I took in live jazz at Jazz Alley

From K.

I've meant to visit Jazz Alley for eons now. Well, at least since the early 90s. And now I wish I'd gone earlier, before The Triple Door opened and spoiled me.



Don't get me wrong. Jazz Alley is a fine spot to take in live music, like the John Patitucci Trio, which played a set that veered between melancholy and vibrant last night (I was mesmerized by his bass fingering and the versatility of the drummer). It had an intimate atmosphere and decent acoustics. But I couldn't help comparing the two. Both have swell desserts, though Triple Door's gelato banana split wins hands down. The Triple Door is lucky enough to offer a menu from Wild Ginger, which sits just upstairs. Jazz Alley's cuisine is just OK. Then, there's the view. Jazz Alley has a handy, open-air balcony that offers great views of the stage, if you don't mind waking up with a crick in your neck the next morning, as I did today. Triple Door lets most of its guests have a straight-on view of the musical action.

At least I loved the music :)

I saw Seahawk Craig Terrill at The Triple Door

From K.

You never know what you're gonna get with athletes-turned-musicians. Shaq's rap comes to mind. So you'll understand my trepidation when J persuaded me to accompany him to a recent show starring the Seahawk's defensive tackle.



I'd heard Craig live before, singing a mournful song a capella. It was very different on this night to watch his 6-foot-2, 295-pound self wail and yell and boom through his Americana rock set on stage, backed ably by his Craig Terrill Band. He has a serious voice and serious stage presence. I really admire people who excel in more than one area of life -- how many people do you know who can claim an NFL career *and* a viable music career? And an adorable family. What am I doing wrong? ;)

This night out also reminded me how much I adore The Triple Door. It calls to mind those great supper clubs of the 20s/30s/40s. Rows of tables rise in front of the stage, lined with candles and any number of wine glasses and cocktails. Food comes from Wild Ginger upstairs; we enjoyed the Seven-flavor Beef and Pad Thai. Order the banana split for dessert. With scoops of gelato it's almost insanely decadent. A great date spot if you want to impress (and you have a good inkling of your love interest's musical tastes).