12th Street Jump

Ever hear a really great jazz ensemble on the radio and say, "I wish I was there!"? Well, now you can be! 12th Street Jump, formerly 12 O'clock Jump, is a wonderful little NPR jazz program with great musicians and cheesy, satirical political bites typical of the NPR style, sung in a rhyming jazz format.

First off, props to Lauren O. who first mentioned this to me and brought the husband and I there the first time. It used to be housed at the Mutual Musical Foundation in the 18th and Vine district but moved to the lobby of the Marriott on 12th St in downtown KC earlier this year.

Each show's format features a jazz performer from yesteryear. Seasoned musicians sing and play instruments replaying these jazz legends. Shows are on Saturday only at midnight and last an hour.

So how much for this political pop culture meets jazz extravaganza? A big fat zero dollars. Great nostalgic jazz for free. The only cost is drinks if you wish to partake.

Get there earlier than midnight. Seats are at a premium since many tourists staying in the hotel tend to stop by.