Lifestyle: Jazz/Blues Clubs

One important scene that is often overlooked is a Jazz or Blues Club.  This scene is one that has the right ambiance from the start.  The stimulation of all your senses all in one place.  From nice lighting, solid cuisine and great music to set the mood.  If you do things right, her nice perfume will help you feel like touching something.  Her hand my friend.  Yet you cant just go to any Jazz or Blues club, there are specific things you should look for.

Simple:
Nice spacing.  You don’t want to be in a bar that is too cramped or too cluttered. This is not with people, but with furniture.  That makes it difficult to move around, dance or even get close and talk to someone.  When you are more focused on the maze to get across the room, rather  than paying attention to the person across the room, there is a problem.

Sophisticated:
Neighborhood vs. City. The City or downtown club is one that is more upscale, and sophisticated atmosphere.  The price tag will be higher, and the attire will be more sports coat and dress like, yet you can have a great time.  These are great for those who are in town for a few days, or for that occasional nice night out.  Yet it doesn’t hurt to go for happy hour or to visit in the middle of the week.  The neighborhood club is one that is more casual.  The ability or pressure to impress someone is less because of the casual setting.  These are really great for a lot more locals, as well as something more low key. These have more of a chance to bring you back to how it was back then.  Right night to attend:  There are so many different types of jazz and blues musicians.  Going the right night will give you the best chance of having a great time.  It gives you the best chance for you to meet people who like the same type of music you do.  Additionally, you can have an easier time to connect with someone, or help you get over a rough day.

Classic
Good music, food and drinks. The lighting may be great, and the food is something that dances across your taste buds, but if the music isn’t good, the ambiance is gone.  A lot of times they have a listing of the musician, type of music, and possibly a sample on their website.  Check it out.  If all else fails, YouTube it.  Additionally if its to loud, then you can't talk.  The volume should be acceptable, yet some places are about being loud.  So adjust. But don’t be afraid to try something new, you could be surprised. I wont say much other than this yet you will be amazed on how much better of an experience you will have when the food and/or the drinks are better.  Now think of what your special guest’s experience is like and how much better of a time you both will have.  You know the way to a person's heart is though their stomach.


SF Area: Yoshi’s, Cafe Claude, Biscuits and Blues
L.A Area: Culver Club, redwhite+bluezz
Chicago: The Velvet Lounge, Jazz Showcase, Underground Water Bar
NYC: Village Banguard, Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola, Smalls, Blue Smoke
Washington DC: HR-57, Blues Alley, JoJo’s Restaurant and Bar