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Nite Out
Need some jazzin' up?
The distinctive sound isn't easily found in the bay area. We tell you where to go.
By DALIA WHEATT
Published October 13, 2005
If you define jazz as anything that isn't rock or R&B, then there is plenty of live jazz in Tampa Bay. For those with more discriminating tastes, the search has many rabbit trails. Fortunately, a handful of venues regularly showcase jazz artists. Here are five of the best:
- BY DALIA WHEATT, Times staff writer
Blue Martini
International Plaza, 2223 N West Shore Blvd., Tampa, 813 873-2583; www.bluemartinilounge.com
Why it's cool: Slicker than your average jazz club, Blue Martini offers a sophisticated setting with two bar areas and ample indoor and outdoor seating. The extensive list of more than 30 martinis reads like a dessert menu: How about a key lime pie martini? Cookies and cream, perhaps?
When there's jazz: Theo Valentin and Friends play every Tuesday evening.
What's in a blue martini: The signature drink combines Finlandia vodka, Cointreau, Blue Curacao, sweet and sour mix and orange juice. It's served in an oversized snifter.
Dino's Jazz Piano Bar and Grille
16 Second St. N, St. Petersburg, (727) 896-3466
Why it's cool: Dino's will seduce you with its classic jazz club decor and refreshingly diverse crowd. When the doors open for jazz, they literally stay open all night, spilling music into the streets for outdoor diners and passers-by. Inside, enjoy the song stylings of favorites, including keyboardist Shawn Brown and saxman Mike MacArthur.
When there's jazz: Monday and Wednesday nights; the lineup changes weekly, so call for details. (MacArthur is on tap this Monday. Midnight Brass plays Wednesday.) Mondays are big, as WSJT-FM 94.1 personality Al Santana emcees and local musicians regularly come to catch their peers on stage.
Who's Dino? The owners' grandfather. They also have a black lab with that name.
Famous Cigars and Elite Jazz Bar
25032 U.S. 19 N, Clearwater, 727 796-2442; www.famous-cigars.com
Why it's cool: No egos here, just down-to-earth folks looking to unwind. The friendly wait staff will make you feel like a regular after one drink, and they'll even join you on the dance floor. This place's decor screams "jazz" with its bold paintings, pool table and the eponymous cigar shop attached.
When there's jazz: You'll find jazz mixed into a grab bag of pop and R&B favorites every Wednesday through Saturday night. Fridays and Saturdays draw the best crowd.
Most famous cigar: Actually, there isn't one. It all depends on what you're drinking.
The Fox
Lincoln Center, 5401 W Kennedy Blvd., Tampa, 813 289-8446; www.foxjazzclub.com
Why it's cool: If you want to impress your out-of-town guests, take them to the Fox, where you'll find pure jazz night after night. We're talkin' a live act on the main stage, plus performers in the piano room. The decor reflects the Fox's commitment to jazz through a series of vibrant paintings and eye-catching statues. The servers look like extras from Chicago in their tuxedo jackets and black tights.
When there's jazz: Tuesday through Saturday evenings. The best night is Tuesday, when jazz musicians hold a jam session.
Dress to impress: This is an upscale establishment, so don't show up in shorts and flip-flops. The Fox's dress code is business casual. If you must wear jeans, pair them with a dressy shirt to be sure you'll get in.
Marchand's Bar at the Vinoy
501 Fifth Ave. NE, St. Petersburg, (727) 894-1000, ext. 2136
Why it's cool: Straight-ahead jazz can be hard to come by in this town, but it's a staple every weekend at the Vinoy. The scene feels like something out of The Great Gatsby; the space is airy and clean, with classical architecture and plenty of seating in the dining room. Kick back with a drink or a full meal as the band serenades you with easy listening by the likes of bossa nova legend Antonio Carlos Jobim. And whether you're in denim or your Saturday night best, the attentive staff will make you feel like a VIP.
When there's jazz: Catch house band Billy Pillucere and Friends every Friday and Saturday night. Sundays feature a jazz brunch starting at 10:30 a.m., and a classical jazz pianist performs in the lobby weekday evenings. Fridays are your best bet: The band offers pure jazz until around 10 p.m., then mixes in some R&B.
Your eardrums will thank you: The volume is such that you can actually hear the other people at your table.
[Last modified October 12, 2005, 10:18:06]
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