Live! One Great Night

Just saw him in San Diego, it was the best performance I have every seen, small venue definitely added to the experience. Keep on playing Steve. Congrats on modern drummers jazz fusion drummer of the year!

FIRST REVIEW!!! WOO-HOO!!! The reason I got into "contemporary jazz" back in the mid-80's is because of Steve Smith & Vital Information. The first jazz album I EVER had was their GLOBAL BEAT record, and I wore that tape out two or three times over. Steve is one of the most prolific and versatile drummers I have ever had the honor to listen to, talk with and enjoy watching play live countless times. I am a drummer because of Steve's work with JOURNEY, and "Don't Stop Believin'" planted the seed. On the occasion of VI's 30th anniversary, I want to say not only is this another AMAZING recording (and when the guys play live, it COOKS!!! There's always a little bit of the old "Machine Gun" behind that kit, folks, don't you worry!! Let's ALL go to the IRIDIUM CLUB in NYC in two weeks and I'll prove it to ya'!), but it is wonderful showcase of talent from Steve, Vinny, Baron, and Tom, captured live and pure. To be witness to the evolution of Steve and the band through the 80's, 90's and 2000's has been a real treat. From "Island Holiday", my favorite jazz track, PERIOD, to "J Ben Jazz", Vital Information continues to evoke from and within me such joy, happiness, goosebumps and even the occasional tear of contentment...I am always anxious to listen to their new recordings, see them play, and Steve is ALWAYS ready to talk to his fans after the gigs, take a picture, sign a CD and share a few moments. I can't wait for June 16th in NYC, and I urge EVERY fan of jazz, both modern and traditional, to get ALL of VI's music, kick back, and lose yourself. Congrats to you guys on the new CD and the anniversary, and THANK YOU for sharing your gifts with your fans.... Play on, boys!!