“For many of his fans, Bob James is to jazz what James Brown is to R&B — the music and the musician go hand in hand.” (NPR Music) From his early years touring with Sarah Vaughan to founding smooth jazz supergroup Fourplay, U-M alumnus Bob James has explored a vast stretch of musical territory. A leading force in 1970s crossover jazz, the keyboardist, composer, and producer played an essential role on a series of hit records and has had a profound effect on the history of hip-hop music, with two of his songs among the most sampled in hip-hop history. James’s most recent album, Quartette Humaine, was recorded a month after Dave Brubeck’s death and pays tribute to the iconic pianist. His long-awaited homecoming will feature concert materials drawn from James’s extensive songbook, including tunes from his CTI Records catalog and Dave Brubeck compositions. A UMS debut.

Guitarist Perry Hughes is a Detroit native and resident. He recently performed under UMS auspices as part of the Cass Corridor to the World project during our 2012-2013 season. Bassist Carlitos del Puerto is the son of legendary Cuban bassist and Irakere founding member Carlos Del Puerte. Among his many musical accomplishments, drummer Harvey Mason counts being legendary guitarist and vocalist George Benson’s drummer on 1976′s #1 hit album, Breezin.’  New York City-based saxophonist Andy Snitzer also tours with the Rolling Stones.

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Also see Bob James website

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