Soulive - Bowlive: Live at the Brooklyn Bowl

Soulive - Bowlive: Live at the Brooklyn Bowl is an energetic and charismatic music documentary that captures a milestone event for the talented jazz-funk trio, Soulive consisting of Alan Evans on drums, Neal Evans on keys, and Eric Krasno on guitar. A scintillating show from their annual "Bowlive" residency at the venerable Brooklyn Bowl venue, the film is replete with electrifying performances, in-depth interviews, and backstage footage that offer a well-rounded perspective on a vibrant fixture of modern funk and soul.

The movie, released in 2011, is both an immersive concert experience and a meticulous, intimate portrait of the band. The bright, kinetic energy of the live performances is offset by the film's understanding of the band's history, ethos, and creative process. Fans will be intrigued by the opportunity to gain insights into the band's narrative, from their earliest gigs at rock clubs to their eventual ascendance in the realm of soul-jazz.

The storyline commences by tracing the roots of this musical group, detailing how the individual members found their musical calling and converged to create the Soulive sound. Alan, Neal, and Eric each have compelling backstory that lends added depth and dimension to their music. From there, the documentary transitions seamlessly to the main event – the Bowlive concerts.

The film provides tantalizing glimpses of the stellar guest artists like Nigel Hall, who joined Soulive on stage during these particular Bowlive sessions. The guest musicians - accomplished artists in their own right - contribute their unique flavors and elevate every session to a new high. Special mention goes to Nigel Hall, whose guest performance on vocals and keyboard, perfectly compliments the core trio's cohesive and magical performance.

The performances themselves are beautifully shot and expertly edited. The film utilizes multiple camera angles to communicate the dynamism and excitement of the live shows. The footage captures the spirit and excitement of both the musicians on stage and the audiences, delivering it directly to the viewer. The magic is in the minutiae; from Alan's drumming prowess, Neal's dexterity on the keys, to the ecstatic faces of the fans as they groove to the music, the film captures everything precisely.

What stands out in "Soulive - Bowlive: Live at the Brooklyn Bowl," beyond the musical virtuosity on display, is the sense of camaraderie and mutual chord struck between the band and its audience. It is an intimate affair full of love, respect, and shared passion for the music. You can feel the palpable connection between the audience and the band, showcasing the truly heartfelt community that Bowlive has fostered over the years.

Equally notable are the interview segments dotted throughout the film. These provide a closer examination of the band members, their influences, the formation of Soulive, their struggles, successes, visions, and ongoing artistic journey. Conversations with guest musicians further accentuate the respect the trio commands in the musical fraternity. As the musicians talk candidly about their creative process, the viewer gets an intimate look at what goes behind the curtain in creating their trademark exhilarating sound.

An essential element of the documentary is, of course, the music. The soundtrack perfectly embodies the reputation Soulive has earned as a genre-defying trio. They blend elements of soul, jazz, funk, R&B, and rock to create their unique sound, whether it's an electrifying improvisational jam, soulful ballads, or groovy, dance-inducing numbers. This diverse range of influences is evident in the featured pieces, providing fans with a substantial dose of their irresistible sonic charisma.

In essence, Soulive - Bowlive: Live at the Brooklyn Bowl is more than just a concert film or a band documentary. It is a celebration of a music community coming together through a shared passion for soulful rhythms and good vibrations. It evokes a sense of joy and positivity that comes when talented musicians jam together, resulting in electrifying music that transcends and connects. Whether you're a longtime fan or new to the world of Soulive, this film is a testament to their enduring legacy in the music scene.