The L.A. Four (1974-1983)
Ray Brown - His Life and Music - Jay Sweet
Jay Sweet [+]
musician, educator and writer
Jay Sweet is a professional jazz bassist, educator, writer, and researcher. Currently, he teaches bass instruction and courses in Jazz History, American Music History, and Music Appreciation at Monmouth University in West Long Branch, New Jersey. He has also taught several related courses at Middlesex College and Rutgers University. In addition, he is the owner and director of Sweet Music Academy, where he and his fantastic staff of highly trained instructors have taught well over 3,500 students through his efforts. Along with teaching, Jay Sweet is an active performer who has performed and recorded with several noted artists. Most recently, he has worked as a contributing editor of Jersey Jazz Magazine and released the book A History of American Music: An Origin Story 1750-1950 (Kendall Hunt).
Jay Sweet holds degrees from Berklee College of Music (B.M.) and Rutgers University (M.M.). He is also the host of the popular podcasts 30 Albums For 30 Years (1964-1994) and The Jazz Real Book.
Jay Sweet holds degrees from Berklee College of Music (B.M.) and Rutgers University (M.M.). He is also the host of the popular podcasts 30 Albums For 30 Years (1964-1994) and The Jazz Real Book.
Description
In the 1970s, Ray Brown collaborated with Brazilian guitarist Laurindo Almeida on the album Bach Ground Blues & Green, which gave rise to the L.A. Four with Almeida, Bud Shank, and Shelly Manne in 1974. The L.A. Four evolved into a versatile group, blending bossa nova, swing, classical, blues, and funk. Despite challenges in the U.S. jazz scene, their albums showcased Brown's musical development. When drummer Jeff Hamilton joined, he added a new dynamic to the group before they disbanded in the early '80s.