Mike Stern is one of those musicians whom I will never tire of seeing perform. As soon as this recent series of shows at Regattabar was announced, I ensured my place at show.

Mike Stern

I have seen Mike perform with a variety of musicians, from Eric Johnson with whom he recorded an incredible album in 2014 to numerous session musicians.

Mike is an extraordinary guitarist and a fabulous performer. One of the things that impresses me most about him is the way he supports the musicians who are performing with him. He steps aside to let each member of his band take a solo and shakes his head as if in amazement of their talent.

Mike Stern

Performing with Mike at this show were Dennis Chambers on drums (he is extraordinary – check him out if you can), Tom Kennedy on bass (also extraordinary – this was my first time seeing him), and Bob Franceschini on saxophone.

Dennis Chambers

Tom Kennedy

Bob Franceschini

I am not sure I have ever seen a sax player use pedals before seeing Bob at this show and was fascinated. I think Bob used his pedals more than Mike did!

Bob Franceschini , Tom Kennedy

Some of the tunes they played were familiar, including at one from the Eclectic Guitars recording with Eric Johnson. Even though I knew them, they sounded different from any other time I have heard them. That, to me, is one of the beauties of live jazz performance. It is generally so improvisational that you could see two shows, back to back, and they would sound quite different.

Mike Stern

Sometimes I find it hard to write about an instrumental show. I can say how the music made me feel but that is a very individual feeling.

Mike Stern

Mike’s music transports me on a flying carpet. At this show, I was in the mountains, cruising the peaks and valleys. It was magical, as it always is for me when I see him.

Mike Stern

This was probably the best band I have seen with him (not including Eric Johnson, which is in a class by itself). Dennis is a terrific drummer whom I have seen perform several times. He is incredibly talented and he makes it look so easy. He is not a flamboyant performer, but as solid as they come.

Dennis Chambers

Tom Kennedy was new to me, and I was extremely impressed with his playing. Also not flamboyant, he helped set a solid rhythm. His bass is gorgeous. I do not know who else he performs with, but I hope to catch him again soon.

Tom Kennedy

Bob Franceschini was also new to me, and he also impressed me quite a bit. He’s a solid sax player who easily kept up with Mike.

Mike Stern, Dennis Chambers, Bob Franceschini, Tom Kennedy

I plan to see Mike whenever he is in town. He is one of the best around!

Mike Stern

Mike Stern

Mike Stern

Dennis Chambers

Thanks to Regattabar for the ticket; all opinions are my own.