Steve Oliver: One Night Life

Guitarist and vocalist Steve Oliver is groovy on record with his smooth jazz style, but it’s live where he was born to be in the spotlight. So it’s no surprise that Oliver’s first live recording, a combination CD and DVD, is a must-have for his many fans. Filmed at the renovated State Theater in Modesto, California, you’ll see Oliver in his element, creating orchestral, piano, bass sounds on his Carvin nylon-synth guitar, scatting up a storm and singing on original tunes like “Bend or Break” and “I Know.”

Oliver is essentially a one-man band-with all the sounds he makes you half expect a monkey to pop up onstage-although he does offer drummer and percussionist Humberto Vela for the show. The best songs from his four solo CDs are here, including “Magic World,” “First View,” “Chips and Salsa,” “Trade Winds,” “High Noon” and “Feeling Good.” There are also two new studio tracks on the CD, the vocal tune “This Fire” and “On the Upside,” with saxophonist Warren Hill. The DVD also features guitar demonstration and behind-the-scenes material. But what holds the project together are Oliver’s inviting songs and his easy rapport with his fans.

Originally Published September 1, 2008