North Beach Live

Jazz Nights @ Novela!
2026-04-27 18:30 - 21:30 (America/Los_Angeles) | Novela, 662 Mission Street, San Francisco, CA, 94105, United States
Get ready to groove to smooth jazz tunes and sip on cocktails at the coolest spot in town – it’s Jazz Nights @ Novela!

ZinggFlower: a tribute to Drew Zingg
2026-04-27 18:30 - 21:30 | Biscuits & Blues, 401 Mason Street, San Francisco, CA, 94102, United States
Join us for a night of captivating live music as GamperDrums presents a stellar ensemble featuring Brian Pardo on guitar, John R. Burr on piano, Marina Crouss on vocals, Ruth Davies on bass, and Chris Gamper on drums. Blending elements of jazz, soul, and improvisational music, this dynamic group delivers expressive grooves, rich harmonies, and inspired performances that highlight the depth and diversity of the Bay Area music scene.

Piano night at The Royal Cuckoo Organ Lounge
2026-04-27 19:00 - 22:00 | Royal Cuckoo Organ Lounge, 3202 Mission St, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Piano nights at The Royal Cuckoo Organ Lounge are characterised by their early start times and the use of the venue’s vintage Steinway Upright piano, which differs from the lounge’s typical focus on its prominent Hammond organ.
Piano Monday shows start at 7:00 PM and typically run until 10:00 PM.
Cover Charge: There is never a cover charge for entry. However, musicians often pass a donation basket, so bringing a small amount of cash is recommended.

Le Jazz Hot Quartet
2026-04-27 20:00 - 23:00 | Local Edition, 691 Market St, San Francisco, CA, 94105, United States
Paul PAZZO Mehling- Solo Guitar, Vocals, Leader
Isabelle Fontaine- Rhythm Guitar, Vocals
Evan Zeppo Price- Violin
Dexter DeWi Williams- String Bass
Le Jazz Hot (the Quartet/Trio of the Hot Club of San Francisco) is an ensemble of accomplished and versatile musicians celebrating the music of Django Reinhardt and Stephane Grappelli’s pioneering Hot Club de France. The ensemble borrows the all-string instrumentation of violin, bass and guitars from the original Hot Club, but breathes new life into the music with innovative arrangements of classic tunes and original compositions from the group’s superb lead guitarist Paul Mehling. Hearing the ensemble live, or on any of their eleven albums, carries the listener back to the 1930’s and to the small, smoky jazz clubs of Paris or the refined lounges of the famous Hotel Ritz. Often called gypsy jazz, the music of Le Jazz Hot has entranced audiences around the globe for over 30 years. Critics have hailed the group’s playing as “intricate, scorching and often brilliant…” Acoustic Guitar. From festivals in Mexico and France to concert halls across North America, Le Jazz Hot keeps this historic music fresh and alive.

Silver Bell Jazz Band
2026-04-27 20:00 - 23:59 | Dawn Club, 10 Annie St, San Francisco, CA, 94103, United States
Silver Bell Jazz Band inspires dancers and listeners all over the Bay Area. The band specializes in ragtime, blues, swing, and dixieland from the early 20th century. They’re known for their authenticity and dedication to the craft as well as their foot-tapping energy

Dirty Works Jazz Jam
2026-04-27 20:00 - 2026-04-28 01:30 | Persona, 685 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA, 94102, United States
The Dirty Works Jazz Band brings its weekly jam session to Persona. Led by upright bassist Kyle Finley, these “Dirty Works & Friends” nights transform the North Beach venue into a buzzing jazz laboratory. Far from a casual background set, this is a professional performance environment where the house band sets a high bar before inviting local players to sit in and trade solos on the fly.
The repertoire is heavily inspired by the “Golden Era” of jazz (1945–1965), specifically the catalogs of Riverside, Impulse, and Blue Note records. Expect a hard-driving mix of bebop, hard bop, heavy swing, and Latin jazz.
Every session begins with the house rhythm section—usually featuring Finley on bass alongside keys, guitar, and drums—anchoring the first few numbers. As the night progresses, local jazz musicians are swapped in, creating a dynamic, evolving soundscape.
Unlike “casual jam circles,” Finley emphasizes that these nights are first and foremost a show for the audience. The band prioritizes a polished, professional sound, ensuring that even the most experimental improvisations remain engaging for the listeners in the room.

About Kyle Finley
Kyle Finley is a San Francisco-based upright bassist and the driving force behind the Dirty Works musical collective. His mission is to foster a “living jazz scene” through consistent residencies and jams that prioritize musical excellence and community. Beyond his work on stage, Finley is known for his commitment to the local jazz culture, often documenting these sessions through his own photography and managing a rigorous schedule of “Dirty Works” events across the city to ensure the music never stops.

The San Francisco Invitational Jam
2026-04-27 21:00 - 2026-04-28 01:00 | Tupelo, 1337 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Step into the inner circle of the city’s music scene with THE San Francisco Invitational Jam at Tupelo. Held every Monday night from 9:00 PM – 1:00 AM, this is widely considered the definitive jam session for professional players and serious students of the craft. Hosted by the “nastiest rhythm section this side of South Dakota”—Andrew Coutti on drums and Young Blake on bass—the evening serves as a high-stakes proving ground where the Bay Area’s best talent comes to stretch their creative muscles.
The Sound: This isn’t your average open mic; it is a high-octane exploration of Roots, Soul, R&B, and Funk. The house band sets a blistering pace, and the music often leans into deep-pocket grooves and sophisticated jazz-fusion arrangements that demand technical precision and quick improvisational thinking.
The “Invitational” Edge: While the session is open to high-level guests, it maintains an invitational spirit, meaning the stage is curated to ensure a top-tier musical experience for the audience. Each week features a different special guest vocalist, ensuring that the “soul” of the night is always fresh and evolving.
A Networking Hub: Monday nights at Tupelo act as the unofficial headquarters for off-duty working musicians. It’s a place where bandleaders scout for subs, songwriters find collaborators, and the community gathers to celebrate the raw, unscripted power of live music.
No Cover, All Access: Despite the world-class musicianship on display, there is no cover charge. It provides an accessible “masterclass” environment for fans who want to see how the city’s musical engine runs behind the scenes.

About the Invitational Jam
Founded on the belief that San Francisco needs a consistent home for professional musical dialogue, the Invitational Jam has outlasted countless other sessions in the city. Hosts Andrew Coutti and Young Blake are veteran players known for their “unprecedented chemistry” and ability to back any guest with a rock-solid, funky foundation. Over the years, the jam has hosted everyone from local legends to touring pros, cementing Tupelo’s reputation as a vital sanctuary for the preservation of San Francisco’s live R&B and Funk traditions.

GG Amos
2026-04-28 16:00 - 20:00 | The Saloon, 1232 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Electrifying, Innovative, Soulful
GG Amos has entertained audiences her entire life, but she’s made blues and blues guitar her specialty for the past 35 years.
Concert halls, nightclubs, roadhouses, restaurants, festivals, parties, wineries, weddings and wakes she’s played them all!
She’s known as a riveting, electrifying performer and unique songwriter and arranger, focusing on the west coast blues style– a blend of blues, jazz, funk and latin elements. Her guitar playing and voice
are both fluid and lyrical. Soul jazz has also become part of her repertoire.
Paris Bertolucci on keys
Randy Lee Odell on drums
GG Amos on vocals and guitar

Richmond Special
2026-04-28 18:00 - 21:00 | Etcetera Wine Bar, 795 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA, 94110, United States
Get ready for a chill night mixing smooth jazz vibes with some down-home country tunes featuring Joe Dileo and Travis Geyer on guitars.
Enjoy Richmond Special playing some country, swing, jazz and blues while sipping on your wine at Etcetera in the Mission.

The West Coast Blues Revue: Live Blues
2026-04-28 18:30 - 21:30 | Biscuits & Blues, 401 Mason Street, San Francisco, CA, 94102, United States
The West Coast Blues Revue brings together a rotating lineup of top-tier Bay Area talent, led by the incomparable Hal Petcher. Each show delivers a fresh mix of powerhouse players — from Chris Burns to Tim Wagar and surprise guests — all locking in for raw, soulful, high-energy blues that hits you right in the chest. With musicians who play like they’ve got something to prove, it’s one of the most electric, authentic blues experiences in San Francisco.

The North Beach Django
2026-04-28 19:30 - 22:30 | Paris 75, 515 Broadway, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Transport yourself to a 1930s sidewalk café in Montmartre as North Beach Django takes residency at Paris 75 every Tuesday. Located on the edge of the historic Broadway corridor, this charming French lounge provides the perfect backdrop for the “Hot Club” sound. With its selection of authentic French cocktails and wines, the venue feels less like a San Francisco bar and more like a secret sanctuary for lovers of European jazz and vintage aesthetics.
The Sound: North Beach Django delivers an authentic exploration of Jazz Manouche (Gypsy Jazz). Their sound is defined by the “pumping” rhythm of acoustic guitars and soaring, melodic solos. Expect a repertoire of high-speed swing, haunting French musette waltzes (like “L’Indifférence”), and soulful ballads that capture the bittersweet spirit of the early 20th century.
The Django Legacy: The group’s mission is to honor the revolutionary style of Django Reinhardt, the legendary Romani-French guitarist who pioneered this genre. Despite losing the use of two fingers in a fire, Reinhardt’s virtuosic speed and unique harmonic language changed jazz forever. The band keeps this fire alive, utilizing the same acoustic string-band format—no drums, just pure rhythmic drive.
The Players: The group is led by a core of the Bay Area’s finest “manouche” specialists, often featuring Ned Boynton on guitar, Eddie Scher on guitar, and Kenan O’Brien on bass. Their chemistry is a masterclass in the “interlocking” style of Gypsy Swing, where the lead and rhythm guitars work in a constant, high-speed dialogue.
The Community Jam: In the spirit of the Parisian cafés where this music was born, the evening often evolves into a welcoming session. After the first set, the band frequently opens the floor to “acoustic sitter-inners”—strings, accordions, and woodwinds—making it a vibrant hub for the local jazz community.

About Paris 75
Paris 75 is a sophisticated French cocktail lounge that serves as a cultural bridge between San Francisco and the “City of Light.” Named after the postal code for Paris, the bar specializes in regional French wines and signature cocktails like the “French 75.” The intimate, candlelit space is designed for conversation and attentive listening, making it the ideal home for the acoustic nuances of North Beach Django. It is a place where time slows down, and the legacy of the great European troubadours feels remarkably present.

The Cottontails
2026-04-28 19:30 - 22:30 | Specs’ Twelve Adler Museum Cafe, 12 Saroyan Pl, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
The Cottontails are one of San Francisco’s most exciting musical groups, playing a wide range of styles ranging from 20’/30’s Gatsby-era jazz, classic 40’s swing, and vintage 50’s/60’s R&B. The band’s versatility allows it to accommodate many settings, from quiet acoustic duo to jazz quintet, to full dance band with horns and guitar. Able to custom tailor our line-up to fit your event’s specific needs, the Cottontails are available to perform for parties, weddings, corporate occasions and public concerts.
The Cottontails are Karina Denike on vocals, Michael McIntosh on piano, Vic Wong on guitar, Joe Kyle, Jr. on bass, Tom Griesser on saxophone/clarinet, and the irrepressible Randy Odell on percussion. Also featuring some of the Bay Area’s finest musicians as guests, including Scott Larson on trombone, Henry Hung on trumpet, Ari Munkres on bass, and vocalist Christie Winn.
The Cottontails have performed at jazz clubs, dance halls, cabarets and art events, at venues including SF City Hall, California Academy of Sciences, Bimbo’s 365 Club, Palace of Fine Arts, Amoeba Records, SF Legion of Honor, Yoshi’s SF/Oakland, San Francisco Maritime Museum, Cell Space, Great American Music Hall, and various clubs, concert series and jazz festivals in Northern California, New York City, Tokyo, England, and Germany. Our clients include Google, Apple, Ebay, Facebook, and SF MOMA, among many others. The Cottontails have shared the stage with James Hunter, Richard Cheese, The California Honeydrops, Veronica Klaus and other musical luminaries.

Gaucho Jazz
2026-04-28 19:30 - 22:30 | DecoDance Bar, 1160 Polk St., San Francisco, CA, 94109, United States
Step into DecoDance on a Thursday night and you’ll find Gaucho turning the Art Deco lounge into a Paris-meets-San-Francisco swing party. Their hot-club–inspired sound — acoustic guitars, bass, and horns weaving gypsy jazz, musette, and classic swing — pairs perfectly with the bar’s Great Gatsby mood and craft cocktails. Grab a booth under the moody lights, order a drink, and let the band’s playful, high-energy sets pull you toward the dance floor as the night unfolds.

The Local Edition Jazz Orchestra
2026-04-28 20:00 - 23:00 | Local Edition, 691 Market St, San Francisco, CA, 94105, United States
Live every Tuesday exclusively at Local Edition! The Local Edition Jazz Orchestra is a diverse group of long-time friends that have played alongside one another for years. The ensemble ranges from having as little as 8 to as many as 18 participants performing with occasional guest singers such as Billy Valentine, Bud E. Luv (aka Bobby Vickers), and Tom Scott.

Hal Bigler Band
2026-04-28 20:00 - 23:00 | Comstock Saloon, 155 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Step back in time at Comstock Saloon, where the Hal Bigler Band holds court every Tuesday night from 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM. Set in a meticulously restored 1907 building at the crossroads of North Beach and Chinatown, this residency perfectly matches the band’s vintage sound with a setting of intricate carved wood, cozy booths, and pre-Prohibition style. Known for serenading guests from the saloon’s unique upstairs stage, the band provides an elite, high-fidelity soundtrack that transforms a weeknight into a cinematic San Francisco experience.
The music is a masterclass in Traditional Jazz and Swing, often leaning into a “bawdy” and soulful energy that keeps the room vibrant. The ensemble features a rotating cast of the city’s finest instrumentalists—Cliff Myer on Guitar, Bob Johns on Piano, Mauro Pannitto on Bass, Marty Brewer on Drums, and Rick Brown on Trombone. Hal Bigler’s improvisational flair honors the roots of early 20th-century jazz while keeping the energy modern and infectious.
The atmosphere at Comstock during these sets is both elegant and unpretentious, drawing a mix of jazz aficionados, cocktail enthusiasts, and neighborhood regulars. Whether you are seated at the bar enjoying a classic Ramos Fizz or tucked into a booth for dinner, the Hal Bigler Band ensures that the spirit of old North Beach remains loud and alive. With no cover charge and a front-row seat to world-class musicianship, it is one of the city’s most essential and accessible live music traditions.

About the Hal Bigler Band
Hal Bigler is a veteran of the San Francisco jazz scene, known for his “steady hand” on the upright bass and his ability to curate top-tier ensembles. His band has become a cornerstone of the North Beach live music circuit, praised for preserving the high-energy “hot jazz” style that once defined the city’s nightlife. Occasionally collaborating with unique performers like burlesque dancers, the group remains dedicated to the idea that jazz should be a multi-sensory, high-energy party. Their Tuesday night residency at Comstock is widely considered one of the best spots in the city to watch this live jazz combo.

Marcos Varela
2026-04-28 20:00 - 23:59 | Dawn Club, 10 Annie St, San Francisco, CA, 94103, United States
Marcos Varela, an equally skilled doubler at both acoustic and electric bass, is among the most highly respected bassists/musicians in the American and International Jazz/music scene. His talents have also earned him many awards (YoungArts, Creative Capital, Jazz Road) and accolades as a musician, composer, producer, band leader, and educator.
In his hometown of Houston, Texas, Varela attended the renowned High School for the Performing & Visual Arts, which paved the path for him to NYC to attend the storied New School on scholarship. As a professional musician, he continues to be very active in the New York jazz and contemporary music scene, and has made a name for himself as one of the most in-demand bassists in the City and worldwide. He regularly performs with a wide variety of ensembles and band leader including: The Mingus Big Band, Nasheet Waits, John Holiday, George Cables, Ingrid Jensen, ‪Billy Hart‬, Antoine Roney, Charli Persip, ‪Clifton Anderson‬, ‪Jason Moran‬, ‪Geri Allen‬, ‪The Last Poets‬, ‪Leslie Odom, Jr‬., Frank Lacy’s Vibe Tribe, ‪Kendrick Scott‬, ‪Billy Harper‬, ‪Tyshawn Sorey‬, and Bob Mover, among countless others. Varela was also selected as a member of ‪Jazz at Lincoln Center‬ trombonist Vincent Gardner’s Jazz Houston, which has featured guests such as ‪Gregory Porter‬, ‪Wynton Marsalis‬, ‪Ruben Blades‬ and‪ Jon Faddis‬‬. As a composer, Varela has also composed music for several film and television projects, including director Domenica Cameron-Scorsese’s film “Roots in Water.”
Legendary bassist ‪Ron Carter‬ contributed to the liner notes for Varela’s Origin Records debut album “San Ygnacio,” where Carter writes that Varela’s “Tone, Choice of Notes and Compositions will place his playing and name on the list of bassists to be heard.” In addition, Mr. Carter has made statements regarding Varela’s musical contributions, saying of him “a valuable asset to any musical organization,” “a truly unique musician,” “Mr. Varela belongs in the top bass players in the industry and his impressive resume confirms my words,” “a fine example of talent that is essential to the scene,” and “top notch proficiency on his instrument as well as a complete understanding of the history and details of the jazz art form.”
In addition to sideman work, Varela leads his own projects. This includes a European tour which featured a festival headlining performance of the music of his debut album “San Ygnacio” at the historic Jazz á Liège festival in Liege, Belgium. This project (Marcos Varela featuring Billy Hart)‬ shared a billing with Fred Hersch‬’s Trio at the festival. He also headlined leading an all star quartet at Prishtina’s Jazz Week in Kosovo, in March of 2020. He opened for the Legendary Mavis Staples with his “San Ygnacio project” in his hometown of Houston, TX at Discovery Green in October 2021 and most recently headlined the 30th anniversary of the Bilbaina Jazz Association in Bilbao, Spain at the beautiful and historic Teatro Arriaga Antzokia in December 2021. Varela’s newest projects include “One Mind,” recently released on the Spanish label Fresh Sound Records, with pianist Peter Zak, as well as Seamus Blake and Billy Drummond. Another project on the same label “Illumination” featuring Rob Garcia, Marcos Varela, John O’Gallagher, and ‪Noah Preminger,‬ was the most recent release on December 15th, 2020.
Marcos was also a recent recipient of a South Arts “Jazz Road” grant and a Creative Capital fellow and Awardee
Marcos is an NS Design, Aguilar Amplification, Kolstein, Thomastik-Infeld Strings, Fishman, Mono Creators, and Fodera Artist.

Jose Simioni Trio
2026-04-29 16:30 - 20:30 | The Saloon, 1232 Grant Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Jose Simioni Trio’s improvisational jazz performance at The Saloon from 4:30pm to 6:30pm with Dylan Garrison on drums and Tony Stead on the organ.

Le Jazz Hot
2026-04-29 18:00 - 21:00 | Scopo Divino, 2800 California St #101, San Francisco, CA, 94115, United States
Looking for the perfect weekly escape? Join us at Scopo Divino as we welcome Le Jazz Hot, playing live every week!
Le Jazz Hot is comprised of members from the internationally renowned Hot Club of San Francisco. These musicians are masters of Gypsy Jazz, a truly unique and joyful style pioneered by the legendary Django Reinhardt and Stéphane Grappelli’s Quintette du Hot Club de France.
Get ready for an energetic performance featuring a lineup of violin, bass, and guitars, all capturing that distinctive swing rhythm. You’ll hear a fantastic mix of Gypsy Jazz standards, pop songs reimagined in that swinging style, and original compositions.
Led by guitarist and arranger Paul ‘Pazzo’ Mehling, Le Jazz Hot delivers a sophisticated, lively, and truly authentic musical experience that has delighted audiences for years.
Grab a seat, order a great glass of wine, and let this band transport you to the vintage jazz clubs of Paris! It’s the perfect way to make any weeknight feel like a special occasion.

Wednesday Big Table
2026-04-29 18:30 - 20:30 | Specs’ Twelve Adler Museum Cafe, 12 Saroyan Pl, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
An open gathering of writers, poets, artists and more around the Big Table at Specs every Wednesday from 6:30-8:30pm! This more than 40 year tradition began with writers Jack Hirschman and Agneta Falk, and continues on with hosts Agneta and writers Byron Spooner and Judith Bernhard. Join us for drinks, laughs, good conversation and become a part of this longstanding Specs tradition! Everyone welcome!

Jonn Del Toro Richardson: Unplugged
2026-04-29 18:30 - 21:30 | Biscuits & Blues, 401 Mason Street, San Francisco, CA, 94102, United States
Jonn Del Toro Richardson grew up around Houston, Texas, and you can hear it in every note he sings and plays. You can hear the Latin music that is his birthright – his uncles, aunts and grandparents played in touring mariachi bands, and often got together to play on the back porch. You can also hear the influence of the country and R&B music that was played in his house, and particularly the blues that drifted strongly over his grandparents’ backyard fence from the next neighborhood and took hold with Jonn to be the centerpiece of his musical identity.

Loco Tranquilo
2026-04-29 18:30 - 21:30 | Etcetera Wine Bar, 795 Valencia St, San Francisco, CA, 94110, United States
Loco Tranquilo brings a 6:30–9:30 pm set to Etcetera Wine Bar, led by Buenos Aires–born singer, songwriter, and composer Julián Armando Gervasi, now based in San Francisco. His project fuses indie rock, psychedelic pop, freak folk, and jazzy textures, drawing on influences like The Velvet Underground, Devendra Banhart, Mac DeMarco, Radiohead, and Pescado Rabioso. The songs blend European Latin spirit from Buenos Aires with the dreamy, nostalgic atmosphere of San Francisco, creating warm, romantic, and slightly surreal moods that fit a seated wine-bar listening room.

Marcos Varela Quartet
2026-04-29 19:00 - 20:15 | Mr. Tipples, 39 Fell St, San Francisco, CA, 94102, United States
Liberty Ellman | GuitarPatrick Wolff | TenorJerome Gillespie | DrumsMarcos Varela | Bass

The Soul Sessions: Joe Warner, Dante 'Taz' Roberson, Michael 'Tiny' Lindsey & Angelo Luster
2026-04-29 19:00 - 20:30 | Black Cat Jazz Supper Club, 400 Eddy St, San Francisco, CA, 94109, United States
Midweek just got a whole lot deeper.
JaZzLine INSTITUTE presents The Soul Sessions: an electrifying live music series bringing the Bay Area’s finest to the stage at Black Cat every Wednesday night, March through May. For just $10 cash, experience world-class musicianship up close in an intimate setting where jazz, soul, gospel, funk, and R&B collide.
Seats are limited. The vibe is undeniable. Make your reservations now while supplies last.
Meet this Quartet:
Joe Warner is setting the Bay Area jazz scene on fire. A rising star with a captivating touch and electrifying stage presence, Warner serves as pianist and musical director for the legendary Miss Faye Carol while leading his own acclaimed Joe Warner Trio.
He’s shared stages and studios with jazz icons including Houston Person, Jeff “Tain” Watts, Buster Williams, and Gary Bartz, and has crossed genre lines alongside cultural heavyweights like Mistah F.A.B., The California Honeydrops, and Robert Randolph.
With deep groove, fearless versatility, and a modern sensibility rooted in tradition, Warner delivers fresh takes on jazz standards, blues, ballads, and adventurous swingin’ — proving he truly has the keys to the future.
Distinguished drummer and founder of the Da Groove Collective Jazz Quartet, Dante “Taz” Roberson brings over two decades of live performance and touring experience to every stage he touches. Known for his powerful grooves and creative command of rhythm, Taz has performed with Eric Benet, Cameo, Joe, Kem, Alicia Keys, Najee, Tank, Tony! Toni! Toné!, and Howard Wiley. His dynamic style has captivated audiences at iconic venues like London’s Jazz Café and major festivals including San Jose and the Hollywood Bowl Jazz Festivals.
Rooted in the rich musical culture of the Bay Area, his sound blends funk, jazz, and classic R&B into a collective vibe that feels both nostalgic and strikingly contemporary.
A world-class bassist and background vocalist, Michael “Tiny” Lindsey has performed with some of the biggest names in music: John Legend, Alicia Keys, John Mayer, Boyz II Men, Common, Jay-Z, and more. His television appearances include The Tonight Show, Jimmy Kimmel Live, Rosie O’Donnell, Martha Stewart, and Last Call with Carson Daly.
Born into a musical family, Lindsey was performing professionally in New York by age fifteen. His versatility across pop, R&B, rock, jazz, blues, funk, and gospel has taken him on global tours throughout the U.S., Europe, Japan, South America, and Africa.
Beyond touring, he’s a respected writer, arranger, and producer, contributing to albums by Sunshine Anderson, Ryan Shaw, and Shawn Raiford. When Tiny locks in, the groove becomes undeniable.
Described as “a rose sprung from a rock,” Oakland native Angelo Luster is a saxophonist whose rich, soulful tone carries listeners on a spiritual journey. His sound is born from the union of contemporary gospel and West Coast jazz — powerful, prayerful, and deeply expressive. A scholarship student of UC Berkeley’s Young Musicians Program at age twelve, Luster trained extensively in jazz and classical music before going on to perform at festivals throughout the U.S. and Europe.
He has shared stages with Boyz II Men, Rosemary Clooney, Mercer Ellington, Maynard Ferguson, Diane Schurr, Billy Taylor, Joe Williams, and more. An award-winning artist and Best Male Jazz Artist recipient, Luster’s recordings — including Face 2 Face and his latest EP Sunday Mornin’ — reflect his mission to inspire through music that feeds both soul and spirit.
The Soul Sessions at Black Cat Where groove meets spirit. Where legends and rising stars share one stage. Where Wednesday nights feel like church for music lovers.
Supported by a Culture Forward grant from The Svane Family Foundation Band
Lineup: Joe Warner, piano Dante ‘Taz’ Roberson, drums Michael ‘Tiny’ Lindsey, bass Angelo Luster, saxophone

Erik Jekabson Quartet plays Early Miles
2026-04-29 19:00 - 20:30 | Keys Jazz Bistro, 498 Broadway, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
Erik and his quartet (Adam Shulman, Marcus Shelby and Jeff Marrs) play some of Miles’ music from his early years, going back to his collaborations with Charlie Parker, Sonny Rollins and Horace Silver.
Erik Jekabson is a freelance trumpet player, composer, arranger and educator who lives in the San Francisco Bay Area. He is equally busy playing and composing for different bands, leading his own groups, (the Erik Jekabson Sextet, Quintet, the String-tet and the Electric Squeezebox Orchestra) teaching a wide variety of students and running the Young Musicians Program at the California Jazz Conservatory.
He’s spent time on the road with Illinois Jacquet, John Mayer, Galactic, and the Howard Fishman Quartet. As an arranger and composer, he’s arranged for the San Francisco Symphony, the BBC Radio Orchestra, Utah Symphony, the Daggerboard Collective, Throttle Elevator Music, and the Electric Squeezebox Orchestra, which holds a monthly residency at the California Jazz Conservatory in Berkeley.

Live Jazz
2026-04-29 19:00 - 21:00 | Ti Piacera, 1507 Polk St, San Francisco, CA, 94109, United States
Break up the work week with an evening of live jazz at Ti Piacera!
Every Wednesday from 7:00 pm to 9:00 pm, this cozy Polk Street destination hosts a rotating selection of talented local jazz ensembles. While the specific band changes from week to week, you can always expect a high-quality musical experience featuring some of San Francisco’s most dedicated jazz musicians.
It is the perfect atmosphere for a refined dinner or a relaxed drink, providing a sophisticated backdrop of live improvisation and classic melodies in an intimate neighborhood setting.

Dennis Palmieri
2026-04-29 19:00 - 22:00 | Sheba Piano Lounge, 1419 Filmore St, San Francisco, CA, 94115, United States
Join Dennis Palmieri for an evening of melodic storytelling and “Pop Piano Cabaret” at Sheba Piano Lounge on Wednesday from 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM. Shifting away from the venue’s traditional jazz and blues, Palmieri brings a warm, singer-songwriter sensibility to the Fillmore. His sets are a journey through the soundtracks of the 70s and 80s, blended with original compositions from his recent debut EP, Avenues.
The Sound: Palmieri specializes in loungy, piano-driven renditions of iconic pop and soft-rock favorites. Expect a repertoire influenced by the likes of Billy Joel, Cat Stevens, and James Taylor—music where the melody is front and center and the lyrics invite you to sing along.
Original Artistry: The performance also showcases Palmieri’s own work, including his local anthem “Avenues,” an ode to finding one’s home in San Francisco. His songwriting is deeply personal, often exploring themes of self-discovery and urban life with a melodic, sophisticated touch.
Intimate & Engaging: As a performer who thrives on human connection, Palmieri turns the lush, candlelit environment of Sheba into a communal living room. It’s an evening designed for relaxation, where the music feels like a familiar conversation between old friends.
A Different Shade of Sheba: While many nights at the lounge are defined by high-energy jazz or deep blues, Palmieri’s residency offers a calm and enjoyable mid-week alternative, perfect for those who appreciate the craft of a classic piano man.

About Dennis Palmieri
Originally from Long Island and inspired by the storytelling of the great 70s singer-songwriters, Dennis Palmieri has become a beloved fixture in the San Francisco cabaret and lounge scene. After years away, he returned to the city to find his voice as a solo artist, launching his signature “Pop Piano Cabaret” and releasing his first EP in late 2025. Known for his “unpretentious mastery” and relatable stage presence, Palmieri is part of a new wave of performers bringing the intimate, song-focused tradition of the classic piano lounge back to the forefront of San Francisco nightlife.

Peninsula Project
2026-04-29 20:00 - 23:00 | Comstock Saloon, 155 Columbus Ave, San Francisco, CA, 94133, United States
The Peninsula Project brings a high-energy, “jumpin’” jazz experience to the historic Comstock Saloon every Wednesday from 8:00 PM – 11:00 PM. Led by pianist and vocalist Eric Shifrin, this quartet specializes in a blend of swing, stride, and classic jazz that feels perfectly at home in one of the city’s oldest and most atmospheric bars. With no cover charge, these sessions turn the corner of Columbus and Pacific into a mid-week sanctuary for fans of authentic, small-combo swing.
The Sound: The quartet delivers a lively repertoire featuring piano-driven swing, soulful trombone leads, and “boogie-woogie” rhythms. Their setlist often includes original compositions by Shifrin alongside tributes to legends like Earl “Fatha” Hines and Ivory Joe Hunter.
The Lineup: The ensemble features a tight-knit group of Bay Area veterans:
Eric Shifrin: Piano and Vocals
Rick Brown: Trombone
Carl Herder: Bass
Garry Williams: Drums

About the Peninsula Project
The Peninsula Project is known for its “easygoing technical mastery” and infectious sense of fun. Bandleader Eric Shifrin, a mainstay of the San Francisco jazz scene, is celebrated for his witty vocal delivery and stride-piano prowess. Whether performing at the historic Cadillac Hotel or anchoring their residency at the Comstock, the group prioritizes the conversational, improvisational spirit of jazz, ensuring that every Wednesday night feels like a spontaneous neighborhood celebration.

Magic School Busk
2026-04-29 20:00 - 23:00 | Persona, 685 Sutter St, San Francisco, CA, 94102, United States
Turn your midweek slump into a vibe at Persona SF! Every Wednesday at 8 PM, the Magic School Busk brings an electrifying fusion of Funk, Soul, Latin, Afro, and more to keep the energy high all night long.
Let the rhythm elevate your evening as this dynamic collective delivers a genre-blending experience that’s impossible to ignore. Whether you’re sipping on our signature cocktails or simply soaking in the sounds, Wednesdays at Persona are your new weekly ritual.

Jazz Jam Session
2026-04-29 20:00 - 23:00 | Stookey’s Blue Room, 891 Bush St, San Francisco, CA, 94108, United States
This is a drop in jazz jam session, led by rotating musicians. Come catch the next generation of jazz cats and be transported back in time to the 1920’s.

Rotating Bands at the Lion’s Den
2026-04-29 20:00 - 23:00 | Lion’s Den, 57 Wentworth Pl, San Francisco, CA, 94108, United States
Experience the resurgence of San Francisco’s historic Chinatown nightlife at the Lion’s Den. Tucked away on Wentworth Place, this bi-level lounge and performance space blends modern cocktail culture with the East meets West spirit of the Chinatown’s golden age. Every week, the venue transforms into a unique destination for live music, featuring a rotating roster of the city’s up and coming funk, soul, and R&B ensembles.
The Sound: From 8:00 PM to 11:00 PM, the stage belongs to a curated selection of live bands. The rotation frequently features bands such as Mark Maiden, Funky Sound Experience, Jay Neal, The Groove Foundation, Baycoin Beats, and Git With It. Whether it’s deep-pocket funk or smooth contemporary soul, the music is designed to bridge the gap between a sophisticated lounge set and a packed dance floor.
The Atmosphere: The design features plush velvet banquettes, historic photography, and dim, moody lighting. It is a space built for “adult” nightlife—where you can enjoy an Asian-inspired craft cocktail during the live set before the room transitions to a high-energy DJ vibe after 11:00 PM.
The Experience: The Lion’s Den is a rare “no cover” gem in the heart of the city, offering world-class musicianship in an intimate, stylish setting. It is a place to rediscover the “cool” of Chinatown while supporting the next generation of San Francisco’s musical talent.

A Legacy Reclaimed
The Lion’s Den occupies a legendary footprint in San Francisco history. In the 1940s and 50s, Chinatown was a global nightlife epicenter, home to iconic clubs like the Forbidden City. The current venue at 57 Wentworth Place was once the site of Dragon A Go Go, a 1960s hotspot that kept the neighborhood buzzing during the height of the San Francisco counterculture. After decades of relative quiet due to changing zoning laws, the reopening of The Lion’s Den in 2021 marked the first new nightclub to open in Chinatown in nearly 40 years. Today, it stands as a cultural bridge, honoring the glamour of the “Harlem of the West” era while providing a vital modern stage for Asian-American artists and the local creative community.
