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IN TUNE
BB King’s Bangkok
The blues guitar legend would dig these joints
Angkok is famous for its fabulous shopping, fantastic food and frenetic pace – but live music? Well, a vibrant jazz and blues scene, 15,000km from its birthplace, is actually one of the Thai capital’s best-kept secrets – and from smoky little bars to elegant clubs, the choices are astounding. We list four of the best, which, in the spirit of good music, carry no cover charge.
INDUSTRY FAVE: ADHERE 13TH BLUES BAR
This is how a blues bar should be: tiny, delightful and hard to find. Adhere has a loyal following of locals and expatriates who love the acoustic blues and swing, with even the occasional original composition. Best of all, this is where musicians come to mingle. “Sometimes there are more musicians here than there are customers,” says guitarist and regular Pong Sabua. 13 Samsen Road, tel +66 (0)2 281 0314
ALL-ROUNDER: SAXOPHONE PUB
Great performers, great cocktails and great food – this place scores the trifecta. With duplex seating and lavishly decorated with jazz memorabilia, Saxophone has a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Every night there are usually three different acts, who might play jazz, pop, blues, reggae or big band. Don’t miss the cocktail named Saxophone Dropper, which is made with vodka, brandy, blue curacao and lemon juice. 3/8 Phayathai Road, Victory Monument, tel +66 (0)2 246 5472, www.saxophonepub.com
LIVE AND LOUD: BROWN SUGAR
Laidback, loud and perhaps a little dated, this is your quintessential jazz bar. Don’t come here for quiet conversation unless you favour shouting in each other’s ears. The resident Brown Sugar Jazz Band plays a good variety, including medium and fast swing, blues, soul, Latin, ballads and samba. 231/20 Sarasin Road [opp. Lumpini Park], tel +66 (0)2 250 1826
BIG NAME BAR: LIVING ROOM
At the top end of the scale, Living Room at the Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit gets lots of points for its visiting artists; Singaporean pianist Jeremy Monteiro makes an annual pilgrimage with his trio, and New Orleaner Leroy Jones played trumpet here. 250 Sukhumvit Road, tel +66 (0)2 649 8353 – Kerry van der Jagt
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