Vital Information Has Much to Communicate

Vital Information’s press data describe the band as an “all-star soul/jazz/rock super group.” OK. But even granting the fact that its members--drummer-leader Steve Smith, keyboardist Tom Coster, guitarist Frank Gambale and bassist Baron Browne--have a collective resume that includes gigs with the likes of Journey, Chick Corea, Santana and Billy Cobham, that’s a lot of hyperbole for anyone to have to live up to.

Fortunately on Thursday, in the opening set of a four-night run at Catalina Bar & Grill, Vital Information clarified matters, explaining, via their music, that they really are a first-rate contemporary jazz ensemble. Galvanized by the explosive but never intrusive drumming of Smith and the multi-textured sounds of Coster’s keyboards, the band--their program enhanced by the presence of saxophonist Bill Evans--played with an energy and imagination that made over-hyped press statements superfluous.

Smith’s relaxed manner and easygoing interaction with the full-house crowd was an additional asset, as was his programming of the set. Balancing his selections well, he juxtaposed energetic, often funk-driven originals against a brief, well-crafted solo drum feature and an atmospheric number, “Europe,” featuring Coster on accordion.

Evans’ presence was also a plus. A veteran of Miles Davis’ electric band of the early ‘80s, his fluent, virtuosic artistry on tenor and soprano saxophones has been heard mostly in Europe in recent years. Stretching out on his own piece, “Van’s Joint,” and the final “The Perfect Date,” his soloing was driven by a richly emotional subtext, interspersing passionate blues shouts and fast-fingered runs with warm-toned, middle-register melodies.

At its best, his playing underscored the fact that Evans deserves a much wider hearing beyond his usual European circuit. His superlative alliance with Vital Information sounded like the perfect vehicle to make that happen.

Vital Information with special guest Bill Evans at Catalina Bar & Grill, 1640 N. Cahuenga Blvd. Tonight at 8:30 and 10:30; Sunday at 7:30 and 9:30 p.m., $18 cover. Two-drink minimum. (323) 466-2210.