Chuck Loeb Discusses the New Fourplay Album, and the Allure of Smooth Jazz.

Chuck Loeb is more than just a guitarist. He’s the consummate musician.

In a career that spans four decades, he’s proven himself to be a versatile composer, arranger and producer in a wide range of musical styles. In 2010, Loeb joined the smooth jazz super-group, Fourplay, joining musical giants Nathan East (bass), Bob James (keyboards) and Harvey Mason (drums).

Fourplay’s latest release, Esprit De Four, continues the trend of beautiful arrangements and tasty licks that has made the quartet world renowned.

I spoke with Loeb about the new album and his creative process as well as what he thinks makes smooth jazz so appealing. He also gives advice on the best way to approach the instrument when it comes to improvisation.

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Hi Bob, Nate, Chuck & Harvey,

Warm greetings!  I am a big fan of your music.  I discovered Bob James some 30 plus years ago with his debut solo album called “One” and I have followed his music ever since including his collaboration with other fine artists like Earl Klugh, Maynard Ferguson, David Sanborn, Kirk Whalum just to name a few.  I have seen Nate, Chuck and Harvey on a few DVDs and on youtube with great performances.  I have many of your solo and group CDs and DVDs.  So I was really excited when I learned that Fourplay was going to come and play at New Morning in Paris on November 13th, 2012.

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Fourplay Cruisin’ the Mediterranean with Dave Koz & Friends aboard the Serenade of the Seas…

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A letter from a fan…

Please forgive the delay in sending this email.

Life has had me a little crazy lately, and I have been on the road quite a bit, but your music has been getting me through the madness.

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