Top 5 Jazz Spots Around Denver
If you are feeling the blues, maybe a good cocktail and a bit of jazz are just what you need. Fortunately, the jazz scene around Denver is pretty vibrant and as smooth as a sax solo on a Friday night.
To get your Jazz fix, here are some spots you can go to:
El Chapultepec
If you are talking about Jazz in Denver, the first place to go to is the pioneer in the scene: El Chapultepec. Every Jazz fan in Denver knows to go to the corner of the 20th and Market. They are considered the oldest Jazz club in Denver, serving up the blues every night since 1933.
1962 Market St. Denver, CO 80202
(303) 295-9126
http://www.thepeclodo.com/index.html
Herbs
Herbs’ motto is low on pretension, high on energy, and the club certainly lives up to it. If you are looking for a Jazz club at Denver’s LoDo scene, this is the spot. Great bands paired with creative, yet inexpensive cocktails make for a very smooth night. If you are in the mood to sing or play yourself, Herbs wants you to come down and bring your voice and your Axe on their Hump Day Funk Jam. Just check out their calendars for the dates
2057 Larimer St. Denver, CO 80205
(303) 299-9555
Dazzle
Probably the premier jazz spot in Denver. They have featured some of the best local and national jazz artists like Joe Lovano, The Bad Plus, and Kurt Elling. It was listed as one of the top 100 jazz clubs in the world by DownBeat magazine too. To top it off, they also established their own vinyl record store so that Jazz enthusiasts has another mode to enjoy the music.
1512 Curtis St. Denver, CO 80202
(303) 839-5102
Nocturne
Nocturne is a pretty young contender on this list as they only opened in 2014, but that they already belong on this list speaks volumes of what they offer the Denver Jazz scene. What started out as a warehouse in RiNo, turned into an acoustically designed room to optimize the blues from the bands and artists. Their Artist in Residency program explores modern and classic jazz as never before as artists engage in an 8-week performance. So for straight ahead to funky, Nocturne has got you covered.
1330 27th St. Denver, CO 80205
(303) 295-3333
The Crimson Room
If you are looking for a more intimate setting with a touch of sophistication, just check out this cozy place behind a glossy red door at downtown Denver’s historic Larimer Square. Wear your fancy clothes and experience some of Denver’s best Jazz and Acoustic acts nightly.
1403 Larimer St. Denver, CO 80202
(720) 639-6987
- Published in Denver Guides, Entertainment, Lifestyle, Music, Nightlife, The Scene, What To Do
Two Epic Parties, One Big Night
House parties on New Year’s Eve spent hanging out with friends or family watching New Year’s Rockin’ Eve with Ryan Seacrest, sipping some drinks and then toasting at midnight with some champagne and a kiss are cool, don’t get me wrong, but there are parties, and then there are parties you don’t want to miss. It just so happens that there’s not just one, but two epic bashes to choose from.
The office over at Dream Entertainment Group is noticeably buzzing right now with New Year’s Eve right around the corner. The team of Dondrae Mills, Yoseph Assefa, and Brandon Eubands are busy finishing details for not one, but two parties they plan to throw in Denver this year. Things seem to be going smoothly, however; not at all how I imagined this place to be so close to the ball drop.
“We started planning the events in early August,” Mills stated taking a seat next to me, “and once we know what the concepts are, the planning happens quickly because all of our resources are in place from the last ten years of doing events.”
Party one is the New Year’s Black Tie Party being held downtown again at the Sheraton in its 28,000 square foot Plaza Ballroom and foyer. It is the premier New Year’s Eve experience in Denver and has everything you’d want for the night; three DJs, live music, Las Vegas style casino games, and multiple all-inclusive open bars with liquor, beer, and wine. Yes, that’s correct. Multiple open bars.
Live entertainment will include Eric Lane and Cicely O’Kain while DJ performances include top 40 and Hip Hop from DJ Big Spade, old school classics from DJ SD, and Neo Soul, Reggae, and Dance from DJ Nunez. Party goers will also enjoy a photo booth to capture those memorable moments, and a complimentary champagne toast under a massive confetti blast as the clock strikes midnight. Did I mention multiple all-inclusive open bars? Don’t worry about driving home either. Rooms are available upstairs at one of Denver’s top rated hotels.
“This party has sold out five years in a row,” Assefa added, “and has always been one of the best parties in Denver on New Year’s Eve. And it will definitely sell out again.”
“The doors open at 8 o’clock and we expect this to be one of our best years,” Eubanks said coming into the room. “We plan on giving everyone that’s coming out one hell of a night.”
For those of you who are looking for more of that exclusive party vibe, Dream Entertainment has added the Champagne Mansion Party where they promise to give those who attend an experience like never before.
“I’m always thinking about event ideas that will add a new element to Denver’s nightlife and the mansion party is the perfect fit,” Mills stated. “You’ll have it all. An elegant mansion with a roof top right next to City Park, themed rooms, multiple open bars, and champagne service all night long.”
There will be roaming photographers, access to the red carpet photo booth, music by DJ Big Spade who will be spinning everything from top 40 hits to EDM, Hip Hop and more. The big difference between this and the Black Tie Party is that the party is limited; hence the exclusive vibe.
“I expect the mansion party to be something that everyone is gonna rave about,” Mills added. “We only have 325 tickets available and will probably be sold out before Christmas so people should grab their tickets now.”
“Shoot,” Assefa added, chuckling. “Tickets started selling before we even began marketing it!”
For more information on the Black Tie Party, visit: newyearsevenight.com For more information on the Mansion Party, visit: nyemansionparty.com/
- Published in New Years Eve, Nightlife, The Scene, What To Do
Things to Do In and Around Denver this Week (Oct 3-8 2017)
Here are the things you can do in and around Denver this week.
Catch INCUBUS!!!
Incubus will be playing live at Red Rocks tonight!!! Need I say more? If that doesn’t get you off your sofa, know that their guest are Jimmy Eat world and Atlas Genius. Get off your butt and score some tickets now!!
Red Rocks Park & Amphitheatre
OCT 3, 2017
18300 W. Alameda Pkwy., Morrison, CO 80465
http://www.axs.com/events/332164/incubus-tickets?skin=redrocks
Soak up some Sun-power at US Department of Energy’s Solar Decathlon
Aside from being a collegiate decathlon, consumers and businesses alike can pick a thing or two about the benefits of clean energy, particularly solar energy. Get to see young birght minds come up with useful implementation of solar energy in a variety of innovative houses.
61st & Peña commuter rail station
OCT 5 – OCT 15, 2017
https://www.solardecathlon.gov/
Join in on The Great American Beer Festival
This annual event is the premier US beer festival and competition. Witness the biggest collection of US beer ever served. Have a taste of samples, and watch or partake in some contests.
Colorado Convention Center
OCT 5, 2017 – OCT 7, 2017
700 14th Street, Denver, CO 80202
http://www.greatamericanbeerfestival.com/
Catch Dracula
Back by popular demand and just in time before Halloween, Colorado Ballet presents Bram Stoker’s epic gothic horror featuring the enthralling choreography of Michael Pink and music by Phillip Feeney performed by the Colorado Ballet Orchestra.
Ellie Caulkins Opera House
OCT 6, 2017 – OCT 15, 2017
1400 Curtis St., Denver, CO 80204
http://coloradoballet.org/performances/dracula2017
- Published in Concerts, Denver Events, Denver Guides, Music, Nightlife, The Scene, What To Do
Hip-Hop DJs You Should Follow in Denver
With a thriving hip-hop scene, it is no wonder why Denver keeps on producing some of the most talented DJs in the nation. It actually is no surprise anymore when you attend an event and find out that a renowned DJ is hosting it. Even with the rich hip-hop nightclub scene, there is still a very stiff competition because of the level of talent being produced by the 303. You have got to be special to stand out.
For us, here are the DJs who are must-sees (hear) here in Denver:
DJ Squizzy Taylor 
DJ Hollywood Cook
KDJ Above
This guy worked his way up from spinning in different events around Denver and honed his skills while mixing for KS107.5. He has built his legend through his battle with DJ Ktone when he literally blew up the speakers with his mix. Always a crowd favorite for his neo-soul and top-40 hits mashups.
DJ KTone
Not just a master mixer, he’s got an eye for talent too. Probably the DJ with the biggest following in Denver, he also is known for launching the careers of several hip-hop artists like Iamsu and Big Krit. Always watch out for his annual birthday bash where he showcases his skills with some top acts like B.O.B.
DJ Top Shelf
If you want something with a little more Southern flare, then DJ Top Shelf is your man. Fairly new compared to other people on this list, this guy brought his Alabama roots and mixed it with the latest mainstream and underground hits. A member of the Core DJs, he also has a mix show on Shade 45 at Sirius Radio.
DJ Bedz
Easily one of the most hard-working man in Denver Hip-Hop. Aside from manning the DJ booth for the Nuggets’ home games, he is also a regular 95.7 The Party. He also holds weekly shows at Suite 200, Ultra Lounge, and Press Play. He is best known for his ongoing mixtape series, Party to Go, whose funds go to Safehouse Denver
DJ Staxx
The first DJ to win the Building Connections DJ competition three years in a row. If you think that is not solid enough of an achievement, he did it against some of the people on this list like KDJ above and KTone. He also had opened for popular artists like Ice Cube, Lloyd Banks, and Kendrick Lamar. Catch hime on his weekly events at Primetime Sports Bar.
DJ Chris Karns
A man who paid his dues while playing the hip-hop circuit in Denver and someone who reached the top after winning the 2011 DMC World Championship, you know you are looking at a legend in the making when you impress even the legendary DJ Qbert.
DJ Chonz
One of the most recognizable hip-hop figures in Denver, he regularly DJs for KS107.5FM. Considered as a veteran, he is still one of the most sought-after DJs in Denver and his shows at the local scenes are stuffs of legends. As a graduate of the Music Industry Program at the University of Colorado, he is a firm advocate of education and even hosted an all inclusive scholarship to the same program last summer. An all-around nice guy who can spin in just his chonz (slang for underwear), DJ Chonz is one guy you want to always party with.
- Published in Denver Events, Music, Nightlife, The Scene, Who's Who
Best Hip-hop Night Clubs and Bars in Denver
The best hip-hop night clubs are not just about having a great DJ who could spin the beats out of our shoes. It is also about the place itself; the vibe it is giving off through its design and décor. And while it is about dancing, it is also about what the club offers to guests off the dance floor. With that in mind, here’s a list of some of the best hip-hop night clubs in Denver.
Cold Crush (Wednesday – Saturday)
Cold Crush takes inspiration from the Cold Crush Bothers, a 70-80’s hiphop group from New York City. The club is a magnet for different artists like poets, musicians, and other performers who come and mingle with other people who appreciate their art. DJs spin soul, funk, and hip-hop but there are nights when the club deviates to other genre like rock and reggae. 2700 Larimer St. Denver, CO 303.292.1906
Epernay Lounge (First Fridays)
If you are up for a little more swanky location, then the Epernay Lounge should be your direction. It is all about that light atmosphere and champagne-heavy drink list. This sushi bar and restaurant doubles up as one of the go-to places for people who doesn’t mind to spend a bit of cash. The drinks and cocktails are the bomb, the music blaring, and the people are beautiful. What else can you ask for? 1080 14th St. Denver, CO 303. 573.5000
Bar Standard (Saturdays)
The first thing you will notice is the art deco theme of the place, which will remind you of its speakeasy origins. While its focus now shifted to hip-hop and dance, the speakeasy character of the place is still there. Going back to the present, this joint has become a go-to club in the south of Colfax. Aside from featuring high-profile DJs, this joint also occasionally invites live hip-hop acts to perform on stage. 1037 Broadway Denver, CO 303.832.8628
Over There off Hampden (Tuesdays)
Keep it simple and don’t complicate things. If you want a no frills bar that offers good drinks, good food, and good music, then Over There off Hampden is the club for you. It is a simple bar that features both live and club music while keeping the friendly vibe going. 3425 S. Oleander Ct. Denver, CO 303.759.3155
Tryst (Wednesdays)
The Drink of LODO (Wednesdays)
A sister club of Tyrst. While Tryst is about elegance and intimacy, the Drink is about chilling and relaxing. The environment is much lighter and the staff is really friendly. You can choose to kick back and enjoy some cocktails or hit the dance floor and start socializing. 1320 15th Street Denver, CO 720.620.4376
Chloe (Fridays)
The Heartbeat of Market Street On the corner of 15th and Market is where you will find Chloe, a jet-setting New York fashionista, who has planted her roots in Downtown Denver to share her experiences from all around the world. The culmination of her travels has manifested into three distinct spaces in one venue. These include the Mezze Lounge, Garden, and Discotheque. 1445 Market St, Denver, CO 80202 | (720) 383-8447
- Published in Nightlife, What To Do
