Marcello Carelli Album Release

Marcello Carelli Album Release

Wed, Jun 18

Tickets: $15.00 - $40.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 "His music is profound, it's present, and it's real." - John Daversa Drummer, composer, and arranger Marcello Carelli has played with Grammy award-winning musicians such as John Daversa and Brian Lynch in both small group and big band settings. He has also played with Russell Ferrante, Eric Reed, Dave Liebman, Ira Sullivan, Martin Bejerano, John Beasley, Walt Weiskopf, Andy Fusco, Wycliffe Gordon, Shelly Berg, and Troy Roberts. Marcello has also performed to sold-out crowds in Italy, Suriname, and the Netherlands in addition to giving masterclasses in those countries. He has performed at the Caramoor and Crescent City Jazz Festivals with his trio and quintet. Carelli recently earned his master’s in jazz studies at the University of Southern California's Thornton School of Music. He was the teaching assistant for 2-time Grammy award-winning drummer and composer, Peter Erskine, and he played in the award-winning Thornton Jazz Orchestra directed by Bob Mintzer for two years. Marcello received his undergraduate degree in Studio Music and Jazz at the University of Miami's Frost School of Music. Marcello was a Stamps Distinguished Ensemble Scholar there, having been chosen out of many applicants to play in a jazz quintet for four years with some of the finest young musicians in the country. At Frost, Carelli also played in the award-winning Frost Concert Jazz Band directed by John Daversa. Marcello is a product of many great teachers including Peter Erskine, Dafnis Prieto, Roy McCurdy, and Will Kennedy. “His music is profound, it’s present, and it’s real,” said John Daversa, who worked closely with Carelli during his time at the Frost School of Music. Marcello is also an award-winning composer and arranger, as he released his very first album in February of this year entitled The Era which is comprised of almost all his original music. Two songs from the record received Downbeat Student Music awards for best composition and arrangement. Peter Erskine wrote that “this album is a compass…wait better yet, it is a sextant by which we can see and hear this young star’s ascent.” When Carelli isn’t making music, he is broadcasting. Marcello was the host of the Frost School of Music’s weekly radio show The Frost Jazz Hour on WDNA 88.9FM. He also co-hosted a sports debating segment called “Head 2 Head” on the University of Miami’s Emmy award-winning TV show UMTV SportsDesk. He has interviewed Peter Erskine and Bob Mintzer at the University of Southern California’s Annenberg Studios for his artist spotlight series. Band Lineup: Marcello Carelli - Drums Dalton Hayse - Piano Jesse Katz - Bas 

Jeff Denson/Romain Pilon Trio with Jonathan Pinson

Jeff Denson/Romain Pilon Trio with Jonathan Pinson

Residency

Thu, Jun 19

Tickets: $15.00 - $40.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:15 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:30 “Double bassist Jeff Denson capitalizes on his considerable gifts as an improviser, performer and sonic trailblazer.” – Downbeat Magazine The first time that bassist Jeff Denson and guitarist Romain Pilon got together to record it felt like a lightning strike. The longtime friends have an uncommon communion that undeniably radiates from the stage and from their two albums together. Both internationally renowned musicians, Jeff Denson (USA) and Romain Pilon (France) met 20 years ago while studying at Berklee College of Music in Boston. At the time, they played countless jam sessions together, having in common the taste for adventure and the love of jazz without preconceived ideas. Since then, they have each on their side of the Atlantic, led brilliant careers by recording numerous records as a leader and collaborating with some of the greatest jazz musicians in the world including Lee Konitz, Joe Lovano, Ben Wendel, Mike Stern, Jeff Ballard, Brian Blade and many more. After a remarkable first album composed together, and around thirty cities in the USA, and seven European countries, they come to present their new opus, "Finding Light." The trio is completed the fantastic drumming of Jonathan Pinson. Jonathan is one of the most highly sought after drummers of his generation and he has performed and toured with notable artists such as Ambrose Akinmusire, John Clayton, Dave Liebman, Ed Simon, Eric Reed, Kamasi Washington, Marquis Hill, Gilad Hekselman and Joey Alexander, to name a few. The music of this trio, interactive and generous, reflects the pleasure these musicians have in playing together. You will find influences ranging from Led Zeppelin to Wayne Shorter, via Miles Davis, Hendrix or Satie, among many others. Band Lineup: Jeff Denson, double bass Romain Pilon, guitar Jonathan Pinson, drums 

Jeff Denson/Romain Pilon Trio with Jonathan Pinson

Jeff Denson/Romain Pilon Trio with Jonathan Pinson

Residency

Fri, Jun 20

Tickets: $15.00 - $50.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:30 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:45 “Double bassist Jeff Denson capitalizes on his considerable gifts as an improviser, performer and sonic trailblazer.” – Downbeat Magazine The first time that bassist Jeff Denson and guitarist Romain Pilon got together to record it felt like a lightning strike. The longtime friends have an uncommon communion that undeniably radiates from the stage and from their two albums together. Both internationally renowned musicians, Jeff Denson (USA) and Romain Pilon (France) met 20 years ago while studying at Berklee College of Music in Boston. At the time, they played countless jam sessions together, having in common the taste for adventure and the love of jazz without preconceived ideas. Since then, they have each on their side of the Atlantic, led brilliant careers by recording numerous records as a leader and collaborating with some of the greatest jazz musicians in the world including Lee Konitz, Joe Lovano, Ben Wendel, Mike Stern, Jeff Ballard, Brian Blade and many more. After a remarkable first album composed together, and around thirty cities in the USA, and seven European countries, they come to present their new opus, "Finding Light." The trio is completed the fantastic drumming of Jonathan Pinson. Jonathan is one of the most highly sought after drummers of his generation and he has performed and toured with notable artists such as Ambrose Akinmusire, John Clayton, Dave Liebman, Ed Simon, Eric Reed, Kamasi Washington, Marquis Hill, Gilad Hekselman and Joey Alexander, to name a few. The music of this trio, interactive and generous, reflects the pleasure these musicians have in playing together. You will find influences ranging from Led Zeppelin to Wayne Shorter, via Miles Davis, Hendrix or Satie, among many others. Band Lineup: Jeff Denson, double bass Romain Pilon, guitar Jonathan Pinson, drums 

Jeff Denson/Romain Pilon Trio with Jonathan Pinson

Jeff Denson/Romain Pilon Trio with Jonathan Pinson

Residency

Sat, Jun 21

Tickets: $15.00 - $50.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:30 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:45 “Double bassist Jeff Denson capitalizes on his considerable gifts as an improviser, performer and sonic trailblazer.” – Downbeat Magazine The first time that bassist Jeff Denson and guitarist Romain Pilon got together to record it felt like a lightning strike. The longtime friends have an uncommon communion that undeniably radiates from the stage and from their two albums together. Both internationally renowned musicians, Jeff Denson (USA) and Romain Pilon (France) met 20 years ago while studying at Berklee College of Music in Boston. At the time, they played countless jam sessions together, having in common the taste for adventure and the love of jazz without preconceived ideas. Since then, they have each on their side of the Atlantic, led brilliant careers by recording numerous records as a leader and collaborating with some of the greatest jazz musicians in the world including Lee Konitz, Joe Lovano, Ben Wendel, Mike Stern, Jeff Ballard, Brian Blade and many more. After a remarkable first album composed together, and around thirty cities in the USA, and seven European countries, they come to present their new opus, "Finding Light." The trio is completed the fantastic drumming of Jonathan Pinson. Jonathan is one of the most highly sought after drummers of his generation and he has performed and toured with notable artists such as Ambrose Akinmusire, John Clayton, Dave Liebman, Ed Simon, Eric Reed, Kamasi Washington, Marquis Hill, Gilad Hekselman and Joey Alexander, to name a few. The music of this trio, interactive and generous, reflects the pleasure these musicians have in playing together. You will find influences ranging from Led Zeppelin to Wayne Shorter, via Miles Davis, Hendrix or Satie, among many others. Band Lineup: Jeff Denson, double bass Romain Pilon, guitar Jonathan Pinson, drums 

Kenneth Whalum: Celebrating Life, Summer & Birthday Vibes

Kenneth Whalum: Celebrating Life, Summer & Birthday Vibes

Sun, Jun 22

Tickets: $15.00 - $65.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:30 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:45 Join us for a special night of soul, jazz, and radiant energy as sultry saxophonist and vocalist Kenneth Whalum returns to the Black Cat stage for a one-night-only celebration: Celebrating Life, Summer & Birthday Vibes. Known for his rich, genre-blending sound that fuses soul, R&B, jazz, and blues, Whalum creates music that feels like a conversation with your soul—honest, unfiltered, and deeply moving. Whether you know him from his acclaimed solo records, his work with Maxwell, or his unforgettable anthem “Might Not Be OK,” this is your chance to experience the full range of his artistry in an intimate setting. For this special evening, Whalum is joined by an all-star trio featuring Thomas Pridgen (The Mars Volta, Thundercat) on drums and Brad Williams on guitar, promising a powerful night of live music, emotion, and connection. Band Lineup: Kenneth Whalum, Saxophone & Vocals Brad Williams, Guitar Thomas Pridgen, Drums 

Morgan + The Black Ass Cats: The Farewell Show (The Retrospective)

Morgan + The Black Ass Cats: The Farewell Show (The Retrospective)

Wed, Jun 25

Tickets: $15.00 - $40.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 Morgan Harrison is a pianist, saxophonist, singer, composer, arranger, and bandleader from the golden state. Growing up in a household with musical parents with eclectic and varied tastes in the arts, Morgan has been lucky to develop a love and interest in all manner of music and arts. He currently resides in the Bay Area where he seeks to find new ways to blend old and new music while putting an original touch on things, creating something previously unseen and unheard. He takes inspiration from artists such as The Chick Corea Elektric Band, Herbie Hancock, Weather Report; Earth Wind and Fire, Stevie Wonder, Daft Punk, Alice In Chains, Nirvana, Jaco Pastorius, and many more. Band Lineup: Morgan Harrison, Keys/Vocals/Various Instruments Chili Corder, Guitar Alan Jones, Upright Bass Colin McCuen, Electric Bass Malachi Whitson, Drums "MONTE!" 

Jovino Santos Neto

Jovino Santos Neto

Residency

Thu, Jun 26

Tickets: $15.00 - $40.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:15 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:30 Experience the Vibrant Sounds of Jovino Santos Neto – Live! Three-time Latin Grammy nominee Jovino Santos Neto is a master pianist, composer, and arranger, celebrated as one of the most important Brazilian musicians of our time. A longtime collaborator of the legendary Hermeto Pascoal, Jovino’s music blends energetic grooves, deep harmonies, and inspired improvisation, drawing from Brazil’s rich musical traditions. From samba and choro to baião and forró, his performances are a journey through rhythm and melody, shaped by decades of global touring and collaborations with jazz greats like Paquito D’Rivera, Bill Frisell, and Airto Moreira. Don’t miss this electrifying evening of Brazilian jazz, led by a true master of the craft! Band Lineup: Jovino Santos Neto, piano, flute and melodica Peter Barshay, bass Dillon Vado on Drums Harvey Wainapel, saxes and clarinet (26th & 27th) Brian Rice, Percussion (28th & 29th) 

Jovino Santos Neto

Jovino Santos Neto

Residency

Fri, Jun 27

Tickets: $15.00 - $50.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:30 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:45 Experience the Vibrant Sounds of Jovino Santos Neto – Live! Three-time Latin Grammy nominee Jovino Santos Neto is a master pianist, composer, and arranger, celebrated as one of the most important Brazilian musicians of our time. A longtime collaborator of the legendary Hermeto Pascoal, Jovino’s music blends energetic grooves, deep harmonies, and inspired improvisation, drawing from Brazil’s rich musical traditions. From samba and choro to baião and forró, his performances are a journey through rhythm and melody, shaped by decades of global touring and collaborations with jazz greats like Paquito D’Rivera, Bill Frisell, and Airto Moreira. Don’t miss this electrifying evening of Brazilian jazz, led by a true master of the craft! Band Lineup: Jovino Santos Neto, piano, flute and melodica Peter Barshay, bass Dillon Vado on Drums Harvey Wainapel, saxes and clarinet (26th & 27th) Brian Rice, Percussion (28th & 29th) 

Jovino Santos Neto

Jovino Santos Neto

Residency

Sat, Jun 28

Tickets: $15.00 - $50.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:30 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:45 Experience the Vibrant Sounds of Jovino Santos Neto – Live! Three-time Latin Grammy nominee Jovino Santos Neto is a master pianist, composer, and arranger, celebrated as one of the most important Brazilian musicians of our time. A longtime collaborator of the legendary Hermeto Pascoal, Jovino’s music blends energetic grooves, deep harmonies, and inspired improvisation, drawing from Brazil’s rich musical traditions. From samba and choro to baião and forró, his performances are a journey through rhythm and melody, shaped by decades of global touring and collaborations with jazz greats like Paquito D’Rivera, Bill Frisell, and Airto Moreira. Don’t miss this electrifying evening of Brazilian jazz, led by a true master of the craft! Band Lineup: Jovino Santos Neto, piano, flute and melodica Peter Barshay, bass Dillon Vado on Drums Harvey Wainapel, saxes and clarinet (26th & 27th) Brian Rice, Percussion (28th & 29th) 

Jovino Santos Neto

Jovino Santos Neto

Residency

Sun, Jun 29

Tickets: $15.00 - $40.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:15 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:30 Experience the Vibrant Sounds of Jovino Santos Neto – Live! Three-time Latin Grammy nominee Jovino Santos Neto is a master pianist, composer, and arranger, celebrated as one of the most important Brazilian musicians of our time. A longtime collaborator of the legendary Hermeto Pascoal, Jovino’s music blends energetic grooves, deep harmonies, and inspired improvisation, drawing from Brazil’s rich musical traditions. From samba and choro to baião and forró, his performances are a journey through rhythm and melody, shaped by decades of global touring and collaborations with jazz greats like Paquito D’Rivera, Bill Frisell, and Airto Moreira. Don’t miss this electrifying evening of Brazilian jazz, led by a true master of the craft! Band Lineup: Jovino Santos Neto, piano, flute and melodica Peter Barshay, bass Dillon Vado on Drums Harvey Wainapel, saxes and clarinet (26th & 27th) Brian Rice, Percussion (28th & 29th) 

The Jazz Odyssey Production Presents: The Osmosis Trio

The Jazz Odyssey Production Presents: The Osmosis Trio

Wed, Jul 02

Tickets: $15.00 - $40.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:15 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:30 Get ready for a thrilling night of deep swing, modern interplay, and world-class musicianship as Jazz Odyssey presents the Osmosis Trio live at Black Cat. This stellar ensemble features: Ben Stolorow on piano, one of the Bay Area’s most sought-after pianists. With performances spanning Yoshi’s, SFJAZZ, and stages in Japan, Ben brings elegance, power, and intuition to every set. Ollie Dudek on bass, a Bay native whose dynamic lines and rhythmic drive have made him a standout in the local and national scene. His playing brings a fresh pulse that keeps audiences locked in from the first downbeat. Sylvia Cuenca on drums, a New York-based legend who has toured with jazz icons Joe Henderson and Clark Terry. Her explosive swing, command of the kit, and ability to elevate a band are second to none. Together, these three create a sound that’s rooted in the jazz tradition but alive with new energy — a chemistry that’s spontaneous, soulful, and undeniably engaging. Whether they’re stretching out on a standard or diving into original compositions, the Osmosis Trio delivers a musical conversation that’s both deeply refined and joyfully unpredictable. Band Lineup: Ben Stolorow, piano Ollie Dudek, bass Sylvia Cuenca, drums 

Veotis Latchison

Veotis Latchison

Thu, Jul 03

Tickets: $15.00 - $40.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:15 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:30 Oakland’s own Veotis Latchison brings his genre-bending sound to the Black Cat stage for a night of raw soul, deep groove, and fearless expression. A powerhouse vocalist, songwriter, and producer, Veotis fuses the spirit of James Brown with the modern edge of Anderson .Paak and the soul of Otis Redding. His musical roots run deep—starting in church at age six and expanding through classical and jazz studies that sharpened his signature blend of hip hop, R&B, and improvisational fire. His debut album Minutiae turned heads across the Bay, and now he’s leveling up with a full band of killer players. Expect explosive solos, magnetic stage presence, and a sound that refuses to be boxed in. Whether you’re a jazz head, a soul seeker, or just looking for a night of next-level live music in the City—this show hits every note. Band Lineup: Veotis Latchison, vocals Morgan Harrison, piano John Palowitch, saxophone Giulio Xavier Cetto, bass Thomas Pridgen, drums 

Jonah Levine, Helen De La Rosa & Mauricio Morales — Live at Black Cat

Jonah Levine, Helen De La Rosa & Mauricio Morales — Live at Black Cat

Residency

Sat, Jul 05

Tickets: $15.00 - $50.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:30 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:45 Three close friends and heavy-hitting musicians reunite for two nights of boundary-pushing, deeply grooving, and emotionally charged music. Drawing from jazz, soul, hip-hop, and Latin traditions, this trio delivers raw spontaneity, deep pocket, and undeniable chemistry. Jonah Levine is a Bay Area-born multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer with credits that include Leon Bridges, Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and Stevie Wonder. He leads the Jonah Levine Collective with two genre-bending acclaimed albums, and is a founding member of Inglewood-based collective Katalyst. Helen De La Rosa is an internationally acclaimed drummer from the Dominican Republic with an international resume that includes Marcus Miller, Victor Wooten, Alejandro Sanz and many others. A Berklee graduate and past winner of the global “Hit Like a Girl” competition, she’s one of the most respected drummers of her generation. Mauricio Morales is a virtuosic bassist, composer, and arranger from Mexico whose fusion-forward sound shines on his albums Luna, Eclipse, and The Endless Ride. He’s collaborated with top artists across jazz and pop, bringing depth, lyricism, and fire to every performance. Band Lineup: Jonah Levine, trombone, keys Helen De La Rosa, drums Mauricio Morales, bass 

Jonah Levine, Helen De La Rosa & Mauricio Morales — Live at Black Cat

Jonah Levine, Helen De La Rosa & Mauricio Morales — Live at Black Cat

Residency

Sun, Jul 06

Tickets: $15.00 - $40.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:15 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:30 Three close friends and heavy-hitting musicians reunite for two nights of boundary-pushing, deeply grooving, and emotionally charged music. Drawing from jazz, soul, hip-hop, and Latin traditions, this trio delivers raw spontaneity, deep pocket, and undeniable chemistry. Jonah Levine is a Bay Area-born multi-instrumentalist, composer, and producer with credits that include Leon Bridges, Beyoncé, Jay-Z, and Stevie Wonder. He leads the Jonah Levine Collective with two genre-bending acclaimed albums, and is a founding member of Inglewood-based collective Katalyst. Helen De La Rosa is an internationally acclaimed drummer from the Dominican Republic with an international resume that includes Marcus Miller, Victor Wooten, Alejandro Sanz and many others. A Berklee graduate and past winner of the global “Hit Like a Girl” competition, she’s one of the most respected drummers of her generation. Mauricio Morales is a virtuosic bassist, composer, and arranger from Mexico whose fusion-forward sound shines on his albums Luna, Eclipse, and The Endless Ride. He’s collaborated with top artists across jazz and pop, bringing depth, lyricism, and fire to every performance. Band Lineup: Jonah Levine, trombone, keys Helen De La Rosa, drums Mauricio Morales, bass 

Ben Esposito ELATION Album Release Party ft. NYC Vocal Sensation Lucy Wijnands

Ben Esposito ELATION Album Release Party ft. NYC Vocal Sensation Lucy Wijnands

Residency

Thu, Jul 10

Tickets: $15.00 - $40.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:15 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:30 Join drummer-composer Ben Esposito for a special residency at the Black Cat, celebrating the release of his debut album Elation. A Bay Area native, Esposito brings a sound rooted in the jazz tradition while reaching into deeply personal and emotional territory. Elation marks his emergence as a bandleader with a distinct voice — blending soulful ballads, rhythmically charged grooves, and expansive harmonic textures, all delivered with spontaneity and deep ensemble interplay. The record features original compositions by Esposito and by his longtime mentor and collaborator, renowned bassist Dennis Carroll, with whom he often performed during his formative years in Chicago. The lyrics explore themes of unity, love, loss, and healing — offering a hopeful and human message through music. At the heart of this run is Lucy Wijnands, a radiant vocal talent from NYC known for her commanding presence and emotional clarity. She and Esposito first connected through the New York jazz scene, where their shared musical sensibilities led to a natural and vibrant collaboration — perfectly suited to the stylistic range of Elation. Band Lineup: Ben Esposito, drums Dennis Carroll, bass Joey Skoch, piano Lee Rothenberg, guitar 

Ben Esposito ELATION Album Release Party ft. NYC Vocal Sensation Lucy Wijnands

Ben Esposito ELATION Album Release Party ft. NYC Vocal Sensation Lucy Wijnands

Residency

Fri, Jul 11

Tickets: $15.00 - $50.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:30 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:45 Join drummer-composer Ben Esposito for a special residency at the Black Cat, celebrating the release of his debut album Elation. A Bay Area native, Esposito brings a sound rooted in the jazz tradition while reaching into deeply personal and emotional territory. Elation marks his emergence as a bandleader with a distinct voice — blending soulful ballads, rhythmically charged grooves, and expansive harmonic textures, all delivered with spontaneity and deep ensemble interplay. The record features original compositions by Esposito and by his longtime mentor and collaborator, renowned bassist Dennis Carroll, with whom he often performed during his formative years in Chicago. The lyrics explore themes of unity, love, loss, and healing — offering a hopeful and human message through music. At the heart of this run is Lucy Wijnands, a radiant vocal talent from NYC known for her commanding presence and emotional clarity. She and Esposito first connected through the New York jazz scene, where their shared musical sensibilities led to a natural and vibrant collaboration — perfectly suited to the stylistic range of Elation. Band Lineup: Ben Esposito, drums Dennis Carroll, bass Joey Skoch, piano Lee Rothenberg, guitar 

Ben Esposito ELATION Album Release Party ft. NYC Vocal Sensation Lucy Wijnands

Ben Esposito ELATION Album Release Party ft. NYC Vocal Sensation Lucy Wijnands

Residency

Sat, Jul 12

Tickets: $15.00 - $50.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:30 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:45 Join drummer-composer Ben Esposito for a special residency at the Black Cat, celebrating the release of his debut album Elation. A Bay Area native, Esposito brings a sound rooted in the jazz tradition while reaching into deeply personal and emotional territory. Elation marks his emergence as a bandleader with a distinct voice — blending soulful ballads, rhythmically charged grooves, and expansive harmonic textures, all delivered with spontaneity and deep ensemble interplay. The record features original compositions by Esposito and by his longtime mentor and collaborator, renowned bassist Dennis Carroll, with whom he often performed during his formative years in Chicago. The lyrics explore themes of unity, love, loss, and healing — offering a hopeful and human message through music. At the heart of this run is Lucy Wijnands, a radiant vocal talent from NYC known for her commanding presence and emotional clarity. She and Esposito first connected through the New York jazz scene, where their shared musical sensibilities led to a natural and vibrant collaboration — perfectly suited to the stylistic range of Elation. Band Lineup: Ben Esposito, drums Dennis Carroll, bass Joey Skoch, piano Lee Rothenberg, guitar 

Ben Esposito ELATION Album Release Party ft. NYC Vocal Sensation Lucy Wijnands

Ben Esposito ELATION Album Release Party ft. NYC Vocal Sensation Lucy Wijnands

Residency

Sun, Jul 13

Tickets: $15.00 - $40.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:15 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:30 Join drummer-composer Ben Esposito for a special residency at the Black Cat, celebrating the release of his debut album Elation. A Bay Area native, Esposito brings a sound rooted in the jazz tradition while reaching into deeply personal and emotional territory. Elation marks his emergence as a bandleader with a distinct voice — blending soulful ballads, rhythmically charged grooves, and expansive harmonic textures, all delivered with spontaneity and deep ensemble interplay. The record features original compositions by Esposito and by his longtime mentor and collaborator, renowned bassist Dennis Carroll, with whom he often performed during his formative years in Chicago. The lyrics explore themes of unity, love, loss, and healing — offering a hopeful and human message through music. At the heart of this run is Lucy Wijnands, a radiant vocal talent from NYC known for her commanding presence and emotional clarity. She and Esposito first connected through the New York jazz scene, where their shared musical sensibilities led to a natural and vibrant collaboration — perfectly suited to the stylistic range of Elation. Band Lineup: Ben Esposito, drums Dennis Carroll, bass Joey Skoch, piano Lee Rothenberg, guitar 

Golden Gate Jazz ft. Joe Gloss, Annie Orzen, Sara Gorman & Friends

Golden Gate Jazz ft. Joe Gloss, Annie Orzen, Sara Gorman & Friends

Wed, Jul 16

Tickets: $15.00 - $40.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:15 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:30 Get ready for a fresh wave of rising talent as the Golden Gate Jazz Collective brings a genre-bending night of improvisation, soul, and swing to Black Cat. Featuring four standout young artists rooted in jazz tradition and reaching far beyond, this special one-night event blends sharp musicianship with new-school flair. Joe Gloss, a gifted vocalist and improviser channeling Clifford Brown’s lyrical spirit, Joe delivers jazz with emotional fire and depth. Annie Orzen, San Francisco-based pianist crafting bold, intimate sets that blend jazz, folk, and pop with her own originals. Sam Iannone, A dynamic Bay Area drummer with serious chops, equally at home in small group swing and symphonic firepower. Jonathan Hagen – NYU-based multi-instrumentalist and musical storyteller with Broadway cred and jazz roots. Come hear the future of jazz—live, loose, and right here in the heart of SF. Band Lineup: Joe Gloss, vocals Annie Orzen, piano Sam Iannone, drums Jonathan Hagen, Saxophone 

Thomas Linger Quartet ft. Sax Sensation Asaf Yuria and Drummer Michael Shekwoaga Ode

Thomas Linger Quartet ft. Sax Sensation Asaf Yuria and Drummer Michael Shekwoaga Ode

Residency

Thu, Jul 17

Tickets: $15.00 - $40.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:15 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:30 Step into the heart of jazz innovation as Thomas Linger, one of today’s most electrifying pianists, makes his Black Cat Residency debut. Hailing from the hills of North Carolina and now a force on the New York scene, Linger has taken the jazz world by storm — from winning the American Jazz Pianist Competition to becoming a 2023 American Pianists Awards laureate. A fixture at NYC's most iconic rooms — The Village Vanguard, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Smalls, Mezzrow — Linger brings his deeply expressive style and razor-sharp artistry to San Francisco for an intimate and unforgettable evening. Whether leading a trio or flying solo, Linger’s sound is bold, spontaneous, and full of soul — the kind of jazz that makes you lean in, listen close, and never forget. Don't miss this rare West Coast appearance from a true rising star. His latest album Out In It (Cellar Music) topped the JazzWeek charts and is a must-hear for lovers of modern piano magic. Band Lineup: Thomas Linger, composer, piano Asaf Yuria, saxophones Michael Shekwoaga Ode, drums Felix Moseholm, bass 

Thomas Linger Quartet ft. Sax Sensation Asaf Yuria and Drummer Michael Shekwoaga Ode

Thomas Linger Quartet ft. Sax Sensation Asaf Yuria and Drummer Michael Shekwoaga Ode

Residency

Fri, Jul 18

Tickets: $15.00 - $50.50 (price includes $5.50 processing and ticketing fee) 7:00 show: Doors @ 6:00 9:30 show: Bar @ 6:00, Doors @ 8:45 Step into the heart of jazz innovation as Thomas Linger, one of today’s most electrifying pianists, makes his Black Cat Residency debut. Hailing from the hills of North Carolina and now a force on the New York scene, Linger has taken the jazz world by storm — from winning the American Jazz Pianist Competition to becoming a 2023 American Pianists Awards laureate. A fixture at NYC's most iconic rooms — The Village Vanguard, Jazz at Lincoln Center, Smalls, Mezzrow — Linger brings his deeply expressive style and razor-sharp artistry to San Francisco for an intimate and unforgettable evening. Whether leading a trio or flying solo, Linger’s sound is bold, spontaneous, and full of soul — the kind of jazz that makes you lean in, listen close, and never forget. Don't miss this rare West Coast appearance from a true rising star. His latest album Out In It (Cellar Music) topped the JazzWeek charts and is a must-hear for lovers of modern piano magic. Band Lineup: Thomas Linger, composer, piano Asaf Yuria, saxophones Michael Shekwoaga Ode, drums Felix Moseholm, bass