Viewfinder: The Juke Joint at Therapy Wine Bar

Ever been to a juke joint? I don't mean one of those pricey jazz sets where the musicians have just returned from a European tour, and where every one sits around tables politely tapping their toes and fingers to the beat while sipping on $18 glasses of wine.

I mean a juke joint-- a groovy soul session where the room is dimly lit, people share plates of appetizers, and the musicians play impromptu jam sessions that feel like a live rehearsal (click attached video).

Every second Tuesday of each month at 7:00 pm, Therapy Wine Bar hosts "Juke Joint," a free jam session that promises to take the edge off of a busy work day and then make you want to slide into something more comfortable.

The show is produced by singer and poet Tai Allen of Vicelounge. Last night's set featured Allen, Tim "Selzin" Nafiziger (owner of Tin City), David Pilgrim on bass, Gerald "Omni Blaze" Trotman on guitar, Shawn Banks on percussion, Rakiem Walker on saxophone, singers Sabrina & Giorgio, guest poet Jamica Hartwick and singer Stephenetta "Isis" Harmon.

Each month, rain or shine, a mix of these and other musicians and singers get together to juke it out and get it in, all in the name of good music. Not to mention, the wines are excellent at Therapy Wine Bar, moderately priced at $8 -$10 a glass.

Put the Juke Joint on your calendar for next month. It's free sessions like these that remind you why you really never need to leave "The Stuy" to catch some really good grundgy soul.

Therapy Wine Bar is located at 364 Lewis Ave, between Halsey and Macon Streets.