Posts in category: The Improv Cafe’

At The Improv Cafe’, we believe the true magic of jazz, big band, swing, and vocal jazz comes alive in the moment, raw and unfiltered. That’s why our airwaves are exclusively dedicated to the electrifying energy of live recordings. Every single note you hear on our station is a testament to the spontaneous brilliance and undeniable connection forged between musicians and their audience, exactly what we hope you find when you step out to experience the global tapestry of live jazz this weekend.

From intimate club settings to grand festival stages, the world is buzzing with the authentic sounds that stir the soul. Here’s a glimpse into where the vibrant pulse of live jazz, big band, swing, and vocal jazz can be felt across the globe, bringing to life the very essence we celebrate daily at The Improv Cafe’ – because every song played on our radio station is the live version.

New York City: The Epicenter of Improvised Brilliance

The city that never sleeps also never stops swinging. This Saturday, New York City offers a double dose of live vocal jazz and big band brilliance at the legendary Birdland Jazz Club, a venue that consistently delivers the kind of on-the-spot mastery we adore.

• Ashley Pezzotti takes the stage at Birdland Jazz Club on Saturday at 5:30 PM. Her captivating vocal jazz performance promises to deliver that unique, in-the-moment magic that only a live setting can provide. It’s the kind of spontaneous artistry that truly embodies why The Improv Cafe’ exclusively features live vocal jazz.
• Following at 7:00 PM at the Birdland Theater, The Anderson Brothers will transport you back to the golden age with their incredible tribute, “The Anderson Brothers Play Artie Shaw.” Imagine the thrilling, intricate arrangements and the powerful sound of a live big band, recreating the iconic sounds of swing. This is the very essence of live big band and swing that you’ll hear on our station – vibrant, immediate, and utterly captivating.
• Beyond Birdland, the BrownstoneJAZZ FEST CONCERT SERIES continues through Saturday, offering multiple opportunities to immerse yourself in the rich tapestry of live jazz. From the improvisational solos to the collective groove, these performances are exactly why The Improv Cafe’ plays nothing but live jazz.

New England’s Live Rhythm

Heading north, the spirit of live performance echoes through New Hampshire.

• In Portsmouth, at Jimmy’s Jazz and Blues Club, the incomparable Elew performs live on Saturday at 7:30 PM. Known for his electrifying blend of jazz and classical influences, seeing Elew live is an experience. For those who can’t be there in person, a livestream option ensures you can still tap into that live energy – a wonderful way to connect with the spontaneity that drives our live-only programming at The Improv Cafe’.

New Jersey’s Vocal Jazz Jewel

Closer to home, New Jersey plays host to a titan of vocal jazz.

• In Red Bank, the Hackensack Meridian Health Theatre welcomes the iconic Diana Krall for a live performance on Saturday at 8:00 PM. Her sultry voice and masterful piano work, delivered live on stage, exemplify the sophisticated vocal jazz that graces The Improv Cafe’ airwaves. We seek out these kinds of live performances, knowing they capture the true artistry and nuance that can only be found when an artist connects directly with their audience.

Festivals of Live Sound: From Pennsylvania to California

The summer festival season is a prime opportunity to witness jazz, big band, and swing in their most expansive and vibrant live forms.

• Mark your calendars for the Scranton Jazz Festival in Scranton, Pennsylvania, running from August 1st to 3rd. This incredible event boasts over 80 musicians across more than 20 venues, creating an unparalleled atmosphere for experiencing every facet of live jazz, big band, and swing. It’s a testament to the thriving live music scene, offering a veritable feast of performances that would make any live jazz enthusiast’s heart sing – and exactly the kind of energy we strive to capture when we broadcast only live versions of these timeless genres.
• Out on the West Coast, the City Center Bishop Ranch Smooth Jazz Series in San Ramon, California, offers Saturday evening performances throughout July. Featuring luminaries like Jonathan Butler, Brian Simpson & Jackieem Joyner, and Rick Braun, these live concerts showcase the smooth yet undeniably spontaneous side of contemporary jazz. The thrill of hearing these artists perform their hits and improvise in the moment is precisely why The Improv Cafe’ commits to playing only live versions.

In Pennsauken, the Koran Agan Trio will be playing at St. Mazie Bar and Supper Club on Saturday evening, July 5th, at 7:30 PM. Also at St. Mazie’s, the Julian Smith Trio will be performing on Friday. In Philadelphia, South Jazz Kitchen is featuring Glenn Bryan & Friends with shows on Saturday and Sunday, July 5th and 6th, with varying showtimes. Additionally, Chris’ Jazz Cafe has events with featured artists like Chuck Redd & Tony Miceli (Steve Weiss Mallet Festival), and others Chris’ Jazz Cafe. 

Here’s a more detailed breakdown:

Pennsauken:

• Koran Agan Trio: Saturday, July 5th, 7:30 PM at St. Mazie Bar and Supper Club
• Jazz with Julian Smith Trio: Friday, July 4th, at St. Mazie Bar and Supper Club
• Belle Hampton Presents: The July Tapes: Friday, July 4th, 5:30 PM at 538 Hart St
• Secret Parlor Jazz: Home-Cooked Tunes & BBQ Dinner: Sunday, July 6th, 2:00 PM, location revealed in confirmation email 

Philadelphia:

• Glenn Bryan & Friends: Saturday, July 5th & Sunday, July 6th, varying showtimes at South Jazz Kitchen 
• GOOD VIBES featuring Chuck Redd & Tony Miceli (Steve Weiss Mallet Festival): Chris’ Jazz Cafe 
• Various artists at Chris’ Jazz Cafe: Check Chris’ Jazz Cafe for specific showtimes and featured artists 

• Events | South Jazz Kitchen in Philadelphia, PAEVERETTE HARP | THURS JULY 3 | PRESENTED BY UNSCRIPTED JAZZ | 6:30PM & 9:00PM. GLENN BRYAN & FRIENDS | SAT JULY 5 & SUN JULY 6 | S…South Jazz Kitchen
• All Events – Chris’ Jazz CafeGOOD VIBES featuring Chuck Redd & Tony Miceli (Steve Weiss Mallet Festival) … Dinner & Show fees include server gratuities.Chris’ Jazz Cafe
• Jazz Events & Tickets in Pennsauken, NJ – Music – EventbriteThis weekend * Koran Agan Trio. Sat, Jul 5 • 7:30 PM. St Mazie Bar and Supper Club. From $17.85. Save this event: Koran Agan Trio…Eventbrite
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Tune In for the Live Experience

Whether you’re planning to attend one of these incredible performances or simply seeking to immerse yourself in the authentic sounds of jazz, big band, swing, and vocal jazz, remember that the magic is in the moment. At The Improv Cafe’, we are your dedicated source for that magic, because every single song played on our radio station is the live version. Tune in and feel the energy, anytime, anywhere.

At The Improv Cafe’, where the air is always rich with the spontaneous brilliance of improvisation and every song played is the live version, we’re already buzzing with anticipation for the grandest celebration of jazz on the planet! The Festival International de Jazz de Montréal is poised to return for its spectacular 45th edition, lighting up the vibrant Quartier des spectacles from June 26th to July 5th, 2025. For ten glorious days, Montreal transforms into the undeniable global epicenter of jazz, a paradise for anyone who cherishes the raw energy and unparalleled artistry that only a live performance can deliver.

As your trusted source for the most authentic and vibrant sounds – remember, our radio station only plays live Jazz, Big Band, Swing, Vocal Jazz – Every song played is the live version – we understand the profound connection forged when music is experienced in the moment. The Montreal Jazz Festival, renowned as the world’s largest gathering of its kind, embodies this very spirit, offering an astounding schedule of over 350 concerts, many of which are completely free, inviting everyone to immerse themselves in the rhythm.

Your Essential Guide to the 2025 Montreal Jazz Festival: A Live Music Pilgrimage

Planning your pilgrimage to this unparalleled musical Mecca? Here’s what you need to know to make the most of every live note:

• Dates to Circle: Mark your calendars from June 26th to July 5th, 2025. These ten days promise an auditory feast.
• The Epicenter: All the action unfolds in the pulsating heart of Montreal, the Quartier des spectacles, Quebec, Canada. This district is designed to host such grand celebrations, ensuring an electrifying atmosphere for every live set.
• Accessing the Groove: The beauty of this festival is its accessibility. Entrance to the festival site and the multitude of outdoor concerts is entirely free, truly embodying the inclusive spirit of jazz.
• Seamless Enjoyment: For your convenience, the festival site operates on a cashless basis, accepting all major credit and debit cards. This means more time enjoying the live performances and less time fumbling for change!
• Weathering the Tunes: Expect generally pleasant Canadian summer weather. Daytime temperatures could reach the low 80s, perfect for outdoor shows, with evenings cooling down to the low 60s. A light rain jacket is a savvy addition to your packing list for those quintessential summer showers.
• The Lineup – A Symphony of Stars (Always Live!): The 2025 roster is nothing short of phenomenal, a testament to the festival’s enduring prestige. Imagine the diverse sounds echoing through the streets as artists like Nas, the genre-bending Thundercat, the iconic Violent Femmes, the soulful Ben Harper, the incomparable Esperanza Spalding, the charming Jeff Goldblum and the Mildred Snitzer Orchestra, the legendary Mavis Staples, the innovative Bonobo, the visionary Madlib, the dreamy Men I Trust, the regal Wynton Marsalis, the brilliant Branford Marsalis, the captivating Rhiannon Giddens, the ethereal Arooj Aftab, the sensational Samara Joy, the enduring Gary Bartz, the captivating Lalah Hathaway, the dynamic James Francies, and the profound Derrick Hodge grace the stages. Each performance, we assure you, will be a testament to the power of live music.
• Concert Venues – From Open Air to Intimate Clubs: While the Quartier des spectacles will pulsate with numerous free outdoor shows, some premier performances will require tickets and take place in Montreal’s renowned concert halls and intimate jazz clubs. This offers a chance to experience the full spectrum of live jazz, from grand spectacles to up-close encounters with legendary musicians.
• Stay Connected: For the most up-to-the-minute details, including schedule changes and additional artist announcements, always refer to the official Festival International de Jazz de Montréal website.

Featured Gigs You Won’t Want to Miss (As Heard Live on The Improv Cafe’!)

While The Improv Cafe’ is dedicated to bringing you live jazz recordings from across the globe, there’s nothing quite like being there. Here are 14 gigs you absolutely must consider booking now for the Montreal Jazz Festival 2025, ensuring you experience the magic of every song played as the live version:

• June 26th: Witness the soulful fusion of Bilal and the enduring gospel power of Mavis Staples. Two legends, one stage, pure live magic.
• June 27th: The innovative percussion of Makaya McCraven takes the stage, joined by Theon Cross, promising a rhythmic journey that can only truly be appreciated live.
• June 28th & 29th: A truly unique experience as Nas performs his seminal work, ILLMATIC, LIVE with a Symphony Orchestra. This fusion of hip-hop and classical arrangement is a must-see for any live music aficionado.
• June 29th: Get ready for the vibrant energy of PJ Morton and the irresistible groove of Ghost-Note. Their live performances are legendary!
• June 30th: The masterful Avishai Cohen Trio will perform with a symphony orchestra, offering a breathtaking live soundscape. Also on this day, immerse yourself in the compelling sounds of Nubya Garcia.
• July 1st: Experience the eclectic brilliance of Thundercat and the deep grooves of Derrick Hodge. Their live interpretations are always a revelation.
• July 2nd: The powerful blues-rock of Ben Harper promises an unforgettable live show, alongside the captivating artistry of Linda May Han Oh.
• July 5th: Conclude your festival journey with the extraordinary talent of Esperanza Spalding. Her innovative approach to vocal jazz and bass is truly transformative in a live setting.

Beyond the Main Stage: Montreal Swing Riot Returns!

Adding another layer of vibrant energy to the festival, the Montreal Swing Riot is also making its grand return from July 3rd to 6th, 2025. For lovers of live Swing and Big Band jazz, this concurrent event offers even more opportunities to dance, celebrate, and immerse yourself in the infectious rhythms that are a cornerstone of The Improv Cafe’s daily playlist.

Samara Joy: A Live Vocal Jazz Sensation Honored with the Ella Fitzgerald Award

In a truly exciting announcement, the extraordinary vocal jazz sensation Samara Joy is set to receive the prestigious Ella Fitzgerald Award at the 2025 Montreal Jazz Festival on June 28th at Maison Symphonique. Samara Joy, whose captivating voice breathes new life into classic standards, embodies the future of vocal jazz, and we at The Improv Cafe’ are immensely proud to see her honored for her incredible talent and dedication to the live performance tradition. Her interpretations are always a highlight when The Improv Cafe’ plays live Vocal Jazz recordings.

The Montreal Jazz Festival 2025 is more than just a series of concerts; it’s a testament to the enduring power of live music, a place where improvisation reigns supreme and every single note tells a story. We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable experience. And remember, if you can’t be there in person, The Improv Cafe’ will be bringing you the spirit of Montreal through our carefully curated selection of live Jazz, Big Band, Swing, and Vocal Jazz – because for us, every song played is the live version!

Welcome to The Improv Cafe’, where the spirit of spontaneous creation and the timeless allure of live performance are celebrated every single day. As the premier destination for enthusiasts of pure, unadulterated musical magic, our radio station stands apart: Every song played on The Improv Cafe’ is the live version. We bring you the raw energy of Live Jazz, the majestic power of Live Big Band, the infectious swing of Live Swing, and the captivating intimacy of Live Vocal Jazz. It’s not just music; it’s an experience, a moment captured forever in sound.

Today, we’re diving into the vibrant world of live jazz, showcasing exciting performances and notable news that keeps the heart of this genre beating strong.

On Stage Now: Unforgettable Live Performances Across the Globe

The allure of live jazz is undeniable, and venues across the country are bustling with incredible talent:

• Philadelphia’s South Jazz Kitchen is heating up June with an exceptional lineup. Kicking off the month, we have the smooth sounds of Jackiem Joyner (June 12-13), followed by the vibrant energy of Warren Oree & The Arpeggio Jazz Ensemble (June 14). This weekend, celebrate Father’s Day with a special Dinner & Jazz Set (June 15). Later in the month, look forward to captivating performances by Nasir Dickerson (June 19), the dynamic YolanDa Brown (June 20-22), the soulful Ragan Whiteside (June 26), and the incredible Carol Riddick (June 27-29). Each of these engagements promises the authentic, spontaneous brilliance that only a live performance can deliver, precisely the kind of artistry you hear every day on The Improv Cafe’ Radio Station.
• For those craving an even deeper dive into the archives of legendary performances, Jazz Live by Jazz at Lincoln Center offers an invaluable subscription service. Subscribers gain access to an unparalleled library of live shows, iconic archival concerts, and insightful artist interviews, bringing the rich history of jazz directly to your ears.
• Keeping the rhythm alive in the birthplace of jazz, the New Orleans Jazz Museum hosts a fantastic weekly Courtyard Live-Stream Concert Series. Every Tuesday at 5 PM, their Facebook page becomes a virtual venue, offering a taste of the city’s vibrant live music scene from anywhere in the world.
• Closer to home, Chris’ Jazz Cafe in Philadelphia continues its vital work in nurturing talent. They recently received a significant grant to bolster their “Sisterhood of Jazz” series, a powerful initiative dedicated to showcasing and supporting emerging women in jazz. This kind of grassroots support is essential for ensuring the continued evolution and diversity of the genre, fostering the next generation of live performers that The Improv Cafe’ champions.

Beyond the Stage: New Releases and Enduring Legacies

The jazz world is also abuzz with exciting new releases and important news reflecting on the genre’s enduring impact:

• A captivating collaboration is on the horizon with the upcoming June release of “Sargal,” a duo album by Volker Goetze and Ali Boulo Santo Cissoko. This unique project, featuring the masterful percussionist Mino Cinélu, promises a fresh, improvisational sound that transcends traditional boundaries, perfectly aligning with the spirit of Live Jazz that defines The Improv Cafe’ Radio Station.
• Jazz24 continues to offer a window into contemporary jazz with its featured studio sessions, recently showcasing talents like Khu.éex’, Francesco Crosara, The Wood Brothers, The Cookers, Jahari Stampley, and Leroy Bell. While these are studio sessions, they capture the improvisational spirit and raw talent that is inherent in all live jazz performance.
• In a heartwarming development, NPR reported on a new fellowship providing substantial grants of $100,000 each to 20 seasoned jazz musicians. This vital support will undoubtedly empower these experienced artists to continue creating and performing, ensuring their invaluable contributions to Live Jazz continue for years to come.
• The jazz community recently mourned the passing of Roy Ayers, the legendary vibraphonist and composer, widely celebrated for his iconic track “Everybody Loves The Sunshine.” His enduring legacy and soulful live performances will forever resonate in the annals of Live Jazz.
• UK Jazz News paid a heartfelt tribute to the esteemed vocalist Lillian Boutté, reminding us of the profound impact of her unique voice and captivating live presence.
• Industry stalwarts like JazzTimes continue to provide in-depth coverage of influential artists, recently featuring legends such as Hal Galper and Maria Schneider, while DownBeat brought news from the acclaimed drummer Al Foster, keeping fans connected to the pulse of the genre’s living history.

For those eager to experience the vast breadth of recorded live performances, streaming platforms offer incredible access:

• ALL ARTS has curated an impressive list of jazz concerts and shows readily available for streaming, bringing the energy of the stage directly to you.
• Similarly, medici.tv boasts an extensive library of streaming jazz performances and concerts, offering a truly global panorama of talent and improvisation.

Finally, the vital work of the Jazz Foundation of America continues to provide essential support to musicians in need, ensuring that the artists who bring us so much joy through Live Jazz are cared for.

At The Improv Cafe’ Radio Station, we are dedicated to bringing you the vibrant, dynamic, and ever-evolving world of Live Jazz, Live Big Band, Live Swing, and Live Vocal Jazz. Tune in and let the improvisational spirit move you!

At The Improv Café, we don’t just play jazz—we breathe it. From smoky club sets to full-blown big band spectacles, every single track you hear on our station is 100% live. No studio takes. No overdubs. Just the raw, real-time brilliance of musicians performing in the moment, capturing that electric connection between artist and audience.

We’re proud to be the only station that plays Live Jazz, Swing, Big Band, and Vocal Jazz 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Whether you’re sipping your morning coffee, cruising down the highway, or winding down after a long day, The Improv Café brings the vibrant energy of a live jazz performance directly to your ears—anytime, anywhere.

🎺 The Heartbeat of Live Jazz

There’s something extraordinary about live jazz that studio recordings can’t replicate. It’s the spontaneity. The improvisation. The conversation between horns, strings, keys, and drums. It’s the clinking of glasses in the background, the subtle hum of anticipation before the downbeat, the cheer from the crowd after a solo that caught everyone by surprise.

At The Improv Café, we honor that spirit 24/7. From small combo sets in Greenwich Village basements to roaring big bands lighting up Carnegie Hall, every piece we play was recorded live, where the magic really happens.

🎷 Explore the Best of Live Jazz Clubs

The Improv Café is inspired by the world’s most legendary live jazz clubs—places where careers are born and legends return to show they’ve still got it.

• Village Vanguard, NYC: Where Coltrane, Evans, and Blakey made history.
• Green Mill Cocktail Lounge, Chicago: A speakeasy steeped in swing and soul.
• Snug Harbor, New Orleans: Pure Crescent City jazz energy in every note.
• Yoshi’s, Oakland: West Coast excellence meets intimate live vibes.

These venues have hosted some of the most iconic live sets in jazz history—and we’re playing them all. When you tune in, you’re not just hearing music. You’re stepping inside these clubs and experiencing every blue note and bebop run as if you were there.

🎼 The Sound of Swing and Big Band—Live and Unfiltered

Whether it’s Duke Ellington’s orchestra burning through “Take the A Train” or Count Basie’s band delivering a soul-shaking “April in Paris,” The Improv Café gives you the grandeur and groove of live Big Band and Swing the way it was meant to be heard.

We dive deep into live recordings from the greats:

• Glenn Miller and the US Army Air Force Band
• Benny Goodman’s 1938 Carnegie Hall concert
• Artie Shaw’s live radio broadcasts
• Modern swing revival acts lighting up festival stages worldwide

It’s that high-voltage, brassy energy that only a live ensemble can deliver—tight arrangements, fiery solos, and a rhythm section that swings like mad.

🎤 Vocal Jazz That Connects—Live, Intimate, Powerful

Nothing compares to a live vocal jazz performance. The phrasing, the breath, the pause, the smile in the singer’s voice—it’s pure emotional storytelling.

We feature live performances from icons like:

• Ella Fitzgerald dazzling crowds with scat improvisations
• Sarah Vaughan melting hearts with ballads
• Frank Sinatra commanding Vegas stages with effortless swagger
• Nina Simone blending jazz, blues, and activism with unmatched soul
• Modern vocalists like Diana Krall and Gregory Porter, owning the stage

Every note is performed in the moment, carrying the electricity of the room and the intimacy of the artist’s voice.

🎷 Live Jazz Festivals & Concerts – From the Main Stage to Your Speakers

From Montreux to Newport, North Sea to Monterey, Jazz Fest in New Orleans to the Tokyo Jazz Festival, The Improv Café captures the essence of live jazz festivals from across the globe. These aren’t just concerts—they’re celebrations of jazz in its wild, evolving, and expressive forms.

Expect sets from:

• Miles Davis commanding outdoor stages
• Herbie Hancock bending genres under the stars
• Wynton Marsalis keeping tradition alive in front of thousands
• Esperanza Spalding, Kamasi Washington, and other modern giants bringing new energy to the scene

These moments live on through rare and iconic recordings, and The Improv Café is your front-row seat to all of it.

📻 Why Live Music Matters — And Why We’ll Never Play Studio Cuts

Jazz is not a genre—it’s a conversation. A living, breathing art form that changes with every performance. That’s why The Improv Café only plays live recordings. We believe the best way to honor the legacy and future of jazz is to hear it as it’s meant to be heard—on stage, in the moment, in the presence of an audience.

With every trumpet blast and whispered lyric, you’re hearing history being made. You’re hearing risk. You’re hearing emotion. You’re hearing truth in sound.

🎶 Tune In—Anytime, Anywhere

Whether you’re a lifelong jazz lover or just discovering the genre, The Improv Café is your sanctuary for live jazz, swing, big band, and vocal jazz—around the clock.

📍 Broadcasting 24/7
🎺 100% Live Recordings Only
💻 Stream worldwide on your favorite device
🔗 Visit us at Explore New Jersey – The Improv Café

☕ The Improv Café – Where Jazz Comes Alive

Step into a world where the music never stops and every note is real. Pour a drink, settle in, and let the sounds of live jazz carry you away. Whether it’s a quiet club trio, a swinging big band, or a breathtaking vocal set, The Improv Café is your all-access pass to the most authentic jazz experience on the airwaves.

🎷 No studio tricks. No backing tracks. Just jazz, live and alive, 24 hours a day.