Tenor saxophonist Cory Weeds teams up with powerhouse organist Chris Hazelton for a two-week tour that will culminate in Vancouver, where the band will head into the studio to record. Joined by the soulful guitar work of David Rourke and the deep-pocket groove of drummer Rudy Petschauer, this classic organ quartet brings a perfect blend of grit, swing, and soul to every performance. The chemistry between Weeds’ robust, lyrical tenor sound and Hazelton’s rich Hammond organ playing creates an irresistible energy that channels the golden era of jazz organ groups. Audiences along the tour will be treated to a dynamic set filled with blues-soaked originals, clever arrangements, and a unique twist: fresh reimaginings of tunes from Huey Lewis and the News’ iconic Sports album from 1983. By the time they land in Vancouver to record, the group will be locked in and firing on all cylinders, delivering music that is at once steeped in tradition and refreshingly inventive. 

A distinguished fixture of the Vancouver jazz scene, and one of the most melodic and sophisticated pianists, unites with the next generation of jazz musicians in a remarkable musical partnership born from a thoughtful, enduring mentorship. With a love for unrelenting swing, scorching blues , and authentic musical exploration, these accomplished artists present an evening of refined arrangements and compelling compositions that evoke the elegant atmosphere of the 1960’s jazz era. Patrick Kao guitar, Bruno Hubert piano, Daniel Howard bass, Arvind Ramdas drums. 

The Vancouver Jazz Orchestra touches down at Frankie's for an exciting evening of soulful rhythms and captivating melodies. Enjoy a swinging assortment of music by some of Vancouver's finest jazz composers as well as classics from the Big Band song book with the VJO! 

Enjoy 50% off all Reserve bottles of wine and cover charge starting at $5 Join saxophonist and Frankie's Artistic Director Cory Weeds EVERY WEDNESDAY for a night of swinging hard bop featuring the fabulous Jimi James Fraser Trio! Cory Weeds is an expressive saxophonist with a warm and impactful sound rooted in jazz tradition. Jazz aficionados know that Cory, when playing tenor or alto sax, conveys an unerring sense of swing. With Jimi James Fraser - piano, Brad Pearson - bass and Arvind Ramdas - drums 

Dylan Cramer brings his trio back to Frankie's for another night of warm, sophisticated, heartfelt melodies. Cramer will play songs from Grover Washington Jr., Sonny Criss, Vangelis, John Barry, Miles, and Trane. Cramer is joined by two Vancouver legends - Michael Creber on piano and Rene Worst on bass. If you like the alto saxophone and melody playing, this night is for you. 

This will be a rather special CD release party, as the band will reprise the full album Live at the Jazz Cellar, and will also debut Gabriel's current Billboard charting single Kissed by the Sun Again. CDs and Thumb Drives will be on site! The show will be a propulsive mix of funky (and sometimes swingin’) tunes from Gabriel’s immense 20-album catalog, including a dozen of his Billboard hits. With Gabriel Mark Hasselbach- trumpet, flute, flugelhorn, Jason DeCouto - keys, Kristian Alexandrov -keys, Glenn Charles Riley- basses, Paul Driver- drums and Adam Rohrlick- guitar 

Barnstormer Band blends clarinet, trumpet, banjo, upright bass, ukulele, piano, kazoo, guitar, a trap kit and soulful warm vocals into a high-energy, genre-bending mix of swing, jazz, and vintage country. Whether it’s a toe-tapping classic or a hidden gem from the roaring 20s, every number is delivered with playful flair, stunning musicianship, and infectious joy. Melanie Dekker - voice/banjo, Rob Blackburn - keys), Ben MacCrae - clarinet/trumpet, Kelly Brown - guitar, Allan Rodger -drums, Sam Shoichet -bass 

Lyrical, cinematic, and adventurous; these are the 3 words that the Noah Franche-Nolan Trio strives to embody in the music this ensemble creates. Led by composer and pianist Noah Franche-Nolan, this trio was formed once Noah Franche-Nolan, Juno-Nominated Jodi Proznick (bass), and Nicholas Bracewell (drums) developed a strong musical connection through playing as the rhythm section for Shruti Ramani’s Raagaverse. Within the Stream, Cellar Music Debut Album of the group, released in 2023 on all platforms. The trio’s next record, Rose-Anna, releases Nov 14 on Cellar Music. They will be performing material from this album. 

Enjoy 50% off all Reserve bottles of wine and cover charge starting at $5 Join saxophonist and Frankie's Artistic Director Cory Weeds EVERY WEDNESDAY for a night of swinging hard bop featuring the fabulous Jimi James Fraser Trio! Cory Weeds is an expressive saxophonist with a warm and impactful sound rooted in jazz tradition. Jazz aficionados know that Cory, when playing tenor or alto sax, conveys an unerring sense of swing. With Jimi James Fraser - piano, Brad Pearson - bass and Arvind Ramdas - drums This week we welcome special guest trumpeter JULIAN BORKOWSKI and the group will play the music from trumpeter RICHARD WILLIAMS NEW HORN IN TOWN. New Horn in Town is the sole album led by trumpeter Richard Williams featuring performances recorded in late 1960 and originally released on the Candid label. Scott Yanow of AllMusic wrote: "Considering how well trumpeter Richard Williams plays on this session, it is hard to believe that this was the only record he ever led. ...a set of strong hard bop". 

Bassist William Chernoff has performed on the local scene since his teens, earning a reputation for emotive compositions and long-running musical partnerships. His music has been described as accessible and story-driven. For one night only, Will reunites the quartet that recorded his critically-acclaimed first album AIM TO STAY ten years ago. Together they'll play brand-new music plus their favourites from the record. "Swings like a classic post-bop session […] Chernoff has nailed it” - Stuart Derdeyn, The Vancouver Sun. With Will Chernoff - bass, Thad Bailey-Mai - trumpet, Jonny Tobin - piano, & Carson Tworow - drums 

Paul Pigat is arguably one of the best guitar players in the country. While he has a degree in classical music and music theory, he has devoted himself to a different vibe. With his various ensembles, including Cousin Harley and The Smoking Jackets, he has carved out a very respectable career creating great music drawing from just about every genre of popular music – jazz, blues, rockabilly and more. With Paul Pigat - guitar/voice, Cameron Wilson - violin and Brent Gubbles- bass 

A Maple Blues Awards nominee, guitarist, songwriter and singer Arsen Shomakhov is an electric blues performer truly dedicated to the style’s roots yet never hesitating to borrow means of expression from other genres. Joining Arsen will be Tim Porter -guitar, Dave Webb - piano and Hammond organ, Brian Scott - bass and Chip Hart -drums 

The Julian Borkowski Quintet is pleased to be making their long-awaited return to the Frankie’s Jazz Club stage. The band will be playing a mix of jazz standards, lesser-known jazz gems, and original music including a collection of songs that Julian has written about his experiences as a new father. Featuring: Julian Borkowski — trumpet, Ardeshir Pourkeramati — saxophone, Benjamin Sigerson — piano, David Caballero — bass, and Todd Stewart — drums. 

Join us for a night of soulful swing and sizzling grooves as Cory Weeds’ Little Big Band brings Home Cookin’ to the FRANKIE'S stage. Led by renowned saxophonist and impresario Cory Weeds, this powerhouse ensemble serves up a rich blend of hard bop, blues, and big band flair — all with a distinctly homegrown flavor. The 11-piece ensemble features a “who’s who” of Vancouver-based jazz players, including pianist Chris Gestrin, bassist David Cabellero, drummer Jesse Cahill, alto saxophonist Steve Kaldestad, tenor saxophonist James Danderfer, baritone saxophonist Dave Say, trombonists Brian Harding and Cam Henderson, and trumpeters Brad Turner and Julian Borkowski. They'll feature music from the first two albums Explosion! and Home Cookin'. 

Enjoy 50% off all Reserve bottles of wine and cover charge starting at $5 Join saxophonist and Frankie's Artistic Director Cory Weeds EVERY WEDNESDAY for a night of swinging hard bop featuring the fabulous Jimi James Fraser Trio! Cory Weeds is an expressive saxophonist with a warm and impactful sound rooted in jazz tradition. Jazz aficionados know that Cory, when playing tenor or alto sax, conveys an unerring sense of swing. With Jimi James Fraser - piano, Brad Pearson - bass and Arvind Ramdas - drums 

Take Two with Karin Plato and Laura Crema “TAKE TWO” features vocal duets performed by two of Vancouver’s premiere jazz vocalists: Karin Plato and Laura Crema. This is a rare duo appearance by the two friends and their return to Frankie’s Jazz Club will be a harmonious affair. Swinging jazz standards, ballads, bossas and waltzes by renowned song writers including Irving Berlin, George and Ira Gershwin, Antonio Carlos Jobim and Duke Ellington. Karin and Laura are delighted to share the stage with Miles Black - piano, Bill Coon - guitar and Conrad Good - bass. A lovely way to set the tone for the month of December! 

Two powerhouse voices in modern jazz come together for one unforgettable night at Frankie’s! Join us as saxophonist Doug Webb and Hammond B3 organist Brian Charette ignite the stage with a high-octane mix of classic standards, groove-heavy originals, and fearless improvisation. Doug Webb, a virtuoso known for his blistering technique and soulful tone, has performed with everyone from Horace Silver to Stanley Clarke and has appeared on hundreds of recordings and film soundtracks. His command of the saxophone is nothing short of masterful, blending bebop fluency with a deep bluesy core. Brian Charette, one of the most acclaimed Hammond B3 players of his generation, brings his genre-blending approach that fuses jazz tradition with funk, soul, and even electronica. A DownBeat Critics Poll winner and modern innovator, Charette’s playing is as thoughtful as it is explosive. Together, Webb and Charette promise an electrifying performance that bridges East Coast grit with West Coast flair — a must-see for jazz lovers and groove seekers alike. With Dave Sikula on guitar and John Lee on drums 

Two powerhouse voices in modern jazz come together for one unforgettable night at Frankie’s! Join us as saxophonist Doug Webb and Hammond B3 organist Brian Charette ignite the stage with a high-octane mix of classic standards, groove-heavy originals, and fearless improvisation. Doug Webb, a virtuoso known for his blistering technique and soulful tone, has performed with everyone from Horace Silver to Stanley Clarke and has appeared on hundreds of recordings and film soundtracks. His command of the saxophone is nothing short of masterful, blending bebop fluency with a deep bluesy core. Brian Charette, one of the most acclaimed Hammond B3 players of his generation, brings his genre-blending approach that fuses jazz tradition with funk, soul, and even electronica. A DownBeat Critics Poll winner and modern innovator, Charette’s playing is as thoughtful as it is explosive. Together, Webb and Charette promise an electrifying performance that bridges East Coast grit with West Coast flair — a must-see for jazz lovers and groove seekers alike. With Dave Sikula on guitar and John Lee on drums 

Established in 2022, the Vancouver Jazz Orchestra (VJO) has quickly become a prominent fixture in the Vancouver music scene. Their repertoire spans a wide range of styles, from classic big band standards to contemporary compositions, with an eye towards not only highlighting Vancouver’s rich musical past, but connecting that legacy to new works and future voices of the music. The VJO is also unique in its commitment to diversity and inclusion of a wide range of local artists through rotating personnel from one concert to the next. In this way, the VJO is inclusive of not only the many exemplary, established professionals in town, but also of the up-and-coming talent we value so much. VJO has already commissioned new works and performed with some of the biggest names in Jazz, including saxophonist Seamus Blake, trumpeter Jeremy Pelt, and organist Brian Charette. Perhaps most importantly, we have provided ongoing mentorship and performance opportunities to young artists through the annual scholarship competition, the Youth Jazz Orchestra, and the VJO itself; all working together to pave the way for a vibrant future for Vancouver’s jazz scene. Their debut recording is an example of these commitments, with a band comprised of both young and “experienced” musicians, playing music composed or arranged by Vancouver artists. Veteran composers such as Fred Stride, Jill Townsend, Brad Turner and Bill Coon are joined by new voices (or new to big band repertoire) including Sharon Minemoto, Daniel Hersog, Chris Berner, Steve Kaldestad and James Danderfer. Jill Townsend’s arrangement of the late, great Ross Taggart’s Don’t Call Before 10 deserves special mention as a heartfelt tribute to one of Vancouver’s most soulful and swinging musicians. We are also honoured to feature some remarkable guests on this album. The great New York organist Brian Charette brings energy, soul, and a remarkable ability to both drive and support the band. Trombonist Andy Hunter—renowned for his work with Germany’s WDR Big Band—brought his artistry to the project during a year-long stay in Vancouver and local legend Brad Turner, as always, delivers inspired, masterful performances. Having renowned international artists serves not only to build connections with other communities, but also to elevate the status of our fantastic musicians here at home. 

Established in 2022, the Vancouver Jazz Orchestra (VJO) has quickly become a prominent fixture in the Vancouver music scene. Their repertoire spans a wide range of styles, from classic big band standards to contemporary compositions, with an eye towards not only highlighting Vancouver’s rich musical past, but connecting that legacy to new works and future voices of the music. The VJO is also unique in its commitment to diversity and inclusion of a wide range of local artists through rotating personnel from one concert to the next. In this way, the VJO is inclusive of not only the many exemplary, established professionals in town, but also of the up-and-coming talent we value so much. VJO has already commissioned new works and performed with some of the biggest names in Jazz, including saxophonist Seamus Blake, trumpeter Jeremy Pelt, and organist Brian Charette. Perhaps most importantly, we have provided ongoing mentorship and performance opportunities to young artists through the annual scholarship competition, the Youth Jazz Orchestra, and the VJO itself; all working together to pave the way for a vibrant future for Vancouver’s jazz scene. Their debut recording is an example of these commitments, with a band comprised of both young and “experienced” musicians, playing music composed or arranged by Vancouver artists. Veteran composers such as Fred Stride, Jill Townsend, Brad Turner and Bill Coon are joined by new voices (or new to big band repertoire) including Sharon Minemoto, Daniel Hersog, Chris Berner, Steve Kaldestad and James Danderfer. Jill Townsend’s arrangement of the late, great Ross Taggart’s Don’t Call Before 10 deserves special mention as a heartfelt tribute to one of Vancouver’s most soulful and swinging musicians. We are also honoured to feature some remarkable guests on this album. The great New York organist Brian Charette brings energy, soul, and a remarkable ability to both drive and support the band. Trombonist Andy Hunter—renowned for his work with Germany’s WDR Big Band—brought his artistry to the project during a year-long stay in Vancouver and local legend Brad Turner, as always, delivers inspired, masterful performances. Having renowned international artists serves not only to build connections with other communities, but also to elevate the status of our fantastic musicians here at home. 

Enjoy 50% off all Reserve bottles of wine and cover charge starting at $5 Join saxophonist and Frankie's Artistic Director Cory Weeds EVERY WEDNESDAY for a night of swinging hard bop featuring the fabulous Jimi James Fraser Trio! Cory Weeds is an expressive saxophonist with a warm and impactful sound rooted in jazz tradition. Jazz aficionados know that Cory, when playing tenor or alto sax, conveys an unerring sense of swing. With Jimi James Fraser - piano, Brad Pearson - bass and Arvind Ramdas - drums 

The Emotive Origami Ensemble performs forward-thinking, original music written by all members of the group, with influences from Jazz, Folk, Pop, and Rock. The quintet is Kevin Woods-trumpet, Sage Eisenhour-voice, Cat Toren-piano, Joel Kruzic-bass and Christian Casolary-drums. Award-winning trumpeter and composer Kevin Woods has emerged as one of the most emotive voices in improvised music in the Northwest. His passion for both performance and education have made him in demand as a leader and a sideman as well as a composer, arranger and clinician. Woods lives in Bellingham, Washington where he is active as a performer, educator and composer/arranger, and serves as Director of Jazz Studies at Western Washington University. Sage Eisenhour garnered international attention when she won the prestigious Seattle/Kobe Jazz Vocal Competition at the age of 17 . She has since performed in various groups at venues across the Pacific Northwest while pursuing her BMus Ed. at Western Washington University. Cat Toren is an award winning pianist, composer and improviser and holds a Masters of Music in Composition from the State University of New York. Described as “vibrant, earthy and spiritual” (UK Vibe), Cat “uses bold atmospheric abstraction and fluid melodies to mix deep human warmth with creative fire” (Coastal Jazz and Blues). Accolades include a Juno Award, Western Canadian Music Award and grants from the Canada Council for the Arts and Chamber Music America. She has recorded numerous albums as leader and side-person and has working projects in New York and the Pacific Northwest. She is on faculty at Western Washington University. Joel Kruzic is a west coast-based double bassist and guitarist. Born and raised in Sonoma County, California, he has performed with many jazz musicians in the Bay Area, including Calvin Keys, Randy Vincent and Ken Cook. Kruzic completed his B.F.A. in Performance at the New School for Jazz and Contemporary Music in New York City in 2013. Christian Casolary is a drummer, composer, and music educator living in Bellingham, WA. His music echoes the sounds of Jazz masters—past and present—creating a style that is dynamic, emotional, and open. Christian holds a Bachelor of Music degree in Music Education from Western Washington University, where he later taught as a Jazz Instructor. He is in demand as a bandleader and sideman throughout the Pacific Northwest. 

For more than thirty-five years, Peter Bernstein has been a highly regarded jazz musician in the US and overseas. Both a leader and a member of various combos, he works regularly with keyboardist Larry Goldings and drummer Bill Stewart. Bernstein is also a celebrated sideman who’s very much in demand. His extensive résumé includes playing with Sonny Rollins, Joshua Redman, and Diana Krall, among many others. In addition to the numerous recordings he’s worked on, he has released over a dozen of his own records including his latest effort on Smoke Sessions Records, Better Angels. Several years ago Bernstein connected with pianist Tilden Webb and his trio at Cory Weeds' Cellar Jazz Club and made a recording that received rave reviews. That meeting has resulted in several gigs since then and the band is excited to reunite for a rare three-night run at Frankies Jazz Club. With Tilden Webb- piano, John Lee - bass, Jesse Cahill -drums 

For more than thirty-five years, Peter Bernstein has been a highly regarded jazz musician in the US and overseas. Both a leader and a member of various combos, he works regularly with keyboardist Larry Goldings and drummer Bill Stewart. Bernstein is also a celebrated sideman who’s very much in demand. His extensive résumé includes playing with Sonny Rollins, Joshua Redman, and Diana Krall, among many others. In addition to the numerous recordings he’s worked on, he has released over a dozen of his own records including his latest effort on Smoke Sessions Records, Better Angels. Several years ago Bernstein connected with pianist Tilden Webb and his trio at Cory Weeds' Cellar Jazz Club and made a recording that received rave reviews. That meeting has resulted in several gigs since then and the band is excited to reunite for a rare three-night run at Frankies Jazz Club. With Tilden Webb- piano, John Lee - bass, Jesse Cahill -drums 

Ale Nuñez is an award winning vocalist, songwriter and band leader, based in Toronto, Canada. Growing up on Jazz and Soul, Ale has cultivated a sound that hybridizes genres in a harmonious way. With a rich tone that is uniquely her own, she brings you stories of love and heartache. She is in Vancouver to record her debut recording for Cellar Music and will be joined renowned guitarist PETER BERNSTEIN an legendary bassist NEIL SWAINSON for ONE very special show at a special time! Doors 3:00 with shows starting at 4:00 

For more than thirty-five years, Peter Bernstein has been a highly regarded jazz musician in the US and overseas. Both a leader and a member of various combos, he works regularly with keyboardist Larry Goldings and drummer Bill Stewart. Bernstein is also a celebrated sideman who’s very much in demand. His extensive résumé includes playing with Sonny Rollins, Joshua Redman, and Diana Krall, among many others. In addition to the numerous recordings he’s worked on, he has released over a dozen of his own records including his latest effort on Smoke Sessions Records, Better Angels. Several years ago Bernstein connected with pianist Tilden Webb and his trio at Cory Weeds' Cellar Jazz Club and made a recording that received rave reviews. That meeting has resulted in several gigs since then and the band is excited to reunite for a rare three-night run at Frankies Jazz Club. With Tilden Webb- piano, John Lee - bass, Jesse Cahill -drums