Welcome to The Improv Cafe’, where every single note you hear is a live one! Our radio station is your exclusive destination for the vibrant, spontaneous world of Live Jazz, Big Band, Swing, and Vocal Jazz. We believe the true magic of this music unfolds in the moment, on stage, and that’s exactly what we deliver, every song, every time.
Tonight, we’re diving deep into the incredible universe of Blue Note Records and the Blue Note Jazz Club, as there’s a phenomenal amount of news radiating from this legendary institution. Get ready to be immersed in the rich history and exciting future of jazz, because Blue Note is celebrating its 85th Anniversary in truly grand style!
Blue Note’s 85th Anniversary: A Legacy in Full Swing
Eighty-five years is a remarkable milestone for any cultural institution, and Blue Note Records is marking this momentous occasion with a series of initiatives that pay homage to its storied past while embracing the future of jazz. This celebration includes:
- The Blue Note Quintet Tour: An all-star collective of current Blue Note recording artists, including Gerald Clayton, Joel Ross, Immanuel Wilkins, Kendrick Scott, and Matt Brewer, has embarked on a tour across North America, bringing the label’s rich history to life on stages everywhere.
- Francis Wolff Collection Exhibitions: Dive into the iconic visual history of jazz with exhibitions featuring the Francis Wolff Collection. Francis Wolff, a co-founder and the legendary photographer for Blue Note Records, captured thousands of candid and intimate moments of jazz legends in recording studios and clubs. His photographs became synonymous with the label’s iconic album covers, visually defining an era of American music. These exhibitions offer a rare glimpse into the artistry behind the scenes.
- Return of the Blue Note Review Vinyl Boxset Series: For collectors and audiophiles, the acclaimed Blue Note Review vinyl boxset series is making a highly anticipated return. These meticulously curated sets offer exclusive new music, rare discoveries, and audiophile reissues, embodying the very essence of the Blue Note aesthetic.
- New Releases and Reissues: Blue Note continues its commitment to both honoring its catalog and championing new artists. Their renowned Tone Poet and Classic Vinyl Reissue series are bringing timeless masterpieces back into circulation with unparalleled sound quality. Recent announcements also include exciting new releases from contemporary artists like Linda Sikhakhane, Nduduzo Makhathini, and Meshell Ndegeocello, ensuring the label remains at the forefront of modern jazz.
- Lee Morgan Tribute Compilation: A special double LP vinyl compilation is being released, featuring current Blue Note artists paying tribute to the legendary trumpet icon Lee Morgan. This collection includes powerful reinterpretations of his music, along with a previously unreleased alternate take of his sextet performing “Morgan The Pirate” from his 1964 Search For The New Land sessions – a true gem for fans!
The Blue Note Jazz Club Expands to Los Angeles!
In truly exciting news for jazz lovers on the West Coast, the iconic Blue Note Jazz Club is opening a brand-new venue in Hollywood, Los Angeles, this August! This expansion marks a significant moment, bringing the world-renowned club’s intimate atmosphere and world-class programming to a new city.
The club is partnering with the celebrated artist Robert Glasper to curate events in Los Angeles, building on his wildly successful “Robtober” residency at the original Blue Note in New York. The opening season lineup for the LA venue is already brimming with incredible talent, featuring performances by Robert Glasper himself, along with Andra Day, Charlie Puth, Esperanza Spalding, Branford Marsalis, Kamasi Washington, Killer Mike, Ben Folds, and many more. This promises to be a vibrant new hub for jazz and related genres on the West Coast.
Other Notable Jazz News:
- Wayne Shorter Celebration: Blue Note has also released “Celebration, Volume 1,” a powerful live recording honoring the late, great saxophonist and composer Wayne Shorter, capturing his genius in performance.
- Remembering Al Foster: We pause to remember the immense talent of drummer Al Foster, known for his indispensable contributions to countless jazz legends, who sadly passed away in May. His legacy continues to resonate through his incredible live recordings.
- Blue Note Jazz Festival New York: The 14th annual Blue Note Jazz Festival New York has announced an electrifying lineup, featuring an eclectic mix of artists including the legendary Grace Jones, Janelle Monae, and Branford Marsalis, showcasing the festival’s commitment to diverse and groundbreaking talent.
Tonight’s Feature: Live at the Blue Note Radio Show!
As we celebrate these momentous happenings, don’t forget to tune into tonight’s Live at the Blue Note Radio Show! If you’re yearning for a night out that combines great music, delicious drinks, and a lively atmosphere, then the Blue Note clubs around the world are the perfect destination. Our show is dedicated to bringing that experience directly to you, playing only live music recorded from any of the World Famous Blue Note Clubs around the World. Whether from a released CD or a newly discovered live recording, every track you hear has been captured in the vibrant, intimate setting of a Blue Note stage.
With a diverse schedule of performances from an array of talented musicians, you are guaranteed to find something that suits your taste. So settle in, relax, and let the authentic sounds of live jazz from the heart of the Blue Note fill your evening.
