Mike Clark, Jerry Z, Dave Stryker, Rob Dixon to Play Midwest Tour Dates
The quartet will bring its fusion of jazz and funk to Caffè Vivace, The Jazz Kitchen and Space.
Mike Clark, Jerry Z, Dave Stryker, and Rob Dixon will play a series of Midwest tour dates from August 28-30, 2026, bringing their fusion of jazz and funk to venues in Cincinnati, Indianapolis, and Evanston, Illinois.
Legendary Headhunters drummer Mike Clark, B3 organist Jerry Z, guitarist Dave Stryker, and saxophonist Rob Dixon join forces for an evening of collaborative playing described as a hard-hitting fusion of jazz, funk, and soul-jazz improvisation.
Mike Clark gained worldwide renown as one of the founding fathers of post-bop and funk drumming. His intricate backbeat on Herbie Hancock's landmark 1974 album Thrust introduced the 'linear funk' style to the mainstream, changing the landscape of modern percussion. Beyond The Headhunters, Clark has brought his swing and groove to collaborations with jazz figures including Chet Baker, Wayne Shorter, and Bobby Hutcherson.
A fixture of the New York jazz scene, Hammond B3 organist and composer Jerry Z is known for his solos, grooves, and an approach spanning jazz, blues, and funk. Best known for his work with The Headhunters and guitarist Oz Noy, he has toured globally both as a bandleader and as a collaborator alongside Mike Clark, Melvin Sparks, and Donald Harrison.
Guitarist Dave Stryker leads his own group, with 37 CDs as a leader to date, and has worked as a featured sideman with Stanley Turrentine, Jack McDuff, and others. The Village Voice has called him 'one of the most distinctive guitarists to come along in recent years.' Hot House magazine awarded him Best Guitarist — Fans Decision for 2017, and he was recently voted once again as one of the top Jazz Guitarists in the 2025 Downbeat Critics and Readers Polls for the 15th time.
Rob Dixon, known as the 'Musical Mayor' of Indianapolis, is a jazz musician who blends respect for tradition with his own expressive style. He has collaborated with artists including the Count Basie Band, Tony Bennett, and the Ellington Band. After establishing himself in New York City, Dixon returned to Indianapolis and continued to work with renowned musicians.
Tour Dates
Friday, August 28, 2026 — Caffè Vivace, Cincinnati — Shows at 7:00 PM & 9:00 PM — Tickets: Caffè Vivace
Saturday, August 29, 2026 — The Jazz Kitchen, Indianapolis — Shows at 7:00 PM & 9:30 PM — Tickets: The Jazz Kitchen
Sunday, August 30, 2026 — SPACE, 1243 Chicago Avenue, Evanston, IL 60202, (847) 492-8860 — Shows: 7:00 PM CDT — Tickets: SPACE
