Jon H.
Yelp
It's been a while since I first wrote my review of The Nash, but first impressions can often lead to mis-interpretations. As I sit, it's one of their Sunday improv jazz nights (6-9pm every Sunday) and I'm listening to the band kick out a Dizzy Gillespie tune. The upright base is kicking it, the drummer is keeping time perfectly, and the pianist is rocking out, well as rocking as you can really get with this one. I've been back a number of times since that first pass by on First Friday, and my opinion of this spot has dramatically improved.
Improv jazz Sundays involves a solid core trio of musicians as they bring in random musicians just waiting to strut their stuff. $5 for the general public and $2 (or $3 - can't remember exactly) for musicians going up on stage. Show up on a Wednesday at 7:30 and they've got a practicing brass band and you can sit in the audience for $5 per person.
Every week they showcase up and coming jazz musicians, local jazz stars in their own right, or touring musicians who've risen the ranks. Some bigger named shows will cost ya $50+, some shows $15, either way this is a nice place to come for some live jazz.
Onward and upward, to the really important parts, no kitchen an no bar will leave you dining on candy bars and bottles of soda, a dumbed down movie theater snack bar type of experience, don't fret. The Nash has a BYOB policy that stands against the best. Bring your own beer or wine for a corking fee $5 for wine and $2 for beer I think, but I'd suggest consulting their website for these specifics.
With 12 or so 4 top tables, a high top bar-esq seating that fits 10 or so along the back of he room and some random chairs lined up along the edges of the venue, I'd say this place comfortably sits 75 or so. Checking out the neighbors you'll see people who brought pick nick baskets and coolers with them and have made a night of it. A perfect way to dine on cheese and meats, sip a little vino all while listening to some classy jazz. I'm definitely gonna stop and get a to go order next time from my favorite hot dog joint next door for my dining pleasure.
Concerned about you're attire? Don't be, downtown is Phoenix chic! Put on your nicest shorts, summer dress, jeans, sandals and a clean shirt and you'll fit right in. If you feel like getting dolled up, business casual also works here, but I've never seen any one in a ball gown or tuxedo here ;-)
If you've remained misinformed this whole time about Phoenix culture, well, consider yourself informed. One of my favorite spots to listen to some live jazz, bring your pals, bring your gals, you'll have an enjoyable evening!
Happy yelping Phoenix, I'll see you at the Nash!!