The Lord Mayor has handed over one chain of command already in his term.
Studio 2 on Parr St, run for years by Gary Millar and his partner Steve McFarlane, is not only under new management but it is re-launching as Liverpool’s only dedicated jazz, swing and blues live music venue.
The team behind it - or to be exact, Ryan McMahon - is one of those who brought you the city's favourite Hawaiian bar, Aloha, along with Berry and Rye.
It means Parr Street is becoming one of Liverpool's most up and coming walkways for bars. Bad news if you're a recovering alcoholic who has to walk past it to get to your dandelion and burdock in The Brink.
Great if you have no willpower with filth food and cocktails (Almost Famous Burgers), or if you enjoy late night speakeasiness from Mello and its extension on the next block, Kazimier. Not to mention the impending arrival of Manchester's Brew Dog. Talk about a swinging scene!
Tonight's launch (Friday, September 6), will see a live performance from Manchester blues and soul singer Kyla Brox – daughter of fairly legendary blues singer Victor Brox. While Saturday you can enjoy jazz chanteuse Doreen Edwards.
Converted recording-studio-turned-bar Studio 2 is part of the Parr Street Studio complexes which has seen the likes of Black Sabbath, Bjork, Take That, Coldplay and The Smiths record there. Studio 1 remains a working studio.
Kyla BroxOwners say the bar will combine quality food and drink with laid back vibes and carefully chosen live music at an accessible price.
The venue has been given a complete makeover, with the bar area reflecting the studio’s illustrious history and the main room paying tribute to some of the classic jazz, swing and blues musicians.
There will be themed live music 6 nights a week in the main room, featuring both well-established musicians and the hottest of the newcomers. Acts already confirmed for the coming weeks and months include Anthony Strong, Go Go Penguin, Empirical, Julia Biel, Stevie Williams & The Most Wanted Band, and the piano jazz of Orli Nyles Quartet with many more to be announced.
Admissions are either free or £3-£5 entry. Punters can order bar snacks every night, while Thursday - Saturday a full menu of food with table service will be available. Those who book a table to eat on these nights will get ree entry.
Not surprising, given the owner’s involvement with two of the city’s most prominent cocktail venues, there will be a focus on all that.
Studio 2 launch featuring Kyla Brox, Parr Street Studios, Friday Sept 6, 9pm. Tickets, £5.
