Popular Jazz Spot redwhite+bluezz Will Close

Redwhite+bluezz, after a seven-year run in Old Pasadena, is closing its doors Feb. 24 to make way for new ownership.

But not without the proper send off.

And the festivities begin today with some intimate Valentine’s Day dining with the Jack LeCompte Duo.

“It’s bittersweet,” said owner André Vener. “redwhite+bluezz was a phenomenal dream that turned into a highly-regarded and successful reality. Traditions were born here; memories made.

“As everyone knows, redwhite+bluezz is not just an award-winning jazz club and restaurant, it’s an experience,” Vener said. “An experience, I am pleased to announce, that will continue to live on once we close.”

So before the doors at 70 S. Raymond Ave. are still open patrons can still “Rock Out” with the Tim Kobza Trio on Friday, some rhythm and blues courtesy of the Gregory Lawrence Trio on Saturday and World Jazz Night with the Vahghn Turgtyan Duo on Sunday.

Vener is passing the torch to Art Silveri and Dave Morgan from Playhouse Restaurant Group and Phil Thyen, the new general manager.

“The group is equally passionate about everything that makes redwhite+bluezz redwhite+bluezz,” Vener said. “I trust they will continue to respect and enhance the redwhite+bluezz experience and culture.

“I will be found there often either at the bar,” he said. “Having dinner or a spectacular brunch, listening to live jazz and appreciating all that redwhite+bluezz has to offer with a fresh and well-deserved perspective.”

Vener, a partner in the Dog Haus, will be dividing his time between building upon Dog Haus’ success and producing Cal Phil’s 2013 summer season, said club spokeswoman Lauren Lewis.

Vener worked alongside his father Maestro Victor Vener for a decade as CEO of Cal Phil prior to opening redwhite+bluezz and has remained an integral part of the team, Lewis said.

Still, and mostly importantly, now that his redwhite+bluezz “baby” is independent, she said, Vener plans to spend as much time as possible with his new “baby girl,” 16 month old Ava Ann..