The Fonda/Stevens Group March 30, 2008

The Fonda/Stevens Group is finally coming back to the Bop Shop. They appeared here back in 1998. Bassist Joe Fonda and pianist/keyboardist Michael Jefry Stevens have played the Bop Shop many times since that appearance but in other bands (most notably Conference Call). But it’s the quartet of Fonda, Stevens, trumpeter Herb Robertson and drummer Harvey Sorgen, a group that has been together for 15 years that we’ve been angling to have back. Their discography now numbers 10 recordings strong and they’ve logged countless miles, garnered many more rave reviews and made a ton more great music since they were last here. They’re a band that has been lauded with superlatives. Glen Astarita has said that they are arguably one of the finest working units in modern jazz. Steven Loewy has referred to them as one of the great and often underappreciated jazz groups of the modern era. Bruce Lee Gallanter has said The Fonda/Stevens Groups remains one of the great ensembles in modern jazz, each disc continues to astonish us with their ever-creative and spirited playing. A true quartet comprised of players who are all leaders in their own right, these four make a music that is uniquely theirs, filled with both melodicism counter-balanced by deep, fascinating improvisations. They are truly one of the great American bands in jazz today. And we are pleased that we can give you the opportunity to see these four brilliant musicians in the atrium.

Official Website: http://bopshop.com