I had the pleasure of experiencing one of Bangkok's most intimate jazz venues, Grooving High. Tucked away in the city's vibrant nightlife district, this cozy establishment proves that great jazz isn't confined to the streets of New Orleans or New York.
The evening's performance featured the remarkable duo of Natakorn Barameekasemchot on vocals and Teerapoj Plitakul at the piano. From the moment they took the stage, it was clear we were in for something special. The dimly lit space, with its warm wood accents and vintage photographs adorning the walls, provided the perfect backdrop for their sophisticated musical dialogue.
Barameekasemchot's vocal prowess is nothing short of extraordinary. Her voice, both powerful and nuanced, floated effortlessly through jazz standards and more contemporary pieces. What truly sets her apart is her ability to infuse traditional jazz vocals with subtle Thai influences, creating a unique fusion that feels both familiar and fresh. Her scatting abilities particularly shone during an innovative interpretation of "Autumn Leaves," where she demonstrated remarkable technical control and creative improvisation.
Teerapoj Plitakul's piano work served as both the perfect accompaniment and a force of its own. His playing style combines classical precision with jazz spontaneity, creating rich harmonic landscapes that supported Barameekasemchot's vocals while adding layers of complexity to each arrangement. During his solo moments, particularly in a mesmerizing rendition of "Take Five," Plitakul demonstrated why he's considered one of Bangkok's premier jazz pianists.
The intimate setting of Grooving High allows for an unusually close connection between performers and audience. With seating for only about 40 people, every note feels personal, every musical phrase directed at you specifically. The acoustics of the space are surprisingly good, allowing for both delicate pianissimo passages and more robust moments to be heard with perfect clarity.
The venue's drink selection, while not extensive, is thoughtfully curated. Their signature cocktails complement the jazz atmosphere perfectly, and the staff's attentive yet unobtrusive service ensures that nothing detracts from the musical experience.
What makes Grooving High special isn't just the quality of the music – it's the venue's ability to transport you to another time and place while remaining distinctly Thai. This isn't a mere imitation of Western jazz clubs; it's a space that has developed its own character and identity within Bangkok's musical landscape.
For anyone seeking authentic jazz in Bangkok, an evening at Grooving High should be high on their list. The combination of Barameekasemchot's captivating vocals and Plitakul's masterful piano work created an unforgettable night of music that showcases the best of Bangkok's...
Read moreThis jazz bar has incredible potential and could easily rank among the top 10 jazz bars in Thailand. Offering both indoor and outdoor seating, its modern industrial interior design creates a unique ambiance, setting it apart from many bars in Thailand with its clean and spacious layout.
The flawless sound system enhances the experience, whether you're inside or out. During my visit, I had the rare pleasure of enjoying authentic Portuguese bossa nova in Thailand, featuring many iconic Tom Jobim songs.
Despite its recent opening, the management runs the place efficiently, offering a diverse and delicious cocktail menu. However, the prices are on the higher side, which might deter some customers, especially considering the niche market for jazz. Personally, I wouldn't mind enjoying jazz with more reasonably priced beer.
The only drawback is the parking situation; they don't have their own car park. During my visit, I parked at Thaniya Mall and walked about 250 meters to...
Read moreSmooth jazz, great vibe, and outstanding service
My wife and I enjoyed Groovin’ High so much that we went back a second time during our trip to Bangkok. It’s a cozy jazz bar tucked just off Silom Road with a warm, welcoming atmosphere and live jazz that hits just the right mood.
One of our favorite parts was the little outdoor area just before the entrance. We chose to sit there both times—it gave us the perfect balance: we could still hear the live music clearly, but it wasn’t overpowering, so we could enjoy good conversation along with the ambiance.
The service was top-notch. Our waiter was friendly, attentive, and added to the overall great experience. Drinks were excellent, the crowd was relaxed, and the music was consistently impressive.
Highly recommended if you're looking for a laid-back jazz night with great energy in the heart of...
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