So, the Jazz Festival hits town this week! It’s a four-day explosion of great music across a bunch of venues. And it’s a chance for Wellingtonians to check out the San Fran – formerly the SFBH or San Francisco Bath House (and of course it’s been a venue for many years, under several different names before it was the SFBH and now SF).

A new look, a new website, all new food menu, new beers – new, new new – and it’s going to be a great venue for some kick-ass local jazz.

This Thursday, June 5, the venue hosts Front Liners on after 9.00pm. (Stop in after the Joshua Redman show, even).

On Friday, June 6, there’s Oy Azoy on from 5.30, perfect to kick into the weekend; an after work beer and nibble with some hip-hop, soul and funk-infused jazz. And then later that night check out Wellington Mingus Ensemble (from 10pm) – again, perfect to head along to after any of the main events at the Opera House or make this your destination. Check out a 16-piece big band taking on some of Charles Mingus’ works – performing his classic Mingus Ah Um.

Saturday, June 7, sees Black Spider Stomp at 7pm, followed by Justin Firefly Quaret from 10pm. Justin Firefly Clarke is known for his work with The Woolshed Sessions, Jess Chambers and The Firefly Orchestra. Here he’ll be joined by Ed Zuccollo, James Coyle and Darren Matthiasen for a very special evening of jazz.

San Fran’s final Jazz Festival offering is Sunday, June 8’s performance by Clube Do Choro, some exciting Brazilian rhythms to light up the dance floor.

So if you’re heading out already – to events at Meow, to events at the Opera House, to events around town, stop in at San Fran, check out the new digs. Or make this your first port of call. It’s going to be a great weekend for live music.