Two leading American figures in jazz fusion will give a Tokyo performance in collaboration with one of Japan's foremost orchestras on Oct. 2 at the Sumida Triphony Hall in Sumida Ward.
Guitarist Lee Ritenour (b. 1952) has been active as an instrumental pop musician, sometimes with Brazilian flavor, a la Wes Montgomery. After touring with Sergio Mendes in the 1970s, Ritenour became a very busy studio guitarist both with his groups and other artists, recording a number of albums.
Dave Grusin (b. 1934) is a highly versatile musician, active as a performer, producer, composer, arranger and bandleader. He composed many pieces for film and television soundtracks. His piano performances range from mildly challenging to competent routines. He played electric keyboard with Ritenour in the mid-'70s, then helped to establish GRP Records, which developed into one of the top contemporary-jazz and fusion labels.
Their 1986 album "Harlequin" won a Grammy Award and was followed by the hit "Two World" in 2000. With their latest album, "Amparo — Two World Vol. 2," the pair have set out on their current world tour.
The upcoming concert is divided into two parts: a session with the two and the string section of the New Japan Philharmonic, including classical numbers; and their quartet with bassist Abraham Laboriel and drummer Will Kennedy, who collaborate with the full orchestra, featuring film music.
The concert takes place Oct. 2 at 7 p.m. at the Sumida Triphony Hall. Tickets are ¥6,500 and ¥7,500, and are available at Triphony Hall Ticket Center. For more information, call (03) 5608-1212 or visit www.triphony.com
