The Real Jazz Spot in Atlanta

Since opening its jazz doors on August 25th, Studio 281 has served as host to internationally renowned vocalist Barbara Morrison, Verve recording artist Lizz Wright, guitarist Jerry Byrd, Bill Kennedy, Julie Dexter, two-time Grammy nominated trumpeter Russell Gunn, Jazz Messenger Alumni trumpeter Philip Harper, drummer Bernard Linnette, International Recording Artist Freddy Cole, and one of Atlanta’s most requested pianist Takana Miyamoto.

The newest addition to the Atlanta jazz scene is an intimate listening room housed inside a jazz spot called Studio 281. The brainchild of The Davenporte Group, this unique blend of space affords a discerning clientele the opportunity to escape the boundaries of every day and revel in the elegant ease of the mainstream jazz performance in the luxury of a smoke-free environment.

The design of Studio 281 features exposed brick and recycled materials taken from demolition sites within the Castlebury Hill Loft District. Originally the location was established as a fine haberdashery that extended well-heeled gentleman the professional salon services of a manicure & pedicure, steam or massage within a relaxation suite. As the demographics of this community became more diverse, The Davenporte Group perceived a need to add live jazz to this urban landscape.

As the architect of this new venture, The Davenporte Group kept the theme of recycled materials ever present and up-to-date by incorporating a glass door and beam coffee table surrounded by luxurious leather furniture atop a designer carpet to create an intimate conversation area; stainless steel bistro tables & chairs upon a hard wood floor complete the listening room; a full bar with specialty drinks named for Clifford Brown and Miles Davis; add a vintage meat-packing freezer door to separate the rooms, if necessary, soft lighting, jazz memorabilia and the fine art of Damon Mescudi adorning the walls to complete the warmth and ambiance of this space.

There is, however, a mystery to Studio 281 and it lies with the music. One will never know who will stop by or to what heights the musicians will take the audience. Each night is a new exploration in interpretation of new and classic jazz compositions. Thus evolves a real jazz spot, a listening room for those weary of the mundane that have an overpowering desire to mingle, mix and listen to good mainstream jazz in an atmosphere that thrives on pure wonderment.