Financial difficulties led Borden to close Smalls on May 31 , 2003 . The closing was due to declining attendance after the September 11 attacks , rent increase in this part of the city , and a smoking ban in indoor public places . Concerts were moved into the Fat Cat Club next door , which was open four nights a week until 2:00 AM . In 2004 , the Brooklyn Jazz Underground premiered with four shows at Smalls
September 11 attacks
September 11 attacks
Smalls Jazz Club