Improv Jazz Jam, The Lower 99

The Lower 99 are taking over Sahara Lounge on Wednesday, September 9, for a night that runs from 6 PM to 11 PM. It's a double-header of sorts, with the band playing two separate sets and an open jam session in between. The Lower 99 kick things off at 6 PM, then the Improv Jazz Jam takes over at 8 PM, and The Lower 99 return for a second set at 9:30 PM.

If you've never spent a night at Sahara Lounge, it's one of those Eastside spots that feels like a neighborhood fixture. It's a full-service bar with an outdoor patio that usually has a food trailer parked outside, and the interior is a historic building with decor that keeps the whole place feeling relaxed. It's known as a spot for meeting interesting people and catching an eclectic mix of live music and DJs, and it's also where Africa Night happens every Saturday. The room picked up the Austin Chronicle's 'Nightlife Wildcard' award in 2019, and it still holds that same open-door energy.

The way the night is structured gives you a few ways to play it. You can show up early for the first set, hang around for the jam session, or come later for the second half. The Improv Jazz Jam at 8 PM is the open part of the evening, where the music opens up to whoever wants to get involved. Between that and the two Lower 99 sets, there's plenty of room to settle in for the whole run.

Cover is $10 cash or $12 by card. The Lower 99 start at 6 PM, the Improv Jazz Jam follows at 8 PM, and the band returns at 9:30 PM. Sahara Lounge is at 1413 Webberville Rd.