As the night went on it became less and less music and more and more political rambling. When there was music it was fun and whimsical. The physical space has a cool atmosphere. There were three musical performances at the beginning when there was another couple with us. After they left however, he began talking at us about politics and what he thinks. This was not story telling or comedy. He also gave a lot of unwarranted advice. We had to segway him out of his political rambles to get a couple more songs then left. This experience could have been better if there was more music and lighthearted topics instead. read more

When I was looking for a nice place to enjoy jazz. I was thinking of a actual bar that sells beer and have actually have a building. This Acoustic Sanctuary is more like a Taco Truck. What I remember there is a cover to go into the Van and sit down and you are greeted with a musician that plays all the instruments. This van holds maybe 10 people and he puts on a show for maybe an hour.. This is not what I was looking for. This is a one man band in a van.... This should be taken off Jazz and Blues.. clubs... because its not.. read more

It's not for everyone, for sure. If you get offended easily, this may not be for you (he uses X-rated language/lyrics sometimes). But we had fun, at $15 per couple. There are exactly 5 stool seats around the piano, 2 ledges in the back that can be used as seats, and space for a couple more bodies (but thats pretty much cramming into the entire space of the truck). Winko asks the audience members to pick a topic, then he plays related music. For instance, someone picked France as the topic, and he played the French horn. Someone picked Disney as the topic, and he did some "dirty disney" music (he alters or creates lyrics for songs he plays). He is definitely a talented musician. He played the piano, fiddle, accordian, flute, and the bandura (Ukrainian string instrument) while we were there, even sharing the story of how he got the instrument. He also gave my boyfriend a good lesson on music, now I see why he doesn't let people pick music as a topic, lol (Winko knows his music for sure, but that convo could probably last forever, literally... my bf definitely got his $15 worth). We were the only ones left as we went a little past midnight. But I really appreciate that Winko was open to our suggestions as to what type of music and instruments we wanted to hear. And I really enjoyed his performance of multiple instruments at a time. I was entertained by the overall experience and it was certainly unique and memorable. read more

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Awesome experience super fun idea to do on the weekend. I totally recommend 100%!! Super friendly and inviting!

This guys a legend. Great musician, and sharp wit that goes from corny to edgy. Tends to rant about politics but I'm an entertaining way. Not for the overly PC but a refreshingly honest experience read more

Omgosh!!! Literally the best way to end a night out! My friend and I have seen this truck parked in the same spot whenever we came down separately in Old Sac and it was so fun!! For $10 for a couple, this is the best date idea, part of your night out routine, or simply to have a good time and great laughs. Don't overlook this truck! It's so fun, really creative and the man is AMAZING at what he does. We had so much fun tonight! Much love! - The Gypsy & The Mexican read more

Super moniker! all of the sound you need to hear!

I dared not step foot inside this strange-looking vehicle until a friend phoned me to come join him for some one-man band entertainment. His girlfriend was visiting from points South and this was a unique Midtown Sacramento experience they had to explore. I walked into the veiled entrance to find myself amongst eight other patrons, all wedged in together like so many sardines. I only had to endure a cramped standup posture for one song before a woman and her young daughter exited, freeing up a valuable seat. I took in the musical stylings of our bearded, turtlenecked host, trying to figure out what the rest of the night would bring. "Well now that there are no children here, we can revert to our R-rating" our emcee chirped. As the most recent arrival, I was urged to volunteer a topic, any topic--and he would find a song that matched that topic. "Undescended testicles?" I offered, meekly. The pregnant pause that followed was awkward... and felt endless. But I was redeemed when our mystical tour guide launched into "Great Balls of Fire". We hung out for another half hour or so, enjoying some quality entertainment from this musical jack-of-all-trades, marvelling in his ability to play several instruments simultaneously and competently, switching between them without hesitation. This guy is talented! It was a good night of fun wedged inside the party bus! If you do check this guy out, tip generously, 'cause he works hard for the money. (Do I feel a Donna Summer song coming on?) read more

Amazing. After a fun-filled night of drinking and eating, on our way back to our car we came across the most curious of sights. A mysterious van that magically wasn't there moments ago between the time we parked our car and went on our fantastic journey into the midtown bar scene. To be honest, at first sight the Acoustic Sanctuary is intimidating... something straight out of a Disney film, Wizard of Oz, or Dr. Who. But once you walk through the curtain, you're greeted by an amazing sight of wall to wall instruments, and purple. It's a great place with friends, going alone may be awkward, and it's an amazing way to end a date in midtown, or in our case (completely sobering up before driving home). The host is friendly, he's extremely talented and has a way of keeping the mood light and has a way of leaving a smile on your face. I would totally recommend. read more

Acoustic Sanctuary - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Sacramento, California

Catch Winko Ljizz Thurs-Saturday nights at the corner of 22nd and J Streets in midtown Sacramento. His style, personality, and character are that of purely a gentleman. I've been here many a time when folks from all over come stumbling in after a night of food and libations. They're usually curious about what goes on inside this large purple van and they find out right quick, if you're the last one in you've got to pick a topic - not related to anything you see inside or music. For instance, one day I picked "sustainability" for a topic and Winko spent a good 15 minutes stalling until someone else came in because I had thrown him a curve ball. It's okay, he offered me a beer and played the newcomer's request quite well (happiness was the topic). Anyways, if you're ever in the area and the least bit curious - pop on in and say hi. You won't regret it! read more

Acoustic Sanctuary - Winko on the muted trumpet - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Sacramento, California

Drove past this van that had a neon sign and circled the block. Felt like it was some sort of magical entry into another world. Walked up the stairs through a curtain and there was a man behind a piano. We sit and had great conversation, paid our low fee of $15 and the fun began. Spent the evening with songs of mythical creatures, storytelling and predictions around the worlds insanity. More people joined in the five seat theater. People popped their heads in asking what is this...we were getting such a unique experience. A great time had by all and your ticket is good all night! read more

Acoustic Sanctuary - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Sacramento, California

I took my ex to see winco on our first date. He can actually play, as a musician myself I know. But he kind of wraps it up in an interesting package of showmanship. Almost creating a caricature of himself. A very interesting time. One has to remember it's all acoustic, he's not using technology to hide behind. I believe the guitars are purposely a little out of tune sometimes. The guy knows what he's doing, he's no amateur. The jokes probably are a bit much for some people in this town who are too up tight and liberal. But we thought he was entertaining. I'd go back for sure. He created something really special there. read more

We first drove by this parked trailer while looking for parking before dinner. "What the hell is that?!" I exclaim to my friend (a Sac local) as we pass by the trailer (which looks like a converted taco truck) parked on the random street corner, neon signs ablazing "OPEN" "COME ON IN". The purple vehicle is really random- and my friend tried to explain to me what it was and how it "wasn't that bad"- trying to dissuade my decision that it was just plain creepy. I mean, it was a purple trailer with beckoning signs- it had a dark curtain for an entrance, behind which my friend said awaited a man that would sing you songs for tips.... nothing about that registered as "comfortable" or "safe". After an excellent dinner at Tapa the World, we were stuffed and not in the mood for more eating or drinking. Not being able to think of any other activity, wouldn't you know it- we ended up at the stupid purple cart. No one was in it when my party of 5 entered, and the musician jumped to his place behind the piano and had us start requesting topics. The piano takes up most of the room in the trailer, and around it is about 5 circular stools for guests to sit on. The top of the piano is mirrored, which helps in easing the claustrophobia, and also allows you to see the musician's hands and feet as they go crazy hitting the piano keys, strumming the guitar, and pumping the pedals for the top hat and piano. From the ceiling hung various other instruments- a sax, ukulele, accordion, etc. You give him your topic, and he replies with a song that is [loosely] related, both singing and playing all of the instruments. Most of them are memorized, and audience participation is encouraged, I asked him to sing about Facebook, and he did his rendition of "My Computer's Got Hooters" (a song I had heard on Youtube or something once). We had about 4 other people join us in the trailer over the next half hour, and the randomness of it all definitely made it more fun. What would make it even MORE fun, is if you packed the trailer with a ton (probably holds 12) of your friends, and if you were all slightly (or fully) inebriated. The only creepy thing that happened was when a random dude popped in to offer us cocaine. We were pretty confused, and he must have sensed that we were not the snorting-coke-off-the-mirrored-piano types, and he quickly exited the "Sanctuary". This little purple cart is definitely an experience- and is worth the $5. Be sure to get some drinking in first to make it more memorable. read more

A totally unique experience! Finished a night out on the town at the Acoustic Sanctuary. $5 entry for each guest and he states you can stay as long as you like. There's alot to take in as you pull back that velvet entry curtain: purple walls encompass a purple baby grand piano surrounded by small stools, an assortment of musical instruments crowding the back wall. The confining space might have felt more oppressive without the mirror on the piano and on the ceiling; they aided in augmenting the experience as you can see the musician's fingers play the keys or watch him from different angles in the piano reflection. The musician (also dressed in purple) requested any topic not related to music or anything seen in the room. Topic "Calming rivers" elicited "Moon River" to which we tried to sing along. Topic "Russia" provided "Back in the USSR" although he had to look up the music for it. In toto, he played the piano, guitar, violin, and steel drum during our 25 minute session. He played the piano the most. We had a great time here! The concept is odd but fun and the musician is definitely kooky. A perfect ending to our night. read more

Ok, so this was a tough one. On the one hand, this is one of the coolest little treasures in Sac. We stopped in here the other night and it has been years since I've darkened his door before this. Even though I know it's safe inside, I still looked at the guy in our troop for backup in case things went awry. The one man band is kind of creepy and on top of it the place is so intimate, you almost feel it will swallow you whole. All in all, though, I like things that mess with your head and this is definitely in that category! The song he chose was one I knew, so that was cool, but five bucks for one request does seem a little stiff, even if we did get to have a hand in choosing it. Also, I'm pretty sure he's perma-high. I wonder if he has a day job. read more

This is a super fun time. We sat in for thirty minutes and loved the man's talent and silly sense of humor. He's a real entertainer and (from all appearances) can play upwards of forty instruments. read more

Special, unexpected experience. It's hard to call it a show, it feels more like genuinely getting to know someone while cracking jokes and singing songs. Winko is a renaissance man and a great hang. read more

One of the real gems of downtown Sacramento. If you're into the extraordinary and different nothing compares.

Came in with 5 of my friends. Three of us visiting from Az decided to stop and check it out. It was a one of a kind experience that you definitely need to check out. If you're in the Sacramento area in Old Town go find him and see for yourself. It will make all your dreams come true. read more

What can you say about the Acoustic Sanctuary? I'm not even going to try to describe it - many have already done so quite well here. But, really, it defies description, and just HAS to be experienced. All I'll say is, "Do not be afraid! Go on inside!" Highly recommended! read more

As first-time visitors to Sacramento, we walked past this venue several times before venturing in--and we were richly rewarded for doing so. In a really fun purple space, Winko delivers a custom, intimate experience you will never forget. Comedy, philosophy, history, storytelling, and incredible musicianship on a wide variety of instruments--including playing multiple instruments simultaneously--will be part of it. Sacramento has a real gem here. At 15 dollars a person, and 20 for a couple, you can have hours of fun. You can even bring your own wine! read more

This was good fun. Winko Ljizz's one man band show (I so hope that's his real name) is a Sacramento institution. My gf and I have been talking about going for years, but usually ended up just making jokes about how you get roofied and dropped through a trap door to become a sex slave if you go inside his purple carriage. Last night we attended a going-away party for a friend and he insisted that we all go to the show as he'd also wanted to for years. We were initially put-off by the suggested $5-per-head fee but it was completely worth it. We piled 13 people into the tiny trailer, plus Winko and his dozens of instruments. He is a virtuoso on the freedom horn BTW. If you don't have a good time in there it's your fault, AND, we didn't get roofied. Do it. read more

Acoustic Sanctuary - Jazz & Blues Near Me - Sacramento, California

I can't say it was my smartest idea to wander in to the back of a van at 2:00am in a city I'm not from, but what could of went wrong? Little did I know it would be probably one of the best, unexpected experiences of my friend and I's trip. Winko is hilarious and extremely talented. He had us pick a topic and then freestyled a song about it while playing the piano and can also play any other instrument you can think of. Definitely stop by - you won't be disappointed! read more

Throw in a little extra on that first date....such spontaneity! He/She will love you for a some unique entertainment. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sZhs03OoSwc&feature=relmfu read more

I agree this is one of the treasures of Sac's midtown, or in fact of Sacramento in general. If left to my own devices, I probably wouldn't want to walk into a weird purple van with neon lights. But luckily I knew all about Winko when we finally came down here. My spouse played with Winko for a while in a tango band, and so one night, when we were showing a friend around town, we popped in for a few songs. We were all enchanted, including our hard-to-please out-of-towner. When she was in town again, we actually planned to go back inside, but it was too crowded so maybe another time. For all those who are somewhat worried: Winko is a funny, talented guy who lives up to the one-man band concept. As you might be able to tell, he kinda likes purple. And he definitely gave me one of my most memorable nights out on the town. He riffs off topics -- I asked him about the meaning of life or some such nonsense and he launched into a spiel and song about Star Trek. This nerd was happy. Stop by. Stay a while if you'd like. You will laugh. read more

A truly fantastic experience that is unique to Sacramento! Going into the trailer might be a little freaky but it is totally worth overcoming that fear! read more

I think this is the best kept secret in all of Sacramento! Winko is delightful and super entertaining! He feels the crowd out and eventually tests the limits of comedy, music and your mind! I have taken tons of people to this- girls night out, drunken friends night and even lonely singles night all have a great time! He will bring up your mood and enlighten your spirit! Plus with the purple foam piano-turned-tabletop, your store bought drinks will never slide off the side! Beware, if you plan to be there for a while, bring a pillow! The seats are small and seating for about 8 average adults is squeezed. Just stop by and poke your head in, he won't bite! Open Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights read more

This man is amazing. The jist of it - he improvises lots, sings some good songs based on feedback he gets from his customers. Sit and talk to the guy, he might blow you away. Oh, and get him to do some star wars or star trek. Super cool cat. One time I passed out in his piano bar. He'll never forget me.. read more

This was the most bizarre experience I've ever had. I had seen this truck on my first stop in Sacramento & being a music and comedy lover, I thought this would be a wonderful experience the second time around. Boy was I wrong! The first thing the entertainer told us was that we could take off our face masks - um no. We decided not to. He then said we could choose ANY topic, saying that the last topic he had was "ISIS & the Taliban" & that he was tired of the "cancel culture". Us thinking this would be an open space to talk about anything, we chose "white privilege" as our topic. Well we may have hit a sensitive chord (no pun intended)...he went on a rampage about how tearing down statues of white supremacists was not wrong, that we should then cancel the Aztec & Roman culture. That cellphones aren't racist, that global warming is not real & that peanut allergies kill more people than covid. All this without a decent punchline or a single note played. I'm not saying this guy is an anti-vaxxer racist, but it was just so awkward to be in there hearing him rant on & on about random things that had no cohesion. We had to cut the time short & leave & we told him this was not what we were expecting when his sign says "comedy" out front. He is not funny at all. I can't talk about his musical skills, because we got no music. All we got was a horrible example of what sadly some Americans seem to think is true. I could not make this up if I wanted to. If you're into that, sure visit this guy and hear his ramblings. If you're a little more "woke", I do not recommend whatsoever coming in here. read more

I wandered in with my boyfriend and we were not disappointed. This guy puts his heart into performing and giving a good show. His charisma and cantor were well worth it and the entire mystique of countless instruments in a tiny box was so.ething you'll find nowhere else. A must see if you are visiting sac. read more

My favorite way to cap off a girls night out! The one man band is Sacramento flare at its best. If you are a fan of music and enjoy singalongs, you should stop by for some let-your-hair-down, better-than-karaoke fun! There is one rule: The topic of choice cannot be something you see in the room or a musical instrument. Every other category is up for grabs. If you stump the OMB, then the next song is played with your instrument of choice. Harp? Oboe? Steel Drum? It's up to you! Best $5 bucks I have spent to date! read more

wow. the one man band is definitely on my list of all time top five most awkward moments of my life. i could see it being moderately amusing if you are with a big big group of friends and are totally wasted and/or high. wow. just wow. read more

This sounded great but when I talked to him about coming to sing here he said he provides a wholesome environment without religion. How is knocking someone's religion supposed to make them feel comfortable and like they're in a wholesome environment?! I get not everyone is religious but to claim a place is wholesome and then put others down makes me question them? Being a bully and putting people down isn't wholesome and isn't nice! read more

This is a must see experience!! You've got to appreciate the talent of this guy!! He's got over 30 instruments and plays about 4-5 at a time..It's a random little mobile purple spot that we stumbled upon at the end of our evening. It's costs $5/person to enter and the guy asks for a topic and improvs a song right then and there. Now understand, it might not be the most cohesive song and sound JUST like the original but the guy is playing 5 instruments at a time and generally making up the words to a song as you go, based on the topic you give. You have to have the right kind of mind to be able to appreciate his talents. It was the best $$ we spent all night! read more

Songs!? Comedy!? Small seating around a piano in the back of a bus with a man who can play multiple instruments and connect songs to your liking on a whim!? Yes please!! I was really surprised by how much fun this experience was. For only 5 bucks (and of course extra tip money should you feel) you can sit in theoretically as long as you want and listen to and participate. Once you are in the last person who stepped in must pick a random topic, the entertainer then will create a song related to your topic! He then goes around the table asking for more random topics. He makes awesome use of his space and talent as he crams tons of instruments plus people into a small venue. A visit to him is an excellent way to end a night out. Step in and have a great time! read more

He performs music and jokes. No need to go to a comedy club or any other place for music!

Winko provides patrons with a great date night activity. Especially good on a first date. But then you'll want to go back again and again. Love him! read more

It's a quirky little piano bar, inside a van- the corner of 22nd and J is its location on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday. Proprietor "Winko Ljizz" is a one-man band, accompanying himself on the baby grand piano or even playing multiple instruments simultaneously. There's no cover, he just plays for tips (be generous!) - it's basically the most elaborate street music act you'll ever see. read more

Completely delightful ! Fun ! Not to be missed ! Genius! An incredible, unique creation & music by a wonderfully talented and amusing man. You'll love it, wonder how he did it [or why he did it ], and you will never forget it. Step right in & be refreshed by something old that he's made brand new. The man is an artist in the best sense of the word. Tip generously, because you'll never see anything like this again ! Th., Fri., Sat., on J St. read more

Love this guy!! It's really entertaining to watch him play and he gets the crowd involved which is really fun too. My favorite thing is to bring people who are not from Sac to this place. They are always really sketch about entering this tiny truck where there may or may not be a serial killer waiting for them, but are usually surprised by how fun it is. A must-do experience for every Sacramentian. read more