The EarRegulars
The Ear Inn326 Spring Street, New York 10013
Jon-Erik Kellso leads the EarRegulars on trumpet, joined by guitarist Matt Munisteri and guest artists. Their set moves through swinging, melodic classic jazz, from New Orleans styles and Tin Pan Alley songs to swing-era and mainstream material. Expect unhurried tunes, sometimes stretching beyond 10 minutes, shaped by conversational ensemble improvisation rather than extended solo showcases.
Formed in 2007, the group has maintained a weekly Ear Inn residency ever since. Kellso and Munisteri are its founding regulars, with a changing cast of guests. NPR describes their repertoire as drawing largely on music from the 1920s through the 1940s; critics have praised both “the clarity of their enthusiasm and the caliber of their execution.”
The Ear Inn offers a unique evening where live music fills a room that feels like stepping into a storied Lower Manhattan bar with a rich past. The space features a bar and a dinner menu, inviting guests to enjoy food and drinks while listening. Shows often run late into the night, with sets starting around 11 PM and continuing until 2 AM, creating a relaxed yet focused listening environment where the music takes center attention. The venue hosts a range of artists, from roots blues to jazz, with performances that feel personal and engaging, drawing you close to the musicians. The room’s walls and layout reflect its long history, making it a place where the past and present of New York’s music scene meet. Expect an evening of attentive listening, good company, and a well-curated musical experience.