Welcome to Luna Star Cafe!

Wednesdays from 7-9pm! 

Bring your axe, horn, drum, whatever! Very laid back – a great way to meet some of the Café’s favorite performers & regulars in a supportive and comfortable environment! Novices & pros are welcome to come on down & join the jam. Try out new material or just participate in some sing-alongs. 

Enjoy an evening of jazz with Amy Arlo and her Mixed Bag band. Jazz Jam second set!

8 PM | No Cover – Donations encouraged

ADE PEEVER

We at Luna Star Cafe are SO PROUD to welcome Ade back to the stage! You don’t want to miss it!

Ade Peever is a fingerstyle acoustic guitarist, singer and songwriter from the UK. A background in bucolic British folk runs parallel with a rocker streak nurtured by occasional reunions with Leeds’ loud r’n’b four-piece the Original Gravity Band. SoFlo-based since the 80’s, he’s alternated between folk (The Hautboys were residents at Linda Lou’s Cactus Cantina on SoBe in the 90s) and rock (Slide Area, another rock quartet, was named after a Ry Cooder album). In 2006 he released Green Man Said, an album of originals, featuring 28 players and a live-at-Leeds version of Bill Morrissey’s ballad “Robert Johnson.” Since 2007 he’s been singing with local Irish folk band Celtic Bridge. A rare acoustic set will highlight the story-element of the folk tradition.

Wednesdays from 7-9pm! 

Bring your axe, horn, drum, whatever! Very laid back – a great way to meet some of the Café’s favorite performers & regulars in a supportive and comfortable environment! Novices & pros are welcome to come on down & join the jam. Try out new material or just participate in some sing-alongs. 

JAMIE GRANGER

Jamie Granger is a singer-songwriter from South Florida. He was raised on the island of Montserrat and worked for a time on a cattle ranch in Montana.  A lyrical journey through museums, roadside motels, and the dreams of lost cowboys.

Black Janet returns to the Luna Star Cafe! George Zhen opens the show!

Following a stellar reunion performance at the Dan Hosker Music Continuum that was well-received by the audience, the members of Black Janet decided to keep the momentum going. Despite not having played together since the mid-1990s, the chemistry among the bandmates appeared stronger than ever, reigniting their passion for making music together.

The South Florida Scene in the 1990s

During the 1990s, South Florida emerged as a thriving hub for musical talent, with many local acts poised to break onto the national stage. This era saw bands such as the Mavericks, Marilyn Manson, the Goods, Nuclear Valdez, Natural Causes, Vesper Sparrow, and Mary Karlzen attracting the attention of major labels eager to discover promising homegrown artists. Among these was Black Janet, a group that stood out for their unique sound and artistry.

Black Janet’s Distinctive Style

Black Janet was regarded as one of the most adventurous bands in the South Florida scene, — Manson and his early aggregate, the Spooky Kids, notwithstanding. Their music was earnest, edgy, and brooding.  The band’s melodic style was reminiscent of bands as diverse as Roxy Music, The Cult, It’s A Beautiful Day and Echo and the Bunnymen, with vocals compared to David Bowie, Jim Morrison, Peter Murphy, Bryan Ferry, Patti Smith and P.J. Harvey.

Debut Album and Recognition

The band’s exceptional debut full-length album, Love Thirsty, earned Black Janet numerous accolades, including a prestigious Jammy award. This recognition solidified their reputation as a standout act within the local music community.

“They were the biggest band in Broward,” recalls Rich Ulloa, head of Miami-based Y&T Records, home to budding hometown acts like the Mavericks, Mary Karlzen, and Amanda Green. “I saw one of their final shows, and it was one of the most compelling live performances I’d ever seen.”

Band Lineup

The members of Black Janet include Amy Baxter on vocals, Frank Binger on drums, Rose Garguilo handling both lead and rhythm guitar, Dave Thompson on bass, Jim Wurster providing vocals and guitar, and George Zhen on keyboards.

Wednesdays from 7-9pm! 

Bring your axe, horn, drum, whatever! Very laid back – a great way to meet some of the Café’s favorite performers & regulars in a supportive and comfortable environment! Novices & pros are welcome to come on down & join the jam. Try out new material or just participate in some sing-alongs. 

7:30p – $5 COVER per person

Based in Miami, jazzman Mo Morgen is best known for his tenor saxophone playing, but is also a vocalist. Morgen isn’t an aggressive or forceful type of singer; he doesn’t belt or scream and his vocals tend to be relaxed and subtle. The improviser hasn’t always lived in Miami; in fact, he spent most of his life in the New York area. Morgen was born Mike Morgenstern in Brooklyn, NY, on February 26, 1939, and, at 12, moved to Long Island, where he remained until returning to Brooklyn in 1972. From 1975-1984, Morgen operated a New York loft called the Jazzmania Society, and it was during his years in New York that he played with improvisers who ranged from pianist Hilton Ruiz to trumpeters Claudio Roditi, and Ted Curson. After moving to Miami in 1993, Morgen opened a club called the MoJazz Café where he led the house band and played alongside such locals as multi-hornman Ira Sullivan (originally from Chicago), trumpeter Melton Mustafa, flugelhornist Pete Minger, and drummer Duffy Jackson. In 2000, Morgen recorded a vocal-oriented CD titled Singin’ Saxy and released it on his own MoJazzmania label. Although Singin’ Saxy has its share of tenor solos and includes two instrumentals — “You and the Night and the Music” and a reggae-influenced version of “In a Sentimental Mood” — it is a jazz vocal album first and foremost. – allmusic.com

SLIM GLASSES

Slim Glasses is a Miami-based band formed in September 2015 by Patricio Acevedo, Erik Anderson, Jose Ballon, and Christopher Myers. The band incorporates elements from its members’ diverse musical backgrounds – including pop, rock, folk, jazz, and classical music – and places a special emphasis on tight and engaging vocal harmonies. Above all, Slim Glasses aims to share a love for music with every crowd that they perform for.

THE DEF CATS

The Def Cats are a trio consisting of Justin Godbolt (drums), Timothy LaRoque (vocals/guitar), and Mario Lemus (vocals/bass).

Having become friends with Oly through “Let’s Sang” karaoke nights at Gramps in Wynwood over the years, Timothy LaRoque was approached in April 2021 about a new weekly event they were hosting, “Rock ‘N Roll Sundays,” finally bringing live music back after a long pause amidst the pandemic. Wanting to start fresh after a year of not playing live, he assembled his ideal “dream band”, creating a supergroup amongst the scene. A musical favorite in Miami for their energetic, heartfelt performances, the Def Cats have performed all over the 305 (FTX Arena, Key Biscayne Yacht Club, SpacePark, etc) and will be performing at the Hollywood ArtsPark this December 9th.

The Cafe will be CLOSED on Wednesday June 24th and Thursday June 25th. We will reopen on Friday June 26th for Almost Blue.

The Cafe will be CLOSED on Wednesday June 24th and Thursday June 25th. We will reopen on Friday June 26th for Almost Blue.

Always a good time to be had with Amy Arlo’s Almost Blue! Come listen and maybe even dance along with us! Acoustic, Funk + Soul, all sure to sweeten your evening! Start the early evening off with a free jazz show across the street at MOCA- the Museum of Contemporary Art, then head on over to see Almost Blue with us!

8:00pm – DONATIONS ENCOURAGED

Jazz at MOCA details here -> https://www.mocanomi.org/events

The Cafe will be CLOSED on Wednesday, July 1st.

We reopen Thursday July 2nd for our monthly Jazz series with Amy Arlo and her Mixed Bag Band + Jazz Jam!

Enjoy an evening of jazz with Amy Arlo and her Mixed Bag band. Jazz Jam second set!

8 PM | No Cover – Donations encouraged

7:00PM | $10 Suggested Donation

BlueBird is a musical duo featuring Leigh Harrison and Bob Perfetto that formed in the 1980s in NYC. BlueBird has performed a unique blend of blues, rock ‘n’ roll, country, old-time jazz, rockabilly, country-blues, pop, Western swing, and originals, up and down the East Coast of the United States, as well as in Portland, Oregon.

For many years, BlueBird was the host of a popular poetry and music event in The Back Fence, an iconic bar in NYC’s Greenwich Village. In addition, BlueBird was featured in clubs in Ottawa, Canada, and in London, England.

Their songs and music have been on several CDs. Bob’s recordings received special acclaim from a DJ in Belgium, who called his guitar work “phenomenal.” Listen to audio tracks, watch videos, see where BlueBird has played and find upcoming shows at https://www.songcrew.com/BlueBird/

Presented by Luna Star Cafe and the South Florida Folk & Acoustic Music Club

8:00pm | $10 Cover | $8 for Folk Cub members

Celebrate the 4th of July with Luna Star and the Gypsy Strings Revival band!

Wednesday Song Swap + Jam 7pm-9pm

Bring your axe, horn, drum, whatever! Very laid back – a great way to meet some of the Café’s favorite performers & regulars in a supportive and comfortable environment! Novices & pros are welcome to come on down & join the jam. Try out new material or just participate in some sing-alongs. 

Benji Elliot of The Wire Jays returns to the Luna Star Cafe for his solo debut!

More details to come..

8:00pm | $10 Cover

Lourdes Valentin is a jazz singer, songwriter, and guitarist whose soulful voice brings life to Blue Orchid, her Latin jazz ensemble. Together with seasoned musicians, she explores Brazilian, Afro-Cuban, and Latin American rhythms, creating performances full of vibrant improvisation and rich storytelling. With every note, Lourdes invites audiences into a joyful, uplifting musical journey that resonates long after the music.

Join us as we celebrate the life Rick Wallach on his birthday. Rick was a beloved regular and avid supporter of live music and the Luna Star Cafe. Celebrations + tributes will begin at 4:00pm, followed by a performance by dear friends of Rick and the Luna Star Cafe, OtherEndoftheRoad at 8:00pm. More details to come.

OtherEndoftheRoad returns to Luna Star Cafe for a special evening with friends.

Wednesday Song Swap + Jam 7pm-9pm

Bring your axe, horn, drum, whatever! Very laid back – a great way to meet some of the Café’s favorite performers & regulars in a supportive and comfortable environment! Novices & pros are welcome to come on down & join the jam. Try out new material or just participate in some sing-alongs. 

Izzy Izquierdo is a young jazz singer born and raised in Miami, Florida. She’s been singing for as long as she can remember and is now studying at the Florida International University School of Music. Izzy brings a fresh energy to her performances while keeping that warm, classic jazz sound alive. Whether she’s singing with a big band or in a small, cozy setting, her love for the music always shines through. We are so excited to welcome her back to the Luna Star Cafe stage!

HANK MILNE + FRIENDS, MORE DETAILS TO COME!

An evening of traditional British and Appalachian folk music, sea shanties, “finger-in-the-ear” songs and other sing-alongs you can all join in on. Bring yer singing voices!

SUNDOWN SOUND – $10 COVER CHARGE

Sundown Sound creates eclectic, heartfelt music channeling diverse influences of acoustic rock, jazz, blues, Americana, and progressive alternative music.  Thought-provoking, socially-conscious lyrics explore themes of spirituality, love, and beauty.  Sundown Sound at root is a feeling, one that creates a bond with their audience.   Hailing from South Florida, the band is comprised of songwriters Mike Matthews and Daniel Wolpin on vocals and guitar, Colin Fequa on bass, and Manuel Pila on percussion. Sundown Sound is on a mission to prove that homemade music is still viable and vital.

Wednesday Song Swap + Jam 7pm-9pm

Bring your axe, horn, drum, whatever! Very laid back – a great way to meet some of the Café’s favorite performers & regulars in a supportive and comfortable environment! Novices & pros are welcome to come on down & join the jam. Try out new material or just participate in some sing-alongs. 

More details to come..

Wednesday Song Swap + Jam 7pm-9pm

Bring your axe, horn, drum, whatever! Very laid back – a great way to meet some of the Café’s favorite performers & regulars in a supportive and comfortable environment! Novices & pros are welcome to come on down & join the jam. Try out new material or just participate in some sing-alongs. 

7:30pm – Cover Charge $10 per person

Voilá! Live in Concert. Parisian Classics – Timeless Chanson – Jazz Standards

Debbie Spring on Viola, Luke Williams- on Guitar + Vocals and Rusty Heck on double bass

Jazz is an art form that embraces a wide variety of musical styles performed on a wide variety of musical instruments that are less common in other genres. There have been a number of great jazz violinists, but there haven’t been too many jazz viola players, especially ones like DEBBIE SPRING who plays a five string viola. Spring’s playing is heartfelt and technically flawless, and her songs are inflected with Latin, Brazilian, straight ahead jazz, pop, and classical music, reflecting the cultural diversity of South Florida where she lives. She released her second album, TOCAMOS, in 2023 to rave reviews. Music Man blog said, “Technically flawless… her songs are very lyrical and accessible to the listener. Her tones on the viola produce a beautiful, warm and mellow sound.” When Spring was just five years old, her mother saw how much she loved music and began her on piano lessons. Although she was in her junior high school orchestra, she had become disaffected with the piano and started trying out other instruments. She immediately fell in love with the viola and had the opportunity to study with several renowned viola teachers. Although she pursued her musical education at the University of Miami, studying classical music, she had discovered jazz and fell in love with Jean Luc Ponty’s playing when she heard his early, acoustic jazz violin albums. The University of Miami has a world class jazz department, and her department head allowed her to take a jazz improvisation class in her senior year. After graduating, she set out on a career playing jazz with different groups in the South Florida region. She performed with the group Ira Sullivan Strings Attached for 10 years. They recorded an eponymous album in 1983, garnering Spring positive reviews. Spring went back to the University for a master’s degree and began writing music. She performed with her own group for a while and produced a Latin jazz fusion album, “Ocean Drive,” in 1990. Adept at numerous styles, she became one of the busiest viola players in the country. She played pop music, toured with a popular country group called The Mavericks, performed classical concerts with The Florida Grand Opera and the Santa Fe Opera, among others, and backed the famous Miami Sound Machine with Gloria Estafan. One of her favorite gigs was touring with Shakira, dubbed the Queen of Latin Music. Spring relates, “I loved playing with Shakira. Although I’ve played in all these styles, I found the formats very restricting. I’m a jazz musician at heart, and Shakira didn’t lay down what I was supposed to play. She let me improvise, and I had some of the most fun trading riffs with Shakira on stage.”

Join us for our monthly series with Amy Arlo’s Almost Blue. Tonight we’ll also be celebrating Brie’s 42nd Birthday!

Every last Friday of the month! Always a good time to be had with Amy Arlo’s Almost Blue! Come listen and maybe even dance along with us. Acoustic, Funk + Soul, all sure to sweeten your evening! Start the early evening off with a free jazz show across the street at MOCA- the Museum of Contemporary Art, then head on over to enjoy Almost Blue with us! Hands-down the best night to hang in downtown North Miami!

8:00pm – DONATIONS ALWAYS ENCOURAGED

Jazz at MOCA details here -> https://www.mocanomi.org/events