David Sanborn and Bob James at Vienne

David Sanborn and Bob James, joined by James Genus and Steve Gadd, come together at the Jazz à Vienne Festival in France. The ancient theater is graced with the sounds of two legends of smooth jazz, who have been constantly adapting their sound throughout the decades. This live performance is a combination of swinging tunes and more contemporary straight eights rhythms in other pieces, demonstrating the artists abilities in a variety of styles within jazz.

Sanborn’s bright, almost harsh tone on the alto saxophone, paired with his extensive range and improvised phrases, and James’s smooth, clear phrases provide two different interpretations on the works played, from the swinging to the straight and groovy. Joined by Gadd on drums and Genus on bass, the group locks into the groove, creating a platform for extensive improvised solos and interplay between the musicians.