Two amazing Jazz acts in one great show!  We welcome Sad Bastards, Loose Standards and Gary Smith Trio Jazz/Funk Ensemble to the Dream Trax Stage at Big Bear Lodge, Andres Institute of Art. 

Sad Bastards, Loose Standards is a unique trumpet and piano duo featuring Chris Klaxton and Mike Effenberger. Their music is a blend of jazz, spirituals, and rock, creating a "gospel noir" sound that is both unexpected and cathartic. They delve into the great American songbook, sacred melodies, and reinterpretations of artists like Nirvana, Elliott Smith, and Black Sabbath.

Joining them will be the Gary Smith trio, with Mike Walsh on drums and Nick Phaneuf on bass, the 3 of whom have been playing with Effenberger and Klaxton for 25 years, this is a combo that can play the traditional tunes or go a little funky and off the rails with Gary leading the way on guitar.  At the end of the night, we'll have both bands up to jam together for an unforgettable Big Bear Jazz Superjam!

Concerts are upstairs at the AIA Welcome Center, on the Dream Trax Stage in Big Bear Lodge. The room is rustic with resonant acoustics. It features all table-seating with the audience limited to about 130 guests. Beer and Wine and various Hard Ciders, Vodka Seltzers and non alcoholic drinks are available for sale. Food is available at many local eateries or bring in your own food and snacks from home or takeout. An elevator is available from the first floor AIA Gallery. Be sure to visit the Andres Institute of Art Gallery to learn about the history of the AIA and Pontanipo hill or arrive early to hike the sculpture trails before the show. 

There are Nine concerts in the Act I 2026 Concert Series, January - June. Buy tickets to more than one show to save money and to request reserved seating. Go to this link for a discount to multiple shows