Eric, give me a shout (206) 369-3248 when you get a second. I own LUCID Jazz Lounge here in Seattle & our new focus is LIVE recording projects. As some of the guys above have mentioned there's something special about the cohesive energy of the audience and the musician. Also, the room has to be right and the audience has to be there for the music. I've built an establishment where 85% of the audience is there for the music. Which is beautiful. And with our acoustic room treatment it gives for an amazing recording. Check out some our work.
www.lucidseattle.com click on LUCID Live Records. Be well man!