An evening under the stars at Snowbird with Spyro Gyra is like an evening with an old, dear friend.
Delightful. Comfortable. The pre-autumn chill, the smell of pines and high-altitude panorama of stars and the jazz of Spyrois a heady mix.The night started out strong with what was perhaps the most captivating number from the group's new album, "Swing Street."
Jay Beckenstein's 2-year-old daughter was the inspiration for "Swing Street." The song's free-flight instrumentation reflected his toddler's discovery of her world.
The second number, "Fairweather," was the jazzy, driving song with the flourishes and syncopation that set Spyro apart.
Then the band threw in a few older numbers, "I Believe in You," and "Whirlwind.'
Both were strong hits with the audience.
Keyboardist Tom Schuman brought the audience to its feet early in the concert with a driving and evocative solo number.
The middle part of the concert was devoted to showcasing the talents of each band member. The audience was filled with Spyro aficionados who knew and relished the works of each band member. They anticipated each member's moment in the spotlight, applauding wildly.
The showcases were lengthy, but, heck, this band is entitled. The solos emphasized the diversity and strength of the band named the number one contemporary jazz artists of the year by "Billboard" magazine in 1988.
The concert had the unstructured, spontaneous sound that is Spyro's trademark. Band members improvised with verve, adding new subtleties to familiar numbers. It was pure funk.
The numbers were eclectic, ranging from somnolent to driving, from the traditional jazz of New York City in the 1950s to a touch of Jamaican.
Jay Beckenstein often pulled back, letting his band take the lead on several numbers. Despite his reputation as a brilliant saxophone player, this concert was clearly an ensemble effort.
Fans were on their feet and dancing halfway through the concert. They remained there throughout the evening.
The last part of the concert was devoted to Spyro's classic and beloved numbers. Those first teasing notes of "Morning Dance," evoked cheers. It always does.
And the band's performance evoked a standing ovation and cries for more.
It always does.