One of my favorite places to go is Smalls Jazz Club in NYC on West 10th Street, just around the corner from The Sevilla. The intimacy of the basement club and the quality of the music make it a winner every time.


This Saturday night I finally made my way to the new jazz club that opened in my town (Nyack) by Brianne Higgins (a talented actress in her own right) and one of the most fun keys men around, David Budway, who can often be seen dazzling guests at The Carlyle on the Upper East Side near the park.


Much to my delight, Maureen’s Jazz Cellar, is the real deal.  How lucky am I to get that Smalls feel without traveling over the hills and far away.


After looking close at the events calendar, I was floored at the mad good acts Budway has recruited to play his new joint. I happen to catch the end of the Benny Benack Quartet Saturday night and was happy as a clam.  It was fun to see him bring up a young local trumpet man to join in the fun.

The coolest part of the night was after the main act was done.  An elegant lady (who I found out was one of Budway’s students at one point) started to play quietly on the baby grand.  After a few minutes she caught the attention of everyone in the place. Spontaneous music combustion.


Considering Maureen’s Jazz Cellar is situated underneath a pizza place and in a space that has been consistently occupied by transient businesses, I was surprised at how spacious and “right” the venue felt. Coupled with bartenders who know how to pour (thanks Jimmy), and a great sound system, Maureen’s is a must destination for music fans for not only the Hudson Valley, but NYC. 


For those not familiar with Nyack, there are deep jazz and music roots here (read more).


Yes, indeed. What a great place to flap your wings rancheleros.


As the old testament says, “Come on out and catch the show. There’ll be saints and sinners, losers and winner. All kinds of people you’ll want to know…”