Soulive

Soulive is a definitive bridge between the traditional soul-jazz organ trio and the modern jam band circuit. Formed in 1999 in Woodstock, New York, the trio consists of Eric Krasno, Alan Evans, and Neal Evans.

Their sound identity is built on the Hammond B3 organ, specifically Neal Evans' ability to play bass lines on the pedals while comping chords, a technique that gives the band a uniquely thick and unified low end. Musically, they draw heavily from the 1960s soul-jazz era (Jimmy Smith, Wes Montgomery) but infuse it with the rhythmic sensibilities of hip-hop and neo-soul. Their signing to Blue Note Records in the early 2000s signaled a critical validation of their 'acid jazz' approach. Over two decades, they have evolved from a lean instrumental trio to a collaborative powerhouse, frequently incorporating horn sections and vocalists. Their annual 'Bowlive' residency at the Brooklyn Bowl has become a cultural touchstone for the New York funk scene, cementing their position as curators of modern groove music. Critical consensus highlights their technical virtuosity and their role in revitalizing instrumental funk for a younger, festival-going audience.