Stepping Out

All the right notes at the Long Beach Jazz Festival

A jazzy prelude to fall

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The Long Beach Jazz Festival’s vibrant sounds can be heard throughout the weekend in the City by the Sea, beginning Thursday and concluding Sunday, Sept. 21.
Once again, a world-class group of musicians will take to the stage at the Long Beach Public Library, along with other local venues, for some spirited music-making.
“The festival has become an institution here,” says Steve Adelson, its longtime producer. “Now that we are entering our second decade, we have a large pool of all-star musicians to choose from, many of whom have excited our audiences in the past, along with some renowned artists who are new to LBJF. “
“It’s been a very gratifying experience to bring together creative musicians and enthusiastic music lovers who have a mutual admiration for each other. It’s also wonderful to keep this a free event, especially during Long Beach’s remarkable recovery after Superstorm Sandy. As always, the festival could not take place without the fantastic support of our sponsors. This adds to the community spirit that LBJF personifies.”
The festival’s 12th edition is bigger and better than ever, according to Adelson, attracting a diverse group of acclaimed talents. “The variety of music and creative spirit will astound the avid jazz fan as well as first-time listeners,” he enthuses. “I as well am a huge fan of all these great musicians.As in previous years, we anticipate overflow crowds for each set.”
The festival welcomes back some of its favorite “alumni” along with some special guests this year. Those returning include festival regular Chieli Minucci with Special EFX, Bakithi Kumalo (an integral part of Paul Simon’s Graceland Band), Frank Vignola, renowned keyboardist Rachel Z and her group, and local legend Dean Brown.
“My good friend Chieli will be bringing back his legendary band that has been together for 31 years. He continues to tour with Bernie Williams as well. And this year I have the pleasure of presenting a special band of my own known as the Stick-Tet Power Trio, featuring the Ucci Brothers, who are Chieli Minucci and Frank Bellucci. Other guests who will join our set include Nydia “Liberty” Mata and David Langlois.”
“Bakithi is coming off a successful tour with Paul Simon and Sting. He’s responsible for the catchy bass line on such songs as “You Can Me Al” and “Diamonds on the Soles of Her Shoes.” He also has done tours with Derek Trucks and continues to be an in-demand bassist.”
“The Frank Vignola and Vinnie Raniolo Duo has been a crowd favorite since debuting at LBJF in 2012. Frank spent eight years performing with Les Paul and continues to tour worldwide. Dean Brown, a local music hero, continues to record and tour, showcasing his special brand of music.”
“Community involvement is also important to us. We are proud to present the Long Beach High School Jazz Band this year,” Adelson states.
A special returnee, after a five-year absence, is guitar virtuoso Ben Lacy. “Ben has astounded audiences with his acrobatic guitar skills,” Adelson says. “He has changed the way people look at guitar playing,”
Performers new to the this year’s roster include the Bucky Pizzarelli, Al Caiola and Ed Laub Guitar Trio, the Calvin Hill Trio, Jazzaphonic, and Muriel Anderson, along with surprise guest, Stanley Jordan.
“Bucky and Al represent the history of jazz guitar,” says Adelson. “Bucky is a pioneer of the seven string guitar. Al has many soundtrack recordings in his discography. This trio will be a crowd pleaser for sure. And Calvin has recorded and toured with jazz legends such as Max Roach and McCoy Tyner. His upright bass sound is huge. It’s sure to be swingin’ set!”
Adelson is especially pleased to bring Stanley Jordan, one of the guitar world’s most celebrated players, to Long Beach this year. “In the early ‘80s Stanley burst on the scene and revolutionized guitar playing,” said Adelson. “I have known Stanley for many years, having done some shows with him. It’s a distinct honor to have him perform at our local festival.”
Expect the unexpected, according to Adelson. “I look forward to our audiences experiencing high-level creativity. As I always say, don’t come to our festival to support the arts, come to be thoroughly entertained.”
The Long Beach Public Library, which remains the festival’s base, will present 14 sets of music over the four days. Other venues include eight nearby restaurants, the Long Beach Hotel and the Long Beach Historical Society.
“We so appreciate the efforts of Library Director George Trepp, the executive board and the Friends of the Library,” Adelson states. “The festival could not exist without support of the library and the generosity of our sponsors.”
Adelson, the acclaimed Chapman Stick player, performs on Saturday afternoon, playing original music from his newest CD “Sonic Imagination.” He will also be at Sugo restaurant on Saturday, for a dinner set, at 7 p.m., and leads the final jam session, Sunday night, at the Long Beach Hotel.

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