Music and Events

Music is an integral part of the Take Five atmosphere. You might have guessed that as we're named after a song and our walls feature images of jazz greats. We program our own music (and gladly pay our ASCAP fees to support the music makers). It's primarily jazz - lots of old Blue Note recordings - but we mix in a healthy dose of good rock, funk, soul and rhythm & blues. If there's something you think we might like to add, tell us. Our ears are always open.

Take Five Coffee Bar also features occasional live music from the amazingly talented artists living in the Kansas City area and beyond. Check our calendar and sign up for our e-mail newsletter to find out who's playing.  And remember, at Take Five, there's never a cover.  Now, if you want to enjoy a latte or a cocktail while you're listening, we won't object.

Calendar

SUNDAY NIGHT JAZZ JAMS hosted by Nick Rowland and Sansabelt!

No belts, no suspenders, no nets ... just a rock-solid core ensemble to lay down a lyrical groove and a constantly shifting array of talent. Bring your horn and sit in, or just sit back and enjoy the emerging musical mosaic. Nick Rowland and his beltless crew host the Take Five Jazz Jam every second and fourth Sunday evening from 7pm to 10pm. Like Take Five’s coffee drinks, it’s habit-forming, but you won’t mind a bit.

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JANUARY

Friday, January 27 - 8pm to 10pm:  Megan Birdsall

Currently residing in Nashville, national recording artist Megan Birdsall is one of the most sought-after voices in jazz.  She's also one o the toughest women out there.  Check out her website at www.meganbirdsall.com to learn more, then come check her out in person!  Megan will be accompanied by Ben Leifer (bass), Paul Smith (keys) and Brian Steever (drums).

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Saturday, January 28 - 8pm to 10pm:  Loaded - a tribute to The Wood Brothers feat. Lucas Bingham

If you aren't familiar with the music of The Wood Brothers, you should be.  Go to www.thewoodbros.com and take a listen, love what you hear, then come to Take Five to hear Lucas Bingham lead an outstanding trio cover these artfully written songs.

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Sunday, January 29 - 7pm to 10pm:  Passport feat. Stan Kessler & Beau Bledsoe

Two of KC's finest, Stan (trumpet & flugelhorn) and Beau (guitar & oud) are sure to entertain you.

FEBRUARY

Friday, February 3 - 8pm to 10pm:  On The Record

Their first performance at Take Five packed the house so an encore performance is absolutely in order.  Come hear songs you know and love presented with friendship and enthusiasm!

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Saturday, February 4 - 8pm to 10pm:  Mistura Fina

Put a little Latin in your February; join Mistura Fina core members Jordan Shipley and Michael McClintock along with some special guests for this flamenco-flavored performance.

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Sunday, February 5 - 7pm to 9pm:  Bram Wijnands with Philip Wakefield and Mike Herrera

An immensely talented pianist, Bram comes to share his skill with Take Five, accompanied by Philip Wakefield on drums and Mike Herrera on sax.  Photo courtesy of KCJazzLark.

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Monday, February 6 - 7pm to 10pm:  Tim Doherty's 9plus1

Rounding out an awesome weekend of music, we have the BIG band in the house.

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Friday, February 10 - 8pm to 10pm:  Max Groove

If you've been to the Bar at the Raphael Hotel on the Country Club Plaza, you've undoubtedly heard Max Groove.  We're thrilled to get him out to the suburbs for this performance.

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Saturday, February 11 - 8pm to 10pm:  Killer Strayhorn

Openers for the first ever Prairie Village Jazz Fest, this swinging group brings a big sound. 

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Thursday, February 16 - 7pm to 9pm:  The New KC Seven feat. Kerry Strayer

Welcome Kansas City legend Kerry Strayer for the first of our Third Thursday installments with his septet.  We're thrilled to have him, come show him how thrilled YOU are too!

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Friday, February 17 - 8pm to 10pm:  Alma Flamenca feat. Jarrod Stephenson

Alma Flamenca features the flamenco guitar skills of Jarrod Stephenson, and is bringing something Take Five hasn't seen before - dancers!  This will be an evening to remember so put it on your calendar now.

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Saturday, February 18 - 8pm to 10pm:  Everette DeVan Trio

Another premiere performance at Take Five in February, join Everette DeVan and his guests.  Everette is not only one of the most active Kansas City jazz musicians he's also one of the most active in the Kansas City music community as a whole. 

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Friday, February 24 - 8pm to 10pm:  The Matt Hopper Ensemble

A phenomenal guitarist, Matt Hopper plays with many of the best jazz groups in KC.  He's bring a great ensemble to Take Five including Ben Leifer on bass and Kevin Frazee on drums.

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Saturday, February 25 - 8pm to 10pm:  The Brandon Draper Jazz Trio

If it gets better than Brandon Draper, we're not sure we could hold it.  Music director for Quixotic Dance Troupe, percussionist for Alaturka, adjunct professor at KU; Brandon does it all.  His jazz trio is exceptional so don't miss this rare intimate venue performance.