Concert Review: Lee Ritenour and Dave Grusin at Jazz Alley

Concert Review: Lee Ritenour and Dave Grusin
Venue: Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley
Date: August 25, 2015

I was fortunate to be able to attend the opening evening of jazz legends Lee Ritenour and Dave Grusin performing at Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley in Seattle on Tuesday night and both very accomplished musicians showed why they have been two of the greatest on their instruments and repertoire.

Just this week, Ritenour had released his new album, ‘A Twist Of Rit’, containing a selection of revisited classics featuring Dave Grusin and Ernie Watts. Last night’s performance at Dimitriou’s Jazz Alley kicked off a week long run for Lee Ritenour and Dave Grusin playing many of the compositions from this new album backed by bass guitarist Melvin Lee Davis and drummer Sonny Emory.

Ritenour , one of the greatest jazz guitarist around showed what has made him so fantastic. His playing style is smooth and effortless. Pulling out hot licks and jams, his playing can give you goose bumps and carry you away. Grusin has been known for his television composing career, but that just scratches the surface. Dave Grusin is a true class act, as he’s played with many of the greats including Quincy Jones, Sarah Vaughn and Carmen McRae. In the 1970’s he began recording with Lee Ritenour, which brings us full circle.

If you really want to experience the best, this is a concert that is not to be missed.