Slow Food, Cool Jazz

Dizzy’s nook has a long and textured history in Melbourne. But the new Dizzy’s Jazz Club has only been around for less than two years. For the discerning listener, it offers a unique jazz experience.

Australia’s only purpose-built jazz club is architecturally designed to boast a warm atmosphere, soft lighting and good sightlines for 100 or so patrons. From the long marble-topped bar to the purpose-built smoking deck, it is an inviting club. Fine entertainment spans jazz-standard musicians, feature artists like Michelle Nicole, interstate guests and populist contemporary jazz and diverse genres from Wilbur Wilde to Mike Brady.

A medium-size stage can be adapted to suit a big band, and Dizzy’s has an established schools program. It also welcomes young artists with a ‘jazz idol’ initiative where aspiring singers can join the Dizzy’s Big Band for a few tunes. Musicians can ‘jam’ free to public in early evening sessions.

Catering to more than jazz purists in matched drinks and food, it has a busy bar and an extensive if a tad expensive a la carte menu (Mains $20 – $30). This is where the experience falters, even for the well-heeled patrons – the food simply takes so long to arrive. And when it does it’s unremarkable despite promising modern Australian and international flavours.

Dizzy’s is actively trying to promote a ‘members’ group with a suite of benefits including half-price entry. But to really cultivate its audience it needs to match fine sound with sound service.

by MelbinNoir

Dizzy’s Jazz Club

Where: 381 Burnley St (nearby) Richmond
Who’s on: Upcoming shows include jazz to pop and groove
When: from 8pm

Getting there:
Train, Burnley station
Tram, 70 from Bourke St, Docklands to Wattle Park; destination corner Burnley St and Swan St

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