GREG BURROWS SOUL JAZZ WITH VANEESE THOMAS AND GB3

Greg Burrows

The Mainstay is proud to present an unforgettable evening of Soul Jazz on Saturday, August 15th featuring acclaimed vocalist Vaneese Thomas and drummer, bandleader, and Mainstay favorite Greg Burrows with his outstanding ensemble GB3. This special concert promises a powerful blend of soul, blues, jazz, gospel, and rhythm and blues brought to life by musicians whose roots run deep and whose performances are filled with heart, spirit, and world class musicianship.

Now returning to The Mainstay, GB3 Soul Jazz has become one of the venue's most anticipated summer traditions. Led by New York City and Kent County based drummer Greg Burrows, the trio features longtime musical colleagues Al Orlo on guitar and Judd Nielsen on Hammond B3 organ. Together, they bring a remarkable depth of experience and a shared passion for the music that has made Soul Jazz a highly anticipated musical collaboration.

Joining the trio for this special evening is the remarkable Vaneese Thomas, one of the most celebrated soul and blues vocalists performing today.  Vaneese brings a voice rich with emotion, power, and authenticity. Born into Memphis music royalty, she is the daughter of legendary singer Rufus Thomas, one of the pioneering artists of Sun Records whose hits included Walking the Dog and Do the Funky Chicken. Music runs deep in her family, but Vaneese has built an extraordinary career entirely on her own merits. Over the years she has recorded and performed with artists including Eric Clapton, Joe Cocker, Sting, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, and many others. Her soulful delivery and blues infused style make her a perfect fit for the GB3 Soul Jazz sound.

Greg Burrows himself has followed a remarkably diverse musical path. Before focusing primarily on jazz, he performed with legendary groups and artists including Little Anthony and the Imperials, the original Blue Man Group production, and Brooklyn's internationally acclaimed Chicha Libre. His ability to move effortlessly between musical styles has helped shape the unique sound of GB3.

The supporting ensemble is equally impressive. Guitarist Al Orlo spent more than two decades as guitarist and music director for rock and soul legend Ben E. King, bringing a lifetime of experience and tasteful musicianship to every performance. Organist Judd Nielsen is a master of the Hammond B3 and has performed with an impressive roster of artists including Big Daddy Kane, Melvin Sparks, Trombone Shorty, and many others. Together, the trio creates a powerful musical foundation that is both sophisticated and deeply rooted in groove.

Burrows' “Soul Jazz” itself is one of The Mainstay's most unique and creative presentations, blending straight ahead jazz improvisation with elements of funk, rhythm and blues, blues, gospel, and soul music. At the center of the sound is the mighty Hammond B3 organ and the distinctive swirling voice of the Leslie speaker cabinet. The result is music that swings hard, grooves deeply, and speaks directly to both the heart and the feet.

For longtime Mainstay supporters and first time visitors alike, this promises to be one of the highlights of the summer season. Vaneese Thomas, Greg Burrows, Al Orlo, and Judd Nielsen bring together generations of musical tradition, extraordinary talent, and a genuine love for the music they perform. Expect deep grooves, soulful vocals, inspired improvisation, and the kind of musical chemistry that only comes from musicians who truly love playing together.

Soul Jazz featuring Vaneese Thomas and GB3 takes place Saturday, August 15th at 7:30 PM at The Mainstay. Come prepared for an evening filled with soul, swing, blues, and the unmistakable sound of great musicians having a great time.