Pianist and bandleader William “Chan” Hall’s silky smooth assessments of genre-blending jazz — a fusion of R&B, funk, soul and pop — are ear candy to anyone who grew up listening to Herbie Hancock, Chick Corea or George Duke. The North Carolina native has been playing music since he was 15, and his appreciation and understanding of the vast expanse of jazz and its effect on popular music is evident in his nuanced playing. His 2011 release, “Dreaming Afterdark,” is modern update of “After Midnight” meditations with tunes such as the funky, soul-jazz workout “Conversation,” and the gospel-tinged, Stevie Wonder-inspired love letter “Loving You,” showcasing the depth of his range and talent. Relaxing without being stupefying, Chan Hall and his group let the sunshine out Thursday, July 2, at Crossroads Coffee and Ice Cream. Showtime is at 8 p.m. Free.