Eric Brewer & Friends End their "Saxless" Stretch at the Kings Rook Club

Saturday, March 19

Eric Brewer & Friends are wonderful chaps. These fantastic fellows, who play in several different bands, also happen to be some of the most talented musicians in town. If you haven't seen at least one of them playing out live, you truly need to get out more. Brewer is arguably the best guitarist in the region. His playing has a natural fluidity, mixed with the occasional lightning-fast lick. A prolific sideman, he's able to fit in perfectly playing a myriad of styles with a befuddling degree of authenticity.

As a bandleader, Brewer has zeroed in on just the right platform, blending a modern mix of jam, fusion, and danceable rock and roll. Fans of Phish or Dave Matthews Band will have an immediate affinity for the band. Even the most cynical indie rocker will be won over, however, by their infectious musicianship. Lately though, they've been living a relatively saxless lifestyle. Saturday at the Kings Rook Club will mark the return of tenor saxophone player, Joe Cieslak. Two years ago marked his last official show with the band, at the Oasis Pub. Relocating to North Carolina, he would occasionally pop back up to town for a set or two. He's back in town once again though, and the music scene has a reason to be grateful. Cieslak's dexterous versatility brought a unique element to the band. Concerning his upcoming homecoming, he noted that he's "Just glad to be back playing with my mates again full time. Looking forward to seeing all the kids dancing. Playing for them brings me great joy. It'll be the first time I have played at the Rook, so that'll be a blast, too. Expect all the madness you love from us!" Be sure to get there earlier, to see the new, spacey, reggae sounds of Inward Focus, as they start off the night. – Nick Warren

10 p.m. - 2 a.m. // Kings Rook Club, 1921 Peach St. // Free Admission with Member ID