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| Holiday Kick Off with Planet Groove Soul Jazz Alley Kat Jazz Lounge is kicking of the holiday celebrations on November 14, 2009 by featuring Planet Groove, "the baddest band in the soul jazz universe." "The holidays are upon us, and Southern California jazz is alive and well in the Inland Empire, " states Andy Morales, band leader of Planet Groove. "Alley Kat Jazz Lounge and Planet Groove Soul Jazz is proof that the good things never die." Alley Kat Jazz Lounge is one of the premiere live music destinations for music lovers in the Southern California area where Inland Empire local musicians and music lovers feel at home exhibiting their talents. Seasoned musicians flock to this cozy destination, as well as raw talent who clamor for local recognition. A hidden gem in the Southern California jazz circuit, Alley Kat has attracted the attention of notable jazz musicians and jazz lovers alike. With the ambiance of premier jazz clubs such as the Blue Note in New York or the Jazz Café in Paris, it boasts excellent acoustics with high ceilings, brick walls, and a classy spot to order a martini, white merlot, or a red stripe from the friendly waiters and bartenders while you listen to polished musicians show off their art. A locally owned family business, Alley Kat Jazz Lounge provides a personal touch with their guests. "Whenever I go to Alley Kat, it's like that bar, Cheers - where everybody knows your name, " states Jody James with a chuckle, a local patron from Redlands. On Saturday, November 14th. Alley Kat is kicking off the Holiday Celebrations with their "Holiday Kickoff" with the Planet Groove Soul Jazz Band. Planet Groove is a Soul-Jazz Band comprised of a group of talented musicians from the Southern California area. As the band leader for Planet Groove and drummer, Andy Morales has toured with Jewel and many other artists worldwide and is able to perform in any genre, from rock, alternative, soul and jazz. Stephen Phillips, an ultra-talented bass-player has excellent improvisational sensibilities. He graduated with a degree from the Musicians Institute in Hollywood and has done session work with multiple recording artists. Bunny, on Lead Vocals was classically trained since the age of 5. This songstress, composer and pianist provides Planet Groove its sultry Soul-Jazz vibe with her powerful, earthy and smooth lead vocals. About to release her CD, Soul Music, Bunny brings a wealth of experience in live performances at local venues and continues to collaborate with other talented artists worldwide. Cynthia Moore, background vocals provide the backdrop for this band's jazzy vocal renderings. Chris Gonzaque is Planet Groove's lead guitarist. His impressive prolific career includes performances with Bloodstone, Ike & Tina Turner, and The Fourth House (Original band) in Tokyo, Japan. Another valuable addition to the Planet Groove family, Chris has an uncanny ability to transform arrangements to unique renderings in the style of Jimi Hendrix, BB King, Wes Montgomery, George Benson, Lee Ritenour, and Norman Brown to name a few. Bennie Harrison Brown, on keyboards, started playing the piano at the age of 8. His rare gift and musical ability sent him touring throughout the US, Canada, & Europe. Bennie is the heart of Planet Groove's Blues, R&B, Gospel, Jazz & Soul sound. A true traveling musician who has performed with artists such as Tyrone Davis, Denise Laselle, and Otis Clay, he has opened for artist such as BB King, Maze, The Gap Band, Aretha Franklin, Bobby Bland, and James Brown. Planet Groove Soul Jazz Band is comprised of a group of talented musicians based in Southern California. write your comments about the article :: © 2009 Jazz News :: home page |