Jazz, as a music genre, comes with a lot of lexical baggage—thanks to generations of pioneers and improvisers giving it meaning upon meaning. That’s why “We call it Jazz” in Dublin is wrapping up over a century of music history into one neat, captivating package inspired by everything from the vibrant rhythms of ‘hot jazz’ to the cool sophistication of later styles. It’s a journey to the heart of New Orleans and beyond, with songs by legends like Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, and Herbie Hancock leading the way.
Located in Dublin’s cultural quarter, Temple Bar, the event takes place at the Button Factory on selected dates. An iconic venue that’s hosted its fair share of jazz gigs, the space offers a unique atmosphere, blending an edgy industrial vibe with its past as an actual button factory. With limited availability, be sure to book your spot before they’re all gone.
What is “We call it Jazz”?
Jazz performances, with their playful mix of vintage, groovy, laid-back vibes and polished style, usually carry an urban aesthetic—and that’s exactly what “We call it Jazz” is about. This 60-minute live music tribute to one of the most universally celebrated genres sets the stage with a dimly lit streetlamp, speaking to the mellow, street-style bar energy you’d expect from 1920s Louisiana. Paired with a carefully curated setlist of undeniable jazz classics, the event stays true to the genre’s roots while honouring its improvisational essence, as musicians are free to ‘blow their horns’.
Jazz, its story and the show
Ever witty and always evolving, jazz defies a pinpointed birth—it grew organically from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Trailblazers like Buddy Bolden, an American cornetist, signalled a shift toward a new sound, helping to establish a genre born in the cultural melting pot of New Orleans. And what started with improvisation, syncopated rhythms, and swing eventually paved the way for bebop, free jazz, cool jazz, and fusion.
So, put a drink in your hand (be it a simple Old Fashioned or a sparkling beverage with a non-alcoholic twist) and get into the rhythm of some seriously cool cats—excuse the dated phrasing, but jazz comes with a side of old-school charm. The works of Miles Davis, Frank Sinatra, Billie Holiday, and more come alive as the nostalgic sounds of the saxophone, trumpet, and other instruments fill the air.
Consider “We call it Jazz” your safe haven for stepping into a world of melancholy and mismatchedness. Soak up blue notes, licks, and chord progressions on your own, share the experience with family and friends, or make it the perfect romantic date. Taking place on selected dates in the coming months, secure your spot soon and add a touch of ragtime and blues to your life.