Ray Brown Sparks a Jazz Renaissance

When it comes to veteran jazz bassists, few can match the resume of Ray Brown, who has been supplying his solid playing behind the cream of the jazz crop since the 1940s. Currently, Brown is enjoying the renaissance of straight ahead jazz as a still very active senior member of the scene.

Brown will bring his latest trio, featuring the notable young pianist Benny Green and drummer Jeff Hamilton, to Wheeler Hot Springs, 16825 Maricopa Highway in Ojai on Sunday.

Fittingly, pianist Green taps into a vintage style of mainstream jazz-playing similar to some of the seasoned jazz greats who Brown has accompanied, including Hank Jones and, especially, Oscar Peterson. Brown teamed with Peterson beginning in the ‘50s, and credits his influence with establishing the bassist’s career.

Hamilton is one of the finest jazz drummers in Los Angeles, and co-leads a big band with John Clayton, in addition to playing other gigs.

Tickets for the 7 p.m. show are $45 per person for dinner and the concert--with dinner served from 5 p.m. on--or $20 for just the concert. For more information, call 646-8131.