Local jazz man Izaak Weatherwax has a Saturday evening residency at the Culver Hotel, so he told the News about what he has coming up to thrill Culver City…
When did you start playing and performing?
I started playing drums when I was in high school and was performing regularly through the school and more after graduating and attending college briefly. Jazz grabbed me early on, and once I started “sitting in” around town, I knew this was the life I wanted. From there it’s just been years of playing, learning, and growing through as many musical situations as possible.
Describe your sound…
My style sits in the jazz tradition — rooted in swing and acoustic interplay, but open and responsive to whatever the moment calls for. I’m drawn to dynamic, conversational drumming: keeping the groove honest while shaping the energy of the band. If the music feels alive and the room feels connected, I know I’m doing my job.
What are your career highlights so far?
A few highlights have been leading my own trio on a regular basis, working with incredible musicians across Los Angeles, and building a strong community through The Three Clubs Session. Sharing the bandstand and studying with artists like Ralph Moore, Carl Allen, Marvin “Smitty” Smith, Jacques Leasure, Eric Reed, and so many others has shaped me in ways I’m grateful for.
Do you have any recorded music available?
I’m currently in the process of recording new material with my trio, but in the meantime you can hear me on a number of live session recordings and collaborations floating around online. The trio’s upcoming project will be the first fully produced release under my name, and I’m excited to share it soon.
How long have you been performing at the Culver Hotel?
Our trio has been playing at the Culver Hotel regularly for over two years. It’s become one of my favorite rooms in the city — the acoustics, the energy, the people. Some of my favorite nights have been when the room fills with a mix of locals, travelers, and musicians who just drop by unexpectedly. There’s something special about that space that makes every set feel unique.
What do you have planned for your sets over the holidays?
We’re planning a mix of our usual repertoire — Jazz tunes, standards, and a few originals — with some winter-themed arrangements woven in. Nothing too on-the-nose, just subtle nods to the season that fit the vibe of the room. The goal is to keep it warm, inviting, and swinging.
What else do you have coming up?
Outside of the Culver Hotel, I’m continuing to lead The Bi-Weekly “Three Clubs Jazz Session” on Monday nights, playing around town with different groups, and working on that upcoming trio recording. I’m also lining up some new collaborations for early next year, performing music and consulting with venues/concert series that help uplift the jazz scene in Los Angeles.
Izaak Weatherwax performs on Saturday evenings at the Culver Hotel. For more information, visit culverhotel.com.
Elsewhere this week
The next concert at Boulevard Music is on December 6, with the Susie Glaze New Folk Ensemble. Go to boulevardmusic.com for more info.
At the Cinema Bar, enjoy the Hot Club of Los Angeles (every Monday), Open Mic Night every Wednesday, and more. For more information, go to thecinemabar.com.