Once again, Blues Alley was the weekend home for David Benoit.  Currently touring and promoting his new CD, Heroes, released on Peak Records, David and his band (Jamey Tate on drums and David Hughes on bass), performed six shows in three nights.  I was fortunate to be able to attend three of the shows. 

As the consummate performer who has been in this industry for over thirty years now, David offered up his warm personality along with terrific music.  The show included a lot of the new music and many old favorites.  The crowd at this intimate venue (it holds only 124 people) were very into all of the music.  Watching David Benoit play the piano is always such a treat.  His passion shines through on every song, whether it is upbeat & funky, a ballad, or classical. 

From the new CD, David performed the first single, “Human Nature,” which sounded even better in a live setting.  “Your Song,” “Waltz for Debbie,” “Song for My Father,” “Light My Fire,” and “A Twisted Little Etude” were also played to very approving and appreciative applause.  The trio of David, Jamey Tate and David Hughes, have become such a cohesive unit after playing together for several years now.  Having also recorded together live on Heroes, the music was a part of each of them from the beginning.  It was so much fun watching them play off each other.

From the enormous library of songs, David picked out a few favorites to mix in with the new tunes.  Songs like “Every Step of the Way,” “Kei’s Song,” and of course, “Linus and Lucy” and “Freedom at Midnight” were played to lengthy ovations.

The Blues Alley setting is so perfect for enjoying the music of this contemporary jazz pianist.  And, while I was thrilled to see three of these concerts, next time, I think it’ll have to be at all six!