as more contemporary pop hits of the last 20 years. All members have contributed musical arrangements that have helped develop a unique and intimate sound.
FEBRUARY 2
RICHARD D’ABREU’s “Jazz In The Spirit”
Jazz and Gospel with Richard D’Abreu, Jr. on saxophone, Jerell Crockett on piano, John Walters on drums and Richard D’Abreu, III on bass
FEBRUARY 9 – JAZZ AROUND THE MUSEUM – ATRIUM
LADY E & THE BLUES SYNSATION BAND
A night of classic blues favorites featuring Richmond’s premiere blues lady and her sensational big band.
FEBRUARY 16
JONATHAN GREENBURG
Original arrangements of Jazz standards featuring trumpeter Jonathan Greenburg with Eric Lytle on piano, Jonathan Wheelock on acoustic bass and Todd Woodson on drums
FEBRUARY 23
JASON JENKINS QUARTET
Jason Jenkins is one of the premier bassists and group leaders on the Virginia jazz scene today.
This ensemble will thrill the audience with fresh takes on Jazz classics and world music.
MARCH 2
ROYCE CAMPBELL
Royce Campbell (former Henry Mancini and Marvin Gaye sideman) will seduce your ears with his melodic Jazz guitar, accompanied by Aaron Binder on drums and Jonah Kane – West on organ.
MARCH 9
ELANA LISA & THE HOT MESS
Jazz standards and Neo-Swing featuring Elana Lisa – lead vocals, Eric Oritt on electric guitar and vocals, John Dacey on acoustic bass and vocals, Ross Riddell on drums and Allen Burris on tenor and soprano sax, flute.
MARCH 16
MIKE DAVISON & THE LATIN JAZZ MESSENGERS
High energy arrangements of Latin Jazz classics and popular tunes led by UofR trumpeter Dr. Mike Davison
MARCH 23
MARY HERMAN GARCIA
Vocalist Mary Hermann García performs with trombonist/percussionist Antonio García, guitarist John Conley, and bassist Brian Sulser in sets of music from the Brazilian and Great American Songbooks.
MARCH 30
CONNOR THOMPSON
Traditional Jazz from bebop to bossa nova melded with modern influences featuring Larri Branch on keys, Joe Lubman on drums, Brian Cruse on bass, and Connor Thompson on guitar.
APRIL 6
DAVE HOGGARD ENSEMBLE
Bringing you classic Jazz standards with a vibraphone flare, Dave Hoggard and his ensemble will leave you feeling nostalgic and put a swing in your step. Dave Hoggard on vibes, Weldon Hill on keyboard, Mike Hawkins on bass and Mike Hoggard on drums.
APRIL 13
CLAUDIA CARAWAN
An evening of great American Jazz standards with Claudia Carawan on vocals and sax, Bruce Sullivan on keyboard, Carter Blough on bass and Donald Faye on woodwinds
APRIL 20
DEBRA DEAN & THE KEY WEST QUARTET
Jazz, Blues and Popular favorites with award winning guitarist Patrick Lawler; vocalist Debra Dean and special guests
APRIL 27
CHARLES OWENS
A new groove oriented quartet with Charles Owens on sax, Andrew Randazzo on electric bass, Devonne Harris on keyboards and Kelli Strawbridge on drums featuring originals and covers from Marvin Gaye to Fleetwood Mac.
MAY 4
MONUMENT CITY JAZZ TRIO featuring Paige Melton
Cool piano jazz arrangements from the 50s, 60s, and 70s. Ken Kellner on bass, Dan Grub on drums, Randy Melton on piano and featuring Paige Melton on vocals
MAY 11
JAZZ AROUND THE MUSEUM – MARBLE HALL
DEVIL’S WORKSHOP BIG BAND
A refreshing, modern twist to both big-band music and free jazz led by bari saxophonist Stephen Norfleet, Jr.
MAY 18
RANDY JOHNSTON
Internationally acclaimed guitarist Randy Johnston brings the bluesy and funky sound of the guitar/organ/drums trio with Jonah Kane-West on organ and C. J. Wolfe on drums
MAY 25
VICTOR HASKINS
Powerful interplay of a wide expanse of sonic, rhythmic, and emotional territory. Not to be missed! Victor Haskins, sound creation/compositions, Michael Hawkins on bass and Tony Martucci on drums
JUNE 1
MIKE HAWKINS ENSEMBLE
Contemporary Jazz and popular hits with bassist Michael Hawkins, Dr. Weldon Hill on piano, Billy Williams on drums and James “Saxsmo” Gates on sax
JUNE 8
STEPHANIE NAKASIAN
Bebop, standards and swing led by “The Renaissance Woman of Jazz”, vocalist Stephanie Nakasian and her Jazz ensemble
JUNE 15
RUDY LEEPER & CLOUD 9
Rudy Leeper is quickly becoming one of Richmond’s favorite “crooners” with his smooth mellow vocals interpreting Jazz and R&B classics. With his ensemble of musicians, you’re sure to have a relaxed evening
JUNE 22
MARSHA MEEKINS
Jazz standards and popular favorites featuring Marsha Meekins on flute with Michelle Lightfoot on keyboard; Matthew Steele on bass; Ronnie Cokes on drums and vocalist Marjorie Jones
JUNE 29
RIVER CITY SWING
Jazz standards, swing, and Latin flavors with Calvin Farmer on sax, Fred Ostrow on piano, Chuck Peterson on bass, Ken Wootton on drums, and “Swinging” Sara Fletcher on vocals
JULY 6
NEAL BOWENS PROJECT
Contemporary Smooth Jazz. This high energy band is led by saxophonist Neal Bowens, Thurman Hargrove on keys, Matthew Steele on bass, Gene Pendleton on guitar and Ray Grady on drums/percussion.
JULY 13
BLUE ORCHID
Delivering a mix of timeless standards and fresh original compositions, Blue Orchid Jazz Trio features Julio Taylor – Keyboard, Kyffin Salter – Bass and Composition, and Patrick Zampetti – Drums and Percussion, with Special Guest, Myrick Crampton – Sax and Flute
JULY 20
KELLY SHEPHERD & NoMAD STORIES
These Boston, MA favorites make their Richmond debut at Dominion Jazz Café with music that is unique and original, influences such as; tribal, blues, funk, psychedelic, and Latin music. Band leader/saxophonist Kelly Shepherd, has shared the stage or studied with many jazz luminaries such as Gary Bartz and Junior Cook.
JULY 27
DEBO DABNEY & THE HAPPY BAND
Back by popular demand, pianist Debo Dabney and his Happy Band are always a Museum favorite, playing popular Jazz and Blues standards. You will definitely leave HAPPY!
AUGUST 3
TRIPLE CROSSING
Triple Crossing Jazz Project is Richmond’s toe-tapping classic Jazz combo specializing in the familiar Standards of the 1920s-1960s. Named after the famed triple crossing railways in Downtown RVA, the core of the group consists of lead Tenor Sax, Bass, and Piano along with a lead vocalist.
AUGUST 10 – *JAZZ AROUND THE MUSEUM – ATRIUM*
BOBBY “BLACKHAT” BAND
Bobby “BlackHat” Walters, regional recording artist, brings together the finest blues musicians to perform original, contemporary, and classic blues tunes featuring: Bobby BlackHat (harp/vocals), Tom Euler (guitar, vocals), Brian Eubanks (bass), Michael Behlmar (drums) and Lucy Kilpatrick (keyboards) along with special guests Brian Pinner (sax) and DaRon Walton (trumpet).
AUGUST 17
FLO’S MELLOW MOODS
Flo King sings romantic Jazz standards in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese
AUGUST 24
BLUE PROTOTYPE
Blue Prototype creates their own adventurous brand of jazz by fusing the traditional language of bebop with heavy metal influences. Connor Thompson (guitar, compositions), Larri Branch (piano), Brian Cruse (bass), and Joe Lubman (drums)
AUGUST 31
TREY SORRELLS QUARTET
Straight ahead Jazz with a contemporary twist featuring Trey Sorrells on saxophone, Morgan Burrs on guitar, Andrew Randazzo on bass and Devonne Harris on drums
SEPTEMBER 7
JOHNNY HOUSTON & SWAGGER
Jazz and Blues standards led by Richmond Legend Johnny Houston on sax and vocals with Mack Baker on keyboards, Billy Baker on bass, Ernest Waller on drums and vocalist Taleta Jones
SEPTEMBER 14
NAROD ENSEMBLE
This eclectic group performs Armenian Folk music with an improvisational flare. The group features Raffi Bandazian on Oud and keyboards, Justin Smith on guitar, C. J. Wolfe on drums, Brian Cruze on bass, Geoff Bennett Speer on percussion, Anna Saakian on vocals and Avetik Topchyan on vocals and Cretan Lyra.
SEPTEMBER 21
BARBARA MARTIN
Vocalist, songwriter and guitarist Barbara Martin sings original songs of wit and truth as well as jazz standards accompanied by Lucy Kilpatrick, piano and Bob Bowen, bass
SEPTEMBER 28
JACKWINN-TET
This fun family ensemble will leave you tapping your feet to 1930’s standards and current Jazz. Jack Winn on vocals and sax; Lee Covington on keyboards; Ross Riddell on drums; Rusty Farmer on bass; and featuring John Winn on sax and vocals.
OCTOBER 5
GLENNROY & COMPANY
This group of talented, entertaining music specialists will play a variety of jazz, R&B and popular Bretotunes. Featuring Glennroy Bailey-flute, Debo Dabney-keyboard, Everard Thompson-bass, Ellwood Henderson-drums
OCTOBER 12
JUSTIN SMITH
Classic and modern Jazz mixed with Bossa Nova and contemporary styles featuring Justin Smith on guitar; Brian Cruse on bass; Brendan Schnabel on tenor saxophone and C.J. Wolfe on drums
OCTOBER 19
DEBRA DEAN KEY WEST QUARTET
Jazz, Blues and Popular favorites with award winning guitarist Patrick Lawler; vocalist Debra Dean and special guests
OCTOBER 26
AFRO-ZEN ALLSTARS
Afro-Zen Allstars are RVA’s multi-generational World Jazz “little big band,” featuring John Lilley (alto & tenor), Chris Sclafani (alto & baritone), Toby Whitaker (trombone), Chris Vasi (guitar), Brian Cruse (bass), Scott Milstead (drums), Hector Barez (percussion) and George M Lowe (Leader & guitar). Don’t even think about not dancing!
NOVEMBER 2
M-LAW & THE PROPHETS OF JAZZ
M-Law & the Prophets of Jazz perform an eclectic combination of Jazz influenced music with R&B, funk, neo-soul, and hip-hop featuring Mary Lawrence, trumpet and flugelhorn; Scott Chambers, bass; Ronnie Thomas, drums; and Drew Miles, keyboard.
NOVEMBER 9
THE JAZZ WARRIORS
The Jazz Warriors, a small ensemble of the Central Virginia Jazz Orchestra, play original arrangements of Jazz standards featuring trumpeter Jonathan Greenberg with Jonathan Wheelock, acoustic bass; Todd Woodson, drums; and Gary Shaver, clarinet and alto sax.
NOVEMBER 16
POCKET JAZZ
Pocket Jazz packs a big punch playing instrumental Jazz standards and “jazzified” pop tunes featuring Eric Oritt, guitar; Chris Ludwig, Dave Triplett, trumpet; Rod Hyner, drums; and Ross Riddell on percussion
NOVEMBER 24 (Friday)
Jazz Around the Museum – Atrium
REGINALD CYNTJE GROUP
Maryland based Reginald Cyntje Group blends Jazz, Afrobeat, and Caribbean music to create a unique musical experience. The band mixes art and activism to inspire social change through song with Herman Burney, bass; Lenny Robinson, drums; Hope Udobi, piano; Brian Settles, tenor sax; and Reginald Cyntje, trombone; and a guest Vocalist.
NOVEMBER 30
VICTOR HASKINS’ SKEIN
Original compositions and arrangements of tunes by John Coltrane, Sting, Bill Withers, and music from the Stars Wars movies featuring Victor Haskins, vocals and wind instruments; Randall Pharr, bass; Tony Martucci, drums; and Will Roman, congas
DECEMBER 7
CURV APPEAL
Straight ahead vibraphone Jazz with a funky, contemporary flair! Thurman Hargrove on keyboard; Michael Hawkins on bass; Alvonte Jiggetts on drums; Curvey Reid on vibes and percussion
DECEMBER 14
THE REVOLUTION JAZZ TRIO
“Sophisticated Fun”! Covers of Motown favorites, Jazz and R&B featuring Victor Nelson, vocals; Matthew Steele on bass, Dr. Weldon Hill on piano and Tye Onley on drums
DECEMBER 21
QUINTESSENTIAL JAZZ
Jazz, Funk, Soul & Gospel with William Prentiss on flute/tenor Sax; Chris Moseley on trumpet/flugelhorn; Sam Craddock on bass; Eron Gray on drums; Hannon Lane on guitar; Keith Henderson on percussion; and Keith Wallace on keyboard
DECEMBER 28
KENNEDY JAZZ SCHOLARS
Winners of the Joe Kennedy, Jr. Jazz Scholarship Award! These young student musicians have demonstrated a strong ability in Jazz music, and are pursuing their Jazz studies at VCU. The band of swinging young lions includes Chet Frierson on tenor sax, Ben Kelly on bass, Jake Adams on guitar and Bryan Connolly on drums.
JANUARY 7
LARRI BRANCH AGENDA
Pianist Larri Branch plays serious Jazz with a light touch, from Bud Powell to George Gershwin and more with Brian Cruse on Bass, Chris Ryan on Guitar, and C.J. Wolf on Drums.
JANUARY 14
MARY HERMANN GARCIA
Vocalist Mary Hermann García performs with trombonist/percussionist Antonio García, guitarist John Conley, and bassist Brian Sulser in sets of music from the Brazilian and Great American Songbooks.
JANUARY 21
DOCTORS OF JAZZ
Swing and traditional Dixieland Jazz with Dick Dunsing-banjo; Martin Ryle-trombone; Rob James-cornet; Gene Anderson-clarinet; Paul Welaskay-piano; Akira Suzuki-drums; Ben Anderson- bass/washboard; Joe Troncale-vocals; Stan Goldberg – cornet.
JANUARY 28
TRIPLE CROSSING JAZZ PROJECT
Classic tunes from the Great American Songbook with Jay Brown on tenor sax/percussion; Kirkland Jackson on bass; Mary Lynn Eastman on piano;
FEBRUARY 4
VICTOR HASKINS’ “SKEIN”
Original compositions and reworkings of popular songs and standards featuring Victor Haskins on cornet and electronic wind instrument with bassist Mike Hawkins and drummer Tony Martucci.
FEBRUARY 11
CHARLES OWENS QUARTET
A new groove oriented quartet with Charles Owens on sax, , Andrew Randazzo on electric bass, Devonne Harris on keyboards and Kelli Strawbridge on drums featuring originals and covers from Marvin Gaye to Fleetwood Mac.
FEBRUARY 18
ROGER POUNCEY TRIO
The Roger Pouncey Trio performs a mix of original and standard songs. Roger Pouncey on guitar, Randall Pharr on bass, and C.J. Wolfe on drums.
MARCH 3
RANDY JOHNSTON GROUP featuring Jonah Kane-West
Internationally acclaimed guitarist Randy Johnston brings the bluesy and funky sound of the guitar/organ/drums trio with Jonah Kane-West on organ and C. J. Wolfe on drums
MARCH 10
QUINTESSENTIAL JAZZ
Jazz, Funk, Soul & Gospel with William Prentiss on flute/tenor Sax; Chris Moseley on trumpet/flugelhorn; Sam Craddock on bass; Eron Gray on drums; Hannon Lane on guitar; Keith Henderson on percussion; and Keith Wallace on keyboard
MARCH 17
RIVER CITY SWING
Jazz standards, swing, and Latin flavors with Calvin Farmer on sax, Fred Ostrow on piano, Chuck Peterson on bass, Ken Wootton on drums, and “Swinging” Sara Fletcher on vocals
MARCH 24
SHARON RAE NORTH
Jazzy vocals, straight ahead and smooth from recording artist Sharon Rae North with Jerel Crockett on keyboards, Wilbert Anderson on bass, Vic Smiley on guitar and Rickky Gray on drums
MARCH 31
BARBARA MARTIN
Vocalist, songwriter and guitarist Barbara Martin sings songs of wit and truth with Lee Covington on piano and recording artist Bob Bowen on bass
April 7
GLORIA GLASGOW QUINTET
Jazz Standards featuring Gloria Glasgow on vocals, Calvin Barnes on keyboard, Michael Hawkins on bass; Christopher Ferrara on drums; Kevin Simpson on saxophone
APRIL 14
MIKE DAVISON AND LATIN JAZZ MESSENGERS
High energy arrangements of Latin Jazz classics and popular tunes from Cuban, Brazilian and American Jazz led by UofR trumpeter Dr. Michael Davison.
APRIL 21
JONATHAN GREENBERG AND THE JAZZ WARRIORS
Original arrangements of Jazz standards featuring trumpeter Jonathan Greenberg
APRIL 28
ELANA LISA & THE HOT MESS
Jazz standards and Neo-Swing featuring Elana Lisa lead vocals, Eric Oritt on electric guitar and vocals, John Dacey on acoustic bass and vocals, Ken Bowie on drums and vocals and Allen Burris on tenor and soprano sax, flute
MAY 5
JOHNNY HOUSTON & “SWAGGER”
Jazz and Blues standards led by Richmond Legend Johnny Houston on sax and vocals with Mack Baker on keyboards, Billy Baker on bass, Ernest Waller on drums and vocalist Taleta Jones
MAY 12
MARSHA MEEKINS & FRIENDS
Jazz standards and popular favorites featuring Marsha Meekins on flute with Michelle Lightfoot on keyboard; Carl Lester El on bass; Ronnie Cokes on drums and vocalist Marjorie Jones
MAY 19
GOOD SHOT JUDY
Jazz variety including straight ahead, Latin Jazz, Blues, Cha-cha and more featuring vocalist and pianist Brett Cahoon with Jeff Cahoon on bass, Mike Smith on drums and Brandon Musko on sax
MAY 26
CURV APPEAL
Straight ahead Jazz with a funky, contemporary flair featuring Curvey Reid on vibraphone and congas with Thurman Hargrove on keyboards; Michael Hawkins on bass; and McCoy Eaton on drums
JUNE 2
BOB BLAGG QUARTET
Sophisticated arrangements of Jazz standards, popular songs and swing with vocalist Deb Clinton; Ken Kellner on upright bass; Todd Woodson on drums and Bob Blagg on guitar
JUNE 9
LAWRENCE OLDS BAND
Classic Jazz and Blues featuring vocalist Lawrence Olds with Chris Whiteman on guitar, Charlie Kilpatrick on keyboard, Randall Pharr on bass and Todd Woodson on drums
JUNE 16
STEPHANIE NAKASIAN & HOD O’BRIEN featuring VERONICA SWIFT
Award-winning Jazz family with Stephanie Nakasian on vocals and legendary pianist Hod O’Brien; and, featuring their daughter Veronica Swift, winner of 2016 Downbeat Best Jazz Voice Student Award
JUNE 23
M-LAW & THE PROPHETS OF JAZZ
Jazz and Neo-Soul featuring Mary Lawrence “M-Law” on trumpet, Scott Chambers on bass, Larri Branch on keyboards, and Ronnie Thomas on drums
JUNE 30
PAT LAWLER AND DEBRA DEAN
Jazz, Blues and Popular favorites with award winning guitarist Patrick Lawler; vocalist Debra Dean and special guests
JULY 7
CLAUDIA CARAWAN QUARTET
An evening of great American Jazz standards with Claudia Carawan on vocals and sax, Bruce Sullivan on keyboard, Carter Blough on bass and Donald Faye on woodwinds
JULY 14
JAZZ IN THE SPIRIT FEATURING RICHARD D’ABREU
Jazz and Gospel with Richard D’Abreu, Jr. on saxophone, Jerell Crockett on piano, John Walters on drums and Richard D’Abreu, III on bass
JULY 21
FLO’S MELLOW MOOD
Flo King sings romantic Jazz standards in English, French, Spanish and Portuguese!
JULY 28
REGINALD CYNTJE BAND
Jazz blended with Caribbean rhythms and Afro-beat featuring award-winning trombonist Reginald Cyntje
AUGUST 11
FUTURE PROSPECT
Straight ahead Jazz with a contemporary twist featuring Trey Sorrells on alto sax, Jackson Shurlds on trumpet, Jacob Ungerleider on keys, Morgan Burrs on guitar, Brandon Lane on bass and Cleandré Foster on drums
AUGUST 18
CAROL COVELL
Jazz standards and selections from the Great American Songbook with vocalist Carol Covell, Stan Smith on keyboard and James Bjork on sax
AUGUST 25
CHRIS VASI QUARTET
Modern and vintage Jazz from Latin and bop, to funk and Monk featuring Chris Vasi on guitar, John Lilley on saxophone; Drex Weaver on drums; Carter Blough on bass
SEPTEMBER 1
KEVIN SIMPSON QUARTET
Jazz that’s straight ahead and hot featuring Weldon Hill on keyboard, Mike Hawkins on bass, Corey Fonville on drums and Kevin Simpson on sax
SEPTEMBER 8
JUSTIN SMITH ENSEMBLE
Classic and modern Jazz mixed with Bossa Nova and contemporary styles featuring Justin Smith on guitar; Brian Cruse on bass; Brendan Schnabel on tenor saxophone and C.J. Wolfe on drums
SEPTEMBER 15
31 FINGERS JAZZ TRIO WITH SPECIAL GUEST
Jazz from the sophisticated styles of Cole Porter, Count Basie and Dave Brubeck, to the sun drenched sambas of Antonio Carlos Jobim led by Alex Heroux on keyboard with Kyffin Salter on bass, Pat Zampetti on drums and Special Guest Myrick Crampton on flute
SEPTEMBER 22
CLOUD 9
Smooth Jazz with Lucy Kilpatrick on keyboard; Juan Nelson bass, Keith Anderson sax and Brian Johnson drums
SEPTEMBER 29
DELAPLANE
Progressive folk and Jazz music featuring Brian Caperton on vocals and acoustic guitar; Don Townsend on piano and Stewart Muztafago on drums
OCTOBER 6
MIKE DAVISON & LATIN JAZZ MESSENGERS
High energy arrangements of Latin Jazz classics and popular tunes led by UofR trumpeter Dr. Mike Davison.
OCTOBER 13
CHAN HALL TRIO FEATURING JUA HOWARD
Serving up Straight-Ahead Jazz, featuring Chan Hall on keys with Mike Hawkins on bass, Ray Grady on drums and featuring vocalist Jua Howard.
OCTOBER 20
EMME ST. JAMES
A night of elegant vocals from the Great American Songbook.
OCTOBER 27
RUDY FAULKNER
Electrifying Jazz with a Caribbean flair featuring Rudy Faulkner on percussion, Charlie Kilpatrick on keyboards, Mike Hawkins on bass and Billy Williams on drums.
NOVEMBER 3
BARBARA MARTIN
Vocalist, songwriter and guitarist Barbara Martin sings songs of wit and truth with Lee Covington on piano and recording artist Bob Bowen on bass
NOVEMBER 10
VICTOR HASKINS
Original compositions and reworkings of popular songs and standards featuring Victor Haskins on cornet and electronic wind instrument, with Michael Hawkins on bass, and Tony Martucci on drums.
NOVEMBER 17
TRIPLE CROSSING JAZZ PROJECT
Triple Crossing Jazz Project is Richmond’s toe-tapping classic Jazz ensemble specializing in familiar Standards of the 1920s-1960s; giving new life to the classic “Great American Song Book” with MaryLynn Eastman on keyboard, Kirkland Jackson on bass, Jay Brown on tenor sax, vocals and percussion and Victoria Myers on vocals with special guest artists Simone Plater on Vocals and Randall Mailand on drums.
NOVEMBER 25 – [NOTE: Jazz Café is moved from Thursday, Nov. 24 to Friday, Nov 25th–6 pm- 9 pm.]
QUINTESSENTIAL JAZZ
Jazz, Funk, Soul & Gospel with William Prentiss on flute/tenor Sax; Chris Moseley on trumpet/flugelhorn; Sam Craddock on bass; Eron Gray on drums; Hannon Lane on guitar; and Keith Wallace on keyboard
DECEMBER 1
ROGER POUNCEY & HUNKY COUSIN
Hunky Cousin is a funk-infused modern jazz band that plays original material written by Roger Pouncey as well as select contemporary covers. Personnel includes Roger Pouncey on guitar, Trey Sorrells on saxophone, Garen Dorsey on keyboard, Jordan Mason on electric bass, and Cleandre Foster on drums.
DECEMBER 8
DOCTORS OF JAZZ
Swing and traditional Dixieland Jazz with Dick Dunsing-banjo; Martin Ryle-trombone; Rob James-cornet; Gene Anderson-clarinet; Paul Welaskay-piano; Akira Suzuki-drums; Ben Anderson- bass/washboard; Joe Troncale-vocals; Stan Goldberg – cornet.
DECEMBER 15
GLENNROY & COMPANY
This group of talented, entertaining music specialists will play a variety of jazz, R&B and mild top forty tunes. Featuring Glennroy Bailey-flute, Debo Dabney-keyboard, Everard Thompson-bass, Ellwood Henderson-drums
DECEMBER 22
THE DANKTET
The Danktet is a stylistically diverse instrumental jazz trio, featuring the talents of Dane Alderson (bass), Brian Mesko (guitar), and Forrest Young (drums). Their original compositions range from the soulfully poetic, to blazing up-tempo acrobatics. A groove pocket full of enough change to tip the scales in any audience’s favor, The Danktet aim to astound, hitting the bulls-eye every time!
DECEMBER 29
JOHNNY HOUSTON & SWAGGER
Jazz and Blues standards led by Richmond Legend Johnny Houston on sax and vocals with Mack Baker on keyboards, Billy Baker on bass, Ernest Waller on drums and vocalist Taleta Jones
AUG 6
CURVE APPEAL
Straight-ahead vibraphone jazz with a funky, contemporary flair! Thurman Hargrove on keyboards, Michael Hawkins on bass, McCoy Eaton on drums, and Curvey Reid on vibraphone and congas.
AUG 13
THE SRN BAND
An eclectic mix of modern jazz standards with contemporary favorites featuring Lucy Kilpatrick on keys, Ken Friend on bass, Vic Smiley on guitar, and Ray Grady on drums.
AUG 20
VICTOR HASKINS’ “SKEIN”
A unique instrumentation of EWI (electronic wind instrument), cornet, bass, and drums converge to perform original music and imaginative reworkings of popular songs and jazz standards. Victor Haskins on EWI and cornet, Mike Hawkins on bass, and Isaac Edgerton on drums.
AUG 27
MONIKA HERZIG and “The Whole World in Her Hands”
Nationally renowned ladies take the stage featuring leader/pianist Monika Herzig with Jamie Baum on flute, Reut Regev on trombone, and Jennifer Vincent on bass.
SEP 3
BOB BLAGG QUARTET
Jazz standards from the “Great American Songbook” and contemporary favorites with Bob Blagg on guitar, Ken Kellner on bass, Todd Woodson on drums, and Debra Clinton on lead vocals.
SEP 10
QUINTESSENTIAL JAZZ
Jazz, funk, soul & gospel with William Prentiss on flute/tenor Sax, Chris Moseley on trumpet/flugelhorn, Sam Craddock on bass, Eron Gray on drums, Hannon Lane on guitar, Keith Henderson on percussion, and Keith Wallace on keyboard.
SEP 17
PAT LAWLER/DEBRA DEAN
Jazz, blues, and popular favorites with award-winning guitarist Patrick Lawler; vocalist Debra Dean and special guests.
SEP 24
RATTLEMOUTH
Jazz and World Beat Music with Danny Finney on saxophone, Robbie Kinter on drums, Wayne O’Bryan on bass, and Austin Green on guitar.
OCT 1
M-LAW & THE PROPHETS OF JAZZ
Jazz and Neo-Soul featuring Mary Lawrence “M-Law” on trumpet, Scott Chambers on bass, Larri Branch on keyboards, and Kelli Strawbridge on drums
OCT 8
MIKE DAVISON & THE LATIN JAZZ MESSENGERS
High-energy arrangements of Latin Jazz classics and popular tunes led by Dr. Michael Davison on trumpet—Muy Caliente!
OCT 15
31 FINGERS JAZZ (PLUS SPECIAL GUEST)
Delivering the elegance of Ellington and Porter, popular sounds of Basie and Brubeck, and the breezy, sun drenched sambas of Jobim, 31 Fingers Jazz Trio is led by Alex Heroux – Piano, and includes Kyffin Salter – Bass, and Patrick Zampetti – Drums, with Special Guest, Myrick Crampton – Flute
OCT 22
GLENNROY & COMPANY
One of the area’s favorite groups for over 20 years! Flutist/vocalist Glennroy Bailey leads with Debo Dabney on keyboards, Everard Thompson on bass, and Ellwood Henderson on drums
OCT 29
THE DANKTET
A unique blend of Jazz, funk, rock, pop, reggae, blues, and R&B with Dane Alderson (of The Yellowjackets!) on bass, Brian Mesko on guitar, and Forrest Young on drums
NOVEMBER 5
CARLTON BLOUNT
Jazz favorites and popular hits with vocalist Carlton Blount
NOVEMBER 12
FLO’S MELLOW MOOD
Flo King sings mellow Jazz with an international flair
NOVEMBER 19
AFRO-ZEN ALLSTARS
World music and Ethiopian Jazz featuring Toby Whitaker on trombone; John Lilley on alto & tenor saxes; Chris Sclafani on baritone sax; CJ Alicea on drums; Hector Barez on percussion; Brian Cruse on bass; Chris Vasi on guitar; George M Lowe on guitar/arrangements
NOVEMBER 27
GENE PENDLETON & SKETCHES
High energy contemporary Jazz with Keith White on drums, Mathew Steel on bass;
Debo Dabney on piano; Maron Corey on trumpet ; vocalist Golden Skipper and Gene Pendleton on guitar
DECEMBER 3
“UNLATCH”
Jazz standards and original works featuring Macon Mann on Fender Rhodes keyboard, Jon Wheelock on upright bass, and Geoff Bakel on drums
DECEMBER 10
CURVE APPEAL
Straight ahead vibraphone Jazz with a funky, contemporary flair! Thurman Hargrove on keyboards and vocals; Michael Hawkins on bass; Ronnie Thomas on drums; Curvey Reid on vibraphone and percussion
DECEMBER 17
JOHN WINN JAZZ ALL-STARS
Jazz standards and popular tunes led by saxophonist/vocalist John Winn; with Randall Pharr on bass and guests