Booze it up with Bootsie Barnes

It’s practically a moral imperative for us to go out midweek to remind ourselves that we’re more than the corporate drone drowning in our cubicle. Midweek somehow turns into three nights of the week, so we’re always searching for evenings that aren’t wallet busters. Enter Ortlieb’s Jazzhaus. Next time you’re traveling down North 3rd, eschew the Abbaye and screw North 3rd. Head over to Ortlieb’s. There’s no cover, the lights are dim, and the crowd is chill.

On Wednesdays, Bootsie Barnes and his Organ Trio take the stage close to 9 p.m. The multi-generational trio is fronted by Philly legend Bootsie Barnes on tenor saxophone, who’s accompanied by Lucas Brown on organ and Wayne Smith on drums. The elder statesman of the group holds the audience in thrall, and after he’s done giving them the business he fades into silence as Lucas and Wayne take over, trading the spotlight with a little bit of call and response.

The Stoli vanilla and cokes are only $4, the band plays until after midnight, and we’re always treated to an impromptu guest performance by one of the many jazz heads in the audience. So tonight instead of going home and wishing "Lost" was back on, get down to Ortlieb's. And get lifted.

Ortlieb's Jazzhaus
847 N 3rd St
Tel: (215) 922-1035

Image credit: Media Jazz By Night