From Portland, Ore., to the heart of New Orleans—Ari Kohn followed his musical compass all the way south. In New Orleans, he discovered that music isn’t just heard, it’s felt. It’s in the ground beneath your feet, in the way people move, even in the rain on your skin. And yes—the food plays right along.
This week on Listening Lyrics, Ari shares that journey. A Jazz Studies graduate from Tulane, Ari—known on stage as “Ariel”—brings a bold, warm sound on sax, flute, and vocals. Ari also performs with the band Brass Lightning. He will perform with J & The Causeways Sept. 19, 2025 at the Boom Boom Room in San Francisco.