Nagoya’s Jazz Scene is Blowing its Own Horn

Jun 30, 2022

Nagoya’s Jazz Scene is Blowing its Own Horn

When you think of music in Japan, it is hard to get past the idea of uber-cute J-Pop idols, adorably non-threatening boy bands, and the bright insanity of gravity-defying-haired Visual Kei bands. However, scratch past that (admittedly voluminous and ubiquitous) surface, and you will find that Nagoya has a varied and eclectic music scene. One musical genre particularly well-represented is Jazz, and if you want to get your groove on, below are a few concert venues to get you started.

Jazz Inn Lovely

The original Jazz Inn Lovely opened in 1970 and featured local Nagoya musicians, with monthly guest appearances from Tokyo. With the performances of Japanese jazz luminaries, including Sadao Watanabe, Masaaki Kikuchi, Akimasa Hino, and Yosuke Yamashita, Jazz Inn Lovely soon outgrew its environs and moved to its current location near Hisaya Dori station (next to Keg Craft Beer bar).

Soon, international stars graced the stage, filling the room with the sounds of Junior Month, Max Roach, Anita Oday, Earl Hines, John Lewis, Al Korn, and Zoot Sims, amongst others. However, it has stuck to its roots, maintaining a roster of great local talent to this day, and seven nights a week, you can catch a fantastic live act.

Where: 1 Chome-10-15 Higashisakura, Higashi Ward, Nagoya (map)
Website: jazzinnlovely.com

Jazz Spot Swing

Beginning life as jazz coffee shop CoCo in 1981, it was reborn as Jazz Spot Swing live music venue in 1981, initially focusing on blues music. Now, with an impetus on Jazz, it sees performances from artists from Nagoya, Tokyo, Osaka, and abroad.

What sets Jazz Spot Swing apart is that every Monday night, they have a swing jam session, at which people of all ages can get up on stage and get involved, whether professional or not. But if playing isn’t your bag, you can enjoy a delicious cocktail in the warm and friendly atmosphere. (Editor’s note, the dragon on the ceiling is worth the visit alone.)

Where: Nagoya, Naka Ward, Higashisakura, 2 Chome−18−24 San Marci Building (map)
Website: jazzspotswing.com

Mr. Kenny’s

Whether rising stars or established veterans, Mr. Kenny’s is home to various acts that span all aspects of Jazz. Featuring both solo and group acts, jazz lovers and even those new to the scene can find something they enjoy.

A five-minute walk from Kanayama Station, Mr. Kenny’s also holds jam nights for which they request that you bring your instrument and take part. Furthermore, they are highly amenable to Nagoya’s international community, with both English and Portuguese speakers on the staff, so you should always be able to find a varied crew enjoying themselves.

Where: Nagoya, Naka Ward, Kanayama, 5 Chome−1−5 Man Building 2F (map)
Website: mrkennys.com (English)

Miles

With a name like Miles, this could only be a transport bar or a Jazz bar celebrating the genre’s brightest star. As featured on this rundown, you can bet it’s the latter. With a 42-year history, Miles is one of Nagoya’s longest-running jazz bars. As it resides in Sakae’s bustling, ever-changing Nishiki area, its longevity is a testament to its quality.

Not only does Miles serve up nightly shows from great artists from the local community – both veterans and up-and-comers – but the cozy atmosphere in which you can get right up close and personal with the performers is extraordinary. In addition, they have a fantastic sake selection, which is the perfect accompaniment to Japanese Jazz.

Where: Nagoya, Naka Ward, Nishiki, 3 Chome-9-15 Sun Road Nishiki Building 4th floor (map)
Website: miles.nagoya

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Image: by fui 🙂 via flickr.com [CC BY-SA]
Image: via https://www.jazzspotswing.com/store.html
Image: via https://www.mrkennys.com/
Image: via miles.nagoya