steps ahead
The legendary jazz fusion band Steps Ahead embarks on a long-awaited reunion tour this summer. Kongsberg Jazzfestival is among the lucky ones who get a visit!
In 1977, vibraphonist Mike Mainieri established the band first known as 'Steps' feat. Michael Brecker, Don Grolnick, Eddie Gomez and Steve Gadd. It didn't take long before the band had built up a large fan base, sold their debut album gold, and the band eventually took the name STEPS AHEAD. Over the years, various musicians have been replaced and new ones have joined. Drummer Steve Gadd was replaced by Weather Report defector Peter Erskine, and Brazilian pianist Eliane Elias also became an important part of the line-up. For a period, the Norwegian saxophonist Bendik Hofseth was also part of the band. It should also be mentioned that today's saxophonist in Steps Ahead, Donny McCaslin, had a very central role on David Bowie's (unfortunately) last release "Blackstar".
Steps Ahead maneuvers elegantly between own compositions, standard songs, funky rhythms and virtuoso playing - always with a load of energy and joy of playing!
NB: Peter Erskine was originally on this tour, but for health reasons he has had to withdraw. Billy Kilson, who played with Steps Ahead in the 90s replaces Erskine.
Steps Ahead Reunion Tour featuring Mike Mainieri (vibraphone), Eliane Elias (piano), Donny McCaslin (saxophone), Marc Johnson (bass), and Billy Kilson (drums).
*** IMPORTANT INFO ABOUT TICKETS: There is mainly standing room at the concert, but 150 seats are available on the balcony. Arrive early if you want to be guaranteed a seat!
Latest news: Bendik Hofseth guests Steps Ahead!
En español:
After a long wait the legendary jazz fusion band, Steps Ahead, is touring this summer and Kongsberg Jazzfestival is among the lucky ones to get a visit. In 1977 vibraphonist Mike Mainieri established the band, first known as 'Steps' feat. Michael Brecker, Don Grolnick, Eddie Gomez and Steve Gadd. Not long after their debut album was released it achieved gold status and the band eventually took the name 'STEPS AHEAD'. Over the years various musicians have been replaced and new ones have emerged, among them former Weather Report drummer Peter Erskine and the Brazilian pianist Eliane Elias. The band elegantly maneuvers between their own compositions, standard tunes and funky rhythms – always with virtuosity, energy and enthusiasm!
