Party on the Block Brings "Groovy" to Seminole Heights

Seeing the Rod Alnord Quartet with friends at the Far Forest store is like having a jazz band in your living room

Sometimes life feels like “My Most Excellent Adventure” (with apologies to Bill and Ted). I consistently find remarkable things in Tampa, affirming how “excellent” things are if we keep our eyes open and carry a sense of curiosity.

The block party happens at 4220 - 4312 Florida Ave in Seminole Heights once a month

Party on the Block is a free monthly happening on the 4200- 4300 block of Florida Ave in Seminole Heights. On the 4th Thursday of the month, this boho block, made up of vintage clothing and books, a scent and candle store, knick-knacks and antiques, hosts a get-together with a mix of entertainment, an outdoor market, food, and good vibes. Incense fills the air of the outdoor market where merchants sell their wares, and the retail stores offer a variety of entertainment, from slow-beat DJs to candle making. A yoga studio invites attendees to their dance room.  The mood of the entire block is a mellow groove, low-key, hippiesque experience. Yes, there’s some Delta 8 products sold there. No, I’m not a participant, but I love the vibe. Florida Avenue Brewing sits directly across the street and supplies libations for thirsty folks.

The Far Forest Books and Vintage store has a Tiny Desk Concert feel to it

The best part of the evening was at The Far Forest, a vintage books, furniture, and all-out boho-chic store. They hosted the Rod Alnord Quartet, a four-piece modern jazz group from Tampa. The setting was reminiscent of NPR’s Tiny Desk Concert series, where musical groups get together in an office/living room setting, turn down the volume, and play. Alnord’s group is a talented bunch, skillfully playing long-form complex jazz tunes from artists like Pat Metheny and Hank Mobley. Their sets waft between a six-musician jam to a gentle swing trio of vibes, bass, and drums. Sitting in vintage, comfortable chairs and soaking up the music is like having a jazz band in your dimly lit living room. It was fantastic. Not only was the setting perfect, but it’s heartening to see younger folks who like and support real jazz! (Do I sound old when I say that?)

Drummer Rod Alnord leads his quartet at the Far Forest store

See Alnord and his group at  Ella's Americana Folk Art Cafe on the third Wednesday of every month for an open jazz jam. Groove into your own excellent adventure on the 4th Thursday of next month when the Party on the Block continues in the 4200 block of Florida Seminole Heights. Things get going at 7:00.