(All Concert Photos by Sheryl Aronson)
On January 19, 2024, bass enthusiasts and jazz lovers were treated to a once-in-a-lifetime experience at the Catalina Jazz Club, where legendary bassist Bunny Brunel headlined the much-anticipated Bass Ball 2 CD release concert. The night brought together an extraordinary lineup of bass titans—Stanley Clarke, Kyle Eastwood, and Armand Sabal-Lecco—alongside a stellar supporting cast, including Larry Dunn and Kaylene Peoples, for a night that will go down in jazz history.
This was the most incredible concert! Who knew that bass players could bring it like that. I am familiar with all those players and never thought I’d see them all together on the same stage!
A Guest at the Event
The venue was buzzing with anticipation, as fans packed the club to witness this unprecedented collaboration of four iconic bassists sharing the stage. This was a historic moment, as these virtuosos—Brunel, Clarke, Eastwood, and Sabal-Lecco—had never performed together in a live setting before. As one audience member aptly remarked, “You could close your eyes and instantly recognize who was playing—each bassist brought a distinctive sound and style to the night.”
Bunny Brunel and Stanley Clarke, both pioneers of the jazz-fusion bass movement and key figures in the legacy of Chick Corea, played pivotal roles in shaping the instrument’s modern presence. Their performances, alongside Eastwood and Sabal-Lecco, were nothing short of epic, with each bassist showcasing their unique techniques and musical signatures. The evening’s repertoire ranged from jazz fusion to blues and Bossa Nova, creating a dynamic and engaging atmosphere.
The Collaborations: A Showcase of Musical Genius
Adding to the night’s brilliance was the appearance of Larry Dunn, the original keyboardist of Earth, Wind & Fire. Dunn brought his signature nostalgic sound to the stage, weaving in layers of soulful brilliance that enhanced the already captivating performances. His contribution to the evening, especially on the track “Changing” (the first single from Bass Ball 2), was a reminder of his lasting influence on jazz and funk.
On the opposite end of the sonic spectrum was Kaylene Peoples, a powerhouse vocalist and flutist, whose versatility brought an unexpected but welcome contrast. Her humor and charm captivated the crowd as she introduced herself, quipping, “I’m the treble amongst all this bass!” Peoples’ rendition of “The Girl from Ipanema”, with Brunel on bass, was a standout moment that seamlessly blended romantic Bossa Nova with the night’s bass-heavy focus. Later, she paid tribute to Chick Corea with an entrancing flute solo on “Spain,” adding yet another layer of sophistication to the performance.
An Unforgettable Night of Low-End Mastery
The evening kicked off with a warm welcome from comedian and TV writer Kevin Foster, who set the tone with humor and energy. Popular radio host Pat Prescott followed, emphasizing the importance of supporting live jazz and keeping the art form alive. With the audience primed and ready, the spotlight shifted to the bassists, as Bunny Brunel, Stanley Clarke, and Kyle Eastwood launched into “G-Blues”, filling the room with infectious grooves that left no doubt this was going to be an extraordinary night.
The energy continued to build as Larry Dunn joined Brunel and Clarke for the aforementioned “Changing”, offering a dazzling display of keyboard virtuosity. The powerful duo of Stanley Clarke and Armand Sabal-Lecco then took center stage, performing a masterful interpretation of “La Caucion,” showcasing their effortless ability to captivate the audience with nothing more than a bass in their hands.
As the concert reached its peak, all four bassists reunited for the highly anticipated “Bass Jam,” a technical tour de force that highlighted each player’s unique style. The crowd erupted as Brunel, Clarke, Eastwood, and Sabal-Lecco demonstrated not only their individual prowess but also the dynamic camaraderie they share as masters of their craft.
Honoring a Legend and Closing with Grandeur
The night wouldn’t have been complete without honoring the late, great Chick Corea, who was such a pivotal figure in the careers of both Brunel and Clarke. Kaylene Peoples returned to the stage for a breathtaking flute solo on Corea’s “Spain”, paying homage to the jazz legend in a way that left the audience in awe. The concert came to a grand close with Larry Dunn rejoining the stage for a jazzy, soulful rendition of “That’s the Way of the World”, accompanied by the full ensemble, providing a triumphant conclusion to an already unforgettable evening.
High Praise from the Audience
Attendees left the Catalina Jazz Club with their hearts—and ears—full. Many remarked on the sheer artistry of the night, with Terran Steinhart, an attorney, calling it “the most beautiful jazz concert I have ever attended.” Journalist A. Scott Galloway added, “Truly an unforgettable evening of heartfelt joy, camaraderie, and low-end love.” The concert drew a diverse crowd, including notables like fashion designer Kevan Hall, actress Chrystee Pharris, Grammy-winner Phillip Aphillyated Guillory, and members of the Tuskegee Airmen Scholarship Foundation.
The Legacy of Bass Ball 2
Bass Ball 2, the brainchild of Bunny Brunel, follows the groundbreaking success of Bass Ball (2017), the first CD to exclusively feature bass players. Co-produced by Stanley Clarke, Bass Ball made history by pushing the bass to the forefront of musical expression. Its 2023 sequel, Bass Ball 2, features a stellar cast of bass luminaries, including Kyle Eastwood, Federico Malaman, Sekou Bunch, and Josquin des Pres, with special guest performances by Patrice Rushen, Larry Dunn, Kaylene Peoples, and Virgil Donati.
Supported by the promotional efforts of First Take PR, Concerts.cafe, and Music Magique Promotions, the event also donated a portion of its proceeds to the Wounded Warriors Project, further solidifying its impact beyond just the music.
