Sat Jun 28
Bill Evans "Return of the Vans Band"
7PM / $50 | $7 Fees Get Tickets
Bill Evans
Contemporary Jazz Groove
“Who does Miles Davis, John McLaughlin, Willie Nelson, Herbie Hancock, among a multitude of others have in common? Bill Evans, that’s who . Evans is a world class saxophonist and producer who made his debut on the international music scene in the 1980’s with Miles Davis (at the age of 21) and recorded 6 records with Davis. This led to touring and recording with the likes of John McLaughlin and Herbie Hancock to name a few. Bill started touring the world with his own band in 1990. He explored several different genres over the next 14 years which included soul jazz, acoustic groove and contemporary funk. He recorded 12 solo CDs during this period. In 2004 he continued to stretch musical boundaries with his group Soulgrass and a CD by the same name garnering his 2nd Grammy nod. It was jazz meets Americana on a very high level. He blended banjo, fiddle & saxophone in a truly unique and innovative way and toured the world with his group Soulgrass for over 12 years.
2024 Bill toured exclusively in Europe, Brazil and Japan with the VansBand allstars. Members include Keith Carlock, Felix Pastorius, George Whitty, Gary Husband, Dave Weckl ( Japan ) James Genus ( Japan) Kevin Hays ( Japan )
August 2024 Bill released his latest recording “ Who I Am” which has to date streamed over 700,000 times. A year in the making, Bill deftly included all of his past influences to make one of his most exciting recordings to date, featuring Bela Fleck, Jerry Douglas, Victor Wooten, Keith Carlock and John Medeski to name a few. “Ive always written and recorded music that inspires me. The music on “Who I Am “ is very personal. I love listening to it. If you can’t write music you don’t like to listen too, why write it ?”
With 27 solo albums to date, Grammy nods, and countless collaborations and tours, Bill is returning to Blues Alley by popular demand with a “ one of a kind “ all-star group !
Bill made his debut at Blues Alley last year for his first appearance in the USA with his own band in over 15 years. When asked why it’s been so long Bill responded,“ I tour several times a year in other parts of the world. I have a loyal following in other parts of the world . It just kind of worked out that way.”
Keith Carlock, the most in-demand drummer for some of today’s best known rock and jazz bands (Sting, Steely Dan, John Mayer), has been a frequent member in many of Bill’s various bands and live projects the past decade.
Jimmy Earl is a bass legend among his peers and a special treat for Blues Alley. Jimmy Has toured in the past with Joe Sample , The Crusaders, Stanley Clarke, Chick Corea Electric band and has recorded multiple albums with Robben Ford.
George Whitty is one of the most called-upon keyboardist/producers today, and is well-known for his work with Dave Sanborn, Randy Brecker, Carlos Santana and many more. These all-star players are all here for one reason - to create music and connect with audiences that can feel their contagious grooves and melodies. Soul, funk, neo-jazz - contemporary music at its zenith.
7PM / $50 | $7 Fees Get Tickets
1. Final sale, no refunds, not transferable.
2. $15 food/beverage minimum per person not included in ticket price.
3. Seating first come at the door. Doors open 6 PM & 8:45 PM respectively.
4. Photography or Recording of any kind is prohibited during the performance.
5. Keep conversation to a minimum during the performance.