Recorded live at Berkeley’s California Jazz Conservatory in 2012 at the end of a two-week tour, “Live Beauty” captures the lithe and dynamic Bay Area quartet that John Stowell and Michael Zilber have co-led for the past 7 years. It well represents the effortless empathy and telepathy these four musicians have developed during that time. “…there’s no mistaking Stowell’s remarkable prowess and sensitivity on electric and acoustic guitars — or the fun he’s having in this highly interactive setting.” JazzTimes.
“The potent partnership of guitarist John Stowell and saxophonist Michael Zilber plays out on this highly interactive and adventurous set. Fueled by the remarkably empathetic Bay Area rhythm tandem of bassist John Shifflet and drummer Jason Lewis, Stowell and Zilber take their time and follow their muse quite freely throughout this intimate concert.” — 4 starred review by Bill Milkowski, Downbeat
“Zilber’s flames flare, pulling the rhythm team into more fervid territory, inciting spirited interplay all around. This is inspired post-bop jazz.” — 4 starred review by Dan Mclenaghan, All About Jazz