BEGIN:VCALENDAR VERSION:2.0 PRODID:-//Blue LLama - ECPv6.15.20//NONSGML v1.0//EN CALSCALE:GREGORIAN METHOD:PUBLISH X-ORIGINAL-URL:https://bluellamaclub.com X-WR-CALDESC:Events for Blue LLama REFRESH-INTERVAL;VALUE=DURATION:PT1H X-Robots-Tag:noindex X-PUBLISHED-TTL:PT1H BEGIN:VTIMEZONE TZID:America/Detroit BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20250309T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20251102T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20260308T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20261101T060000 END:STANDARD BEGIN:DAYLIGHT TZOFFSETFROM:-0500 TZOFFSETTO:-0400 TZNAME:EDT DTSTART:20270314T070000 END:DAYLIGHT BEGIN:STANDARD TZOFFSETFROM:-0400 TZOFFSETTO:-0500 TZNAME:EST DTSTART:20271107T060000 END:STANDARD END:VTIMEZONE BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260417T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260417T213000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260129T153930Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260303T164426Z UID:10000232-1776452400-1776461400@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Tiffany Gridiron Quintet DESCRIPTION:Fri | Apr 17 \n\n Sets 7pm & 9pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Tiffany Gridiron is a gifted jazz vocalist and songwriter who radiates joy and generosity on stage\, even when singing the most haunting of songs. Her sultry vocals and playful approach have excited audiences in the United States\, Japan\, Finland and South Korea.   \nTiffany’s love of singing began as a child in her family church where both of her parents served as musicians. In her early twenties\, inspired by the debut album of Jill Scott\, Tiffany sought out voice lessons that serendipitously put her in contact with the amazing jazz vocalist and educator Sunny Wilkinson. Through jazz standards\, Sunny introduced Tiffany to a world of poetry and improvisation that would profoundly impact the rest of her life. Studying works of  Billie Holiday\, Ella Fitzgerald\, Sarah Vaughn and many other vocal legends helped Tiffany to find her own voice and style.  \nTiffany recorded five CDs of jazz standards\, released by SONY RECORDS in Japan that have featured such greats as pianists Hank Jones\, Tadataka Unno\, drummer Omar Hakim\, and many others.   \nIn 2019\, Tiffany’s longtime friend and collaborator Kris Johnson approached her about producing a project where her gifts as a songwriter could be featured.  The result was “From My Heart to Yours”\, Tiffany’s  most personal album to date. Released in September of 2023 on all digital platforms\, five of the album’s eight songs feature lyrics penned by Tiffany Gridiron and co-composed by Kris Johnson. Kris also arranged\, played trumpet and served as producer on the project\, with Brendon Davis (piano)\, Jonathan Muir-Cotton (bass)\, Nate Winn (drums)\, and Vivienne Smith (background vocals) also adding their breathtaking artistry to this material.  \nYou can now catch Tiffany at venues in the Midwest and East coast\, performing her originals\, jazz standards\, and other songs that explore the nuances of  the human condition. Her deep appreciation for music as a tool for healing\, inspires Tiffany  to use her voice to nurture connections between people and hearts. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/tiffany-gridiron-quintet/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/TiffanyGridironBNW.jpg-sqLg.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260418T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260418T213000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260217T195901Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260408T163032Z UID:10000238-1776538800-1776547800@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Walter Smith III Trio DESCRIPTION:Sat | Apr 18 \n\n Sets 7pm & 9pm \n$95 Dinner & Show\n$50 Cover Only\n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n From an early age\, Walter began taking music very seriously. “My first gig was playing at a McDonald’s in Houston with another saxophone player. I took a solo on “Blue Bossa.” It was terrible. People clapped\, and I figured if I could get away with that and get applause\, how could I fail?” \nAlthough it may appear Smith is a new voice on the scene\, he is widely recognized as an adept performer\, accomplished composer\, and inspired educator. Smith’s recent release\, return to casual\, garnered critical acclaim from audiences and critics alike. “return to casual [is] Smith’s deeply poised first album as a leader for Blue Note… The whole enterprise rings of cool sophistication in a small-group style that Smith and his contemporaries helped define… In that sense\, return to casual is not just a homecoming of sorts\, but also an emphatic confirmation.” In September of 2024\, Smith released his sophomore album for Blue Note Records\, “three of us are from Houston and Reuben is not”\, featuring a new offering of original music. \nSmith has developed under the wings of many of the music’s greats. Walter is/has been a member of several influential groups (recording and/or touring)\, including the Roy Haynes Fountain of Youth Band\, Terence Blanchard Quintet\, Eric Harland’s “Voyager”\, Bill Stewart Trio\, Jason Moran’s In My Mind: Monk at Town Hall\, Ambrose Akinmusire Quintet\, the Christian McBride “Situation”\, Marquis Hill “New Gospel Revisited”\, Gerald Clayton Quintet\, Christian Scott group\, and the Sean Jones Quintet to name a few. \nSmith has performed worldwide\, participating in virtually every international festival and famed venues such as Carnegie Hall\, the Village Vanguard\, and the Kennedy Center. In addition\, he has shared the stage and/or appeared on recordings with many important artists including Mulgrew Miller\, Billy Childs\, Terri Lyne Carrington\, Joe Lovano\, Herbie Hancock\, Maria Schneider\, Ron Carter\, Ralph Peterson\, and a host of others. To date\, Walter has appeared on over 100 recordings that have been released worldwide. \nOriginally from Houston\, TX\, Smith now resides in Boston\, MA\, and is Chair of Woodwinds at Berklee College of Music\, helping to prepare the next generation of young artists. \nDinner & Show Menu:\nFirst Course:\nBEET SALAD: whipped feta\nOr\nSHRIMP CAVATELLI: preserved lemon\nMain Course:\nSWORDFISH: picada\nOr\nBACON WRAPPED PORK TENDERLOIN: smoked blackberry\nDessert:\nTIRAMISU: espresso ganache\nOr\nCOCONUT CAKE: passion fruit\n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/walter-smith-trio/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/walter-smith.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260419T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260419T203000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260129T154021Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T172221Z UID:10000239-1776621600-1776630600@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Sarah D'Angelo & Cliff Monear DESCRIPTION:Sun | Apr 19 \n\n Sets 6pm and 7:30pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Vocalist/clarinetist Sarah D’Angelo is a relative new-comer to Detroit’s jazz scene but she is quickly making new fans out of everyone who experiences her passionate and intelligent singing. Sarah’s warm personality and bright smile light up the stage and make an instant connection with audiences. Sarah always includes in her performances a bit of her excellent clarinet playing\, a talent and skill which makes her presentation even more special. \nCliff Monear is a jazz pianist based in Michigan\, known for his performances\, teaching\, and work with Steinway & Sons. He is the exclusive Steinway & Sons representative for the Michigan jazz community. He performs with his group\, The Cliff Monear Trio\, and also as a soloist and with other musicians. He teaches at Wayne State University. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/sarah-dangelo-cliff-monear-3/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/CliffMonearCliffMonear.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260422T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260422T213000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260130T145514Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260130T145514Z UID:10000258-1776884400-1776893400@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Aguankó DESCRIPTION:Wed | Apr 22 \n\n Sets at 7pm and 8:30pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Aguanko is a Latin jazz septet from the Detroit area\, led by percussionist and composer Alberto Nacif. The band’s music is deeply rooted in Cuban jazz and features original compositions that blend jazz with Son-Salsa rhythms. Nacif\, who was born in Oaxaca\, Mexico\, began playing percussion at a young age and has studied with renowned Cuban masters. Aguanko has gained national and international recognition for their music\, including performances with prominent jazz musicians and multiple award nominations. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/aguanko-4/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/aguanko.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260423T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260423T220000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260129T154111Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260203T182133Z UID:10000251-1776970800-1776981600@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Sean Dobbins: Tribute to Stevie Wonder DESCRIPTION:Thurs | Apr 23\nSets at 7pm & 8:30pm | $25 Cover \n RESERVE TABLE \nAbout the Artist\nSean Dobbins got his start as sought-after Detroit area jazz sideman at a young age\, when he would regularly play with Blue Note artist Louis Smith. As Sean’s Career progressed\, he found himself the recipient of many awards and accolades including the “Woody Herman Jazz Award”\, an award for outstanding musicianship\, as well as the Louis Armstrong Scholarship. Due to Sean’s great talent both as a player and an educator\, he has been the focus of countless news articles\, jazz radio programs\, and documentaries. \nThough still young by jazz standards\, Dobbins has amassed an impressive list of playing companions. He has performed/toured/recorded with Johnny Basset\, Benny Golson\, Dr. Lonnie Smith\, Frank Morgan\, Joey DeFrancesco\, George Cables\, James “Blood” Ulmer\, Marcus Belgrave\, Larry Willis\, Rodney Whittaker\, Claude Black\, Johnny O’Neal\, Paul Keller\, Tad Weed\, Kurt Krahnke\, Jon Hendricks\, David “Fathead” Newman\, Donald Walden\, Cyrus Chesnut\, Barry Harris\, David Baker\, Randy Johnston\, Marion Hayden\, Mose Allison\, and a host of other great musicians. \nSean’s sound can best be described as hard-driving\, solid rhythm with refreshing melodic sensibility. Some of Sean’s influences include Art Blakey\, Jeff Hamilton\, Jeff “Tain” Watts\, Ed Thigpen\, Sonny Payne\, as well as Detroit area greats Gerald Cleaver and the one and only Elvin Jones. \n\n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/sean-dobbins-5/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/SeanDobbinsBNW.jpg-sqLg.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260424T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260424T220000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260129T154215Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260203T182413Z UID:10000252-1777057200-1777068000@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Kris Johnson DESCRIPTION:Fri | Apr 24 \n\n Sets 7pm & 9pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Kris Johnson- trumpet\nMarcus Elliot- tenor sax\nJon Dixon- piano and keyboard\nRed Campbell- electric bass\nNate Winn- drums\nKris Johnson is a Detroit-based trumpeter\, composer\, arranger\, film composer\, and educator whose work spans orchestral commissions\, musical theatre\, film scoring\, and contemporary jazz. His recent commission from the Detroit Symphony Orchestra\, Marlowe’s Wings\, premiered in 2025 with Kris as featured soloist. He has composed multiple musicals-including Jim Crow’s Tears and Hastings Street: The Musical-scored films such as the Emmy-nominated series King Ester\, and produced a range of personal creative projects including The Kris Johnson Group and #looptherapy. He is also the founder and director of the Paradise Theatre Big Band in partnership with the Detroit Symphony Orchestra. \nAs a performer and arranger\, Kris has contributed to seven GRAMMY-nominated albums\, including the 2024 GRAMMY-winning Basie Swings the Blues by the Count Basie Orchestra. From 2008-2019\, he toured internationally with the Basie Orchestra as both soloist and arranger\, performing at major venues such as the Apollo Theater\, Hollywood Bowl\, Sydney Opera House\, and the Kennedy Center. His collaborative work extends to artists such as Wynton Marsalis\, Tony Bennett\, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra\, Leslie Odom Jr.\, Wycliffe Gordon\, and others. From 2023-2024 he toured globally with Endea Owens and The Cookout\, further highlighting his versatility across musical settings. \nKris currently serves as Assistant Professor of Jazz Trumpet at the University of Michigan School of Music\, Theatre & Dance. A graduate of Michigan State University\, where he earned both his Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees in Jazz Studies\, he has held leadership and teaching roles across the country. His previous positions include Director of Jazz Studies at the University of Utah\, Project Director for a U.S. Department of Education AEMDD Grant with the Pontiac School District\, Education and Digital Programming Manager for the Motown Museum\, and Executive Director of the MSU Community Music School-Detroit. He has also served on the faculties of The Ohio State University\, the Detroit Symphony Orchestra Civic Youth Ensembles\, and as Artistic Liaison for JazzEd Detroit through ArtOps and the Erb Family Foundation. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/kris-johnson/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/kris-johnson.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260426T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260426T210000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260129T154348Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260404T164311Z UID:10000254-1777226400-1777237200@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Straight Ahead DESCRIPTION:Sun | Apr 26 \n\n Sets 6pm & 7:30pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Out of Detroit’s lively jazz scene\, which has produced some of the best musicians in the world\, comes the ground breaking all female jazz group\, Straight Ahead. A group of strong\, inventive instrumentalists and vocalists\, they have shown themselves to be powerful and imaginative composers and arrangers. \nWidely recognized for their eclectic and soulful approach to creating music\, the Straight Ahead sound ranges comfortably from mainstream jazz R&B ballads\, avant-garde to Brazilian funk. Their live performances are a dynamic celebration of power and joy. The ladies delight in changing textures\, moods\, and tempos and love to throw in the occasional musical joke! \nIntroduced in 1989 as a product of their hometown’s lively jazz scene\, Straight Ahead was named the finalist in that year’s “Sony Innovators” competition. The new decade saw the ladies receive their first international exposure when they were invited to open for the legendary Nina Simone at the Montreaux-Switzerland Jazz Festival. \nIn 1990\, the group recorded the first album for Atlantic Jazz\, “Look Straight Ahead”\, with made the Billboard Contemporary Jazz Chart “Top 20”. They followed that up with “Body and Soul” and in 1995 with their third album “Dance Of the Forest Rain”\, which received rave reviews that include Branford Marsalis\, who called the group “a monster outfit that truly swings!” \nThese Grammy-nominated Atlantic Jazz recording artists have traveled extensively in the United States\, the Caribbean\, and Europe\, garnering rave reviews. Recent appearances include a concert at the prestigious Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington D.C.\, where Ms. Sorab Modi\, a reviewer for “JazzIz” Magazine wrote that the band was”particularly impressive.” (JazzIz\, August\, 1997); and the Kansas City Blues and Jazz Festival\, where “This tight\, dynamic\, outfit stole the show with it’s high-energy tour-de-force of musical styles.” (Kansas City Star\, July 21\, 1997). Recent awards include The Motor City Music Awards HALL OF FAME and Talent Deserving Wider Recognition (Downbeat Magazine\, April\, 1997) Joy\, Power\, Love\, Wisdom…Magic! This is the sound of what is to come. This is Straight Ahead! \nEach individual member of Straight Ahead is an accomplished musician in her own right. Together they bring a unique musical personality to the group. Straight Ahead’s founding members\, the “Rhythm Sister” – Marion Hayden on bass\, Eileen Orr on piano and Gayelynn McKinney on drums are joined by an exciting line-up\, which features they dynamic Kymberli Wright on vocals and the electrifying Althea Rene on the flute. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/straight-ahead-8/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/straight-ahead.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260429T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260429T213000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260109T164400Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260129T154431Z UID:10000246-1777489200-1777498200@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Detroit Jazz Project DESCRIPTION:Wed | Apr 29 \n\n Sets 7pm & 8:30pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n The Detroit Jazz Project is the creation of Mark Hershberger who began studying Jazz and playing in the  University AFRAM Big learning from greats including Marcus Belgrave\, Sam Sanders\, Jimmy Allen\, Doc Holiday\, and Ed Pickens.  The big band hosted special guest legends such as the Jones brothers. He later studied Jazz and Classical Music and played in the Jazz and Concert Bands at Eastern Michigan University. During and after attending The University of Michigan\,   Mark led and played in multiple Jazz groups in Ann Arbor and Detroit.  Mark began playing professionally as a solo artist and in small latin jazz groups and then formed a music publishing company in 1980.  He performed in Motown with STAX greats such as “Sam and Dave” and Cecil Womack. \nIn his early twenties he began in Ann Arbor playing Jazz clubs such as Del Rio\, Jazz West\, Delta Lady\, The Ark\, and The Ann Arbor Art Fair. Through the years of performing and recording he expanded his reach and performed at historic Baker’s Keyboard Lounge in Detroit and The Flint Jazz Festival as well as the legendary Bert’s Place and The Detroit International Jazz Festival.  He also performed venues in Ann Arbor and in London. Mark has worked with artists such as Gayleynn McKinny\, Ibrahim Jones\, Jerry LeDuff\, Badal Roy\, Martha Reeves\, George Clinton\, Marion Hayden\, Michael Colone and Muruga Booker.to name a few.  He has earned a Detroit Music Award for “Outstanding World Recording Group” with artist Muruga Booker as well as “Outstanding Modern Jazz Group” with The Detroit Jazz Project. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/detroit-jazz-project/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/detroit-jazz-project.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260430T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260430T213000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260129T154517Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T172146Z UID:10000240-1777575600-1777584600@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Rick Roe Trio DESCRIPTION:THURS | Apr 30 \n\n Sets 7pm and 8:30pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Rick Roe is a jazz pianist\, composer\, performer\, and educator in the southeastern Michigan music community. He has produced and co-produced over a dozen recordings with original compositions and jazz classics with some of the most accomplished jazz musicians in the world.  \nMonkʼs Modern Music\, Rickʼs first recording on his RNR Unknown Records label\, has become highly regarded by many jazz greats around the world. It features Rodney Whitaker and Greg Hutchinson. His subsequent recordings have also received praise for his compositions and arrangements of jazz classics and popular culture hits.  \nHis teaching experience includes being an Assistant Professor of Jazz Studies and Jazz Piano at Michigan State University from 2001-2011\, and he has been a guest artist and clinician at the University of Arizona\, North Texas University\, the University of Nevada\, Las Vegas\, Juilliard Jazz in N.Y.\, and the University of Michigan.  \nRick has performed with jazz greats Wynton Marsalis\, Marcus Belgrave\, Frank Morgan\, Louis Hayes\, Clark Terry\, Louis Smith\, Rodney Whitaker\, Donald Walden\, Greg Hutchinson\, Karriem Riggins\, Robert Hurst\, Buster Williams\, Emily Remler\, Wycliffe Gordon\, Barbara Morrison\, Wess Anderson\, Jon Faddis\, Walter Blanding\, Randy Gelispie\, Ron Brooks\, George Davidson\, Wendall Harrison\, Vincent York\, Michael Dease\, Gerald Cleaver\, Frank Foster\, Joe Magnarelli\, Derrick Gardner\, Joe Farnsworth\, James Carter\, Jim Snidero\, Randy Napoleon\, Dwight Adams\, and many more.  \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/rick-roe-trio-2/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/rick-roe.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260501T170000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260501T180000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260219T150635Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260225T171933Z UID:10000241-1777654800-1777658400@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:WEMU 5:01 Jazz Series: Olivia Van Goor DESCRIPTION:Fri | May 1 \n\n Music 5:01pm | No Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Olivia Van Goor is an award-winning jazz vocalist based in Detroit\, Michigan. Recently honored as a two-time winner at the 2025 Michigan Music Awards for Best Jazz Album and Best Jazz Single/Performance\, she is an emerging talent you won’t want to miss. \nOlivia has carved her own path\, learning from some of the finest jazz musicians in the Midwest\, and has cultivated a rich\, distinctive sound as a result. Her hard work has yielded two EP’s\, first “When the Shadows Fall” in 2021 and “Don’t Be Mad At Me” in August of 2023. Both recordings feature a mix of original material and standards that come from early jazz\, swing\, blues and bebop styles. These recordings have taken her to tour in surrounding major cities such as Ann Arbor\, Toledo\, Cleveland\, Columbus\, Southbend\, Chicago\, and Pittsburgh. She performs in a wide range of settings\, from intimate duo performances to dynamic big band collaborations and everything in between. \nRecently\, she took the stage with the Ann Arbor Symphony Orchestra in December 2024 and is set to return for their Holiday Pops performance in December 2025. Additionally\, she received “Best Vocalist” for the Preservation of Jazz Excellence Award in Detroit\, many nominations by the Detroit Music Awards and recognition by many Michigan-based publications. Beyond recording\, she has also composed\, arranged\, and produced performances\, enriching the vibrant landscape of contemporary jazz music. She has collaborated with renowned musicians\, including Detroit pianist Scott Gwinnell\, two-time JUNO Award-winning vocalist Caity Gyorgy\, and esteemed Ann Arbor bassist Paul Keller. Olivia continues to work with leading jazz artists across Michigan and the broader Midwest\, sharing her passion for music and spreading joy through her artistry. \nOlivia Van Goor – Vocals\nMike Harrison – Piano\nReuben Stump – Bass\nDave Zwolinski – Drums\n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/501-olivia-van-goor/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/OliviaVanoorBNW2.jpg-sqLg.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260501T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260501T213000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260219T150803Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260219T150803Z UID:10000242-1777662000-1777671000@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Noah Jackson DESCRIPTION:Fri | May 1 \n\n Sets 7pm and 9pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Noah Jackson is a bassist\, cellist\, composer\, and curator from Detroit\, Michigan. As a member of NEA Jazz Master Abdullah Ibrahim’s ensemble Ekaya\, Mr. Jackson has performed internationally to critical acclaim and recorded the latest album\, The Balance\, released in 2019 which reached #3 on the Billboard Jazz Charts (July 2019). He has also recorded Nnenna Freelon’s latest release- Time Traveler which has reached #4 on Jazz Week (July 2021). Mr. Jackson has also performed with Nnenna Freelon\, Branford Marsalis\, The Marsalis Family\, Kenny Garrett\, Jason Marsalis\, George Burton\, Jazzmeia Horn\, Christian Sands\, and Winard Harper. Noah Jackson is also a member of the Recording Academy.\nAs of March 2021\, Noah was also appointed as curator\, creative director\, and artist-in-residence at Cliff Bell’s\, a Jazz Club in Downtown Detroit- responsible for the curation\, promotion\, and contracting artists 5 nights weekly. He holds a weekly residency with his band Full Circle. \nA recipient of the Creative Engagement and UMEZ grants from the Lower Manhattan Cultural Council and the State of New York\, he produced a work based on the music of Duke Ellington- On A Turquoise Cloud at the Schomburg Center in September  2019 and performed at the Detroit Symphony Orchestra @ The Cube in February 2020. His group also recorded an album\, “Contemplations: A Suite” in 2011\, which has garnered critical praise. \nAs a leader of the Ase string quartet\, Mr. Jackson was commissioned to compose and direct the quartet in a multidisciplinary collaborative art project- Practicing: Silence at Grace Farms under the direction of Kenyon Adams as part of their Practicing series alongside featured dancers from the American Ballet Theater. He has also led his Detroit-based Tangent String Quartet in a rare performance of  Quartet No.2  by black composer Florence B. Price as part of a video series presented by the Detroit Institute of the Arts in February 2021. \nA graduate of Michigan State University (B.M.) under the direction of Rodney Whitaker\, and Manhattan School of Music (M.M.) with Dr. Larry Ridley\, Noah currently resides in Detroit\, MI. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/noah-jackson/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/noah-jackson.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260502T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260502T213000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260217T161432Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260217T161432Z UID:10000266-1777748400-1777757400@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Tariq Gardner & Evening Star DESCRIPTION:Sat | May 2 \n\n Sets at 7pm & 9pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Evening Star is a Space Odyssey led by Detroit Drummer Tariq Gardner. The group has its roots in Detroit’s expansive musical tradition\, blending the city’s rich Jazz legacy with its history of musicians being largely malleable to fit into a wide array of musical styles traveling to the different galaxies of music of the African Diaspora (jazz\, neo-soul\, Afro-Cuban\, spirituals\, hip-hop\, etc.). Evening Star brings listeners light years into the cosmos while staying true to the roots of the Motherland. The band has an afro-futuristic aesthetic with the mission that simply makes music the forefront of positive outlets with original compositions as well as arrangements on popular songs from the Black American Canon. In 2025\, they became finalists in NPR Detroit’s ( WDET) Sounds Like Detroit contest and music Showcase. \nEvening Star currently has two releases: Their 2023 freshman project\, “Gateway Drug\,” and their 2024 Sophomore project\, “Vice Tape\,” featuring poet Joel “Fluent” Greene. They are currently performing festivals nationwide and looking forward to the recording of their third release. \nTariq Gardner – Drums\nCaelin Amin – Bass\nLeRoy Mickens – Piano\nMax Bowen – Guitar\nJeffrey Trent – Tenor Sax\nColeman Ward – Vocals\n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/tariq-gardner-evening-star-3/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/space-odyssey.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260503T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260503T203000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260303T160738Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260303T160738Z UID:10000278-1777831200-1777840200@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Leslie Vincent DESCRIPTION:Sun | May 3 \n\n Sets 6pm & 7:30pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n LESLIE VINCENT is a prolific jazz songwriter and vocalist. Equally at home singing the Great American Songbook\, musical theater\, and contemporary rock and pop\, she has  become one of the most notable voices to emerge in the vibrant Minneapolis music scene\, being hailed for her joy-filled performances and her “fun\, human\, beautiful interpretations” (Levi Weinhagen). \nBorn into a military family\, Vincent spent childhood moving along the East Coast and United Kingdom\, where she spent her spare time singing along to Frank Sinatra and Britney Spears. The one constant was music. \nToday\, Vincent has become an accomplished bandleader\, using her theatrical chops to bring drama\, comedy and poise to the stage. \nIn 2023\, she released her sophomore album “About Last Night\,”  mixing jazz standards\, vintage blues\, and her own fresh originals. This release has garnered critical attention from fans and music critics locally and nationwide\, including a write-up in DownBeat Magazine. Her next album\, “Little Black Book\,” featuring jazz and pop originals will be out April 17\, 2026. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/leslie-vincent/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/leslie-vincent.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260506T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260506T213000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260316T144154Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260408T163629Z UID:10000285-1778094000-1778103000@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Gabrielle Cavassa DESCRIPTION:Wed | May 6 \n\n Sets 7pm & 9pm\n$95 Dinner & Show\n$50 Cover Only\n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Born in Escondido\, California of Italian descent\, Gabrielle Cavassa began “obsessively listening” to records from a young age. Largely self-taught\, she developed a unique approach to singing that would later characterize her artistry. Cavassa received a Bachelor of Arts in Music from San Francisco State University\, but credits the Bay Area music scene for her “real education.” She moved to New Orleans in 2017\, where she continued her education in local clubs. In 2020\, Cavassa independently released an eponymous debut record produced by collaborator Jamison Ross. In 2021\, she was crowned a winner of the prestigious International Sarah Vaughan Jazz Vocal Competition. Cavassa’s feature appearance on Joshua Redman’s 2023 Blue Note album where are we prompted DownBeat to declare her “a star in the making.” Stereophile wrote that “For many\, the revelation of this album will be Cavassa. Her voice gets under your skin. It is idiosyncratic\, but it is trustworthy in its clarity and almost physical in its intimacy… her intuitive interpretations and riveting voice make you sit very still in your chair.” \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/gabrielle-cavassa/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/gabrielle-cavassa.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260507T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260507T213000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260223T180349Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260223T180349Z UID:10000277-1778180400-1778189400@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Blou Reed DESCRIPTION:Thurs | May 7 \n\n Sets 7pm & 8:30pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Make your night at Blue LLama Jazz Club with Blou Reed! \nBlou Reed is a band which combines the funk stylings of Roy Hargrove and Endea Owens with the beat and groove of The Jazz Messengers. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/blou-reed/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/blou-reed.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260508T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260508T213000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260304T214341Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260304T214341Z UID:10000289-1778266800-1778275800@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Russ Macklem Detroit Quintet DESCRIPTION:Fri | May 8 \n\n Sets 7pm & 9pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Russ Macklem is a Windsor/Detroit based trumpet player\, composer\, educator\, and recording artist. His 2023 debut release\, The South Detroit Connection\, was nominated for a JUNO-award\, and was the first live album recorded in Windsor in over 22 years (at Phog Lounge)\, the last having been recorded by Detroit trumpet legend\, Marcus Belgrave at the Capitol Theatre. Belgrave’s son\, saxophonist/flautist Kasan Belgrave is featured both on the album\, and in Russ’ new Quintet. The new Russ Macklem Detroit Quintet makes their debut at the 2024 Detroit Jazz Festival. \nAs a leader\, Russ can be heard with his quintet every first Friday of the month at MotorCity Wine in Corktown (Detroit)\, and other venues around the Midwest throughout the year. As a sideman\, Russ has played with a diverse array of artists including Amp Fiddler\, Dave Holland\, The Marley Bros (Bob Marley’s sons)\, Cecil McBee\, Frankie Valli\, Dave Liebman\, Bobby Rydell\, Frankie Avalon\, and many others. \nRuss earned his Doctor of Musical Arts while studying at the University of Miami Frost School of Music where he was on full-tuition scholarship and Teaching Assistant to Grammy-Award-winning trumpet player Brian Lynch. At New England Conservatory in Boston\, Russ earned his Master’s of Music with Honors while studying with Jerry Bergonzi\, George Garzone\, Cecil McBee\, Bob Moses\, and John McNeil. Russ earned his Bachelor of Music from McGill University where he studied with Kevin Dean\, Jocelyn Couture\, Joe Sullivan\, and Remi Bolduc. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/russ-macklem-detroit-quintet-3/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/RussMacklemCOLOR-1.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260509T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260509T213000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260223T182723Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260408T164127Z UID:10000243-1778353200-1778362200@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Artemis DESCRIPTION:Sat | May 9 \n\n Sets 7pm & 9pm\n$95 Dinner & Show\n$50 Cover Only\n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n The brainchild of pianist and composer Renee Rosnes\, ARTEMIS is a powerful ensemble of modern virtuosos. Named for the Greek goddess of the hunt\, the multinational\, multigenerational quintet features pianist Renee Rosnes\, trumpeter Ingrid Jensen\, tenor saxophonist Nicole Glover\, bassist Noriko Ueda\, and drummer Allison Miller. After experiencing an ARTEMIS live show at the Newport Jazz Festival\, Blue Note President Don Was signed the band to the label. Artemis’s 3rd recording for the label\, ARBORESQUE was released in early 2025\, and remained atop the Jazzweek National Radio Charts for a full 5 weeks. The music is testament to the group’s evolving musical landscape and features stellar arrangements and riveting originals contributed by all members of the band. \nNPR said Artemis is “a killer line-up of players who hail from all over the world and converge on this extremely cosmopolitan\, sleek\, rhythm-forward\, modern sound.” Each musician is a brilliant player and composer. Artemis performs with power\, passion\, and high-wire intensity. It’s no wonder the band has been recognized as “Group of the Year” by Downbeat Readers Poll for three consecutive years: 2023\, 2024 & 2025! Rosnes says\, “Our goal is to make honest music that touches people. We inspire one another and feel passionate about playing together. All that positive energy comes through in the sound and I believe audiences can feel the electricity.” \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/artemis/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/artemis.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260510T110000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260510T130000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260309T172733Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260324T135314Z UID:10000272-1778410800-1778418000@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Mother's Day Piano Jazz & Brunch: Nick Masters DESCRIPTION:Sun | May 10\nDoors 11am | Set 12pm$85 Brunch & Show$40 Cover Only RESERVE TABLE \nAbout the Artist\nCelebrate Mother’s Day at Blue Llama Jazz Club for Brunch & a Show! \nTreat mom to a beautiful morning of live piano jazz from pianist Nick Masters. Enjoy a 75-minute set of stunning music for a truly special occasion. \n\n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/mothers-day-piano-jazz-brunch-nick-masters/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/nick-masters-1.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260510T150000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260510T173000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260309T173335Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260408T164523Z UID:10000273-1778425200-1778434200@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Lucía DESCRIPTION:Sun | May 10 \n\n Doors 3 pm | Set 4pm \n$85 Early Supper & Show \n$40 Cover Only\n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Join us for an Early Supper and Show with vocalist Lucía this Mother’s Day! \nLucía is a 24-year-old vocalist from Veracruz\, México\, whose singular artistic vision bridges the gaps between jazz\, Latin and pop music. \nLucía Gutierrez Rebolloso started her musical career at the age of two\, singing and dancing in her parents’ son jarocho band\, Son de Madera. She began studying voice at the age of thirteen at Universidad Veracruzana\, and in 2022 received a bachelor’s degree in jazz studies from this same university. \nIn 2022\, she became the first artist from Mexico to enter the Sarah Vaughan International Jazz Vocal Competition\, which she won. Lucía has already collaborated with several world-renowned artists and musicians\, including Natalia Lafourcade\, Aloe Blacc\, La Santa Cecilia\, Quetzal\, Son de Madera\, Alex Mercado and the National Jazz Orchestra of Mexico (ONJMX in Spanish). She has performed on stages around world\, including Carnegie Hall\, Rose Hall at Jazz at Lincoln Center\, the Royce Hall at UCLA\, the ASU Gammage in Arizona\, El Cantoral\, the National Center for the Arts and the Teatro de la Ciudad Esperanza Iris in Mexico City. She has also performed in renowned festivals like the Folk Festival in Vancouver and the International Cervantino Festival in Guanajuato\, Mexico. \nMost recently\, Lucía has just released her first full album. Produced by Grammy winner Matt Pierson\, it presents Lucía’s interpretations of jazz standards (“What a Difference a Day Makes\,” “You Must Believe in Spring\,” etc.)\, classic Spanish songs (“Silencio\,” “La Llorona\,” “Como Fue”) and current pop songs (by Taylor Swift and Olivia Rodrigo)\, featuring an extraordinary group of musicians including Edward Simon\, David Sanchez\, Larry Grenadier and Antonio Sánchez. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/lucia/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/lucia.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260513T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260513T220000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260219T153926Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260219T153926Z UID:10000255-1778698800-1778709600@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Randy Napoleon Octet DESCRIPTION:Wed | May 13 \n\n Sets at 7pm and 8:30pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Born in Brooklyn and raised in Ann Arbor\, Michigan\, Randy Napoleon began his journey in jazz immediately after finishing his studies at the University of Michigan. Jeff Hamilton of the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra invited the young Napoleon to do a series of performances with them at the Hollywood Bowl. From there\, Napoleon’s career took off\, first touring with pianist Benny Green nationally and internationally for a year\, and then full time with the Clayton-Hamilton Jazz Orchestra. A three-year stint with crooner Michael Buble followed; Napoleon is featured on Buble’s Grammy-nominated CD “Caught in the Act.” \nGuitarist George Benson calls Napoleon “sensational.” Detroit Free Press critic Mark Stryker says Napoleon “plays with a gentle\, purring tone that makes you lean in close to hear its range of color and articulation.” Washington Post critic Mike Joyce praises his “exceptionally nimble finger-style technique.” Comparing him to Wes Montgomery\, music critic Michael G. Nastos says\, “he displays an even balance of swing\, soul\, and single-line or chord elements that mark an emerging voice dedicated to tradition and universally accessible jazz values.” \nNapoleon currently tours with the legendary singer/pianist\, Freddy Cole\, and is featured on Cole’s 2009 album\, “Live at Dizzy’s Club: The Dreamer in Me.” He is the main arranger and the guitarist on “Freddy Cole Sings Mr. B\,” a 2010 Grammy-nominated release from High Note that features songs from the Billy Eckstine song book\, as well as on “Talk to Me\,” Cole’s 2011 album\, and Cole’s most recent album “This and That.” \nToday\, Napoleon is one of the most sought-after guitarists in New York\, where he is known as a forward-thinking musician with a passion for the jazz guitar tradition. In addition to backing the best\, he leads his own bands\, an organ trio\, a trombone trio\, a quartet with piano\, and a three-horn sextet that includes organ\, drums\, trumpet\, tenor sax\, and trombone. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/randy-napoleon-octet/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/randy-napoleon.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260514T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260514T213000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260219T154027Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260219T154027Z UID:10000267-1778785200-1778794200@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Signal Quartet DESCRIPTION:THURS | May 14 \n\n Sets at 7pm and 8:30pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Signal Quartet is a collective musical ensemble based in Detroit\, Michigan consisting of Ben Wolkins on Trumpet and Flugelhorn\, Ian Blunden on Guitar\, Eric Nachtrab on Bass\, and Sean Perlmutter on Drums. Each member composes for the band and contributes a decidedly individual improvisational voice. These varied approaches are the true strength of the band. Signal Quartet is not one thing. \nThrough their writing for the group\, each of the four members inspire empathetic ensemble improvisation from their own vantage point. Nachtrab has a way of making long\, complex\, or irregular song forms sound simple and inevitable with a lyricism all his own. Perlmutter contributes a pop sensibility\, connecting brightly defined islands of melodic material with shifting\, sometimes unhinged improvised sections. Wolkins has a highly developed harmonic concept\, adding a richness\, depth\, and detailed logic to the proceedings while Blunden adds an up-to-the-minute take on the state of improvised music. \nSignal Quartet wholeheartedly welcome uncertainty and strive for a truly new creation each time they set foot on the bandstand. Their approach to music is one of “letting it all in”; following the thread of the music wherever it leads\, regardless of stylistic constraints; embracing the jazz tradition while refusing to shave off or smooth over any of its eccentricities or irregularities. \nThe band’s self-titled debut – consisting mostly of pieces by Nachtrab – was released in August of 2022\, and was celebrated with a performance at the Detroit Jazz Festival the following Month. Their sophomore effort\,Second Exploration: The Music of Ben Wolkins\, (released in April 2023) was promoted by  a Midwest tour\, featured as a “new and notable release” on Bandcamp’s homepage\, and received radio play around the US.   \nApproaching\, a third release featuring pieces written by all four members was recorded while on tour in 2024 and released later that year. It finds the band in top form\, expertly balancing spontaneity and deliberation while navigating a set of of diverse and challenging compositions. After further touring throughout the midwest and east coast\, the band has documented yet another batch of eclectic material (again with all four members contributing pieces) on the album Signal 4\, set to be released in early 2026. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/signal-quartet-copy/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/11/signal-quartet.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260515T160000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260515T183000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260325T184900Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260325T184900Z UID:10000303-1778860800-1778869800@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Swing Happy Hour: Kerrytown Stompers DESCRIPTION:Fri | May 15 \n\n 5:00 – 6:30pm | No Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n The Kerrytown Stompers are thrilled to return to the Blue Llama Jazz Club to bring Swingin’ “Hot Jazz”\, performed by an All-Star Sextet. Specializing in Early Jazz from 1917 to 1940\, you will hear\, see and feel the reason this music has become so important in American culture. This music is instantly uplifting and fun. Not to be missed! \nDave Kosmyna- cornet\nRay Heitger- clarinet\nChris Smith- trombone\nChris Tabaczynski- bass saxophone\nAlex Belhaj- guitar\nPete Siers- drums\, washboard\n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/swing-happy-hour-kerrytown-stompers-5/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/09/kerrytown-stompers.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260515T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260515T220000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260219T182407Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260420T134537Z UID:10000256-1778871600-1778882400@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Detroit Jazz Fest All-Stars: Beyond Take Five DESCRIPTION:Fri | May 15 \n\n Sets 7pm & 9pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n\n About the Artist \n The Music and The Genius of Dave Brubeck \nA quartet of Detroit All-Stars reimagine familiar and lesser-know Brubeck works spanning the history of this ground-breaking American icon.  With a career spanning more than six decades and hundreds of recordings\, Dave Brubeck was a global jazz phenomenon and an icon of American culture. Employing innovative use of odd time signatures\, elements of classical composition and a highly personalized jazz vocabulary\, he created solo\, quartet and large scale works inspired  by modernism\, spiritualism and social justice. Beyond his legendary status as pianist\, composer and band leader\, in the mid-twentieth century\, Brubeck elevated the popularity of sophisticated jazz by cultivating new audiences amongst college aged youth who ultimately embraced modern-jazz as a defining music of their generation. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/djf-all-stars-beyond-take-five/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/01/dave-brubeck.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260516T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260516T213000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260219T154838Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260401T204446Z UID:10000244-1778958000-1778967000@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Jeff Haas Quintet DESCRIPTION:Sat | May 16 \n\n Sets at 7pm & 9pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Rooted in the original works of acclaimed composer Jeff Haas\, this eclectic quintet explores the intersection of jazz\, funk\, R&B\, and world music soundscapes. The result is a rich\, genre-crossing musical voice\, at once soulful\, inventive\, and deeply human. With a lineup of exceptional Michigan artists\, the group crafts performances that invite connection\, reflection\, and joy.\nHaas’ quintet\, featuring an all-star lineup of Marion Hayden on bass\, Tariq Gardner on drums\, Anthony Stanco on trumpet and  Laurie Sears on saxes and flutes\, is excited to return to the Blue LLama Jazz Club with compelling new musical works.  \nMarion Hayden-bass\nTariq Gardner-drums\nAnthony Stanco-trumpet\nLaurie Sears-saxophones and flute\nJeff Haas-piano\nJeff Haas Website:  https://www.jeffhaasmusic.com/jeff-haas-quintet \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/jeff-haas-quintet-2/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/jeff-haas-quintet-.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260517T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260517T203000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260219T155020Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260406T162653Z UID:10000257-1779040800-1779049800@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Marlena Studer's Jazz Ensemble DESCRIPTION:Sun | May 17 \n\n Sets 6pm & 7:30pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Vocalist Marlena Studer leads an all-star ensemble of jazz musicians in a Swinging Tribute to the 1930s\, a time in U.S. history that burst forth with musical\, cultural and artistic dynamism. Marlena’s jazz ensemble will delight the audience with a sneak preview into her recording project on the “roaring twenties\,” which breathes fresh energy into timeless tunes from great composers such as Cole Porter\, Irving Berlin\, Fats Waller and the Gershwin’s. \nMarlena Studer: Vocals\nChris Kendall: Vocals\nEllen Rowe: Piano\nPaul Keller: Bass\nScott Kretzer: Drums\nSteve Ragsdale: Guitar\n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/marlena-studer/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/Marlena-Studer-BNW2.jpg-sqLg.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260520T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260520T213000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260303T160433Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260303T160433Z UID:10000288-1779303600-1779312600@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Houston Patton & Hidden Nomination DESCRIPTION:Wed | May 20 \n\n Sets at 7pm & 8:30pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Hidden Nomination is a genre-defying ensemble that emerged from the lustrous Blue Llama Jazz Club after a particularly electrifying set. The band has quickly become a force to be reckoned with in the Midwest music scene. Comprising Houston Patton on saxophone\, Andre Crawford on piano\, Dylan Sherman on bass\, and Brian Allen on drums\, Hidden Nomination brings together four exceptionally talented musicians with a shared passion for exploration and innovation. \nTheir sound is a thrilling fusion of jazz\, funk\, R&B\, gospel\, and neo-soul\, creating a sonic tapestry that is as soulful as it is dynamic. With high-energy performances and delicate\, melodic interplay\, Hidden Nomination captivates audiences\, taking them on a journey that transcends traditional genre boundaries. The band’s philosophy is rooted in the pursuit of the unseen and the unheard-always searching for what lies hidden beneath the surface of music and emotion. \nRecently completing a celebrated residency at Cliff Bell’s\, one of Detroit’s most iconic jazz clubs\, Hidden Nomination has solidified its reputation as a must-see live act. Their ability to blend technical mastery with raw\, heartfelt expression has earned them a dedicated following and critical acclaim. As they prepare to record their debut album in summer of 2025\, the band is poised to share their unique sound with an even wider audience. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/houston-patton-hidden-nomination-3/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/houston-patton.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260521T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260521T213000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260219T155140Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260422T155802Z UID:10000268-1779390000-1779399000@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Tumbao Bravo's "Joy of the Mambo" DESCRIPTION:Thurs | May 21 \n\n Sets at 7pm and 8:30pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Join us for the recording release show of Tumbao Bravo’s Joy of the Mambo! CDs will be available for purchase during the show. \nFormed in August 2003 by reedman Paul VornHagen\, Tumbao Bravo has released five critically acclaimed CDs of mostly original compositions that have been featured on all the major jazz public radio stations throughout the United States.   Winner of the 2005\, 2007 and 2013 Detroit Music Awards for Best Jazz Recording and Best World Music Band\, this combo has performed at all the major Michigan jazz/music festivals including Detroit\, Michigan\, Lansing\, Birmingham\, Raisin River\, Great Lakes Folk\, Blissfest\, Wheatland Dance and Ann Arbor to name a few. \nThe title cut of their 2009 Cd was used as a soundtrack for the USA Network TV show\, Burn Notice. Five of their songs were also used in the soundtrack for the feature length romantic comedy\, “Bride Plus 1” released in 2018 and filmed in Los Angeles.   In September 2018\, the band released their 5th Cd\, “El Nido-The Nest” which was featured on many National Public Radio (NPR) programs including the top rated\, JAZZ AFTER HOURS and Miami\, Florida’s WDNA-a mecca for latin jazz recordings. All band members have won or been nominated for individual Detroit Music Awards as well  teachers at U of Michigan\, Washtenaw CC\, Jazz Camps and music studios.  For the past 12 years\, Tumbao Bravo has been presenting a  program called “The Rhythms of Cuba”  at numerous libraries throughout southeastern Michigan and the San Francisco Bay area. Other music  performance venues include Chicago\, Toledo\, OH\, Windsor\, CAN and Oklahoma. Presently\, the band performs monthly at the stellar  jazz club in Ann Arbor called THE BLUE LLAMA  as well as the DIRTY DOG JAZZ CAFE in Grosse Pte Woods and the new LUCILLE’S JAZZ LOUNGE in Toledo\, OH.  Our newest band members include Armando Vega on congas and Kurt Schreitmueller on piano. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/tumbao-bravo-3/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/jpeg:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/TBravoJoyofMamboCoverDesign.jpg END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260522T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260522T220000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260219T155358Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260409T151850Z UID:10000262-1779476400-1779487200@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Dave McMurray DESCRIPTION:Fri | May 22 \n\n Sets 7pm & 9pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Dave McMurray’s move to Blue Note Records is a reunion of sorts\, given the long history the saxophonist shares with the label’s president\, and fellow Detroit native\, Don Was. McMurray was a member of Was’ genre-defying unit Was (Not Was)\, first working together on the band’s self-titled 1981 debut. He’s played on all of the band’s albums and many other Was produced projects in the years since. \nWhen Was signed McMurray to Blue Note\, the saxophonist says that he gave him no imperatives as to which artistic paths to take. “It was one of those situations in which he just said\, ‘Do it\,'” McMurray explains. \nMcMurray has cemented his reputation for versatility by playing with a vast array of musicians that include B.B. King\, The Rolling Stones\, Bob Dylan\, Iggy Pop\, Patti Smith\, Bonnie Raitt\, Johnny Hallyday\, Gladys Knight\, Albert King\, Nancy Wilson\, KEM\, Bootsy Collins\, Herbie Hancock\, Geri Allen\, and Bob James. McMurray sounds as assured and inspired in a rock\, R&B\, funk\, pop or folk setting as he does playing hard bop. \nMcMurray attributes his saxophone sound and improvisational approach to growing up in Detroit. “Every time I hear an instrumentalist from Detroit play\, it feels like they are singing. I don’t care if it’s Yusef Lateef\, James Carter or Kenny Garrett. All of those saxophonists incorporated incredible technique too. But they had this singing quality in their playing. I think people hear that and connect with that aspect of it\,” McMurray says. \nFor sure\, McMurray stands on Detroit’s mighty music legacy that includes the influential Motown sound\, P-Funk\, numerous rock acts such as Stooges and the MC5\, electronica-music pioneers Carl Craig\, Moodymann and Theo Parrish; and hip-hop icons – J Dilla\, Eminem and Slum Village. And let’s not forget the legion of jazz artists from Detroit that include Elvin Jones\, Betty Carter\, Milt Jackson\, Regina Carter and Geri Allen. \nMcMurray’s journey into music began when he started playing clarinet as kid\, and inspired by his older brother’s interest in the saxophone he decided he wanted to learn that instrument\, too. He counts seeing Cannonball Adderley perform on The Steve Allen Show as a defining moment in his childhood. While in high school\, McMurray attended Cranbook Academy of Arts’ noted summer program\, Horizons Upward Bound. He eventually got a scholarship to attend the private school. McMurray furthered his education by attending Wayne State University\, where he earned degrees in psychology and urban studies. \nWhile making his way on Detroit’s bustling music scene\, McMurray played with the avant-garde jazz ensemble\, Griot Galaxy\, founded in 1972 by saxophonist Faruq Z. Bey. But McMurray’s catholic taste in music opened the doors for him to explore beyond the realms of jazz. “Any music that I heard – and continue to hear – I can see myself playing it\,” McMurray asserts. “It could be rock\, jazz\, R&B\, whatever.” And that’s a good explanation for his multifaceted career. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/dave-mcmurray-2/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/dave-mcmurray.png END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260523T190000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260523T213000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260219T155554Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260219T155554Z UID:10000269-1779562800-1779571800@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Sean Dobbins & Dave Stryker DESCRIPTION:Sat | May 23 \n\n Sets at 7pm & 9pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Sean Dobbins got his start as sought-after Detroit area jazz sideman at a young age\, when he would regularly play with Blue Note artist Louis Smith. As Sean’s Career progressed\, he found himself the recipient of many awards and accolades including the “Woody Herman Jazz Award”\, an award for outstanding musicianship\, as well as the Louis Armstrong Scholarship. Due to Sean’s great talent both as a player and an educator\, he has been the focus of countless news articles\, jazz radio programs\, and documentaries. \nThough still young by jazz standards\, Dobbins has amassed an impressive list of playing companions. He has performed/toured/recorded with Johnny Basset\, Marcus Belgrave\, Larry Willis\, Rodney Whittaker\, Claude Black\, Marion Hayden\, Mose Allison\, and a host of other great musicians. \nSean’s sound can best be described as hard-driving\, solid rhythm with refreshing melodic sensibility. Some of Sean’s influences include Art Blakey\, Jeff Hamilton\, Jeff “Tain” Watts\, Ed Thigpen\, Sonny Payne\, as well as Detroit area greats Gerald Cleaver and the one and only Elvin Jones. \nDave Stryker\nWhether you’ve heard guitarist Dave Stryker fronting his own group (with 37 CD’s as a leader to date)\, or as a featured sideman with\, Stanley Turrentine and Jack McDuff\, you know why Gary Giddins in the Village Voice called him “one of the most distinctive guitarists to come along in recent years.” Stryker with Strings Goes to the Movies is Dave’s 2025 recording featuring him in front of a 30 piece studio orchestra. In 2024 Groove Street was Dave’s #1 recording featuring Bob Mintzer and Stryker’s working trio of Jared Gold on organ and McClenty Hunter on drums. The trio recently opened up for Steely Dan’s 2002 summer tour.\nStryker has been on a roll the last several years with all the recordings (on his label Strikezone Records) reaching the Top 10 and 6 hitting #1 on JazzWeek. Hot House magazine awarded Dave the Best Guitarist Fans Decision for 2017. He was recently voted once again as one of the top Jazz Guitarists in the 2025 Downbeat Poll for the 15th time. \n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/sean-dobbins-dave-stryker/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/webp:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/SeanDobbinsBNW.jpg-sqLg.webp END:VEVENT BEGIN:VEVENT DTSTART;TZID=America/Detroit:20260524T180000 DTEND;TZID=America/Detroit:20260524T203000 DTSTAMP:20260424T073743 CREATED:20260313T150707Z LAST-MODIFIED:20260313T150707Z UID:10000299-1779645600-1779654600@bluellamaclub.com SUMMARY:Jacob Hart Trio DESCRIPTION:Sun | May 24 \n\n Sets 6pm & 7:30pm | $25 Cover \n \n RESERVE TABLE\n \n \n\n About the Artist \n Jacob Hart is a 17-year-old multi downbeat award-winning pianist\, composer\, and arranger\, hailing from Detroit\, Michigan. He has performed at the Michigan Jazz Festival\,  the Detroit Jazz Festival\, and the Toledo-Peacock jazz festival\, with artists like Herlin Riley\, Ryan Devlin\, and others. Jacob has opened for several famous jazz artists such as Herbie Hancock\, Branford Marsalis\, and Terence Blanchard. He has also performed at several known jazz clubs in the area\, including Baker’s Keyboard Lounge\, Dirty Dog Jazz Cafe\, the Blue Llama\, and Cliff Bell’s. Hart is a student at the esteemed Detroit School of Arts and also takes part in many Detroit jazz programs\, such as the DSO Civic Jazz Orchestra and the MSU Spartan Youth Jazz Program. On top of all of this\, Jacob is releasing his second album\, “Short Circuit” in the near future\, so stay on the look out! \nJacob Hart- Piano\nZach Gutman- Bass\nSam Melkonian- Drums\n\n \n \n \n RESERVE TABLE URL:https://bluellamaclub.com/event/jacob-hart-trio/ ATTACH;FMTTYPE=image/png:https://bluellamaclub.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/jacob-hart.png END:VEVENT END:VCALENDAR