Show Reviews: Chris's Jazz Cafe

Chris's Jazz Cafe is a sweet little spot in Center City with a great atmosphere, diverse crowd, and prices that won't break the bank. I've had the pleasure of enjoying live music here on two occasions. On my first trip, I joined a few friends who'd gotten VIP (read: no cover) passes from a film associate who works there. It being a Monday, the "crowd" was sparse: ourselves, a few customers at the bar, and friends of the musicians. Mike Lorenz was playing guitar, accompanied by upright bass, drums, and piano. They played a couple sets of his own original material. The music was instrumental and definitely more of a modern experimental feel than the jazz I'm used to, but it was an enjoyable experience.

My second journey to Chris's was late on a Saturday evening during the SEPTA strike (the most expensive part of the trip was parking). We paid the $10 post-11:30 cover charge and were seated immediately behind the pianist. Musical stylings that night were provided by vocalist Elizabeth Ross, a similarly equipped rhythm section and a wonderful saxophonist. Their sets ranged from originals and jazz standards to a Beatles cover. On both occasions service was excellent, food was good, and the atmosphere of the place itself was perfect. As the quote from Zagat says on their website: "I came into a room filled with people of all ages (and dress codes) and knew I had hit the jackpot."