By Bob Silvestri
bobsilvestri@bestofwny.com
It’s
almost hard to believe but Spyro Gyra are celebrating thirty years together.
It seems such a short while ago that they were a regular fixture on the
WNY music scene. Now internationally known their timeless, unmistakable
sound is evident once again on their new release The Deep End. The core
band, Jay Beckenstein, Tom Schuman, Julio Fernandez, Scott Ambush and Joel
Rosenblatt, receive some studio help from the likes of ex Spyro vibe player
Dave Samuels and drummers Ludwig Afonso and Billy Kilson among others.
The lead off track, “Summer Fling” penned by founding member Jeremy Wall,
is everything you love about Spyro Gyra’s music. It also proves what a
valuable contributor Wall has been to the sound of the band since their
inception. The Middle Eastern sound of “Monsoon” shows the band’s creativity
and sense of musical adventure intact as they explore new sounds while
still retaining their signature sound. The percussive beat of “The Crossing”
features nylon stringed, Flamenco guitar from Fernandez who also penned
the song. The outstanding track “Chippewa Street” features Don Harris on
trumpet. Other tracks to check out include “In Your Arms”, “Wiggle Room”
and “As You Wish”. For more info check out www.spyrogyra.com
and www.jaybeckenstein.com
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