A sold-out crowd at the Big Picture was treated to an electrifying night of live jazz as the Levin Brothers took the stage, delivering a dynamic two-hour performance that blended tradition with inventive reinterpretation.
The core duo—Pete Levin on keyboard and Tony Levin on bass—was joined by longtime collaborator Jeff Seigel on drums, whom Pete Levin described as an “honorary Levin Brother” for his enduring role in the group. Completing the quartet for the evening was acclaimed Toronto saxophonist Pat LaBarbera, adding a rich, expressive layer to the ensemble’s sound.
Presented by Dan Eckstein and the team at the Big Picture, the performance featured eleven songs showcasing both technical mastery and playful creativity. While the group began years ago rooted in bebop and cool jazz traditions of the 1950s, their current approach leans toward reimagining music that resonates with them.
The set list reflected that evolution, weaving together unexpected jazz interpretations of artists like Steely Dan, Paul Simon, and Jimi Hendrix, alongside original compositions by Seigel, LaBarbera, and Tony Levin. A standout moment came with their rendition of “Scarborough Fair,” which unfolded with a haunting beauty that felt both intimate and transcendent.
The evening underscored the enduring vitality of live jazz and the power of collaboration among seasoned musicians. For the Mad River Valley audience, it was a rare and memorable opportunity to experience these celebrated performers in an intimate setting.
