Close Up is a contemporary jazz club located at 227 Eldridge Street on the Lower East Side of Manhattan. Opened in 2022 by Jason Candler, it has quickly established itself as one of New York City’s most exciting venues for creative music, prioritizing the listening experience in an intimate setting where the music takes center stage.
The club features a small, elegantly designed room with seating for approximately 60 guests. The minimalist aesthetic keeps attention on the performers, while careful attention to acoustics ensures exceptional sound quality. The stage sits at floor level, eliminating barriers between musicians and listeners and fostering a direct connection between artist and audience.
Close Up showcases a diverse range of artists spanning the jazz spectrum—from established innovators to rising voices in the scene. The booking philosophy embraces creative music in all its forms, including avant-garde, free improvisation, and genre-defying collaborations. The venue frequently hosts album release shows, special engagements, and curated series.
The club cultivates a respectful listening environment while maintaining warmth and accessibility. A carefully curated drink menu complements the musical offerings, and the Lower East Side location places it within the neighborhood’s rich history of artistic experimentation and cultural innovation.
In a short time, Close Up has become an essential destination for serious jazz listeners seeking adventurous programming in an intimate setting. It represents the continued evolution of New York’s jazz scene, providing a dedicated space for creative music to thrive.