On Wednesday the 8th of January, I attended Cherry Reds first (and sold out,) Jazz Jam night hosted by Gilulia Marro (on Clarinet and Vocals,) Honey Boulton (on Acoustic Guitar,) Sam Casey (On Double Bass,) and Andrew Duncan (on Drums.)
To kickstart the evening, before the event a group of us went to Stirchley Village to visit “Couch,” a quirky, intimate cocktail bar just on the high street to check out their new cocktail menu, which had an array of incredible drinks based on history’s best musicians. As well as a quick stop off at immortal records, which warmed us up perfectly for the evening ahead.
After the quick pit-stop in Stirchley I was eager to head to Cherry Reds and check out their jazz jam event. The bar has a great location, being situated a stone’s throw away from New Street station, bringing a serene and horizontal atmosphere to a bustling city.
I managed to secure a great spot overlooking the entire ensemble, with musicians breathlessly waiting to take over or bring a new instrument into the melting pot of raw talent each musician brought to the room.
Although I have visited the cafe and bar many times over the past few years as it was one of my favorite easy-going spots to drink in Birmingham, I was only recently made aware that they have a music space upstairs, which specializes in Blues and Jazz. In addition to some incredible original music from local artists on display, customers should expect a plethora of food, craft beer, cocktails and wine to satisfy all needs.
Upon arrival to the room where the event was being held, I could tell I was in for a great evening, the rustic interior with ornate decor paired with vibrate paintings and a warmly lit room created a soft-moody atmosphere which blended perfectly with the smooth jazz openings from the hosting band. I managed to secure a great spot overlooking the entire ensemble, with musicians breathlessly waiting to take over or bring a new instrument into the melting pot of raw talent each musician brought to the room.
A personal highlight for the evening for me was when two musicians from the audience joined the jam with a saxophone each, providing waves of smooth soulful sounds to the room which only elevated the atmosphere further.
Honey Boulton was another stand out act from the evening, with some effortless riffs which swam through the room and guided the band with ease. I had a great chat with him after his performance as it turns out I had accidentally stumbled across a set of his in London with my girlfriend a couple months prior, with riffs just as sincere and heartfelt as the ones he boasted on the jazz jam night.
Due to the popularity and success of the Jazz Jam, the event is reoccurring monthly. So, I would definitely keep an eager eye on @upstairsatcherryreds Instagram page for information regarding events similar to this one such as Honey Boulton’s album launch on the 22nd of January.
The jam has a basis for all occasions: whether you are searching for an romantic a date night, enjoying good music or just catching up with friends. Pairing any occasion with the great drinks and great music Cherry Reds has to offer, it truly is a soothing night to fill an empty week night off.
Review by Joshua Turner for Grapevine Birmingham.