COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ If you were there for their last performance, you already know—this is going to be a night to remember. They’ll be mixing it up with some of Ed Kornhauser’s originals as well as classic tunes crooned by Dennis Gittens. They'll be joined by an all-star rhythm section featuring some of San Diego’s finest: Louis Valenzuela on guitar, Rob Thorsen on bass, and Kevin Higuchi on drums. Expect an evening full of energy and unforgettable music. San Diego-based pianist Ed Kornhauser holds a Bachelor of Music in Jazz Studies from San Diego State University. He was awarded “Best Jazz Album” in 2021 by the San Diego Music Awards for his debut album The Short Years, which features all original compositions, and went on to win “Best Jazz Artist” in 2022, 2023, and 2025. Working as a freelance musician in the greater San Diego area, Ed performs with themattsmithneujazztrio, accompanies vocalists Whitney Shay and Leonard Patton, plays solo piano at Mister A’s, and frequently backs a wide variety of local musicians across diverse musical styles. Dennis Gittens is a jazz singer hailing from the East Coast who now resides in San Diego. His love for music began at a young age, thanks to his grandmother's diverse music collection. Growing up, he was heavily influenced by artists such as Johnny Hartman, Sarah Vaughan, and Frank Sinatra. Gittens has developed a smooth and soulful vocal style that is deeply rooted in the jazz tradition. He has performed at numerous venues in San Diego, sharing the stage with notable musicians and captivating audiences with his timeless sound and dynamic stage presence. 

Doors: 6:30PM Showtime: 7:30PM 21+ | NO DINNER SERVICE Experience the hilarity at Laugh At Lou Lou’s, an evening of stand-up comedy hosted by the razor-sharp Mal Hall. Join us on the last Wednesday of every month as Mal Hall introduces a stellar lineup of seasoned headliners who have graced stages nationwide and appeared on Netflix and Comedy Central. Each comedian will offer their distinct brand of humor, promising a night filled with laughter and entertainment. Don’t miss out—reserve your tickets now for an unforgettable night of comedy. 

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ In addition to being a world-renowned guitar maker, Victor Baker is an avid modern jazz guitarist, prolific composer and active performer. He has called San Diego home since 2018 after many years in New York City, where he worked as both a leader and sideman in many of the city's esteemed jazz clubs. He has performed in many local jazz-centric and original music venues such as Dizzy's, The Handlery Hotel, The Athenaeum Music and Arts Library, Panama 66, The Jazz Lounge, The Black Cat, The Acid Vault and numerous more. His music has also been featured on KSDS 88.3FM Jazz After Hours. VB Is very excited to be bringing his group back to Lou Lou's to perform a mixture of his originals and arrangements. 

*GENERAL ADMISSION | 21+ | ALL SEATING IS FIRST COME FIRST SERVED | NO DINNER SERVICE | MUSIC @ 8PM & 10PM* “Jazz Group of the Year” nominee, The Lao Tizer Band, make their return to Lou Lou’s Club @ The Lafayette Hotel on Friday, August 1st for another rollicking night of music and dancing in support of their brand-new Billboard-chartting album & video release AMPLIFY. The new release is a major evolution for the group and includes 5 new original vocals and 4 new original instrumentals, with an all-star cast. The project was recorded and filmed all LIVE at legendary EastWest Studios in Hollywood with simultaneous 7-camera video shoot and a legendary cast of musicians. Joining keyboardist, bandleader and former “Best New Jazz Artist” nominee, Lao Tizer for the show are American Idol star, Elliott Yamin - vocals, drum phenom, Tony Austin (Kamasi Washington), GRAMMY-winning percussion legend, Munyungo Jackson (Miles Davis, Stevie Wonder), sax & flute wunderkind, Danny Janklow (MONKestra, Shelea), and Rolling Stone “2022 Bassist of the Year” nominee, Anthony Crawford (Jeff Lorber, Erykah Badu). Please join us as the group takes you on a high-energy musical ride through a variety of flavors and styles with an all-star cast of musicians THE LAO TIZER BAND Lao Tizer - keys Elliott Yamin - vocals Danny Janklow - sax Anthony Crawford - bass Munyungo Jackson - percussion Tony Austin - drums 

TWO SHOWINGS | 7PM & 10PM | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ Phat Cat Swinger is the ultimate pop/hard-swing band led by leader, Marco Palos and his partner-in-crime, Blake Lewis (AMERICAN IDOL runner-up). Their unique blend of rock, swing, and jazz infused with modern sensibilities sets them apart. With a powerhouse 11-piece group, their performances are nothing short of legendary. The raw energy they bring to the stage electrifies the audience, getting the crowd dancing like there's no tomorrow. It’s Sinatra/Buble meets Bruno Mars meets Big Bad Voodoo Daddy/Brian Setzer. Join the worldwide Phat Cat Swinger Phamily and experience the rush of energy and excitement from this incredibly hot and talented band !! 

ELECTRICLOUIELAND PRESENTS: SUNDAY SERMONS COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ LouLou's Club on a Sunday night, The First Sunday Jazz Sermons take flight, Echoes of Minton's in every chord, Where legends jammed and spirits soared. 

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ Imagine a regular San Diego music community super session where the musicians (both in the house band and sitting in) include members of Sure Fire Soul Ensemble, The Greyboy Allstars, The Original Wailers, B-Side Players, Jungle Fire, Tiny Universe, Mitchum Yacoub's band, Spacehall Sound Machine, The Neighborhood Kids, Gypsy Sally, Hether, Band of Gringos, The Jazz 88 Allstars, Big Daddy Kane's band, and more. Rising from the ashes of the legendary Adams Gone Funky, Lou Lou's is proud to present: The Funky Resurrection - first Wednesday of every month. 

*Doors open at 6pm | 21+ | Dinner starts promptly at 7pm | No dinner service in bar area* Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, and raised in Fresno, California, Gilbert’s musical career was preordained; the only son to his eponym father, a touring Cumbia band leader, singer and arranger, Gilbert was strongly influenced by his predecessor’s deep appreciation for classical composers and big band jazz ensembles, broadening young Gilbert's horizons from an early age. Gilbert Sr. strongly encouraged Gilbert toward the Jazz genre when at first he showed an interest in trumpet at age 6. By age 11, Gilbert’s intensive training and education provided the context to begin playing professionally, and at age 15 he preformed with mentor and icon Dizzy Gillespie at the Monterrey Jazz Festival. A fierce advocate of formal jazz education, Gilbert held the position of Adjunct Professor of Jazz Studies at the University of Southern California's Thornton School of Music from 2001 to 2013. Thereafter, he served as the Artistic Director of the International Academy of Jazz San Diego from 2014-2016, during which time he began conducting high school workshops and developing a more proactive role in mentorship. During his time visiting Title I schools, he recognized a need for increased accessibility to formal education, noting that many truly gifted students were deprived the opportunities to further their education due to monetary constraints. Thusly, in 2016 Castellanos founded the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory based in San Diego, California. Using his influence in a burgeoning Jazz community, one he is credited in large with establishing, Gilbert began successfully soliciting donations for and supporting thousands of dollars of scholarship to finance Conservatory Education Equity for economically disadvantaged students of promise. To date, the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory has graduated hundreds of bright musicians of diverse backgrounds with Gilbert serving as personal mentor and advocate for each, often writing college recommendation letters and offering every one of his students "real world" experience each Wednesday evening at ensemble performances 

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ DJ SETS BY @LAVIDAAIDA | LIVE ART BY BEAN_TATTOO Amanda Portela is a world-class vocalist, musician, and performer who has captivated San Diego audiences for over a decade. Known for her dynamic stage presence and sultry, expressive voice, she effortlessly weaves through an eclectic mix of genres, including Jazz, Latin Jazz, Cumbia, Americana, Rock, R&B, and Pop. Backing her is a powerhouse ensemble of San Diego’s finest musicians: Konrad Malinowski (guitar): A distinguished guitarist whose career spans the globe, blending technical mastery with emotional depth. A passionate collaborate, he is deeply involved in the San Diego music community, performing across genres - from jazz ensembles in intimate settings to country bands at large festivals. Harley Magsino (bass): Harley Magsino received his Master of Music degree from San Diego State University, and has played in several bands in the San Diego area. His principal instruments are guitar and bass, but Harley is also proficient in playing and teaching the ukulele, cello, and piano. Brian Repec (keys): A versatile freelance musician based in the greater San Diego area, known for his dynamic work across a wide range of genres. As an in-demand accompanist, he regularly performs with vocalists such as Mariela Contreras, Amanda Portela, Marelle, and Kaylee Daugherty. He is also a founding member of the experimental jazz trio OBTuse Goose, blending jazz, hip-hop, breakbeats, and synthwave; their debut album, The Goose Is Loose!, is available on all major streaming platforms. Diego Velasquez (percussion): Professional multi-instrumentalist and percussionist from San Diego, California. He began his music studies at 15, specializing in Afro-Cuban drumming, and has trained with renowned artists including Jose Luis Quintana (Changuito) and Tomas Cruz. Diego has performed with Emmy and Grammy award-winning musicians such as Allan Phillips and Angel Lopez, as well as acclaimed San Diego groups like The B-Side Players and The Surefire Soul Ensemble. Fernando Gomez (drums): A highly skilled session drummer based in San Diego. With years of experience and a deep passion for music, Fernando is fluent in all styles of drumming, from rock, pop, and jazz to funk, Latin, and everything in between. Whether you're looking for the perfect groove for a recording session or a live performance, Fernando brings versatility, precision, and creativity to every project. 

TWO SHOWINGS | 7PM & 10PM | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ SoCal7 is a powerhouse ensemble made up of seven premier musicians, each a standout artist and bandleader in their own right, primarily based in Southern California. Formed in 2014, the group came together to perform original compositions and custom arrangements crafted specifically for this unique collective. After a single year of performances, the band went on hiatus—until now. A decade later, these longtime friends and peers have reunited, reigniting their creative spark to craft brand-new music together. Each member of SoCal7 is a first-call musician, recognized for their virtuosity, versatility, and deep dedication to their craft. This reunion is more than a return—it’s a continuation of a shared journey rooted in camaraderie, mutual respect, and a passion for artistic exploration. Drawing on years of experience, each performance is a celebration of musical depth and expression, shared with the vibrant communities of Southern California and far beyond. Join us as we turn the page on a new chapter, bringing fresh energy to the music and the friendships that have always defined SoCal7. 

*GENERAL ADMISSION | 21+ | ALL SEATING IS FIRST COME FIRST SERVED | NO DINNER SERVICE* Nick Waterhouse is a modern American singer-songwriter, record producer, guitarist and band leader. He released his debut album, Time’s All Gone, in 2012. Since then, he has released five more, the latest being The Fooler (2023). In his music you will hear echoes of things you might think you know, or believe you remember, filtered through the lens of idiosyncratic artistic perspective. You will hear rhythm and blues, garage rock, record shop soul and wee-small-hours balladry – but reconfigured, made new. In Waterhouse’s music, the time is both now and then. The past is the present is the future. The sound is classic yet unclassifiable. Played once, his album sounds immediately like a collection of great songs. Play it again – and you will – his work feels like a novel or a film slowly unveiling its secrets, kaleidoscopic in narrative complexity. 

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ Jonathan Karrant's album, On and On hit #4 on the Billboard Jazz charts and his album Live hit #2 on the iTunes Jazz Charts. He has recorded with such artists as Diane Schuur, Jane Monhiet and Houston Person. Karrant has received honors throughout the states including; the New York City Cabaret Jazz Honors, Best Singer for the Bravo California Awards and he was named one of the top 10 rising jazz vocalists by Downbeat. With a repertoire that spans classic jazz standards and contemporary interpretations, Karrant brings a modern elegance to the timeless genre of jazz. Karrant doesn't cover songs, he uncovers them. Joined by pianist Joshua White, bassist Justin Grinnell and drummer Juilen Cantelm; together these uniquely talented artists will take you on a musical journey that reaches your soul and radiates sheer joy. 

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ THE FUNK is a band comprised of with some of the best musicians in so-cal, dedicated to creating an experience of pure harmony within the hearts and souls of the audience and band member through the experience of funk! 

This evening, Lou Lou’s will be closed for a private affair—an intimate celebration tucked beneath the chandeliers and velvet glow. We know evenings out are special, and we never take it lightly when we must turn you away. Please accept our heartfelt apologies for the inconvenience. Nights like these are rare, but sometimes the room asks for a little secrecy. For your next night out, we invite you to check our calendar for upcoming dates featuring live music, good company, and the kind of evenings you won’t soon forget. With love and gratitude, Lou Lou’s at The Lafayette Hotel 

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ Grammy-winning pianist, composer, and arranger Bill Cunliffe returns to San Diego for an intimate performance at Lou Lou’s on August 17th. Known for his lush harmonies, swinging touch, and deep knowledge of the jazz tradition, Cunliffe has carved a remarkable career—from winning the Thelonious Monk International Jazz Piano Competition to performing with legends like Buddy Rich and Freddie Hubbard. For this special evening, Cunliffe is joined by an all-star ensemble: drummer Matthew Smith, bassist Mackenzie Leighton, trumpeter Joe Terry, and saxophonist Ian Tordella. Together, they’ll explore material from Cunliffe’s celebrated album Blues and the Abstract Truth, Take 2—a modern homage to the iconic 1961 Oliver Nelson recording. Expect soulful originals, sharp arrangements, and adventurous interplay that balances reverence with innovation. Catch this rare collaboration live at Lou Lou’s—where bold playing, rich musical storytelling, and a dash of West Coast cool promise an unforgettable night. 

*GENERAL ADMISSION | 21+ | ALL SEATING IS FIRST COME FIRST SERVED | NO DINNER SERVICE | MUSIC @ 8PM & 10PM* FRESHA 
Frescia Belmar – bass & vocals 
Nicole McCabe – saxophone 
Joe Tavarez – drums 
 IG: @fresciabelmar Frescia Belmar (aka FRESHA) is a genre-blurring bassist, singer-songwriter, and producer whose electrifying solo project has captivated audiences at iconic venues like The Baked Potato and The United Theater in Los Angeles. A rising star with international roots — born in Chile, trained in Brazil — she’s worked with legends like Herbie Hancock, Janelle Monáe, Karol G, RAYE, Mike Stern, Randy Jackson, and more. Recently cast as guitarist Jennifer Batten in the upcoming Michael Jackson biopic “Michael”, set for release by Lionsgate and Universal Pictures, Fresha’s musicality and stage presence mark her as one of today’s most dynamic young artists breaking through. 

*Doors open at 6pm | 21+ | Dinner starts promptly at 7pm | No dinner service in bar area* Born in Guadalajara, Mexico, and raised in Fresno, California, Gilbert’s musical career was preordained; the only son to his eponym father, a touring Cumbia band leader, singer and arranger, Gilbert was strongly influenced by his predecessor’s deep appreciation for classical composers and big band jazz ensembles, broadening young Gilbert's horizons from an early age. Gilbert Sr. strongly encouraged Gilbert toward the Jazz genre when at first he showed an interest in trumpet at age 6. By age 11, Gilbert’s intensive training and education provided the context to begin playing professionally, and at age 15 he preformed with mentor and icon Dizzy Gillespie at the Monterrey Jazz Festival. A fierce advocate of formal jazz education, Gilbert held the position of Adjunct Professor of Jazz Studies at the University of Southern California's Thornton School of Music from 2001 to 2013. Thereafter, he served as the Artistic Director of the International Academy of Jazz San Diego from 2014-2016, during which time he began conducting high school workshops and developing a more proactive role in mentorship. During his time visiting Title I schools, he recognized a need for increased accessibility to formal education, noting that many truly gifted students were deprived the opportunities to further their education due to monetary constraints. Thusly, in 2016 Castellanos founded the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory based in San Diego, California. Using his influence in a burgeoning Jazz community, one he is credited in large with establishing, Gilbert began successfully soliciting donations for and supporting thousands of dollars of scholarship to finance Conservatory Education Equity for economically disadvantaged students of promise. To date, the Young Lions Jazz Conservatory has graduated hundreds of bright musicians of diverse backgrounds with Gilbert serving as personal mentor and advocate for each, often writing college recommendation letters and offering every one of his students "real world" experience each Wednesday evening at ensemble performances 

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ The B Sections are a local San Diego funk outfit that boasts a catalog of original funk music, as well as a wide variety of songs from the book of classic funk and soul music. For this special engagement, the band will be highlighting two of their greatest influences and idols: Earth Wind and Fire, and Stevie Wonder. Come and enjoy these funky fresh takes on some of the greatest music ever conceived in a night that is guaranteed to be a dance floor friendly funk party from start to finish 

This evening, Lou Lou’s will be closed for a private affair—an intimate celebration tucked beneath the chandeliers and velvet glow. We know evenings out are special, and we never take it lightly when we must turn you away. Please accept our heartfelt apologies for the inconvenience. Nights like these are rare, but sometimes the room asks for a little secrecy. For your next night out, we invite you to check our calendar for upcoming dates featuring live music, good company, and the kind of evenings you won’t soon forget. With love and gratitude, Lou Lou’s at The Lafayette Hotel 

COMPLIMENTARY ENTRY | NO RESERVATION REQUIRED | SEATING ON A FIRST-ARRIVAL BASIS | NO DINNER SERVICE | 21+ Jason Brown sings, plays the sax, guitar, keyboard. JB relishes performing in every way. The saxophone is obviously his first love and he squeezes every last drop of emotion from every song as he plays. Singer/Songwriter/Saxophonist aka Mr. Sing & Play "JB has many influences such as Gospel, R&B, Jazz, and Blues. His music has a message and story that starts with his father passing away at 13 years old. Feeling the sadness of losing his father, he put his energy towards music. His mother bought him a saxophone and the rest is history. JB began performing at church events and his audience was so overwhelmed with his music that they told his mother to put JB in the studio. At 16 JB recorded his first project called "Jason's Beginning". JB has Performed with Kirk Whalum, Earl Thomas, Tonex, and has opened for John Legend, Macy Gray, Gerald Albright, Everette Harp, Pamela Williams, and Paul Taylor just to name a few. " I understand how it feels to be a kid with a dream of wanting to do something great, my dream is to inspire other kids, musicians to go after their dreams. When I perform, I am in my comfort zone and I always connect with my audience." -Jason Brown