Two of instrumental music’s most iconic figures, Bob James and Dave Koz, will be embarking on a U.S. tour this spring in support of their upcoming duet album, Just Us, set for release on March 7 via Just Koz Entertainment. The “Just Us” tour will feature an intimate performance of piano and saxophone, showcasing the raw, acoustic beauty of their collaboration. The tour kicks off in James’s hometown of Traverse City, MI, on March 13 at The Alluvion and will include a performance at Lincoln Center in New York City on March 20, wrapping up on April 1 at Seattle’s Jazz Alley. See full tour itinerary below.
The album was recorded in Traverse City, MI, where James and Koz stripped away all the bells and whistles of a traditional studio setting, leaving only the purest form of music: just the piano and saxophone. Koz, known for his smooth saxophone stylings and mastery of contemporary jazz, shared his enthusiasm about the project: “Recording this album with Bob James was one of the greatest life (and music) experiences for me – I learned so much from this treasure of a man. This duet project is just acoustic piano and saxophone, in all their raw beauty. Talk about being vulnerable! But with Bob at the piano, all concern goes away…like playing on a bed of clouds. I can’t wait to perform these songs with him in front of a live audience.”
James, a jazz legend and influential figure in instrumental music, also reflected on the experience: “This is a totally unplugged and, as partner Dave points out, vulnerable set. Both he and I have had the good fortune to record many times with great rhythm sections and sophisticated production. This time out all that is stripped away, and it’s just us. We hope the intimacy of these musical one-to-one conversations conveys the spirit we both felt. It was a unique opportunity for me to collaborate and be inspired by the passionate romanticism of my duo partner.”
Bob James is a Grammy-winning pianist, composer, and arranger known for his groundbreaking work in jazz and smooth jazz. His influence on the genre has been far-reaching, with over 30 albums to his name. James is renowned for his distinctive blend of jazz, classical, and R&B, and he has collaborated with an impressive roster of artists, including Grover Washington Jr., Earl Klugh, and David Sanborn. His composition Angela, the theme song for the television show Taxi, remains one of his signature pieces. James’s music has shaped the sound of contemporary jazz, earning him both commercial and critical acclaim.
Dave Koz is a celebrated saxophonist and one of the defining figures of contemporary jazz. Known for his smooth, melodic playing, Koz has released over a dozen albums and earned multiple Grammy nominations throughout his career. His collaborations with top artists such as Luther Vandross, Barry White, and Kenny Loggins have further solidified his status as one of the genre's most beloved performers. Koz's warm, expressive sound has made him a favorite on the contemporary jazz scene, and his tours have reached audiences worldwide.
"Just Us" Tour Dates:
3/13 – Traverse City, MI – The Alluvion
3/15 – Mesa, AZ – Mesa Arts Center
3/20 – New York, NY – Lincoln Center
3/22 – Chicago, IL – Studebaker Theatre
3/25 – Minneapolis, MN – The Parkway
4/1 – Seattle, WA – Jazz Alley
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