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Events

Nick Collins Sextet - SOLD OUT
Dec
27

Nick Collins Sextet - SOLD OUT

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
Now in their second year of residency at the Blue LLama Jazz Club, the Nick Collins Sextet found their home playing the late set on Saturday nights. Accustomed to coming onstage after acts from Sean Dobbins to Kenny Garrett, the sextet keeps audiences engaged late into the night by keeping the energy high and the arrangements varied.

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Nick Collins Sextet
Dec
27

Nick Collins Sextet

DOORS 9PM | SHOW 9:30-10:30PM
Now in their second year of residency at the Blue LLama Jazz Club, the Nick Collins Sextet found their home playing the late set on Saturday nights. Accustomed to coming onstage after acts from Sean Dobbins to Kenny Garrett, the sextet keeps audiences engaged late into the night by keeping the energy high and the arrangements varied.

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Isis Damil
Dec
28

Isis Damil

DOORS 5:30PM | SHOW 6:30-7:30PM

Isis Damil is a Detroit-bred singer and songwriter. Her fiery, mezzo vocals blend with jazzy R&B melodies to share stories of confidence, sensuality, and spirituality. Her sultry, soulful aura is a culmination of her own development as an artist and woman, and is reflected seamlessly throughout her music.

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Isis Damil
Dec
28

Isis Damil

DOORS 8:15PM | SHOW 9-10PM

Isis Damil is a Detroit-bred singer and songwriter. Her fiery, mezzo vocals blend with jazzy R&B melodies to share stories of confidence, sensuality, and spirituality. Her sultry, soulful aura is a culmination of her own development as an artist and woman, and is reflected seamlessly throughout her music.

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Noah Hogan Quartet
Dec
29

Noah Hogan Quartet

DOORS 5PM | SHOW 6-7PM

DOORS 7:15PM | SHOWTIME 7:30-8:15PM

Guitarist and composer Noah Hogan leads his Quartet exploring the intersections between Jazz, Brazilian music, and film scores.

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Late New Year’s Eve Dinner & Show ft. Thornetta Davis & Mike Bonner - BAR SEATS ONLY
Dec
31
to Jan 1

Late New Year’s Eve Dinner & Show ft. Thornetta Davis & Mike Bonner - BAR SEATS ONLY

DOORS 9PM | SHOW 9PM-12:30AM - SET 1: 9:30-10:45PM | SET 2: 11:15PM - 12:30AM

Join us for a New Year’s Eve celebration at Blue LLama Jazz Club with dinner and a show! In addition to a phenomenal performance by Detroit's Queen of Blues and a special set by comedian Mike Bonner, you can enjoy a four course chef-curated tasting menu and a champagne toast as we count down to 2025!

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Cliff Monear Trio
Jan
8

Cliff Monear Trio

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
DOORS 8:30PM | SHOW 8:45-9:45PM

Cliff Monear is a professional jazz pianist and has performed all over the world with some of the biggest stars in show-business.

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Lisa Sung Quartet
Jan
9

Lisa Sung Quartet

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
DOORS 8:30PM | SHOW 8:45-9:45PM

Award winning jazz pianist and educator Lisa Sung is a talented and versatile pianist, studied in both classical and jazz music. She will be joined by Houston Patton, Dylan Sherman and NYC dummer Wenting Wu.

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WEMU 5:01 Jazz Series: Vincent York 
Jan
10

WEMU 5:01 Jazz Series: Vincent York 

DOORS 4PM | SHOWTIME 5:01PM
Vincent York, a saxophonist and bandleader, has toured with the Duke Ellington Orchestra under Mercer Ellington and performed with legends like Ray Charles, Ella Fitzgerald, and Aretha Franklin. A versatile musician with roots in classical and jazz studies, he founded Vincent York’s New York Force and released acclaimed recordings, blending his mastery of jazz with a rich musical heritage.

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Olivia Van Goor Quartet
Jan
10

Olivia Van Goor Quartet

DOORS 6:15PM | SHOW 7-8PM

Olivia Van Goor is a jazz vocalist, arranger, composer, producer, and educator in Southeast Michigan. With a knowledge of the Great American Songbook, jazz tradition, and a natural swing feel, she always delivers an excellent show any music lover will enjoy.

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Olivia Van Goor Quartet
Jan
10

Olivia Van Goor Quartet

DOORS 9PM | SHOW 9:30-10:30PM

Olivia Van Goor is a jazz vocalist, arranger, composer, producer, and educator in Southeast Michigan. With a knowledge of the Great American Songbook, jazz tradition, and a natural swing feel, she always delivers an excellent show any music lover will enjoy.

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Bob Mervak & Jeff Pedraz
Jan
12

Bob Mervak & Jeff Pedraz

DOORS 5PM | SHOW 6-7PM
DOORS 7:15PM | SHOWTIME 7:30-8:15PM
Pianist Bob Mervak and bassist Jeff Pedraz will explore deep cuts of The Great American Songbook, intimately scaled down to piano, bass, and vocal.

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Moises Borges & Ava Preston
Jan
15

Moises Borges & Ava Preston

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
Moises Borges, a Cleveland-based guitarist and vocalist from Bahia, Brazil, brings the vibrant sounds of Samba and Bossa Nova to life with his soothing voice and engaging storytelling. Performing solo or with his band, Borges blends original compositions and timeless classics by Brazilian legends like Jobim and Gilberto, creating unforgettable experiences for lovers of Brazilian jazz.

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Moises Borges & Ava Preston
Jan
15

Moises Borges & Ava Preston

DOORS 8:30PM | SHOW 9-10PM
Moises Borges, a Cleveland-based guitarist and vocalist from Bahia, Brazil, brings the vibrant sounds of Samba and Bossa Nova to life with his soothing voice and engaging storytelling. Performing solo or with his band, Borges blends original compositions and timeless classics by Brazilian legends like Jobim and Gilberto, creating unforgettable experiences for lovers of Brazilian jazz.

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Jonathan Barahal Taylor Quartet
Jan
16

Jonathan Barahal Taylor Quartet

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
DOORS 8:30PM | SHOW 8:45-9:45PM

Drummer/Composer Jonathan Barahal Taylor leads a band of phenomenal musicians while they perform a book of dynamic original music and interprets lesser-heard work from some of the great composers of Black American Music.

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Sean Dobbins Quintet
Jan
17

Sean Dobbins Quintet

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM

Sean Dobbins and his quintet will perform high energy set featuring music from his new recording The World We Know along with jazz standards and R&B.

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Sean Dobbins Quintet
Jan
17

Sean Dobbins Quintet

DOORS 9PM | SHOW 9:30-10:30PM

Sean Dobbins and his quintet will perform high energy set featuring music from his new recording The World We Know along with jazz standards and R&B.

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Matt Von Roderick
Jan
18

Matt Von Roderick

DOORS 5:30PM | SHOW 6:30-7:30PM

Matt Von Roderick is an innovative jazz trumpeter and vocalist hailed as “a post-millennial Chet Baker” by The New York Times. His poignant sound and uplifting performances have graced iconic venues like Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and The Kennedy Center. Known for his collaborations with legends such as Brad Mehldau, Antonio Sanchez, and Dionne Warwick, Matt’s artistry blends trumpet virtuosity with dreamy vocals and jazz roots.

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Matt Von Roderick
Jan
18

Matt Von Roderick

DOORS 8:15PM | SHOW 9-10PM

Matt Von Roderick is an innovative jazz trumpeter and vocalist hailed as “a post-millennial Chet Baker” by The New York Times. His poignant sound and uplifting performances have graced iconic venues like Carnegie Hall, Lincoln Center, and The Kennedy Center. Known for his collaborations with legends such as Brad Mehldau, Antonio Sanchez, and Dionne Warwick, Matt’s artistry blends trumpet virtuosity with dreamy vocals and jazz roots.

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Late Night: Blou Reed
Jan
18

Late Night: Blou Reed

DOORS 10:15PM | SHOW 10:30PM - CLOSE
Blou Reed is a band which combines the funk stylings of Roy Hargrove and Endea Owens with the beat and groove of The jazz messengers.

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Etta & Ella ft. Sarah D’Angelo & Cliff Monear
Jan
19

Etta & Ella ft. Sarah D’Angelo & Cliff Monear

DOORS 5PM | SHOW 6-7PM
DOORS 7:15PM | SHOWTIME 7:30-8:15PM
Cliff and Sarah deliver an extraordinary show spotlighting the iconic music of Ella Fitzgerald and Etta James. These two powerhouse vocalists in their own right have a library of works that are familiar and fun, soulful, and swinging!

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The Headhunters ft. Mike Clark
Jan
23

The Headhunters ft. Mike Clark

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
The Headhunters, the legendary jazz-funk group co-led by Bill Summers and Mike Clark with NEA Jazz Master Donald Harrison, celebrated 50 years of innovation in 2023. Known for their groundbreaking work with Herbie Hancock on Head Hunters, Thrust, and Man-Child, the band has continued to push boundaries, releasing classics like Survival of the Fittest and their latest album, The Stunt Man. Joining them are New Orleans music scene veterans Chris Severin and Kyle Roussel, as they embark on a European tour in 2024.

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The Headhunters ft. Mike Clark
Jan
23

The Headhunters ft. Mike Clark

DOORS 9PM | SHOW 9:30-10:40PM
The Headhunters, the legendary jazz-funk group co-led by Bill Summers and Mike Clark with NEA Jazz Master Donald Harrison, celebrated 50 years of innovation in 2023. Known for their groundbreaking work with Herbie Hancock on Head Hunters, Thrust, and Man-Child, the band has continued to push boundaries, releasing classics like Survival of the Fittest and their latest album, The Stunt Man. Joining them are New Orleans music scene veterans Chris Severin and Kyle Roussel, as they embark on a European tour in 2024.

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Nick Collins Sextet
Jan
24

Nick Collins Sextet

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
Now in their second year of residency at the Blue LLama Jazz Club, the Nick Collins Sextet found their home playing the late set on Saturday nights. Accustomed to coming onstage after acts from Sean Dobbins to Kenny Garrett, the sextet keeps audiences engaged late into the night by keeping the energy high and the arrangements varied.

View Event →
Nick Collins Sextet
Jan
24

Nick Collins Sextet

DOORS 9PM | SHOW 9:30-10:30PM
Now in their second year of residency at the Blue LLama Jazz Club, the Nick Collins Sextet found their home playing the late set on Saturday nights. Accustomed to coming onstage after acts from Sean Dobbins to Kenny Garrett, the sextet keeps audiences engaged late into the night by keeping the energy high and the arrangements varied.

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Allen Dennard Quintet
Jan
25

Allen Dennard Quintet

DOORS 5:30PM | SHOW 6:30-7:30PM

Allen Dennard is a trumpeter, composer and bandleader who has made five appearances as a sideman in the Detroit Jazz Festival and was chosen to be a headliner at the Detroit Jazz Festival, showcasing his group “The Allen Dennard Quintet”.

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Allen Dennard Quintet
Jan
25

Allen Dennard Quintet

DOORS 8:15PM | SHOW 9-10PM

Allen Dennard is a trumpeter, composer and bandleader who has made five appearances as a sideman in the Detroit Jazz Festival and was chosen to be a headliner at the Detroit Jazz Festival, showcasing his group “The Allen Dennard Quintet”.

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Late Night: Laura-Simone Quartet
Jan
25

Late Night: Laura-Simone Quartet

DOORS 10:15PM | SHOW 10:30PM - 11:45PM
Laura-Simone Martin, a 19-year-old bassist and vocalist, has performed at prestigious venues like the BBC Proms and Carnegie Hall and was part of Marcus Miller’s bass ensemble for Oscar-winning director Steve McQueen’s exhibit Bass. Rooted in her faith, she is passionate about using her music to inspire and uplift, while delivering a powerful sound.

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Fareed Haque Trio
Jan
26

Fareed Haque Trio

DOORS 5PM | SHOW 6-7PM
Fareed Haque is a modern guitar virtuoso. Steeped in classical and jazz traditions, his unique command of the guitar and different musical styles inspire his musical ventures with tradition and fearless innovation. 

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Fareed Haque Trio
Jan
26

Fareed Haque Trio

DOORS 8PM | SHOW 8:30-9:30PM
Fareed Haque is a modern guitar virtuoso. Steeped in classical and jazz traditions, his unique command of the guitar and different musical styles inspire his musical ventures with tradition and fearless innovation. 

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Houston Patton Quartet
Jan
29

Houston Patton Quartet

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
DOORS 8:30PM | SHOW 8:45-9:45PM

The Houston Patton Quartet is an ensemble that provides a high energy and diverse experience, pulling from all aspects of Black American music and beyond.

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Tim Haldeman Quartet
Jan
30

Tim Haldeman Quartet

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
DOORS 8:30PM | SHOW 8:45-9:45PM

This quartet is the latest assembly of musicians led by saxophonist Tim Haldeman. They will be performing almost entirely new original music.

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New Nostalgia
Jan
31

New Nostalgia

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
New Nostalgia is music for your head and your heart, a Chicago-based fusion horn band that blends jazz, pop and rock flavors together for a sound you didn't know you needed in your life. New Nostalgia features a 5-horn section and powerhouse rhythm section, straddling genre lines with intricate arranging and improvisation, singable melodies, and unstoppable rock energy.

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New Nostalgia
Jan
31

New Nostalgia

DOORS 9PM | SHOW 9:30-10:30PM
New Nostalgia is music for your head and your heart, a Chicago-based fusion horn band that blends jazz, pop and rock flavors together for a sound you didn't know you needed in your life. New Nostalgia features a 5-horn section and powerhouse rhythm section, straddling genre lines with intricate arranging and improvisation, singable melodies, and unstoppable rock energy.

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Jonathon Muir-Cotton & Expressions
Feb
1

Jonathon Muir-Cotton & Expressions

DOORS 5:30PM | SHOW 6:30-7:30PM

Jonathon S. Muir-Cotton is a multi-award winning young, up and coming double bassist and bassist trained in both the jazz and classical traditions; playing many genres including jazz, funk, gospel, blues, R&B and neo-soul.

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Jonathon Muir-Cotton & Expressions
Feb
1

Jonathon Muir-Cotton & Expressions

DOORS 8:15PM | SHOW 9-10PM

Jonathon S. Muir-Cotton is a multi-award winning young, up and coming double bassist and bassist trained in both the jazz and classical traditions; playing many genres including jazz, funk, gospel, blues, R&B and neo-soul.

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Late Night: Jacob Hart Quintet
Feb
1

Late Night: Jacob Hart Quintet

DOORS 10:15PM | SHOW 10:30PM - CLOSE
Hailing from the Metro-Detroit area, Jacob Hart and his quartet bring you music that will warm you up, cool you down, and feed your soul. They play a wide variety of genres, including Bebop, Postbop, and even funk!

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Kevin Brewster & Black Renaissance
Feb
5

Kevin Brewster & Black Renaissance

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
DOORS 8:30PM | SHOW 8:45-9:45PM

Black Renaissance, a collective that fearlessly propels the essence of Black American Music into uncharted territories. Through a fusion of contemporary, straight-ahead, gospel, R&B, and original compositions, the group spearheads a captivating movement that heralds a fresh chapter in the evolution of jazz.

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WEMU 5:01 Jazz Series: Anthony Stanco
Feb
7

WEMU 5:01 Jazz Series: Anthony Stanco

DOORS 4PM | SHOWTIME 5:01PM
Anthony Stanco will lead a star-studded quintet! The ensemble will be unveiling new compositions penned by Stanco as well as performing some of the most beloved jazz standards. This special experience is sure to dazzle and transport you back to the golden era of bebop, blues, and swing!

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Ralphe Armstrong Trio
Feb
7

Ralphe Armstrong Trio

DOORS 6:15PM | SHOW 7-8PM

“Ralphe is the torchbearer of the Detroit bass tradition,” says fellow world-renowned Detroit bass player and educator Rodney Whitaker. By the time Detroit bassist Ralphe Armstrong was just 20 years old, his touring and recording accomplishments were beyond what the average musician strives a lifetime to achieve. But then, whether he’s playing bass violin or electric bass guitar, Ralphe Armstrong is not your average musician.

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Ralphe Armstrong Trio
Feb
7

Ralphe Armstrong Trio

DOORS 9PM | SHOW 9:30-10:30PM

“Ralphe is the torchbearer of the Detroit bass tradition,” says fellow world-renowned Detroit bass player and educator Rodney Whitaker. By the time Detroit bassist Ralphe Armstrong was just 20 years old, his touring and recording accomplishments were beyond what the average musician strives a lifetime to achieve. But then, whether he’s playing bass violin or electric bass guitar, Ralphe Armstrong is not your average musician.

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Brandon Rose & Soul Therapy
Feb
8

Brandon Rose & Soul Therapy

DOORS 5:30PM | SHOW 6:30-7:30PM

Brandon Rose & Soul Therapy delivers soulful melodies drawing inspiration from jazz, gospel, R&B, and hip-hop, creating an uplifting and inspiring musical journey for the audience. Immerse yourself in a feel-good experience with their diverse range of soulful vibes.

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Brandon Rose & Soul Therapy
Feb
8

Brandon Rose & Soul Therapy

DOORS 8:15PM | SHOW 9-10PM

Brandon Rose & Soul Therapy delivers soulful melodies drawing inspiration from jazz, gospel, R&B, and hip-hop, creating an uplifting and inspiring musical journey for the audience. Immerse yourself in a feel-good experience with their diverse range of soulful vibes.

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La Tanya Hall
Feb
9

La Tanya Hall

DOORS 5PM | SHOW 6-7PM
DOORS 7:15PM | SHOWTIME 7:30-8:15PM

La Tanya Hall’s versatility in a variety of musical genres has allowed her to travel the world and work with some of the world’s most celebrated artists, including Steely Dan, Seal, Diana Ross, Bobby McFerrin, Michael McDonald, Quincy Jones, Rob Thomas, Michael Feinstein, Patti Labelle, Harry Belafonte, Steve Tyrell and Aretha Franklin. Her new record, Pretty Eyes, will be released in early 2025 and features Cyrus Chestnut, Gary Bartz and Eddie Henderson.

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Tyreek McDole
Feb
12

Tyreek McDole

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
Haitian-American vocalist Tyreek McDole is a rising star in the New York jazz scene, renowned for his soulful artistry and impressive accolades. A winner of the 2023 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition and a graduate of The Oberlin Conservatory, Tyreek has shared the stage with jazz luminaries like Gary Bartz and Theo Croker, leaving a mark with his Caribbean-influenced sound and captivating performances.

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Tyreek McDole
Feb
12

Tyreek McDole

DOORS 8:30PM | SHOW 9-10PM
Haitian-American vocalist Tyreek McDole is a rising star in the New York jazz scene, renowned for his soulful artistry and impressive accolades. A winner of the 2023 Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition and a graduate of The Oberlin Conservatory, Tyreek has shared the stage with jazz luminaries like Gary Bartz and Theo Croker, leaving a mark with his Caribbean-influenced sound and captivating performances.

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Ellen Rowe Quartet
Feb
19

Ellen Rowe Quartet

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
DOORS 8:30PM | SHOW 8:45-9:45PM
Ellen Rowe, jazz pianist and composer, is currently the Arthur F. Thurnau Professor of Jazz and Contemporary Improvisation at the University of Michigan. She is excited to bring this new quartet to the Blue LLama ahead of the group’s recording dates this fall.

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Don Was & the Pan-Detroit Ensemble - SOLD OUT
Feb
21

Don Was & the Pan-Detroit Ensemble - SOLD OUT

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
Detroit-born, Grammy-winning producer and musician Don Was is known for his work with artists like Bonnie Raitt, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan. Since 2011, he has served as the President of Blue Note Records, championing its legacy while producing modern jazz icons. Additionally, he co-founded the Wolf Brothers with Bob Weir, directs the Don Was Detroit All Star Revue, and hosts a weekly radio show on Detroit's WDET-FM.

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Don Was & the Pan-Detroit Ensemble
Feb
21

Don Was & the Pan-Detroit Ensemble

DOORS 9PM | SHOW 9:30-10:30PM
Detroit-born, Grammy-winning producer and musician Don Was is known for his work with artists like Bonnie Raitt, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan. Since 2011, he has served as the President of Blue Note Records, championing its legacy while producing modern jazz icons. Additionally, he co-founded the Wolf Brothers with Bob Weir, directs the Don Was Detroit All Star Revue, and hosts a weekly radio show on Detroit's WDET-FM.

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Don Was & the Pan-Detroit Ensemble
Feb
22

Don Was & the Pan-Detroit Ensemble

DOORS 5:30PM | SHOW 6:30-7:30PM
Detroit-born, Grammy-winning producer and musician Don Was is known for his work with artists like Bonnie Raitt, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan. Since 2011, he has served as the President of Blue Note Records, championing its legacy while producing modern jazz icons. Additionally, he co-founded the Wolf Brothers with Bob Weir, directs the Don Was Detroit All Star Revue, and hosts a weekly radio show on Detroit's WDET-FM.

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Don Was & the Pan-Detroit Ensemble
Feb
22

Don Was & the Pan-Detroit Ensemble

DOORS 8:15PM | SHOW 9-10PM
Detroit-born, Grammy-winning producer and musician Don Was is known for his work with artists like Bonnie Raitt, The Rolling Stones, and Bob Dylan. Since 2011, he has served as the President of Blue Note Records, championing its legacy while producing modern jazz icons. Additionally, he co-founded the Wolf Brothers with Bob Weir, directs the Don Was Detroit All Star Revue, and hosts a weekly radio show on Detroit's WDET-FM.

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Nick Collins Trio ft. Jeff Pedraz & Rick Roe
Feb
23

Nick Collins Trio ft. Jeff Pedraz & Rick Roe

DOORS 5PM | SHOW 6-7PM

DOORS 7:15PM | SHOW 7:30-8:15PM
Drummer and bandleader Nick Collins regularly performs at the Blue LLama Jazz Club, showcasing high-energy, hard-swinging original compositions with his trio and sextet. Featuring a dream team of Detroit jazz talent, Nick's groups captivate audiences with dynamic performances and a growing repertoire of seldom-heard tunes.

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Ajde Aman
Feb
27

Ajde Aman

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
DOORS 8:30PM | SHOW 8:45-9:45PM

Ajde Aman (pronounced "I-day ah-mon") is Balkan folk fusion band based in Ann Arbor. Come gather round for their soulful folk melodies and odd rhythms of South Eastern Europe.

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Stacy Dillard - Keigo Hirakawa Group
Feb
28

Stacy Dillard - Keigo Hirakawa Group

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM

New York-based jazz saxophonist Stacy Dillard returns to his Michigan roots partnering with an Ohio/New York-based jazz pianist Keigo Hirakawa to bring one night show at Blue LLama. The band will feature music by Dillard and Hirakawa.

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Stacy Dillard - Keigo Hirakawa Group
Feb
28

Stacy Dillard - Keigo Hirakawa Group

DOORS 9PM | SHOW 9:30-10:30PM

New York-based jazz saxophonist Stacy Dillard returns to his Michigan roots partnering with an Ohio/New York-based jazz pianist Keigo Hirakawa to bring one night show at Blue LLama. The band will feature music by Dillard and Hirakawa.

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Late Night: Flashpoint Quintet
Dec
21

Late Night: Flashpoint Quintet

DOORS 10:15PM | SHOW 10:30PM - 11:45PM
Flashpoint Quintet, formed in the fall of 2023 at Indiana University, is a hard bop jazz ensemble featuring Jake Lee (trumpet), Willie Bays (saxophone), Alex Hurvitz (piano), Alex Hoberty (bass), and Tate Sherman (drums). Known for their original compositions and influences from jazz legends like Art Blakey and Kenny Garrett, they have already performed at prestigious events such as the 2024 Detroit Jazz Festival and the 2023 Ann Arbor Jazz Festival.

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William Hill III Trio
Dec
21

William Hill III Trio

DOORS 8:15PM | SHOW 9-10PM

William Hill III is a pianist, composer, arranger, and bandleader who hails from Detroit. He is a graduate of the Detroit School of Arts, and is currently undergoing his baccalaureate studies at the prestigious Manhattan School of Music. Hill's trio is heavily based in the tradition of Straight Ahead Jazz with elements of the Blues, Bebop, and Free Jazz.

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William Hill III Trio
Dec
21

William Hill III Trio

DOORS 5:30PM | SHOW 6:30-7:30PM

William Hill III is a pianist, composer, arranger, and bandleader who hails from Detroit. He is a graduate of the Detroit School of Arts, and is currently undergoing his baccalaureate studies at the prestigious Manhattan School of Music. Hill's trio is heavily based in the tradition of Straight Ahead Jazz with elements of the Blues, Bebop, and Free Jazz.

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Ladies’ Night: Sky Covington ft. November Fourth
Dec
19

Ladies’ Night: Sky Covington ft. November Fourth

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
DOORS 8:30PM | SHOW 8:45-9:45PM

Sky Covington and her ensemble, November Fourth, have captivated audiences for over 20 years with their soulful jazz performances that celebrate the rich legacy of the genre. Featuring Sky's emotive vocals and a talented lineup including "Man," Ibrahim Jones, Phil Harmonic, and Terrence Neal, the group delivers timeless and engaging musical experiences. | Ladies walk in for free, or if you pre-book a reservation, you’ll receive in-house credit to use toward your final food bill that night.

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Tumbao Bravo
Dec
18

Tumbao Bravo

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
DOORS 8:30PM | SHOW 8:45-9:45PM
Formed in 2004, Tumbao Bravo is a dynamic Latin Jazz ensemble from Ann Arbor. With three Detroit Music Awards under their belt, they skillfully blend the authentic rhythms of Cuba – including mambo, cha cha, rumba, and bolero – with rich and original jazz harmonics.

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Stella Cole - BAR SEATS ONLY
Dec
15

Stella Cole - BAR SEATS ONLY

DOORS 8PM | SHOW 8:30-9:30PM
Stella Cole, a rising vocalist, brings new energy to jazz standards, Broadway classics, and the Great American Songbook. With performances at New York’s premier jazz venues and a global tour with Postmodern Jukebox, she’s quickly making a name for herself with a unique sound that marries the traditional and the contemporary.

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Stella Cole - BAR SEATS ONLY
Dec
15

Stella Cole - BAR SEATS ONLY

DOORS 5PM | SHOW 6-7PM
Stella Cole, a rising vocalist, brings new energy to jazz standards, Broadway classics, and the Great American Songbook. With performances at New York’s premier jazz venues and a global tour with Postmodern Jukebox, she’s quickly making a name for herself with a unique sound that marries the traditional and the contemporary.

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Late Night: Jordan Rattner Trio
Dec
14

Late Night: Jordan Rattner Trio

DOORS 10:15PM | SHOW 10:30PM - CLOSE
Jordan Rattner is a guitarist, composer, and bandleader from Milwaukee, WI, known for his versatile approach to jazz and popular styles. His playing ranges from visceral intensity to introspective depth, weaving intricate musical narratives.

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Aguanko Holiday Show
Dec
14

Aguanko Holiday Show

DOORS 8:15PM | SHOW 9-10PM

Conga player and composer Alberto Nacif and the superlative musicians who make up the sizzling Latin Jazz group Aguanko have a new, all original Latin Jazz recording titled “Unidad”, which was released at the July 2023 performance at Blue LLama.

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Aguanko Holiday Show - SOLD OUT
Dec
14

Aguanko Holiday Show - SOLD OUT

DOORS 5:30PM | SHOW 6:30-7:30PM

Conga player and composer Alberto Nacif and the superlative musicians who make up the sizzling Latin Jazz group Aguanko have a new, all original Latin Jazz recording titled “Unidad”, which was released at the July 2023 performance at Blue LLama.

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Marcus Elliot Quintet
Dec
13

Marcus Elliot Quintet

DOORS 9PM | SHOW 9:30-10:30PM
Marcus Elliot is a saxophonist, composer, improviser, and educator based in Detroit. His compositions and improvisations have been described by the New York Times as "convincing and confident, evolved in touch and tone...", and the Detroit Free Press has said, "Marcus Elliot represents next generation of jazz".

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Marcus Elliot Quintet
Dec
13

Marcus Elliot Quintet

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
Marcus Elliot is a saxophonist, composer, improviser, and educator based in Detroit. His compositions and improvisations have been described by the New York Times as "convincing and confident, evolved in touch and tone...", and the Detroit Free Press has said, "Marcus Elliot represents next generation of jazz".

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Robert Hurst Trio ft. Orrin Evans & Jeff “Tain” Watts
Dec
12

Robert Hurst Trio ft. Orrin Evans & Jeff “Tain” Watts

DOORS 9PM | SHOW 9:30-10:30PM
Detroit native and bassist Robert Hurst has been making his mark in the jazz world over a 30+ year career including garnering seven GRAMMY and four EMMY Awards. Renowned for his work with icons like Sir Paul McCartney, Wynton Marsalis, and more, Hurst remains an integral figure in contemporary music and cultural movements. He will be joined by GRAMMY-nominated pianist Orrin Evans and nine-time GRAMMY-winning drummer Jeff “Tain” Watts to round out this powerhouse trio.

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Robert Hurst Trio ft. Orrin Evans & Jeff “Tain” Watts - BAR SEATS ONLY
Dec
12

Robert Hurst Trio ft. Orrin Evans & Jeff “Tain” Watts - BAR SEATS ONLY

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
Detroit native and bassist Robert Hurst has been making his mark in the jazz world over a 30+ year career including garnering seven GRAMMY and four EMMY Awards. Renowned for his work with icons like Sir Paul McCartney, Wynton Marsalis, and more, Hurst remains an integral figure in contemporary music and cultural movements. He will be joined by GRAMMY-nominated pianist Orrin Evans and nine-time GRAMMY-winning drummer Jeff “Tain” Watts to round out this powerhouse trio.

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Marlena Studer’s Jazzy Little Christmas
Dec
8

Marlena Studer’s Jazzy Little Christmas

DOORS 5PM | SHOW 6-7PM

DOORS 7:15PM | 7:30-8:15PM
Celebrate the holiday season with Marlena Studer and her jazz ensemble, featuring highly acclaimed local jazz musicians! You're invited to get in the holiday spirit as they “Deck the Halls” with a dollop of “Frim Fram Sauce” - the first three guests arriving at each set wearing a festive hat will receive a free copy of her CD, Jazzy Little Christmas.

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Late Night: Gucwa-Hacias Quintet
Dec
7

Late Night: Gucwa-Hacias Quintet

DOORS 10:15PM | SHOW 10:30PM - CLOSE
Jackson Hacias and Sam Gucwa blend their musical upbringings in the Cincinnati jazz scene the the Denver underground movement to form a quintet that swings and pushes the boundaries of musical counterpoint.

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Straight Ahead
Dec
7

Straight Ahead

DOORS 8:15PM | SHOW 9-10PM

Out of Detroit’s lively jazz scene, comes the ground breaking, Grammy-nominated jazz group Straight Ahead. A group of strong, inventive instrumentalists and vocalists, they have shown themselves to be powerful and imaginative composers and arrangers. Straight Ahead was the first all-woman group signed to Atlantic Jazz. Widely recognized for their eclectic and soulful approach to creating music, Straight Ahead is in the Detroit Music Awards Hall of Fame. with a sound that ranges comfortably from mainstream jazz to Latin jazz and jazzy hip-hop. Their live performances are a dynamic celebration of power and joy!

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Straight Ahead
Dec
7

Straight Ahead

DOORS 5:30PM | SHOW 6:30-7:30PM

Out of Detroit’s lively jazz scene, comes the ground breaking, Grammy-nominated jazz group Straight Ahead. A group of strong, inventive instrumentalists and vocalists, they have shown themselves to be powerful and imaginative composers and arrangers. Straight Ahead was the first all-woman group signed to Atlantic Jazz. Widely recognized for their eclectic and soulful approach to creating music, Straight Ahead is in the Detroit Music Awards Hall of Fame. with a sound that ranges comfortably from mainstream jazz to Latin jazz and jazzy hip-hop. Their live performances are a dynamic celebration of power and joy!

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Noah Jackson & Full Circle
Dec
6

Noah Jackson & Full Circle

DOORS 9PM | SHOW 9:30-10:30PM

Noah Jackson & Full Circle is for audiences to experience the power of connection through music. Noah is a multifaceted bassist, cellist, and composer from Detroit merging elements of Afrobeat, Motown, and house music.

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Noah Jackson & Full Circle
Dec
6

Noah Jackson & Full Circle

DOORS 6:15PM | SHOW 7-8PM

Noah Jackson & Full Circle is for audiences to experience the power of connection through music. Noah is a multifaceted bassist, cellist, and composer from Detroit merging elements of Afrobeat, Motown, and house music.

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WEMU 5:01 Jazz Series: Ron Brooks
Dec
6

WEMU 5:01 Jazz Series: Ron Brooks

DOORS 4PM | SHOWTIME 5:01PM
Ron Brooks has recorded with the Bob James Trio, received an opportunity from Quincy Jones to record on Mercury Records, and contributed to the success of the Contemporary Jazz Quintet, culminating in the release of the previously unreleased set, "The Black Hole," in 2020.

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Sandra Bomar
Dec
5

Sandra Bomar

DOORS 8:30PM | SHOW 9-10PM
Detroit native Sandra Bomar is an internationally recognized jazz artist known for her sultry voice and distinctive jazz styling, influenced by legends like Nancy Wilson and Sarah Vaughn. She has performed at iconic Metro Detroit venues, including Baker’s Keyboard Lounge, the Dirty Dog Jazz Cafe, and Aretha’s Jazz Cafe.

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Sandra Bomar
Dec
5

Sandra Bomar

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
Detroit native Sandra Bomar is an internationally recognized jazz artist known for her sultry voice and distinctive jazz styling, influenced by legends like Nancy Wilson and Sarah Vaughn. She has performed at iconic Metro Detroit venues, including Baker’s Keyboard Lounge, the Dirty Dog Jazz Cafe, and Aretha’s Jazz Cafe.

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Signal Quartet
Dec
4

Signal Quartet

DOORS 6PM | SHOW 7-8PM
DOORS 8:30PM | SHOW 8:45-9:45PM
Defying easy categorization, Signal Quartet brings together a variety of disparate strains from the so-called “jazz” continuum to create a distinctive group sound. Incorporating the freewheeling adventurousness of the avant-garde, the improvisational combustibility of post-bop, and the spaciousness and lyricism innate to the American Midwest; Signal Quartet is able to reach young and old, purists and radicals, aficionados and neophytes alike through their thoughtful compositions and unpredictable improvisations.

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Giving Tuesday with WEMU
Dec
3

Giving Tuesday with WEMU

Join WEMU for a special Giving Tuesday event at The Blue LLama. A house band, Krahnke, Roe, and Kramer, will be playing all day and inviting all area jazz and blues musicians to join in and jam with the band!

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Djangophonique
Dec
1

Djangophonique

DOORS 5PM | SHOW 6-7PM

DOORS 7:15PM | 7:30-8:15PM
Djangophonique is an award-winning ensemble dedicated to the vibrant spirit of Django Reinhardt’s jazz manouche, blending traditional respect with creative innovation. Led by guitarist Andrew Brown, this Michigan-based group captivates audiences with an authentic sound that evokes the energy of a Parisian dance hall.

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Late Night: William Hill III Trio
Nov
30

Late Night: William Hill III Trio

DOORS 10:15PM | SHOW 10:30PM - CLOSE

William Hill III Trio specializes in the musical traditions of Bebop and Straight Ahead Jazz, and also pays homage to many genres that are inspired by Jazz such as Funk, R&B, and Gospel just to name a few.

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Jeff Haas Quintet
Nov
30

Jeff Haas Quintet

DOORS 8:15PM | SHOW 9-10PM

Acclaimed composer and pianist Jeff Haas makes his Blue LLama debut with his stellar quintet featuring rhythm mates bassist Marion Hayden and drummer Tariq Gardner with trumpeter Anthony Stanco and saxophonist Laurie Sears on the front line. Join us for an evening of Jeff's captivating original music - deep grooves, memorable melodies and harmonic journeys blending Haas's passion for all things jazz and world music with a twist of funk.

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