A Quartet Playing…

Call it what you will

As much as anything the contemporary jazz movement pushed discussions about “what is jazz?”

Well, jazz is definitely an improvisational music based on the blues developed in the United States with African origins.

From there we can have a conceptual free-for-all about the various elements and what makes what authentic. The players in the longstanding contemporary jazz band Fourplay have likely heard it all.

Bob James, Nathan East, Harvey Mason and Chuck Loeb are all accomplished professional musicians who know exactly what they’re doing when they hit the bandstand.

Keyboardist and producer James has played all types of jazz since beginning his career in the 1960s. Drummer Mason has played with Herbie Hancock’s most popular bands and recorded with both Barbra Streisand and Notorious B.I.G (now there’s a great duet concept album), bassist East has backed artists ranging from Barry White to Eric Clapton.

So, Fourplay, contemporary jazz? Discuss among yourselves. Fourplay performs at Radisson Hotel Sacramento Grove, 500 Leisure Lane, at 6:30 p.m. Sunday. For more information, call (800) 595-4849 or go to www.huskyshows.com