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Oct. 16: Erin Bode 6:00-8:00pm
Vocalist Erin Bode has a beautiful, crystal clear voice that is too exquisite to miss. She has consistently won over audiences with her sweet personality and sincere performance. The Erin Bode Group creates music forged from the Americana of its members’ Midwestern roots, infused with jazz grooves and made magic by Bode’s bell-like voice. Sophisticated arrangements and attention to phrasing, both vocal and instrumental, further distinguish the band’s fresh sound.
Jan. 15: Carolbeth True and Two Times True with Christi John Bye 6:00-8:00pm
The group features Carolbeth True on keyboards with her son David True on drums and stellar musicians Glen Smith on bass and Larry Johnson on saxophone. The exciting vocal styles of Christi John Bye add intensity and fun to the music. Their music features contemporary jazz styles, some funk, some Latin, and of course, some ever-popular classic rock and American songbook arrangements.
Feb. 19: Willie Akins 6:00-8:00pm
Willie Akins has influenced an entire generation of St. Louis jazz musicians. As one of the most respected saxophone players in the region Akins enjoys the admiration of fellow jazz musicians all over the country. A native of Webster Groves, Willie Akins has worked to raise the standard of jazz musicianship in St. Louis since the 1960’s. He and his quartet perform regularly at Spruill’s nightclub. In 1998, they released their first CD, “Alima” (Catalyst Productions). One reviewer said, “These guys play beautifully together and the lead soloist Akins plays with a keen sense of drama.”
Mar. 18: Bosman Twins 6:00-8:00pm
As Dwight Bosman puts it, he and his brother Dwayne have been gigging since they were 14. Their love of music - specifically the jazz they have been playing for more than 40 years - came from their father, the late Lloyd Smith, a former sideman with Count Basie and Duke Ellington. They are both best known as saxophone players. Dwight is band director at Central Visual Performing Arts School, and the brothers helped develop the Symphony Music School at the Herbert Hoover Boys and Girls Club. Their sound is jazz but rooted in blues and gospel. "We don't think of ourselves as just musicians. We're jazz artists. We paint a portrait each time."
Apr. 15: Marsha Evans and the Coalition 6:00-8:00pm
Marsha Evans is a true blues and R&B force in the St. Louis music scene. She is a regular attraction at BB’s Jazz Blues and Soups, the 1860 Saloon in Soulard, and the Big Muddy Blues Festival on Laclede’s Landing. Her energy is absolutely infectious especially when electrifying the crowd with her version of “Let the Good Times Roll”.