MIKE FLAHERTY'S DIXIELAND DIRECT JAZZ BAND is an exciting and energetic Washington, DC, based band that specializes in traditional New Orleans Dixieland music but its versatility encompasses other styles as well, these range from the music of the swing era, to society music, to the Blues.

Mike Flaherty's Dixieland Direct Jazz Band
Winner of the 2010 French Quarter Jazz Festival Battle of the Bands in New Orleans, LA

"This guy's a real blues player." - Huey Lewis of The News
Thursdays, 8:30 pm - 12:30 am, no cover

The "Open Blues Jam" with The Big Boy Little Band is a great deal - no cover charge for usually 12 to 20 musicians. This long-running blues jam draws some of the best blues musicians in the city, even traveling musicians from out of town, many of whom perform in bands whose normal fees are higher than the Zoo Bar Cafe can match. Quality entertainment with no cover charge!

The Big Boy Little is an excellent performer, as well as the host, with his band, of the Thursday night Open Blues Jam. Acting as MC and working with a core group of regularly attending musicians, he gets the Jam up and rolling. This core group then supports other talent that come to join or replace the various musicians. Sometimes a whole group of performers perform together and take the stage on their own. You can't beat the talent or the price.

Mark your calendar: The first Saturday of every month, "The Big Boy Little Band", featuring Bret Littlehales on vocals and harmonica, Matt Kelley on guitar and vocals, Steve "Wolf" Crescenze on bass and Robbie Leebrick on drums, perform at the Zoo Bar Cafe starting at 10 pm, no cover.

"These guys play blues for grown-ups." - Bill Kirchen.

Make a note on your calendar.

The first Saturday of every month the "Big Boy Little Band"featuring Bret Littlehales perform at the Zoo Bar starting at 10:00 pm (no cover).