Caelan Cardello Trio
Mezzrow161 West 10th Street, New York 10014
Caelan Cardello brings his trio to Mezzrow, with Cardello on piano, Joseph Ranieri on bass, and Willie Jones III on drums. The three-piece format puts piano, bass, and drums in direct conversation, with Cardello leading a working band drawn from musicians with distinct roles in the rhythm section. It is a chance to hear this particular lineup in Mezzrow’s close listening-room setting.
Cardello is a New York jazz pianist described by New England Public Media as a “rising New York jazz pianist,” praised for “warmth, imagination, and deep feeling for the music.” His musical development includes mentorship from Fred Hersch, Frank Kimbrough, and Dave Kikoski. Kikoski says Cardello “has phenomenal technique” and has “investigated the whole history of jazz piano,” taking in ideas from Oscar Peterson through Brad Mehldau. His credits include performances or study with Jimmy Cobb, Dee Dee Bridgewater, Jack DeJohnette, Wallace Roney, Ravi Coltrane, and Christian McBride, placing this trio date within a career shaped by close contact with several generations of jazz players.
Mezzrow offers a focused jazz listening experience in a compact, basement setting where the audience is close enough to catch every subtle note and interaction among musicians. The room features a bar serving drinks but no full kitchen, encouraging guests to settle in for the music rather than a meal. Shows typically have two sets in the evening, with ticketing recommended to secure a spot in this popular venue. The vibe is attentive and respectful, with seating arranged to maximize the connection between performers and listeners. After the sets, the night often extends into late hours with vinyl sessions or jam sessions, making it a place where jazz lives beyond the scheduled performances. This venue is part of a foundation supporting jazz artists, ensuring a vibrant, ongoing presence in Manhattan's music scene.