With Fall in full gear, there are plenty of wonderful options on our Columbus Jazz Calendar, so my list of Shows To See This Week was hard to narrow down! One great choice is Tony Monaco and the Grinders, playing Dick’s Den on Friday, October 13th at 10pm. Named after “Organ Grinder Swing,” The Grinders recently reunited – this is their first gig in 20 years. One of Monaco’s earliest groups finds the organist joined by John Boerstler on guitar, Joe Crump on sax and Aaron Scott on drums. As Scott has said, the band’s sound “was a unique combination of jazz/blues and classic organ soul jazz” – read more of his thoughts on this era here. Hopefully there are more gigs to come, but your attendance at their grand return is highly recommended! As always, cover is $5.
Saturday, October 14th (7:30 – 10:30pm): Rachel Sepulveda Trio at Black Point. Vocalist Sepulveda, having completed her Masters of Music in jazz performance at Western Michigan University in 2017, is back in town and performing regal vocal jazz in great Columbus venues like this Short North home of steak and sushi. She will be accompanied by Erik Augis (piano) and Andy Woodson (bass) for a night of “lovely swingin’ arrangements and also some originals inspired by the American songbook style.” Call 614.221.5294 for reservations. And check out Sepulveda’s recently updated website for info on her upcoming schedule and much more.
Sunday, October 15th (6 – 8pm): Robert Mason Trio at Barcelona. Making a name for itself as one of Columbus’ finest piano trios, I really enjoyed checking out the group at the Harrison Park Jazz Stage recently. See them in a more formal, but still relaxed, setting at one of Columbus’ best destinations for fine dining and live jazz. Pianist Mason, bassist John Allen, and drummer Willie Barthel blend classic trio jazz with soul and modern R&B for a sound that reveres standards but is also alive with modern style. Reservations are available here. Visit Mason’s website to learn and hear more!
Have a great week!