Evening Sky is a band that is living proof that instrumental jazz in all its forms is not a dead genre. I have been fortunate enough to see them play live on several occasions, and their enthusiasm for the music always shines through. It is very apparent when you listen to them, that this group of men absolutely loves and cares about the music that they make.
The group is comprised of: Gino Rosati (guitars and composer), Eric Hastings (drums), Chris Brooks (pedal steel guitar), and Joe Potenza (bass). Each of these musicians brings a wealth of experience to the table and it shows in each and every one of these compositions. Their music is a blend of jazz, Americana, bluegrass, reggae, and roots. Their ability to flow effortlessly between styles and form a new amalgamation of sounds is truly a wonder to behold.
Despite having seen them live many times, this is the first time I’ve sat down to actually listen to one of their albums, and it didn’t disappoint. The album was engineered and produced by drummer Eric Hastings, and from the first note it was easy to see that they had captured the intricacies and subtleties of their live shows. Entitled “Meeting of the Four,” this album shows how the interplay between the band members is integral to the arrangement of the songs.
The opening track, “For Ernest” is a perfect example of Evening Sky’s artistry. The track floats improbably between reggae, country / western, and jazz. Pedal steel player Chris Brooks especially shines on this composition. Pedal steel is not generally an instrument that most people associate with jazz, or reggae for that matter. However, Brooks makes it feel as if it is an instrument that we have been missing out on in this genre. I have actually seen him mimic the sound of a keyboard during their live sets. He is a genuine master of his craft. This opening track juxtaposes playfulness and introspection. I found myself humming it throughout the day after listening to it. When was the last time that happened to you with an instrumental piece?
The next track is a funky blues piece called “Bad Choices,” and it is here that you begin to realize how easily they can float between styles and combine them. Rosati’s guitar is funky, and the interplay between drummer Hastings and bassist Potenza is excellent. They are a dynamo of a rhythm section.
“Mysterious Wisteria” is a meditative walk of a soundscape that would not be out of place while smoking a joint and having a glass of wine on a rainy Sunday afternoon. The mellowness of the track draws you in and holds your attention.
“Coffee Monster” begins with the signature bass rumblings of Joe Potenza, who is a monster player. Young players would do well to watch how he both attacks and coaxes the tones from his bass. The track “Ballz Out” brings the funk back and genuinely makes you want to get up and move. I can’t think of another “jazz” band that I have ever had that reaction to.
One of the brilliant aspects of this album is how it leaves you anticipating what sounds the next track will bring to your ears. “Excellent Question” is a perfect example of this as it makes you expect a certain style from the opening notes and then turns on a dime as the piece moves forward. “Wanskuckin’” and “Blue Leisure Suit” both bring their own distinctive sound to the album and also show how important the track placement on the album is. Each song guides you from musical mood to musical mood and leaves you wanting more.
The track “Sunday Afternoon” closes out the album and truly calls to mind the feel of Sunday afternoon. I think that’s what’s most impressive about this collection of songs: Each one evokes a feeling, memory or mood. That is a rare thing in modern music, and make no mistake, this is modern music. Despite their nod to various genres and their obvious respect for tradition, these four, on “Meeting of the Four,” have brought a sense of musical exploration which is sorely lacking in most modern music. Particularly in instrumental music, and for musicians of an advanced age (sorry guys), it is a rare thing to still have this sense of musical curiosity.
I was told recently that when I talk about Evening Sky, I sound like their publicist, or their mom. Well, you know what? If something’s good and deserves recognition, I’m going to fucking say it. I don’t get to say it nearly enough in this processed digital age. Do yourself a favor, check out this album and absolutely go see Evening Sky live. They will make you a fan of instrumental music with both their joy and reverence for the art that they make. Keep fighting the good fight guys.