The Deep

Jazz of Japan #167 • May 22, 2023 • Brian McCrory

The Deep jazz club, located near Ginza and Shimbashi stations in Tokyo, Japan

The Deep is a newer gem in Ginza that balances elegance inherited from the upscale neighborhood and comfortable coziness imparted by the staff and layout. The friendly owner Ayako-san aims to provide a sophisticated atmosphere and a down-to-earth ambience.

This jazz room is simply furnished with a grand piano in the center surrounded by couch seating and a small bar area. It’s like an intimate living room providing a good setting for swing tunes, soul music, and jazzy romantic ballads. Rhodes and Wurlitzer electric pianos are also tucked away in the bar, taken out and used by some musicians on various nights.

“Jazzy soul and soulful jazz” is the motto here at The Deep. The Okinawan owner Ayako-san, a velvety and groovy singer herself, speaks English and welcomes non-Japanese speakers. Meals and snacks are available, with main dishes including Okinawa soba noodles, which are similar to ramen but with curlier Naha-style noodles and a spicy, slightly sour soup), and a hamburg patty and rice plate.

Previously there was also a weekly midnight session on Fridays and holidays which ran from around 11 pm until 3 am, for those interested in watching or joining the band for a song or two. Mostly featuring jazz tunes, vocalists or instrumentalists are welcome, or anyone who just wants to stay and listen to a variety of musicians having fun and singing their hearts out. (This overnight session has been canceled since the pandemic, but hopefully may return in the future.)

For more information:

• The Deep’s website
• located near Ginza and Shimbashi stations in Tokyo, Japan

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