Adam Levy Trio

Adam Levy Trio at Zinc Bar, February 24, 2025

Adam Levy’s guitar playing is from another planet. There’s no other way to describe it. On the evening of February 24, 2025, the Zinc Bar was transformed into a celestial soundscape as Levy, alongside Kenny Wollesen on drums and Vicente Archer on double bass, delivered a performance that was nothing short of transcendent.

The Warmth of a Rare Artist

Adam Levy is that rare artist who radiates a special warmth, both in his music and his presence. Known for his work with Norah Jones—yes, that Adam Levy, the one who famously scribbled his number on a napkin, got the call, and went on to tour the world and feature on her next three albums—Levy brought that same effortless magic to the intimate setting of Zinc Bar. His playing was a masterclass in nuance and emotion, each note resonating with a depth that only comes from decades of artistry.

Letting the Music Breathe

Levy has a gift for letting the music breathe on its own, gently guiding it rather than overpowering it. Few guitarists can achieve this delicate balance, but Levy makes it seem effortless. He didn’t just play; he created space—space for Kenny Wollesen’s drums to dance, for Vicente Archer’s double bass to sing, and for the collective energy of the trio to rise and fall like a living, breathing entity. It was in these moments of restraint, these pockets of air, that the true magic happened. The synergies between these incredible musicians emerged organically, each one given the freedom to shine while seamlessly blending into the whole.

A Trio in Perfect Harmony

This wasn’t just a solo showcase; the trio was a force of nature. Kenny Wollesen, Levy’s longtime friend and fellow California-to-New York transplant, was a revelation on drums. Their chemistry, forged since their youth, was palpable—a seamless interplay that felt like watching two old friends finish each other’s sentences. Vicente Archer’s double bass provided the perfect anchor, his rich, resonant lines weaving through Levy’s melodies and Wollesen’s rhythms with impeccable precision.

Together, they crafted a sound that was both intimate and expansive—a journey weaving through jazz, blues, and beyond. The two sets were anchored by songs from Levy’s latest album, Spry, but also ventured into gems from his earlier works. A standout moment came with their soulful rendition of the jazz standard Skylark, a performance that felt both fresh and timeless.

Spellbound and Unforgettable

The audience was spellbound, hanging on every note, every groove, every moment of improvisation. It was a night that reminded us why we love live music—raw, unfiltered, and utterly human. Adam Levy, Kenny Wollesen, and Vicente Archer didn’t just play a concert; they shared an experience. And for those lucky enough to be in the room, it was nothing short of an unforgettable Monday evening.

Read more about Adam Levy on his website.

Until next time, Zinc Bar. Keep bringing us the magic.