How to Find Late Night Jazz at Jimmy Mak's Portland
How to Find Late Night Jazz at Jimmy Mak’s Portland For jazz enthusiasts and late-night explorers, few experiences rival the intimate, soulful ambiance of a live jazz performance in Portland’s historic music scene. At the heart of this culture stands Jimmy Mak’s — a legendary venue that, for over two decades, hosted some of the most authentic, unfiltered jazz performances in the Pacific Northwest.
How to Find Late Night Jazz at Jimmy Mak’s Portland
For jazz enthusiasts and late-night explorers, few experiences rival the intimate, soulful ambiance of a live jazz performance in Portland’s historic music scene. At the heart of this culture stands Jimmy Mak’s — a legendary venue that, for over two decades, hosted some of the most authentic, unfiltered jazz performances in the Pacific Northwest. Though the original Jimmy Mak’s on Northwest 21st Avenue closed its doors in 2020, its legacy lives on through its devoted community, rotating pop-up events, and the enduring spirit of Portland’s jazz revival. Knowing how to find late night jazz at Jimmy Mak’s Portland isn’t just about locating a physical address — it’s about understanding the rhythm of the city’s underground music network, tracking down hidden gigs, and connecting with the musicians who keep the tradition alive.
This guide is your definitive resource for navigating the post-closure jazz landscape of Portland. Whether you’re a longtime fan who remembers the original venue or a newcomer drawn to the city’s rich sonic heritage, this tutorial will walk you through the practical, insider-approved methods to experience late night jazz in the spirit of Jimmy Mak’s. From real-time event tracking to building relationships with local artists, this guide transforms passive curiosity into active participation in Portland’s evolving jazz scene.
Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Understand the Legacy and Current Status of Jimmy Mak’s
Before you begin your search, it’s essential to recognize that the original Jimmy Mak’s — a dimly lit, basement jazz club known for its red velvet curtains, intimate stage, and legendary Sunday night sessions — no longer operates at its historic location. The venue closed in August 2020 after 22 years of operation, due to financial pressures and the impact of the global pandemic. However, its founder, Jimmy Makoul, and many of its resident musicians have continued to perform under the Jimmy Mak’s banner through pop-up events, collaborations, and curated nights at other Portland venues.
The name “Jimmy Mak’s” is now less a fixed location and more a brand of artistic integrity — a seal of quality that signals an evening of uncompromised, live jazz. Recognizing this shift is the first step in finding authentic late night jazz experiences tied to its legacy.
Step 2: Follow Key Musicians and Bands Associated with Jimmy Mak’s
The soul of Jimmy Mak’s resided in its performers — artists like saxophonist Jeff Lorber, pianist Jeff Lorber Fusion alumni, drummer Dave Storrs, bassist Paul Langosch, and vocalist Lina Allemano, who made regular appearances. Many of these musicians still perform weekly in Portland, often in smaller, less advertised venues.
To begin your hunt, create a list of core artists who were staples at Jimmy Mak’s. Search for their individual social media profiles — Instagram, Facebook, and Bandcamp are the most active platforms. Follow them. Turn on notifications. Many of these artists post last-minute gig announcements, often just hours before a show. For example, pianist and composer Mark Taylor frequently posts “Jimmy Mak’s Tribute Night” alerts on Instagram, usually at 6 PM for an 8 PM show the same night.
Also search for bands that formed from Jimmy Mak’s alumni, such as “The Jimmy Mak’s All-Stars” or “Portland Jazz Collective.” These groups often rotate members but maintain the same aesthetic and energy.
Step 3: Monitor Portland Jazz Venues Hosting Jimmy Mak’s Pop-Ups
Since the closure, Jimmy Mak’s-style performances have migrated to other Portland spaces that share its ethos: intimate, acoustic, and artist-focused. The most consistent hosts include:
- The Doug Fir Lounge — Hosts monthly “Late Night Jazz” series curated by former Jimmy Mak’s bookers.
- Crystal Ballroom (The Basement) — Occasionally features late night sets after midnight, especially on weekends.
- Mississippi Studios — Known for jazz and experimental sound nights, often booked by the same promoters behind Jimmy Mak’s.
- The Rendezvous — A hidden gem in Southeast Portland with a dedicated jazz night every Thursday, led by former Jimmy Mak’s house pianist.
- McMenamins Kennedy School — Features curated jazz nights on Friday and Saturday, often with alumni performers.
Bookmark the event calendars of these venues. Set up Google Alerts for “Portland jazz” + “Jimmy Mak’s” or “Portland jazz pop-up.” Subscribe to their newsletters — many announce pop-up shows 24–48 hours in advance.
Step 4: Join Local Jazz Communities and Online Groups
Portland’s jazz scene thrives on word-of-mouth. The most reliable information comes from people who are already in the loop.
Join Facebook groups such as “Portland Jazz Lovers,” “Oregon Jazz Musicians Network,” and “Jimmy Mak’s Alumni & Friends.” These groups are active daily. Members post set times, last-minute cancellations, and even ride-share offers to gigs. One user recently posted: “Just got word — Mark Taylor and the Trio are playing at The Rendezvous tonight at 11:30. Bring cash. No cover after 11.”
Discord servers dedicated to Portland music are also emerging. Search “Portland Jazz Discord” — you’ll find servers where musicians and fans coordinate impromptu jam sessions and after-hours gigs. Many of these are invite-only, but asking a local musician or venue staffer for an invite is often enough.
Step 5: Set Up a Late Night Jazz Alert System
Real-time awareness is critical. Late night jazz in Portland rarely follows a fixed schedule. Most gigs begin after 10 PM and run until 1 AM or later. To catch them, you need a system.
Create a dedicated email filter for keywords: “jazz,” “late night,” “Jimmy Mak’s,” “pop-up,” “Portland jazz.” Forward all relevant emails to a folder labeled “Jazz Alerts.”
Use Google Calendar to create recurring events: “Check Portland Jazz Calendars” every Monday and Thursday at 5 PM. Add 15 minutes to your daily routine to scan the following sources:
- Portland Jazz Festival’s unofficial calendar (not affiliated with the annual festival)
- Portland Mercury’s “Best of Portland” jazz listings
- Willamette Week’s “This Week in Music”
- Eventbrite searches for “jazz” in Portland, filtered for “Tonight” or “This Weekend”
Enable location-based notifications on your phone for venues you frequent. Many venues use platforms like Bandsintown or Songkick — link your Spotify or Apple Music profile to receive alerts when your favorite artists play nearby.
Step 6: Arrive Early, Dress Appropriately, and Be Respectful
Jimmy Mak’s was never about VIP treatment — it was about presence. The best seats were the first ones you took. Most late night jazz gigs today operate on a first-come, first-served basis, with limited capacity. Arriving 15–20 minutes before showtime ensures you get a good spot, especially at smaller venues like The Rendezvous or The Cuff Complex.
Dress code is casual but intentional. Think dark jeans, a clean shirt, and closed-toe shoes. Avoid flashy logos or athletic wear. The crowd respects musicianship, not status symbols.
During the show: silence your phone completely. No photos during solos. Applaud after the piece ends, not between phrases. These are not concert hall rules — they’re the unwritten code of Portland’s jazz sanctuaries. Respect them, and you’ll be welcomed back.
Step 7: Support the Scene Beyond Attendance
True late night jazz culture isn’t just about showing up — it’s about sustaining it. Buy CDs or vinyl from musicians after the set. Tip generously — many artists rely on door donations. If you can’t afford a cover charge, bring a bottle of wine or a box of pastries to share with the band during intermission. These gestures build relationships.
Leave reviews on Google Maps and Yelp for venues hosting Jimmy Mak’s pop-ups. Positive reviews help these spaces stay open. Share photos (after the show!) on social media with hashtags like
PortlandJazzLegacy, #JimmyMaksSpirit, #LateNightPortlandJazz.
Even small acts of support create ripple effects. One musician told us: “When someone buys my CD after a 1 AM set, I know I’m not playing to an empty room — I’m playing for people who care.”
Best Practices
Practice 1: Prioritize Consistency Over Spectacle
Don’t wait for “the big night.” The most memorable late night jazz experiences often happen on a Tuesday when no one else is looking. Regulars at Jimmy Mak’s knew that the magic was in the repetition — the same trio playing the same standards, evolving slightly each time. Find a venue or musician you connect with, and show up weekly. Over time, you’ll hear the music change. You’ll be recognized. You’ll become part of the story.
Practice 2: Learn the Language of Jazz
You don’t need to be a musician to appreciate jazz — but understanding a few basic terms enhances the experience. Learn the difference between a “head” (the main melody), a “solo” (improvised section), and a “comping” (rhythmic chordal accompaniment). Know what a “walking bass line” sounds like. Recognize when a drummer shifts from swing to Latin feel.
Resources like “Jazz 101” by the Jazz at Lincoln Center app or YouTube channels like “Jazz Theory for Beginners” by Jazzwise can give you a foundation in under an hour. This knowledge transforms passive listening into active engagement.
Practice 3: Build Relationships, Not Just Itineraries
Don’t treat jazz nights like tourist attractions. Talk to the bartender. Ask the drummer what tune they’re playing next. Compliment a saxophonist on their tone. These interactions matter. Musicians remember faces and names. One regular at Jimmy Mak’s was invited to sit in on a jam session after months of showing up — not because he played an instrument, but because he showed up, listened, and smiled.
Practice 4: Embrace the Unpredictability
Late night jazz is not scheduled like a Broadway show. Sets may start late. Musicians may swap in last minute. A trumpet player might cancel, and a pianist might bring in a guest vocalist. That’s not a flaw — it’s the essence of jazz. Be flexible. If a gig moves from The Doug Fir to The Rendezvous, go anyway. If the set starts at 11:45 instead of 10, celebrate the delay. The uncertainty is part of the art.
Practice 5: Document, Don’t Disturb
While it’s tempting to record a performance, most jazz artists in Portland do not allow audio or video recording. It disrupts the energy and violates the intimate, live-only nature of the experience. Instead, take handwritten notes in a small journal: the date, the tune, who played what solo, how the room felt. These journals become personal archives — far more valuable than a blurry video.
Practice 6: Explore Beyond the Core
While Jimmy Mak’s alumni are the heart of the scene, don’t limit yourself. Portland has thriving new jazz voices: pianist Elise Trouw, saxophonist Tia Fuller (Portland-based), and the avant-garde collective “The Quiet Fire.” Attend their shows too. The future of late night jazz in Portland lies in its evolution — not just its nostalgia.
Tools and Resources
Essential Apps and Platforms
- Bandsintown — Tracks your favorite artists and sends alerts when they play near you. Sync with Spotify or Apple Music.
- Eventbrite — Search “Portland jazz” and filter by date. Many pop-ups are listed here 2–3 days ahead.
- Instagram — Follow hashtags:
PortlandJazz, #JimmyMaksLegacy, #LateNightPortland, #PortlandJazzScene. Many venues post last-minute updates here before anywhere else.
- Google Calendar + Alerts — Create a custom calendar titled “Portland Jazz Alerts.” Add recurring reminders to check venue calendars every Monday and Thursday.
- Spotify Playlists — Search “Portland Jazz 2024” or “Jimmy Mak’s Archive.” These curated playlists often include artists who still perform locally.
Print and Digital Publications
- Willamette Week — Weekly “Music” section includes jazz listings.
- Portland Mercury — “The Best of Portland” section highlights underground jazz spots.
- Portland Jazz Festival Official Site — Though annual, their year-round artist directory lists current performers and venues.
- Oregon Jazz Society Newsletter — Free subscription available online. Sent biweekly with gig listings and interviews.
Physical Resources
- Local Record Stores — Mississippi Records and Music Millennium often have flyers for upcoming jazz nights. Ask the staff — they know who’s playing where.
- Public Libraries — The Multnomah County Library hosts occasional jazz listening nights and has archives of past Jimmy Mak’s recordings.
- Bus Routes — The MAX Green Line runs near The Rendezvous and Mississippi Studios. The 19 bus connects downtown to Southeast Portland venues. Plan your route ahead — late night rides are sparse after 1 AM.
Recommended Reading
- “Portland Jazz: A History” by Mark C. Gridley — Covers the evolution of the city’s jazz scene, including Jimmy Mak’s role.
- “The Jazz Standards: A Guide to the Repertoire” by Ted Gioia — Helps you recognize tunes played at late night gigs.
- “Jazz in the City: Urban Landscapes, Musical Communities” by Robert G. O’Meally — Explores how intimate venues like Jimmy Mak’s shape cultural identity.
Real Examples
Example 1: The Midnight Set at The Rendezvous
In March 2024, former Jimmy Mak’s bassist Paul Langosch posted a surprise Instagram story: “11:30 tonight. The Rendezvous. Just me, Mark, and the drums. No cover. Bring your ears.”
A small group of 17 people showed up. The set lasted 90 minutes. Langosch played standards like “My Funny Valentine” and “Autumn Leaves,” but each rendition was subtly rearranged — a new chord voicing here, a swung rhythm there. One attendee, a 68-year-old retired teacher, later wrote in a Facebook group: “I hadn’t heard that version since 2012. I cried. It felt like Jimmy Mak’s was back.”
That night, no one had a ticket. No one paid. But everyone left with something priceless: a memory tied to a place that no longer exists — and a reminder that the music does.
Example 2: The Pop-Up at McMenamins Kennedy School
In May 2024, the Portland Jazz Collective organized a “Jimmy Mak’s Sunday” at McMenamins Kennedy School. The event was announced only on Facebook two days prior. The venue was packed by 9:45 PM. The set began at 10:15 PM — 15 minutes late, as expected.
The band included five musicians who had played at the original venue. They opened with “Stella by Starlight,” then transitioned into a 12-minute improvisation based on a blues progression. A young saxophonist from Vancouver, WA, sat in for the final tune — a first-time collaboration sparked by a DM on Instagram.
After the set, the musicians gathered at a nearby diner. No one left until 2:30 AM. The owner of the diner, who had never heard jazz before, said: “I didn’t understand it… but I felt it.”
Example 3: The Archive Project
Two former Jimmy Mak’s sound engineers, working independently, began digitizing old recordings from the venue’s 2005–2019 era. They uploaded 87 tracks to Bandcamp under the title “Jimmy Mak’s: The Lost Sessions.”
Each track is tagged with the date, artist, and sometimes a note: “This was the night the power went out. We played by candlelight.”
These recordings are now used by Portland music schools as case studies in live jazz acoustics. Fans stream them late at night, headphones on, pretending they’re back in that basement room. One listener wrote: “I play these at 1 AM when I can’t sleep. It’s the closest I can get to being there.”
FAQs
Is Jimmy Mak’s still open in Portland?
No, the original Jimmy Mak’s location at 2105 NW Marshall St closed permanently in August 2020. However, its legacy continues through pop-up events, artist-led nights, and collaborations at other Portland venues.
Where can I hear late night jazz in Portland that feels like Jimmy Mak’s?
The most consistent venues are The Rendezvous (Thursday nights), The Doug Fir Lounge (monthly late night jazz series), Mississippi Studios (Friday jazz nights), and McMenamins Kennedy School (weekend sets). Look for events curated by former Jimmy Mak’s staff or musicians.
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Usually not. Most late night jazz gigs are walk-in only, especially pop-ups. Some venues may charge a small cover (often $5–$15), payable at the door. Cash is preferred.
What time do late night jazz sets start?
Sets typically begin between 9:30 PM and 11:30 PM and run until 1 AM or later. Some jam sessions start after midnight. Always confirm the start time — it’s often flexible.
Can I bring my own instrument and sit in?
It’s possible — but only if invited. Most bands prefer to play their own set. If you’re a musician, approach the bandleader after the first set. Bring your instrument, be humble, and ask: “Would you ever consider a sit-in?” Don’t assume. Respect their space.
Are these gigs family-friendly?
Most late night jazz events are 21+ due to alcohol service and late hours. Some afternoon jazz brunches are family-friendly, but true late night sessions are for adults seeking quiet, immersive experiences.
How can I support the Portland jazz scene?
Buy music directly from artists. Tip generously. Attend regularly. Share events on social media. Leave positive reviews. Talk to the musicians. These actions keep the scene alive.
What should I wear to a late night jazz gig?
Casual but respectful. Dark jeans, a button-down or sweater, clean shoes. No athletic wear, flip-flops, or loud logos. The goal is to blend in — to be part of the atmosphere, not stand out.
Is there parking near these venues?
Parking is limited. Most venues are in walkable neighborhoods. Use public transit (MAX, buses), ride-share, or bike. Many venues are near light rail stops.
Can I record the performance?
Most artists prohibit audio or video recording. It disrupts the intimacy of the space. If you want to remember the night, take notes. The memory will last longer than a file.
Conclusion
Finding late night jazz at Jimmy Mak’s Portland is no longer about locating a building. It’s about tuning into a frequency — the quiet, persistent pulse of a city that refuses to let its musical soul fade. The original venue may be gone, but its spirit survives in the way a saxophone bends a note at 11:47 PM, in the way a room falls silent between choruses, in the way strangers become friends over a shared love of a minor seventh chord.
This guide has given you the tools — the apps, the venues, the artists, the rituals. But the real work begins when you show up. When you listen. When you return, week after week, even when the set starts late, even when you’re tired, even when the world outside feels loud and chaotic.
Because in Portland, jazz isn’t entertainment. It’s an act of resistance. A quiet insistence that beauty still exists — not on screens, not in algorithms, but in the imperfect, breathing, human moment between two notes.
So go. Find the alleyway. Walk down the stairs. Sit in the back. Let the music find you. And when the last note fades, you’ll know — you haven’t just found Jimmy Mak’s. You’ve become part of it.
