Америкалық джаз тобы – The Rippingtons туралы

American jazz band

The Rippingtons were an American contemporary jazz group, mainly relating to the genres smooth jazz, jazz fusion, jazz pop, and crossover jazz. Formed in 1985 by guitarist and band leader Russ Freeman, their career has spanned more than three decades. With a revolving door of musicians, Freeman has been the only consistent member. They have inspired many other bands including "The Stolen Cat Club." Many of their songs have been played during The Weather Channel's Local on the 8s forecast segments. The band's mascot is a grinning, sunglasses wearing jazz cat which appears in the artwork of all the band's releases and on their official website.

In 2000, Russ Freeman relocated to South Florida and the move was reflected thematically in Life in the Tropics. This was the group's first album to be recorded digitally. In 2001, Scott Breadman, Bill Heller, Dave Karasony, and Eric Marienthal joined the group and the following tour was documented on the live album Live Across America. In 2003, the group released Let It Ripp, featuring the title cut, which became a hit. In 2005, the group released Wild Card, which plays on their ongoing Latin influences. The album features guest vocal spots by Latin music stars Willy Chirino, Chante Moore, and Albita. In 2006, the group celebrated their 20th anniversary by releasing 20th Anniversary, a two disc set which includes the main CD as well as a 20th Anniversary Retrospective DVD. On March 10, 2009, the Rippingtons made a return to the contemporary jazz scene with the release of the album Modern Art. A new bassist, Ricardo "Rico" Belled, participated in the recording of this album. Modern Art was nominated for a Grammy in the category "Best Pop Instrumental Album." In October 2009, the Rippingtons returned to Japan to perform four nights (eight gigs) at the Cotton Club in Tokyo. This was their first time return to Japan in 18 years.

In 2011, the Rippingtons took listeners to the French coast with the thematic album, Côte D'Azur. The album features French, Latin, Gypsy and Euro rhythms. Saxophonist Jeff Kashiwa is featured on the album (he returned for the second album in a row.) The group released Built To Last on August 28, 2012, featuring Zakk Wylde, a full orchestra, and elements of jazz, rock, pop and country. This album was the first for the Rippingtons under its new partnership with E1 Music.