Review: Adrian Younge at The Grey Eagle

An eager audience was treated to a dynamic performance from multi-hyphenate artist Adrian Younge and his on-stage family of performers on June 23 at The Grey Eagle. 

The LA-based frontman brought his unique blend of jazz, soul, hip-hop, and traditional Brazilian music to Asheville, receiving an impassioned response from the appreciative crowd. Younge’s latest project, Something About April III, serves as the final installment in a trilogy of albums inspired by the 1960s and ’70s Brazilian records he has long collected and sampled. The evening’s setlist drew heavily from this trilogy and was brought to life by his talented, multi-national band.

Strings, horns, percussion, bass, electric guitar, and keys each took turns in the spotlight throughout the night, especially during an extended jam session that paid tribute to the “samples” echoing in each musician’s mind. A particular highlight was an electrifying saxophone solo by Spanish artist Alicia Camiña, which culminated in a foray into the audience and embodied the evening’s spirit of connection and spontaneity.

The inventive, varied setlist offered something for everyone; nearly every audience member was on their feet and moving throughout the show. Between songs, Younge shared entertaining anecdotes about his winding career path, offering insightful context for his distinctive sound. Both vocal and instrumental numbers were met with equal enthusiasm, and The Grey Eagle’s intimate atmosphere further deepened the connection between artist and crowd.

As the final notes faded, the buzz in the room was palpable. Everyone seemed to agree that seeing such a talented ensemble in such a close, inviting setting — especially on a Monday night — was a rare and special treat.

(Photos by Micah Rogers)