Frisell is the guitarist who taught a generation that jazz could sound like a half-remembered country song, and the Morgan-Royston trio is the format where he leaves the most air in the music. The Vanguard's wedge-shaped basement is the most recorded room in jazz, and it is small enough that you hear the amp and the drum kit rather than a PA. If you have never done a night in a proper New York jazz club, this is the one to start with.
What to expect
You go down a steep staircase into a low, wedge-shaped basement with red walls, photographs of everyone who has ever played there, and tables jammed close together. Sets run about seventy-five minutes with no opener and no talking through the music — the room takes that seriously. Seating is first-come within your reservation, so arriving early gets you closer.
Good to know
- The club is at Seventh Avenue South and 11th Street; take the 1 to Christopher Street
- Reserve ahead — the room seats about 130 and a Frisell run sells out
- Arrive early if you want a front table; seating goes in arrival order
- There is a drink minimum on top of the music charge
- Talking during sets is genuinely frowned on here, so save the catch-up for the break
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Common questions
How many sets are there?
The Vanguard runs two sets on most nights, and you buy for a specific set rather than for the whole evening.
Who is in the trio?
Bill Frisell on guitar with Thomas Morgan on bass and Rudy Royston on drums, the long-running lineup behind several of his recent records.
Is there food?
No. The Vanguard is a listening room with a bar, so plan on eating in the West Village beforehand.
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