Avishai Cohen Big Vicious

A New Kind of Jazz

When you hear the name Avishai Cohen, you might immediately think of the virtuosic, straight-ahead jazz trumpeter who has graced the world's most prestigious stages. But with Big Vicious, Cohen isn't looking back at tradition—he’s actively dismantling it. This project, which he launched in 2014, is a departure from the acoustic quartet settings that made him a DownBeat Critics Poll darling. Instead, Big Vicious is a sprawling, cinematic beast. Featuring a unique lineup of two guitarists and two drummers, the band creates a thick, textured soundscape that feels more like a late-night trip-hop session or a psychedelic rock concert than a typical jazz gig.

What makes this ensemble so compelling is the chemistry. Cohen isn't just leading a backing band; he’s curating a collective of long-time friends and collaborators. With Uzi Ramirez on guitar, Yonatan Albalak on guitar and bass, and the dual-drum attack of Aviv Cohen and Ziv Ravitz, the group leans into ambient textures and heavy, hypnotic grooves. It is music that breathes, swells, and occasionally explodes, proving that jazz can be just as comfortable in a dark, moody club as it is in a concert hall.

The Rex: A Toronto Institution

There is perhaps no venue in Toronto more fitting for a project as gritty and authentic as Big Vicious than The Rex Hotel Jazz and Blues Bar. Located at 194 Queen Street West, The Rex is a bona fide Toronto landmark. For decades, it has served as the city’s living room for jazz lovers, musicians, and night owls alike. The vibe here is unpretentious and electric; the walls are lined with history, and the stage is close enough that you can practically feel the vibration of the trumpet bell.

When you step into The Rex, you aren't just attending a show; you're participating in a ritual. It’s the kind of place where the beer is cold, the crowd is attentive, and the focus is entirely on the music. Watching a visionary like Cohen navigate the complex, genre-defying arrangements of Big Vicious in such an intimate space is a rare treat. It’s the perfect antidote to the sterile, polished concert experiences found in larger venues.

Making a Night of It

Queen West is one of Toronto’s most vibrant corridors, and you’ll want to arrive early to soak up the neighbourhood. Before heading to The Rex, grab a bite at one of the nearby spots. If you’re in the mood for something casual but high-quality, the area is packed with excellent options ranging from elevated pub fare to quick, delicious bites. After the show, you’re perfectly positioned to explore the late-night energy of the Entertainment District or take a short walk toward the trendy bars of Ossington if you’re looking to keep the night going.

Good to Know

• **Arrive Early:** The Rex operates on a first-come, first-served basis for many of its shows. If you want a prime spot near the stage to witness the interplay between the two drummers, get there well before the 8:00 PM start time.
• **Getting There:** The venue is incredibly accessible. It’s a short walk from Osgoode Station on Line 1, and the 501 Queen streetcar stops right outside the door. If you’re driving, there are several paid parking lots in the vicinity, but given the central location, public transit is highly recommended.
• **The Vibe:** Don't expect a quiet, sit-down dinner atmosphere. The Rex is a bustling bar; it’s loud, it’s lively, and it’s meant to be enjoyed with a drink in hand. Bring an open mind—Big Vicious is known for taking the audience on a journey that shifts from ambient whispers to high-energy, rock-infused crescendos.