Adam Levy Quartet
Zinc Bar82 West 3rd Street, New York 10012
Adam Levy leads a guitar-centered quartet at Zinc Bar, joined by Alex LoRe on alto saxophone, Kyle Miles on bass, and Henry Mermer on drums. The billed group brings Levy’s writing and playing into a four-piece setting, with saxophone, bass, and drums around his guitar. The evening is presented as a pair of performances by the same quartet, rather than a release show, tribute, or guest-led program.
Levy is a guitarist, songwriter, and educator whose work moves among folk, blues, jazz, and Americana. Zinc Bar describes him as a versatile player with “soulful playing, evocative lyrics, and deep musicality,” and notes collaborations with Norah Jones, Tracy Chapman, Bill Frisell, and Ani DiFranco. His solo recordings have featured warm vocals, intricate guitar work, and thoughtful songwriting. Reviewing an earlier Zinc Bar appearance by Levy’s trio, with different musicians from this quartet, The Concert Witness called his guitar playing “from another planet” and the performance “a masterclass in nuance and emotion.”
Zinc Bar offers a richly textured experience where the past and present of jazz converge in a single, dimly lit room adorned with Art Deco details like velvet upholstery, polished brass, and a Parisian zinc bar. The venue’s layout centers around a close-up stage and a vintage bar, creating a setting where the music is both the focus and a shared journey. Patrons can expect expertly crafted cocktails alongside performances that range from world-class jazz to vibrant Brazilian and African rhythms, often featuring multiple sets and occasional late-night jams. The seating is lounge-style, encouraging attentive listening rather than casual chatter, making it a place to immerse fully in the sound. This is a space where history lingers, once hosting legends like Billie Holiday and Thelonious Monk, now continuing their legacy with a sophisticated yet welcoming vibe.