Fourplay – Newport Jazz Festival – 08/12/2000 –

Fourplay – (Recorded Live at the Newport Jazz Festival, 8/12/2000)

When you think of jazz fusion, Fourplay is a name that immediately comes to mind. The legendary supergroup, consisting of Bob James (keyboards), Nathan East (bass), Harvey Mason (drums), and Larry Carlton (guitar), has been a staple in the world of contemporary jazz since the early '90s. Their Full Concert at the Newport Jazz Festival, recorded live on August 12, 2000, captures the magic of their musical synergy at its peak. The performance is a brilliant display of technical mastery, improvisational skill, and the unique smooth jazz sound that Fourplay is renowned for.

Setlist Breakdown:

• 0:00:00 - Chant
  The concert kicks off with Chant, an atmospheric opener that sets the tone for the rest of the performance. The track's hypnotic rhythm, combined with the intricate interplay of keyboard and guitar, immediately draws listeners in. The steady groove and Larry Carlton’s smooth guitar lines are a clear indication that this performance is going to be something special.

• 0:07:57 - Moonjogger
  Moonjogger follows, showcasing the band's signature blend of funk and jazz. Nathan East’s bass lines provide a deep, soulful foundation while Bob James’ keyboard work complements the rhythm section beautifully. Larry Carlton’s guitar solos here are a highlight, with his trademark smooth tone weaving effortlessly through the layers of melody and rhythm.

• 0:16:49 - Charmed, I'm Sure
  This track adds a little more playfulness to the set, with its catchy melody and tight rhythm section. The song's upbeat and lively character allows each member of the band to shine individually, especially Harvey Mason on drums, whose energy and technical precision bring an extra layer of depth to the groove.

• 0:23:28 - 101 Eastbound
  A fan favorite, 101 Eastbound brings a little more energy to the performance with its driving tempo and intricate musical arrangement. The song's smooth yet complex composition provides a platform for each band member to demonstrate their virtuosity, from Nathan East’s pulsating bass to Bob James’ signature keyboard fills. The piece has a smooth, cruising feel, which is perfectly fitting given its name.

• 0:33:41 - Robo-bop
  Robo-bop is a funky, groove-heavy track that shows off the band's improvisational chops. With a rhythm that’s both tight and elastic, the song takes the audience on a journey, moving between different tempos and rhythms with ease. Larry Carlton’s guitar work here is particularly impressive, as he effortlessly shifts between smooth jazz and more aggressive, blues-inspired phrasing.

• 0:41:23 - Double Trouble
  The pace slows down a bit with Double Trouble, a track that brings an intriguing mix of swing and smoothness. The interplay between Bob James' keyboards and Larry Carlton’s guitar takes center stage, with both musicians teasing melodies back and forth in a way that feels almost conversational. The rhythmic backbone, provided by Nathan East and Harvey Mason, keeps the piece grounded and deep.

• 0:46:34 - Blues Force
  Blues Force delivers a gritty, soulful performance that stands as one of the more blues-influenced tracks in Fourplay's repertoire. The band grooves deeply here, with Nathan East’s bass taking the lead and Harvey Mason’s drums propelling the track forward. The slow burn of this piece allows for some emotive guitar work from Larry Carlton, who takes full advantage of the song’s space to deliver a bluesy, heartfelt solo.

• 0:55:01 - Midnight Stroll
  The concert ends on a smooth, laid-back note with Midnight Stroll, a track that captures the essence of Fourplay’s signature sound. It’s a gentle, jazzy closer that lets the band’s chemistry shine in full force. Bob James’ subtle yet effective keyboard work and the serene guitar melodies from Carlton create an atmosphere of relaxation, making this the perfect track to wrap up the concert.

Final Thoughts:

Recorded live at the prestigious Newport Jazz Festival, Fourplay – Full Concert (8/12/2000) is a masterclass in contemporary jazz. The band’s ability to seamlessly blend jazz, funk, and smooth elements while maintaining a sense of improvisational freedom is evident throughout the performance. Each track feels like a conversation between the band members, with plenty of room for each of them to shine individually, yet always maintaining a sense of unity. For fans of Fourplay and jazz fusion in general, this concert is a must-see (or in this case, a must-listen), as it perfectly encapsulates the band's musical genius and enduring appeal.

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