518 jazz saxophonist Brian Patneaude brought his quartet to the Van Dyck for a 90 minute performance . The nearly full house was treated with a 22 year sampling of his work to date. Other members of his band included Rob Lindquist on keyboards, Danny Welchel on drums and Jerod Grieco on bass. Rob and Danny are also stalwarts of the local scene with Jerod Grieco is a relative newcomer who was a former student of Brian’s but is also a veteran of the scene.

The opener was a tribute to saxophonist Joe Lovano, “Jolo”. It was an aggressive opener with Brian providing a burner of an opening with a flurry of notes on his tenor. Rob followed with an equally technical display of prowess on the keys. Danny and Jerod kept this flight from going off the stage, though Jerod provided a solid pass with his bass .

Two related pieces were joined together. Both expressing the feelings hope and pessimism, “Cycle of Hope” followed by “The Peddler”. “Cycle of Hope” musically outlined the pattern we all free of hope and hopelessness. “The Peddler”echoed the negative energy by some posters in social media. Both of these were inspired by the isolation of Covid 19, but are relevant to modern times.

Andrew’s Anthem was Brian’s commemoration of his eldest son’s birth. This was followed by “Unending”, a Keith Pray composition. The final music of the night was an excellent example of a contrafact. A set of chords kept with a new melody floated on top of it. Gigi Gryce’s 1953 composition “Minority ” was contrafacted by Brian as “Majority”.

Thanks to Chris Sule and his fabulous team for providing the room, drinks, food and their hospitality for this celebration.

There is plenty more jazz, music, comedy coming to the Van Dyck. Follow them on social media or stellapastabar.com for the latest.