This is jazz at its most fearless in the genre's most hallowed room: pianist Kris Davis, drummer Tyshawn Sorey and saxophonist Ingrid Laubrock — three of improvised music's most decorated artists — sharing the tiny Village Vanguard stage for a week's residency. The Vanguard's famous acoustics put you within feet of players who normally headline concert halls, in a room where Coltrane and Evans cut classics. If you take your live jazz adventurous, this is the weekend's connoisseur pick.
What to expect
Expect the classic Vanguard experience: a snug, red-walled basement where every seat is close to the bandstand and the room falls silent for the music. The trio plays two sets a night of largely improvised, texturally rich contemporary jazz — expect spontaneous interplay rather than a standards songbook.
Good to know
- The Vanguard is a small basement room on Seventh Avenue South; reservations are strongly advised
- Nearest trains are the 1/2/3 to 14th St or the A/C/E/B/D/F/M at West 4th
- Seating is tight and shared — arrive early for a better sightline to the band
- It's a listening room: talking during sets is discouraged
- Cash is handy for the bar; there's typically a drink minimum
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Common questions
How many sets are there per night?
The Village Vanguard typically presents two sets each evening; the trio plays both.
Is this traditional jazz?
It leans adventurous and improvisational — contemporary, texture-driven jazz from three celebrated modern players rather than a standards set.
Do I need a reservation?
Strongly recommended — the room is small and popular runs sell out.
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