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Kevin Eubanks and Troop are “In the Pocket” at Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley
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Anyone who has stayed up late and tuned into NBC-TV can easily recognize Kevin Eubanks. The respected and talented jazz musician’s familiar face has been beamed across America on The Tonight Show since 1995.
With so many jazz personalities out there, I must shamefully admit I was not familiar with Eubanks’ talent other than the musical segue separating the show’s monologues. Let’s face it, it is difficult to appreciate musical prowess relying only on guitar cords seasoned with cymbal crashes, just to highlight jokes. After Eubanks’ second set of the opening show at Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley on June 11, I can proudly relinquish my neophyte status, and stand amongst the informed.
There was some serious music played last night. The opening number, “Spider Monkeys,” started with a soulful sound and worked into a crescendo of self-expression. With Eubanks’ head bowed and eyes tightly closed, his fingers moved up and down the guitar neck in full gallop as if rushing to the finish line. The song progressed like a mood; ever changing, following a course known only to itself. I didn’t think it was possible to play a guitar that fast. A real “finger zinger.”
“Palm Reader,” written by Rene Camacho (bass), started slow and blues-like. The audience enjoyed the change in pace, and like the first song it branched into different tonal directions and speed, somehow harmonious, yet strangely unrelated at the same time.
The stage lights dimmed and we were directed to Eubanks by one spotlight. The candlelight on the tables added to the effect and we were soothed by the soft folk-like melody and the easy tapping of the snare drum. This song had the power to lead one’s thoughts into a quiet place. Eubanks couldn’t recall the title except to say it was a religious hymn. Someone in the audience suggested “Praise Ye, Almighty King,” and sure enough it was, in smooth jazz style.
The last song was yet to be named but it had a catchy beat with an attitude. I personally called it “Walking Cool,” The group played a bit longer than an hour, and each one of the four songs was extensive, captivating and complete.
This show might not be for everyone. The song melodies are there but you have to let them find you; you can’t go looking for them. Whether you are a jazz aficionado or not, you should put aside the troubles of the day, dig some loose coins out from under the pillows of the living room davenport, and head out to Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley on 2033 6th Avenue at Lenora in Belltown to experience some exceptional talent.
Eubanks (guitar) along with the band members, Marvin “Smitty” Smith (drums), Gerry Etkins (keys), Rene Camacho (bass), and Bill Pierce (sax), will only be in Seattle until June 14th so you have little time to waste. “In the pocket?” – you bet; this combo can really play!
Call (206) 801-1472 or link to Dimitriou’s website for more information about the club and their performing events calendar. http://www.jazzalley.com/
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