I got a chance to see Spyro Gyra Friday night at the One World Theater in Austin, Texas. I can not say enough about this small venue, if you like jazz(or any music) and are close to Austin, this is a great place to see bands intimately.
Spyro Gyra was fantastic, I had not seen them since the '80s but they had all the energy and skill that first led me to loving the band and their music. The current line up consists of Jay Beckenstein, Scott Ambush, Tom Schuman, Julio Fernandez and Lee Pearson. These guys have a lot of fun on stage and it's contagious.
Here's a recent video of them playing "Falling Walls" by Julio Fernandez, the guitarist. The video begins with the last bit(I think) of "Expect Miracles" by drummer Lee Pearson.
An oldie, the classic "Morning Dance" by Jay Beckenstein, the saxophonist who is an original founder.
"The Deep End" by Scott Ambush, a truly amazing bass player. He reminded me of Stanley Clark a bit but that is probably because they both make my jaw drop.
Lastly, another good song from the past, "Incognito" by keyboardist Tom Schuman, who is a great musician and performer.
I wound up getting all of their autographs and even got a pic with the band. Go see them!
Jump over the orange sound burst for a bit on their latest member, drummer Lee Pearson.
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Ok, for any drummer out there, Lee Pearson is a percussive animal, a very intelligent, precise and creative animal. I haven't seen so many drumming tricks used for entertainment and effect since the last time I saw Carl Palmer. Lee Pearson did this one thing where he played with one hand behind his back and then with both hands behind his back. Not following me? Just watch this video of him soloing. Wow!
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