Jazz band Fourplay played at Blue Note Jazz Club all of last week, and we had the pleasure of checking them out Sunday night for their last NYC show. The light and soulful Jazz sounds were just the thing we needed, especially on these cold winter nights like we’ve been having. For those of you who have not been, the Blue Note boasts compact seating for an intimate experience, we suggest red wine and their delicious New York Cheesecake for the full effect. 

 All four musicians were extremely talented and complimented each other well blending their styles and showing their versatility playing both up-tempo and low-tempo songs.  Nathan East started the night off with his whispery scatting and holiday themed melodies which progressed seamlessly into hypnotizing Jazz breakdowns. At several times during the set we were completely engulfed in the rambunctious chord progressions and percussions.  Bob James delighted the audience with smooth and calming piano riffs interspersed with high energy sounds from the band. The verve of the whole performance was one that made you think of nothing but its many shining moments. 

 The stand out song of the night, “Sonnymoon”, a hit single off their latest album Espirit De Four, was written by Chuck Loeb. It was inspired by an old song called “Sonny”, dedicated to their manager who shared the same name. It was buoyant, bright and somewhat magical with the red lighting over the tables and the performers. Chuck Loeb spruced up the melody with some Jazz guitar deftly strumming the chords like an acrobat, while the bass and drums played support. 

 Overall, it was the essential New York experience.  Enjoying the bliss of live Jazz at the famous Blue Note Jazz Club. The audience responded enthusiastically to Fourplay’s entire set. It was a shorter set than anticipated, just enough for you to finish your second glass, they returned to the stage for an encore and each had a turn in the spotlight. Each member dazzled with back to back solos completing a night to remember at the legendary Blue Note.

~ Source Article