Jazz and Razzmatazz in New York City
We have always been big fans of jazz and blues music. But try as we might, we have not found anywhere in the world that comes close to the atmosphere in New York. From grotto-like speakeasies to gargantuan concert halls, the Big Apple is definitely flavored with African-American spices. In order to help you make the most of cheap holidays to New York available from all major online travel agencies, here is a rundown of all the best jazzy spots in NYC.
The Blue Note is one of New York’s most celebrated blues clubs. Opened in 1981 in Greenwich Village, The Blue Note has hosted some of the biggest names in the business in its intimate, and impossibly busy venue. Don’t expect flawless service and great food here, come for exquisite jazz and blues and a bit of a boogie. Check out Monday nights or the bi-weekly Late Night Groove Series to hear the best local talent in progressive jazz, hip hop, soul and funk.
Greenwich Village is undoubtedly the heart of Manhattan’s cultural scene and the perfect place to feel the vibe on cheap holidays to New York. There are plenty more venues to explore. Few can be as atmospheric as Smalls Jazz Club at 183 West 10th Street. This tiny, 60-seat basement venue started of life as an unlicensed hub for local musicians. The enigmatic owner, philosopher, sailor, nurse and jazz violinist Mitchell Borden, has nurtured a venue that exists solely for the music – any other benefits are purely coincidental.
But then again it’s hard to measure Smalls against the experience of The 55 Bar. Open 7 days a week until4am, The 55 Bar is a throwback to the prohibition era. Proud to be a “dive bar” this Greenwich Village institution is one of the most authentic of the city’s shabby-chic basement venues.
For something a little more up market head over to West Village for cocktails, grill and the best acts around at B.B.King. This leading venue has a restaurant and bar as well as a huge stage and dance floor. With the glamour comes big prices too so make sure you know who you’re paying for.
Another way to splash out in style is to head to one of the really big venues. The Carnegie Hall, NYC’s premier concert hall, sometimes branches out from classical to jazz – no-one can resist the magnetic pull of the blue notes.
For you more adventurous travellers, take a deep breath and dive into the rough and ready district of Harlem. Among some of the less salubrious streets of NYC you will find raw grassroots jazz with a passion that cannot be matched.
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