Blending Jazz With R & B, Pop

For the past several years, Tuck Andress and Patti Cathcart have been spreading their own special gospel, blending jaz& B and pop. They travel light but make a big, warm sound.

Tuck & Patti started out as a popular attraction in the Bay Area, and were scooped up as part of the roster of the Windham Hill jazz label. The duo caught on and has since put out albums and toured the globe.

The pair will hit the Ventura Theatre on Friday, with Tom Kell as opening act.

In addition to the reputation the duo has built up, Andress has gained attention among guitar aficionados for his unique guitar style, releasing solo guitar albums and earning top honors in magazine polls. He combines rich jazz chords with percussive techniques and subtle phrasing that make up for the lack of a band.

Between Cathcart’s musky and soulful voice and Andress’ instrumental prowess, Tuck & Patti is one of the biggest little duos around.

The Ventura Theatre is at 26 S. Chestnut St. in Ventura. Show time is at 9 p.m. and tickets are $17.50. For tickets or more information, call 648-1888.