“In the 70s, I was in my 20s. In the 20’s , I am now in my 70s” was a phrase that saxophonist leader Jay Beckenstein that many of the audience at UPH could relate to. Jay is the sole original member of Spyrogyra, but that far from made this band’s performance a cover band performance seen in many vintage bands that bear the original band’s name. The band of bass, guitar, keyboard and drums along with Beckenstein’s wailing saxophone performed as a well rehearsed all star band each bringing their own ideas to this 90 minute performance.

Guitarist Julio Fernandez is a Cuban American, who brings a latin sound to the band, which originated from a series of jam sessions in Buffalo. Bass player Scott Ambush provided a creative yet definitive bottom to the combo’s sound. Both Fernandez and Ambush provided lyricless vocals on some songs. Julio sang in Spanish on “Havana”. The band even got the audience to clap and sing on several instances.

Keyboard player Chris Fischer and Beckenstein were the front end of the band, assuring melodic content and harmony.

“The Crossing”, “The Unknown Soldier”, 50/50, “Oh San Juan” , “Wiggle Room” and “Frequent Flyer” were the newer songs in the set. Old timers like myself were eagerly awaiting, “Morning Song”, “Catching the Sun” and “Shaker Song”. The memorable steel pan portion of “Morning Sun” was recreated by Chris Fischer’s bank of synthesizers. These songs were on Billboard’s 100 with “Morning Song” number 1 in Adult Contemporary. Considering 21st century market segmentation and playlists, it is doubtful that any of these numbers would have charted.

So this band, which was created by accident, named through a mispelling has undergone several cycles of forming and breakups, along with countless personnel changes during the last almost 50 years continues to tour . They even make new music to be enjoyed and even gain a new fan or two.