Thursday, February 28, 2008

2008 PLAYBOY JAZZ FESTIVAL

Bill Cosby is set for the role of the master of ceremonies at the 30th annual Playboy Jazz Festival at the Hollywood Bowl. Among the artists performing this year includes Herbie Hancock, Al Jarreau, Poncho Sanchez, Keb’ Mo’, Dr. John, and Dee Dee Bridgewater, among others. One of the most popular annual music festivals in Southern California, the Playboy Jazz Fest boasts a half-dozen straight-ahead jazz acts and musicians performing everything from funk to big band to Brazilian jazz to smooth jazz to blues.The June 14-15 festival will bring back Cosby, who has missed only three turns as host since the first presentation in Los Angeles in 1979.

The June 14 lineup includes the Poncho Sanchez Latin Jazz Band; the James Moody Quartet; Dr. John; R and R featuring Rick Braun and Richard Elliot; Hirmoi's Sonicbloom; Sherrie Maricle and the Diva Jazz Orchestra; and pianist Robert Glasper. Emcee Bill Cosby will again oversee the Cos of Good Music, which this year will feature Ambrose Akinmusire, Dwayne Burno, Ndugu Chancler, Benny Green, Billy Harper, Jerry Peters and David T. Walker.

Herbie Hancock will appear with bassist Dave Holland, drummer Vinnie Colaiuta and guitarist Lionbel Loueke, plus saxophonist Chris Potter on June 15, day two of the fest. Al Jarreau and Tower of Power are first-day headliners. Besides Hancock, the June 15 lineup features Keb' Mo', Roy Hargrove Big Band, Guitars & Saxes, Ivan Lins with Oscar Castro-Neves, Plena Libre, Ryan Shaw and the View Park Prep Jazz Ensemble.

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