Brian Woodruff & Friends
One Flight Up108 Greenwich Street, New York 10006
Brian Woodruff leads a quartet with Hashem Assadullahi on alto sax, Soyoung Park on piano and vocals, Kevin Thomas on bass, and Woodruff on drums. The group plays Woodruff’s original compositions alongside jazz standards and other material, in a straight-ahead but adventurous setting; Park’s vocals feature on selected originals and standards.
Woodruff’s writing has been described by Leonid Auskren of Jazz Quad as deeply rooted in post-bop traditions. Gray Hunter of A Hand in the Act of Writing called the music “honest, not forced, not pretentious.”
One Flight Up offers a focused listening experience in a compact space where the audience is close enough to catch every nuance of the music. The venue features a full bar and no cover charge, requiring only a minimum drink purchase, which encourages a relaxed yet attentive crowd. Seating is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early can secure a good spot. Shows typically run from early evening into the night with multiple sets, allowing for a deep dive into the performances. The room’s walls are adorned with music-related art, enhancing the sense of being in a dedicated jazz environment. This is a place where the music is the priority, and the vibe supports both serious listening and casual enjoyment.