Jim Doyle is a founding member of gypsy jazz combo the Hot Club of Los Angeles. When he’s not doing that though, he has a fun little band called Jim Doyle & Co. They play the Cinema Bar this week, and Doyle told the News about what he has in store for Culver City…
When did you start playing and performing?
I’ve been playing around town professionally for about 30 years. The Jim Doyle and Company project is just me gathering a bunch of friends to play fun, old music. We keep things simple so no one has to over-prepare, and it keeps my vocal chops in shape. Honestly, I think of it like poker night with friends—except instead of cards, we’re playing great music with great people.
Describe your sound/style?
The vibe for the night is all about “rooty” music—Chuck Berry, Rolling Stones, early rock ‘n’ roll. I like to call it “old music played by old people.”
What are your career highlights so far?
Some career highlights? I’ve had the privilege of playing with Jackson Browne, Brian Setzer, and countless talented people around town. I feel very blessed. I’m also a founding member of the Hot Club of Los Angeles. We’ve been playing at the Cinema Bar every Monday, and I’m super proud of that.
What recorded music is available — particularly the most recent?
There’s nothing recorded specifically for this project, but you can hear my drumming on a lot of different records. If I had to call something “my own,” it’d be the Hot Club of Los Angeles—we’ve got three records out.
Have you performed at the Cinema Bar before?
I’ve been playing at the Cinema Bar for over 20 years. It’s a real old-school spot, one of the few left that just supports music for the love of it. Places like this used to be everywhere, but now they’re a rarity.
What can the audience expect from the set this time?
What can you expect this time around? Just great music played by masterful musicians. We’ve got Donnie on guitar, Dan Wistrom on pedal steel, and John Ramey on bass. I’m proud of this band.
What else do you have coming up?
There’s always something on the horizon. I’m constantly playing gigs, but every Monday night, you’ll find me here with the Hot Club. I’m super grateful for that consistency and community.
Jim Doyle & Co. performs at 9 p.m. on Thursday, December 19 at the Cinema Bar. Go to thecinemabar.com for more information about the show.
Elsewhere this week
The Culver Hotel will be hosting the likes of Sylvia & the Rhythm Boys, and Scotty Bramer. Go to culverhotel.com for more info.
Boulevard Music hosts Joscho Stephan at 8 p.m. on Saturday, January 11, after a break for the holidays. Visit boulevardmusic.com for more info.