Acclaimed vocalist and veteran of the local music scene, Jeni Fleming will take the stage late this month with support from Eric Funk on piano and bassist John Sanders. The distinctive evening of music is set for Friday, September 27th, at the Filling Station. Two performances will be held at 7pm and 9pm. Concertgoers will delight to find Bozeman’s most treasured barroom transformed into a one-night-only jazz club, complete with a 6-foot grand piano perched beneath the iconic Mobil Pegasus.
Having spent much of her career playing theaters, the Filling Station has been a bucket list venue for Fleming, who finds meaning in repurposing unexpected songs for audiences typically well-acquainted with jazz sub-genres. The juxtaposition of candlelit cocktail tables set between the beer can-lined walls of the Filler offers sufficient foreshadowing of the music being offered. When one thinks of 80s hair metal band Def Leppard, chances are they don’t think – beautiful ballad. In the same way, utterances of “The Filling Station” to Bozemanites may not conjure – white linens & hushed tones. Herein lies the point: changing the form invites us to experience something again, for the first time, be that a song, a bar, or a singer.
Eric Funk is known for his success as a pianist, composer and beloved teacher. A mentor and colleague of Fleming, their work together extends nearly 30 years, including several appearances on 11th & Grant with Eric Funk, MT PBS’s multi Emmy-award winning television program. His many roles in and varied connections to this community, musical and otherwise, transcend genre, generation or discipline, making Funk an immeasurable treasure to the Northwest cultural landscape.
John Sanders has built a steady and enviable career over two decades becoming a much sought after bassist in the area. He currently plays for upwards of 8 bands at any given time, including Pinky & the Floyd and The Tiny Band. His most recent solo album, You & Me, showcases an obvious songwriting, multi-instrumental and vocal prowess.
Marrying unexpected material with traditional style is a hallmark of Fleming’s creative work. While environment certainly alters experience, time in all its power and meaning can transform it. At 50, Fleming performs substantially less than in years past, but when she does she gladly and unapologetically brings all parts of herself to the table.
One of Bozeman’s precious few unchanged landmarks, surprising musical selections, delivered by a familiar, powerful and inviting voice. Doors at 6:30pm and 8:30pm, respectively. Limited seating with advance tickets only at www.brownpapertickets.com. Don’t miss this one-night-only performance. •
