8/28 Esaie Menou 7pm (Mad Monkfish Concert Series)

The Mad Monkfish is happy to now offer live jazz concerts on select dates! For those who can't make it to the Jazz Baroness Room, Monkfish now streams live all of its performances on their Facebook page.

Esaïe Menou

Mad Monkfish Concert Series

August 28, 2025

7pm

Experience the soulful fusion of West African rhythms and modern jazz with Esaie Meno—music that moves the heart and stirs the spirit.

Personnel:

Esaie Meno, guitar & vocals

Chase Behar, bass

Julian Pavone, drums

Special guests:

Jazzy Christophe, tenor saxophone

Boris Lugovik , tenor saxophone

NOTE:

Immerse yourself in the cozy atmosphere of the Jazz Baroness Room at The Mad Monkfish, where you can sip your favorite drink, savor sushi or Thai cuisine, and enjoy the mesmerizing sounds of a remarkable jazz ensemble. Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or simply seeking a delightful night out, this event promises to be a treat for your senses. To keep this vibrant jazz scene alive, we require a minimum spend of $25 per person, since all ticket proceeds go directly to the musicians. If a guest spends less than $25, the difference will be added to the check—this small gesture helps us keep the restaurant running and the music flowing. We’re grateful for your support—it’s what keeps the spirit of live jazz alive here at The Mad Monkfish.

Our full bar and food menus are available to complement the musical experience, so indulge in our renowned cuisine while supporting live jazz at The Mad Monkfish. Together, we can keep the music playing!

Esaie Hounmenou is a guitarist and composer from Porto-Novo, Benin, whose music is a vibrant
fusion of jazz and the traditional rhythms of his homeland. Growing up, Esaie discovered music as
both a passion and a path toward expression. His journey began with the sounds of Beninese folk
and traditional music, which shaped his deep sense of rhythm and connection to community. Over
time, he became drawn to the freedom and complexity of jazz, leading him to explore ways of
blending the two worlds.

Esaie studied music in Paris for five years, refining his technique and deepening his understanding
of jazz, before continuing his artistic and academic journey at Berklee College of Music in Boston.
There, he has immersed himself in a global network of musicians, further expanding his sound and
exploring new collaborations.

With every note, Esaie aims to tell a story—of home, resilience, and cultural pride. His playing is
deeply expressive, often weaving intricate improvisations with the warm, earthy grooves of West
Africa. Through his music, he seeks to honor his roots while pushing creative boundaries.
Currently based in Boston, Esaie is working on original compositions that celebrate the connection
between African musical traditions and modern jazz. Whether performing solo or in ensemble, he
brings an authentic and soulful energy to the stage—inviting listeners on a journey that is both
deeply personal and universally human.

Tickets are $10 and can be purchased here:
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/esaie-menou-at-the-mad-monkfish-tickets-1485410275119