Words and photos by Anthony Bauer
We were devastated when we couldn’t make Herbie Hancock’s show last summer at Prospect Park, but were absolutely thrilled that he’d kick off his latest tour right here in New York City at the Beacon Theatre on August 7. While there was no opener, Herbie has assembled an outstanding band consisting of James Genus on bass, Lionel Loueke on guitar, Terrace Martin on keyboards/saxophone, and the one and only Vinnie Colaiuta on drums. This lineup made you realize… how on earth could you possibly open up for this?
Herbie promptly took the stage around 7:45pm and played an impressive set consisting of basically everything you’d ever want him to hear (…and more). His set consisted of the classics “Watermelon Man,” “Cantaloupe Island,” “Actual Proof” and at times, he played seamlessly between a baby grand piano and a Kronos electric keyboard like it was nothing, which was absolutely mesmerizing to watch.
Now onto his band: you may recognize the bassists name as he is the bass player for the SNL house band, and Terrace Martin’s name may look familiar, as he has been producing some of the biggest names in hip hop for many years now (most recently a small rapper from Compton, you may know him as Kendrick Lamar). And we can’t forget Vinnie Colaitua – he is someone you may already know as he played drums in Frank Zappa’s band (yes, the Frank Zappa), as well as with the likes of Joni Mitchel, Sting, Jeff Beck and many, many other projects you may have no idea he was a part of. Seeing this combination of musicians was an absolute dream and something that doesn’t happen all the time.
The true standout from the set hands down had to be “Chameleon,” which opened and closed the encore with. Â When those opening notes started playing, there wasn’t a single person inside the Beacon Theatre that was still sitting or cheering. What’s even more impressive is just how much fun the entire band was having playing the song, which made it that much better. Seeing Herbie jump around at age 77, with a keytar during the ending of “Chameleon,” might just be one of my favorite musical moments I’ve ever seen & experienced.
Find the photo gallery posted below.
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