L4LM had a chance to listen to the new live release from Alan Evans’ PLAYONBROTHER, and it did not disappoint. The audio from the live studio session is exceptionally crisp, and the three musicians play like there’s no tomorrow. Funky rock music at its absolute finest.

After longtime organist Beau Sasser left the band, drummer Alan Evans and guitarist Danny Mayer practiced with Mayer’s old bandmate, Kris Yunker. After two hours of jamming, the trio embarked on a lengthy summer tour. Just a few shows in, they stopped at the Evergroove studios in Evergreen, CO, and the resulting session was simply magic.

We had the privilege of sitting down with Evans and discussing all these recent developments. Check it out below:

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L4LM: It seems you were eager to keep on playing after the departure of long-time Playonbrother organist Beau Sasser. How did you decide on Kris Yunker?

AE: There was no choice but to keep it moving.  This is my band and my vision and I guess I’m pretty stubborn when it comes to that, Hahaha.  In all seriousness, I’m doing what I love and there are always going to be some challenges.  You just have to keep it moving.

L4LM: You only rehearsed for two hours before hitting the road. Was the chemistry really that great?

AE: Yes!!!  Danny and Kris have been playing together for a long time and they both really understand my vocabulary as a writer and performer. 

L4LM:  Has the band’s style shifted at all with the new lineup?

AE: The band’s style has been changing for a while now but with Kris coming on board, the sound and style has really been solidified.  It’s amazing thing when a band is firing on all cylinders.  You really feel like you can do anything.

L4LM: What’s it like playing without a bassist?

AE: I don’t know, hahaha.  Kris is an amazing bassist.  It’s like playing with my brother Neal.  True there is no electric bass guitar on stage but there is more bass than most bands I run into.  The thing I love about playing with a keyboardist who kills it on bass keys is that the harmonic base of the group is so solid yet can move at the drop of a dime.  It’s just it’s own thing.

L4LM: Playonbrother just released a new EP, Live from Evergroove Studio in Evergreen, CO. What prompted you to release it?

AE: We had no idea how magical that session was going to be and after listening back to it that night it was obvious we had to put it out.  I’ve been working on a new studio album that will be coming out late September but I’m a firm believer that everything happens for a reason and when it’s supposed to.  It’s amazing that this EP was our 4th time playing together as a band and I wanted to share that magic with everyone. 

L4LM: The whole EP grooves from cover to cover, quite the enjoyable listen. Is this just a small taste of what fans can expect throughout your extensive tour?

AE: This is definitely a great representation of what we are doing out on tour.  Just turn it up as loud as you can and you’ll get close but the best thing to do is to come and see us live!!

L4LM:Is it a challenge to sing and play the drums?

AE: No, it’s not a challenge at all actually.  I’ve been singing and playing for a long time.  I don’t even think about it.  I just do what feels good.

L4LM: Aside from Playonbrother, you’re also a renowned Soulive member and music producer. How do you find the time to balance all of these projects?

AE: Good question.  Thanks goodness for Google Calendars, Hahaha.  I guess I’ve learned over the years how to make time for everything in my life.  It can be challenging at times but luckily my wife keeps me in check.  Without her I’d be a complete mess!!

L4LM: What else should L4LM readers know about Playonbrother and the new EP?

AE: Well just keep your ears and eyes posted for the new album this fall but for now, I hope people dig the new EP and help us spread the word about PLAYONBROTHER.  I’ve never been happier about what is going on in my musical career and I hope that my music brings some happiness to all who check it out.  That’s what it’s all about….

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You can check out the new Playonbrother recording via the band’s BandCamp page, and check out the band on their official website.

-David Melamed (@DMelamz)