This month at Sam's Corner, there will be a return to the classic piano trio format. In addition to the wide-ranging, genre-hopping piano wizardry of Sam Rudin, you will be treated to virtuosic versatility of Jeremy Steinkoler on the drums. We are also honored to have with us a bassist, Essiet Okon Essiet, who has a long career playing, and recording, with some of the greatest names in jazz. Unsurprisingly, he has also been making a big impact on the Bay Area jazz scene.

Essiet has been a frequent visitor to The Back Room, but this will be his first time at Sam's Corner, and we are looking forward to it!

In case you don't know, Sam's repertoire stylistically spans the entire 20th century of American music. And although it includes some unexpected delights, it revolves mainly around the well-known intersection of blues and jazz. And once in a while he reveals that he can also be a compelling vocalist whose rough-hewn voice conveys both drama and humor.

Sam's music also relies heavily on the boldest sort of improvising. He is likely, after the first verse, to jump off a musical cliff, just for the sheer joy of seeing where he will land. Sam knows that, in Jeremy, he has found a willing partner for these courageous leaps. And although, as of this writing, the three principals have yet to connect, Essiet's reputation leaves no room for doubt that he will play this adventurous role very well indeed.

By mutual consent, those adventures stay within conventional boundaries of harmony and rhythm. But that still leaves a lot of room for exploring the exciting world of "Hey, what's that over there!?"

"Sam is a master of musical Americana... his scope is near limitless... an enormous talent." - Lee Hildebrand, East Bay Express

Tickets are $20 in advance and $25 at the door. Children under 12 are free. Advance tickets are available here, or if the show is not sold out, you may purchase your tickets at the door before the show.

Doors open 30 minutes before show time. We accept cash or Venmo only at the door.

The Back Room is an all-ages, BYOB (for those 21+) space, dedicated to (mostly) acoustic music of all kinds. You are welcome to bring your own food and beverages. The venue is ADA accessible. If you need more information or have any questions, please call us: #510-381-1997.

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Thank you for your support!

Please refrain from using your phone during performances, and if you use your camera or video, please disable the flash.

Although masks are no longer required, we strongly encourage their use to keep everyone safe in our intimate space.