YouTube Picks: Kevin Hays and Bill Stewart

This Thursday, September 12th, The Jazz Gallery will host a duo performance from two exceptional musicians.A native of Des Moines, Iowa, Bill Stewart has become one of his generation’s most well-known drummers, developing his reputation working with musicians like John Scofield, Larry Goldings and Peter Bernstein.As Nate Chinen of the New York Times puts it, “...his true specialty is making a good band sound inexplicably better.”Joining Stewart will be pianist Kevin Hays, who has drawn heavy praise from many musicians and critics. According to Brad Mehldau, “Everything he plays has a deep intelligence and swing.” Stewart and Hays are frequent collaborators, and this weekend’s performances promise to showcase their musical camaraderie.For a preview of what’s in store, check out the following YouTube clips:The first features Stewart and Hays performing Highway One with The Chris Potter Quartet: each takes robust solos at the 2:12 and 6:37 marks, respectively.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lAhHU07Crc0Next is Kevin Hays’ Trio (with bassist Doug Weiss) playing Sco More Blues, which has the funky Scofield vibe that Stewart excels on.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EljwI62CN_MBill Stewart and Kevin Hays will perform at The Jazz Gallery this Thursday, September, 12th. Sets are at 9 and 10:30 p.m. The first set is $15 general admission and $10 for Members. The second set is $10 general admission and $5 for Members. Purchase tickets here.