Half a century into their groundbreaking career, Spyro Gyra have gifted fans Jubilee, a 16-track retrospective capturing the spark and soul of their earliest years. Since forming in Buffalo, New York in 1974, Spyro Gyra have defined jazz fusion, blending jazz with R&B, funk, and pop influences to shape contemporary jazz in the ’80s and ’90s. With Jubilee, the band offer a sonic celebration of those trailblazing first ten years, revisiting the core of what established them as genre giants.

At the heart of Jubilee is the new track “50/50,” a high-energy nod to their 1997 album 20/20 that marked two decades and 20 albums. Here, “50/50” captures Spyro Gyra’s signature mix of polished jazz finesse and infectious groove, a fresh reminder of the playful, inventive style that’s kept the band at the top of their game. It’s a fitting capstone to a collection that reflects Spyro Gyra’s essence and legacy. Bandleader Jay Beckenstein, the iconic alto saxophonist and founding member, views Jubilee as both a retrospective and an homage to the band’s early identity. “This collection ties up our first 50 years and gives newer fans a window into the decade where our sound was truly born,” says Beckenstein. With that foundation firmly established, Spyro Gyra have only refined their style in the 40 years since, developing a core sound that still captivates audiences today.

Tracks like “Shaker Song” and “Morning Dance” feature prominently on Jubilee, two chart-toppers that helped define Spyro Gyra’s global reach. While these hits remain staples on smooth jazz radio, they’re also beloved live anthems, connecting longtime fans and new listeners in sold-out shows worldwide. For Beckenstein, that continuity in sound - from early studio recordings to today’s performances - is testament to a shared spirit. Alongside Beckenstein, keyboardist Tom Schuman remains a constant force in the band, with guitarist Julio Fernandez now marking his third decade in the group.

Jubilee also features rare photos and liner notes by veteran music journalist Jonathan Widran, giving fans an intimate look at the band’s journey from small clubs to global stages. For Spyro Gyra, this 50-year milestone is a bridge between the past and an ever-evolving future. And with more than 30 albums, over 10 million albums sold, and 100 live shows a year, the legacy of Spyro Gyra’s musical journey shows no signs of slowing down.