North Beach Live

Penisula Project
2025-12-10 20:00 - 23:00 (America/Los_Angeles) | Comstock Saloon, 155 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Eric Shifrin, piano and vocals
Rick Brown, trombone
Carl Herder, bass
Garry Williams, drums

Christian Sands
2025-12-10 21:00 - 22:30 | Keys Jazz Bistro, 498 Broadway, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Christian Sands, NORTH AMERICA GRAMMY®, nominated pianist’s new Mack Avenue concept album journeys through heartbreak and healing Jazz history is filled with stirring torch songs and ballads — brilliant expressions of suffering after love has gone awry. The jazz record shelf even contains some classic album-long explorations of melancholy. But it’s hard to find precedent in pianist CHRISTIAN SANDS’ new Embracing Dawn, his fifth full-length effort for Mack Avenue Records.
Sands’ LP is nothing less than a cinematic narration of the stages of grief, crafted by one of jazz’s finest young composers. It’s a “breakup record,” to be sure — composed while Sands was experiencing the hurt that only a sudden absence of love can deliver — but it’s so much more. In its thoughtfully assembled nine tracks are a group therapy session, a guide to healing, and an understanding that Sands’ deeply personal angst could apply to any person who has lost a partner, a job, a loved one, an opportunity, the list goes on. In other words, Embracing Dawn is for everyone.

Jose Simioni
2025-12-10 21:00 - 2025-12-11 01:00 | Tupelo, 1337 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Experience the “uniquely Jose” sound as the legendary Jose Simioni takes the stage at Tupelo. A North Beach fixture for over two decades, Simioni is a self-taught master whose playing defies easy categorization. He eschews traditional licks for a deeply personal, improvisational style that makes his guitar “sing”—moving seamlessly from floating, lazy melodies to a rocking, soulful growl. Whether he is leading his trio or performing solo, a night with Simioni is a masterclass in musical identity.
The Sound: Simioni’s style is a sophisticated, gritty blend of Jazz, Blues, and Rock. Influenced by everyone from Jimi Hendrix and Eric Clapton to jazz greats like Joe Pass and Jim Hall, he has synthesized these icons into a sound that is entirely his own. His sets often feature “brilliantly unrecognizable popular tunes” delivered with a level of panache that only a veteran of the Grant Avenue circuit can provide.
The North Beach Legacy: Originally arriving from Washington D.C. with nothing but a guitar, an amp, and a sleeping bag, Simioni has since played every imaginable venue in San Francisco. His residencies at Tupelo and the neighboring Saloon have made him a living cornerstone of the city’s blues and jazz tradition.
Intimate Improvisation: As an artist who values “floating” melodies and spontaneous creation, Simioni turns the dim, red-lit atmosphere of Tupelo into an intimate laboratory for sound. His performances are rarely scripted, favoring the “restless melodicism” that comes from reacting to the room and the rhythm in real-time.
No Cover Charge: This world-class display of guitar artistry is open to all patrons with no cover. It is a quintessential North Beach experience: raw, authentic, and performed by a musician who has spent thirty years perfecting his craft in the heart of the city.

About Jose Simioni
Jose Simioni is a composer and guitarist who has built one of the most respected reputations in the San Francisco music scene. Refusing to sound like a carbon copy of his influences, he has spent his career developing an “unconventional” technique that prioritizes emotion and original phrasing over standard licks. Usually performing as part of an organ trio—often featuring seasoned pros like Tony Stead on the B3 and Dylan Garrison on drums—Simioni remains a “musician’s musician,” celebrated for his ability to make even the most familiar standards feel like a brand-new discovery.

G Riders
2025-12-11 16:00 - 20:00 | The Saloon, 1232 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
The G-Riders are a San Francisco-based ensemble composed of veteran musicians from the Bay Area blues and gospel-soul communities.
Takezo (Guitar/Vocals): Leads the group with a focus on traditional blues and soulful vocal delivery.
Kit Roscoe (Guitar): Provides additional guitar work, contributing to the band’s layered blues sound.
Dave Mehrwine (Keyboard): Handles the keys, grounding the group’s arrangements with classic blues textures.
Steve Hazlewood (Bass): A San Francisco native with nearly 50 years of professional experience, Hazlewood has previously performed with artists such as Elvin Bishop and Michael Osborn.
Randy Hayes (Drums): A seasoned drummer and North Beach regular who has toured extensively and worked with notable blues figures like Tommy Castro and Coco Montoya.

AK Trio
2025-12-11 18:00 - 21:00 | Etcetera Wine Bar, 795 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA, 94110, United States
AK Trio – Saxophone Live Jazz & Brazilian Music. Great Saxophonist Aaron Kranzler will be in the house with his Trio for some live Jazz & Brazilian Music on Wednesday’s at Etcetera Wine bar.

Latin Jazz with Viajo de la Musica
2025-12-11 18:00 - 21:00 | Scopo Divino, 2800 California St #101, San Francisco, CA, 94115, United States
​Viajó de la Música celebrates Latin Jazz with Saxophonist Renner leads this jazz quartet, featuring educated, creative, and expressive musicians primarily from the East Bay. Viva Bossa Nova!

Music @ Capo’s
2025-12-11 18:00 - 21:00 | Capo’s, 641 Vallejo St, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Rotating bands every Thursday at Capo’s from 6-9.

Steve Lucky’s Hammond Cheese Combo
2025-12-11 19:00 - 20:30, 2025-12-11 21:00 - 22:30 | Keys Jazz Bistro, 498 Broadway, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Best known as the leader of the Bay Area’s acclaimed swing and jump-blues band Steve Lucky & the Rhumba Bums, Steve Lucky brings his signature energy and showmanship to the The Hammond Cheese Combo. Drawn to the soulful sound of the Hammond B3, Lucky began playing organ in 1995 and quickly discovered a natural affinity for the instrument. His soulful, blues-infused approach anchors the Combo’s vibrant soul-jazz sound. Lucky is joined by guitarist and vocalist Carmen Getit, whose distinctive guitar work and captivating vocals have earned wide recognition from critics and audiences alike. The ensemble also features tenor saxophone phenom Kamrin Ortiz and drummer Greg Wyser-Pratte, known both for his dynamic performances and his TED Talk appearance on the art of improvisation. Together, the quartet delivers a delightfully engaging blend of original compositions, groovy soul-jazz, and unexpected musical twists, keeping audiences smiling and swinging.

Trio Côtier
2025-12-11 19:00 - 22:00 | Sheba Piano Lounge, 1419 Filmore St, San Francisco, CA, 94115, United States
Settle into a night of cool, sophisticated jazz with Trio Côtier at Sheba Lounge this evening!
Trio Cotier is a Bay Area favorite known for their refined take on the classic jazz piano trio format. They bring an easy elegance to the room, blending equal parts swing, Latin, and traditional jazz textures. Their sound is both timeless and stylish, often featuring lyrical piano work, supple bass lines, and an impeccable groove.
The trio specializes in jazz standards for a “cocktail vibe,” creating music that enhances the experience without overpowering conversation—perfect for a relaxed evening of drinks and company.
Join us for three hours of vibrant, world-class jazz in one of the city’s favorite live music spots!

Mae Powell Jazz Quartet Holiday Show!
2025-12-11 20:00 - 23:00 | Specs’ Twelve Adler Museum Cafe, 12 Saroyan Pl, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
SF based indie soul/jazz vocalist and bandleader Mae Powell returns to Specs, performing her take on classic jazz standards with a killer band! Check out her solo project here
Mae Powell is a Bay Area based jazz singer that brings a mellow atmosphere and classic vintage vibes to any space. She plays a mixture of jazz standards and bossa nova, channeling favorites from the past with songs from Ella Fitzgerald, Astrud Gilberto, and Billie Holiday. Some past performances include sold out shows at Mr. Tipples, Specs’ 12 Adler Cafe, The Page, Woods Taproom, Arcana, and the Golden Gate Park Boathouse

Live Music at the Lion’s Den
2025-12-11 20:00 - 23:00, 2025-12-12 20:00 - 23:00 | Lion’s Den, 57 Wentworth Pl, San Francisco, CA, 94108, United States
Step into the vibrant heart of San Francisco’s Chinatown and discover Lion’s Den Bar and Lounge, your ultimate destination for electrifying nightlife and unforgettable experiences. With an irresistible fusion of Asian-inspired cocktails, pulsating beats, and a captivating ambiance, Lion’s Den sets the stage for a night you won’t soon forget.

Live Jazz
2025-12-11 20:00 - 23:00 | Paris 75, 515 Broadway, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Paris 75’s rotating jazz bands turn this corner of North Beach into a little slice of the Left Bank. Each week a different small ensemble—trios, quartets, and vocal groups—leans into swing, standards, and café‑style jazz that pairs naturally with wine, cocktails, charcuterie, and late‑night conversation. The vibe is intimate and unhurried: close‑up solos, brushed drums, and melodies that drift through the room while guests linger over another round.

Katy Stephan
2025-12-11 20:00 - 23:00 | Comstock Saloon, 155 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Kathy Stephan brings torch songs, swing standards, and a touch of twang to the Comstock Saloon’s polished‑but‑raucous barroom. Her voice leans into the room’s natural reverb, floating over brushed drums, piano, and upright bass while cocktails clink and the lights stay low. Expect classic tunes, a few deep‑cut surprises, and the kind of between‑song banter that makes the band feel like part of the crowd. It’s the perfect soundtrack for settling into a leather booth, ordering something stirred, and letting the night stretch out a little longer than you planned.

Ghost Town Messengers, Jazz Trio
2025-12-11 20:45 - 23:45 | The Royale, 800 Post St, San Francisco, CA, 94109, United States
Ghost Town Messengers is a guitar trio from San Francisco, CA. Driving jazz fusion with a particularly groove oriented and instrumentally rich approach.
All seasoned jazz session players the Ghost Town Messengers have been playing together in different combos and pickup gigs for decades. Wishing to focus on the guitar trio format, their music emotes through selective chops and lyrical solo sections that ebb and flow like the tide of the SF Bay. Their original compositions bring to life Ernest Ranglin, Pat Metheny and Jon Scofield while subtly drifting into their own lane.
DAVID WRIGHT-guitar
CHRIS GAMPER-drums
JONATHAN BARKIN-bass

Matt Berkeley Variety Show
2025-12-11 21:00 - 2025-12-12 01:00 | Tupelo, 1337 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
A wide-ranging night of musical and comic performances led by Matt Berkeley at Tupelo.
Matt Berkeley & The Electric Folk is a San Francisco Bay Area-based group known for playing a mix of “dubfunk Soul music”. The band features Matt Berkeley on keyboards and vocals, along with a rotating lineup that includes musicians like Dylan Greengard on guitar and Nate Pedley on bass.

Lucky Losers
2025-12-11 21:30 - 2025-12-12 01:30 | The Saloon, 1232 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
The Lucky Losers are San Francisco’s premier six-piece blues-soul band. Fronted by fiery Dallas-raised vocalist Cathy Lemons and New Jersey harmonica master/vocalist Phil Berkowitz, the group delivers a throwback mix of blues, soul, rock, gospel, and Americana with impassioned vocals and electrifying interplay.
Lucky Losers
Jon Otis – Drums
Edgar San Gabriel – Bass
Chris Burns – Keyboard
Cathy Lemons – Vocals
Simon Govan-Smith – Guitar
Phil Berkowitz – Harmonica/Vocals

Mike Henderson
2025-12-12 16:00 - 20:00 | The Saloon, 1232 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Mike Henderson, dubbed “the Blues Professor” by John Lee Hooker, is a veteran blues guitarist, singer, and bandleader who holds a monthly afternoon slot at The Saloon, San Francisco’s oldest bar. His sets lean into electric Chicago and West Coast blues, with lived‑in vocals and sharp guitar work. It’s barroom blues at close range.

Katy Stephan
2025-12-12 17:00 - 19:00 | Comstock Saloon, 155 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Katy Stephan’s residency at Comstock Saloon turns the room into a small, candlelit listening space. At the piano she blends jazz‑inflected originals with reimagined standards and art‑pop tunes, her clear, expressive voice sitting right on top of the clink of glassware and low conversation. It’s an intimate, song‑forward set that feels equally at home as a soundscape for cocktails or as a close‑up performance for guests who want to lean in and really listen.

Magic School Busk
2025-12-12 17:00 - 21:00 | Red Window, 500 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
The Magic School Busk holds weekly residency directly in front of The Red Window at the corner of Stockton and Columbus. This high‑energy busking collective has become one of North Beach’s unofficial “resident joy‑makers,” blurring the line between band and audience as people pause, sing along, or dance on the sidewalk. Whether you are enjoying a gin tonic on the Red Window’s outdoor patio or just walking by with a cannoli in hand, the Busk provides a genuine North Beach experience.

About The Magic School Busk
Born from the city’s post-pandemic street-side revival, The Magic School Busk is a collective of veteran Bay Area musicians dedicated to the art of public performance. They emphasize the acoustic and the authentic, eschewing heavy amplification for the natural resonance of brass, strings, and woodwinds. Often featuring members from some of the city’s most popular jazz and swing outfits, the “Busk” is celebrated for its ability to read a crowd and create a party out of thin air. They represent the best of San Francisco’s musical resilience—keeping the city’s culture loud, proud, and accessible to everyone on the street.

Hipsteria
2025-12-12 18:00 - 21:00 | Etcetera Wine Bar, 795 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA, 94110, United States
Hipsteria is one of San Francisco’s favorite jazz, soul and party bands! Members of Hipsteria have included some of music’s legendary musicians!
Featuring “Tender Tim” on drums and some vocals Hipsteria plays every Friday at Etcetera Wine bar.

Jazz Mafia’s Holiday Heist
2025-12-12 19:00 - 20:30, 2025-12-12 21:00 - 22:30 | Keys Jazz Bistro, 498 Broadway, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Jazz Mafia’s Holiday Heist featuring Trance Thompson (vocals), Nataly Michelle Wright (vocals), Adam Theis (trombone & bass), Tommy Occhiuto (sax), Kevin Wong (keys), and Darian Gray (drums)
‘Tis the season—for a heist. Jazz Mafia’s Holiday Heist is a holiday show for people who don’t usually like holiday shows. Blurring the lines between jazz, soul, funk, and the unexpected, the band dives deep into genre-bending arrangements that turn familiar melodies inside out and spotlight lesser-known holiday gems rarely heard on stage.
Fronted by Trance Thompson and Nataly Michelle Wright, the group strikes a perfect balance between adventurous instrumental explorations and soulful, powerhouse vocals. This isn’t background music for wrapping presents—it’s a reimagined holiday soundtrack from one of the Bay Area’s most inventive ensembles.
Now celebrating 25 years of fearless creativity, Jazz Mafia continues to twist traditions into something new, dynamic, and delightfully unpredictable.

Barbara Gainer
2025-12-12 19:30 - 22:30 | Sheba Piano Lounge, 1419 Filmore St, San Francisco, CA, 94115, United States
Join us for an evening of sophisticated Blues and Jazz with the wonderful Barbara Gainer at Sheba Piano Lounge!
On Friday, December 12, from 7:30 pm to 10:30 pm, the intimate setting of Sheba Piano Lounge will be graced by the Bay Area’s own Barbara Gainer. A captivating vocalist and familiar voice from her time as a DJ on KPOO radio, Barbara Gainer is a true connoisseur of classic American music.
Her performances are a smooth, soulful journey through the heart of the genres. You can expect a repertoire built on classic Jazz standards and powerful Blues numbers, delivered with a voice that is rich, expressive, and deeply rooted in the traditions of the genre.
Settle in for a wonderful three hours of authentic, heartfelt music that provides the perfect soundtrack for a relaxed Friday night.

Andean and Latin World Music Night
2025-12-12 20:00 - 21:30 | Peña Pachamama, 1630 Powell St, San Francisco, 94133, United States
Two-time Latin Grammy nominee Eddy Navia and Quentin Navia are joined by master violinist Georges Lammam, dancers and dancing.
Their performances blend the charango (a traditional ten-string instrument), haunting sounds of panpipes (zampoñas) and notched flutes (kena) with high-energy rhythms.
You don’t need a plane ticket to experience a “little piece of South American carnaval,” dedicated to the spirit of Mother Earth (Pachamama).
Peña Pachamama serves an entirely plant-based and gluten-free menu. Highlights include Bolivian specialties like organic kale and quinoa salads, alongside raw and cooked vegan entrees.

Gaucho Jazz
2025-12-12 20:00 - 23:00 | Comstock Saloon, 155 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Gaucho is a masterful Bay Area band that combines the influence of gypsy jazz of 1930’s Europe with the rhythmic drive and collective improvisation of New Orleans swing music, gutbucket blues and elements of ragtime. Their sound, a uniquely American concoction, blends instrumental acuity and lighthearted humor that keep their audience coming back for more. As founder, guitarist, and main composer Dave Ricketts says, the band is “in love with the music of Louis Armstrong, Fats Waller and Jimmie Rodgers, as well as the stories, the life styles and the foot steps of hundreds of other great jazz, blues, country and rock musicians that created the sound of American Music from roughly 1900-1950’s”
Gaucho has recorded eight albums, tours regularly, and has an increasing repertoire of over forty original tunes. Seven of their tunes are featured in the 2012 film “Trattoria”; one was chosen by the Metropolitan Museum of Art for their website; and another is featured in the outtakes section of the Pixar DVD CARS 2. In 2018, Gaucho got a song in the Hollywood Movie “Destination Wedding” starring Keanu Reeves and Winona Ryder. And two of Dave’s own compositions will be placed in a New York City based indie film, “Stationed at Home,” in 2022.
Led by eminent guitarist, Dave Ricketts, the group has been a San Francisco mainstay for nearly twenty years, and one of the busiest bands in the bay area playing 5 to 10 gigs a week. Together with virtuosos Rob Reich–accordion and Craig Venetresco–guitar, superlative bassist Ari Munkres, the honorable Leon Oakley–cornet, and versatile percussionist Steve Apple, these guys keep crowds moving with their beats and complex rhythms.

Jinx Jones
2025-12-12 21:30 - 2025-12-13 01:30 | The Saloon, 1232 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Jinx Jones has been twice nominated for Male Rockabilly Artist of the Year by the Ameripolitan Music Awards, has received gold and platinum record awards for his work with R&B divas, En Vogue, has won songwriting awards and has been recognized as one of the hottest acts on the San Francisco music scene.
In Jinx Jones’ impressive musical career he has visited nearly every conceivable style and genre of the electric guitar. From his work Chuck Berry, Solomon Burke, and Roy Buchanan to his own acclaimed rockabilly albums, “License to Twang,” “Rumble & Twang,” “Rip and Run,” Live Twang in Finland.” And “Twang-Tastic!,” Jones has always strived to expand the possibilities of the instrument. He accepts every musical challenge head on, always making an impressive statement with his music. The one thing that remains consistent throughout Jones’ multi-stylistic journey is the grace and finesse of his virtuoso playing.

Marshall Law
2025-12-12 21:30 - 2025-12-13 01:30 | Tupelo, 1337 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Prepare for a sonic assault of the best kind as Marshall Law takes the stage at Tupelo. A long-time staple of the San Francisco music scene, this powerhouse trio is known for delivering a “powerful punch” of high-energy rock and roll. Specializing in the golden era of guitar-driven music, Marshall Law transforms the intimate Grant Avenue lounge into a stadium-sized experience, proving that a three-piece band can make more noise—and more soul—than an entire orchestra.
The Sound: Marshall Law delivers a masterful mix of Classic Rock, hard-hitting Blues, and contemporary favorites. Expect “blazing guitar” solos, a thunderous rhythm section, and a setlist that spans the greatest hits of the 70s and 80s, all played with a raw, modern edge that keeps the dance floor packed.
The Performance: Known for their technical brilliance and “crowd-favorite” status, the band thrives on the energy of the room. Whether they are tearing through a Led Zeppelin anthem or a grit-infused blues standard, their performance is characterized by a “no-holds-barred” approach to showmanship.
A North Beach Institution: As a recurring act at Tupelo, Marshall Law has built a loyal following of fans who appreciate the authentic, unvarnished sound of a real rock band. Their presence is a vital part of the venue’s reputation as the premier spot for live, high-octane music in the neighborhood.
No Cover Charge: This elite musical experience is open to all patrons with no cover. It’s a rare opportunity to see seasoned, world-class rockers in an accessible setting, making it the perfect destination for anyone looking for the “true grit” of San Francisco nightlife.

About Marshall Law
Marshall Law is a veteran San Francisco trio that has spent years honing their craft on the city’s most iconic stages. Celebrated for their “blazing” instrumentation and high-fidelity sound, the group has become synonymous with the spirit of North Beach rock and roll. While many bands lean into backing tracks or loops, Marshall Law remains committed to the power of live, spontaneous performance, ensuring that every show is a unique, high-energy event that honors the great tradition of the power trio.

Mission High Mariachi
2025-12-13 12:00 - 13:00 | San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Join us at the Winter Walk in Union Square for a special performance by the talented Mission High School Mariachi ensemble. These dedicated students from the Visual and Performing Arts program will be sharing the beautiful, rich musical traditions of mariachi, right here in the heart of San Francisco.
Mariachi music is the sound of celebration, combining the unmistakable power of trumpets and violins with intricate harmonies and driving rhythms. It’s the perfect way to add warmth, joy, and culture to your holiday experience!
Grab a hot drink, stroll through the festive lights of Union Square, and cheer on the incredible student musicians of Mission High as they bring this beloved Mexican art form to life.
Support our city’s amazing young artists and enjoy a performance you won’t soon forget!
