Pianist Bob James has explained the name of the group Fourplay in fine detail. It not only has to do with size (a quartet) but rather expresses the desire to work with four leaders at the same time. “It is more like four leaders or four sidemen, all with equal voices.” However, it was James who initiated the formation of this smooth jazz band in 1990. Lee Ritenour was the original guitarist, followed by Larry Carlton and then Chuck Loeb who has been a member of the band since 2010. Drummer Harvey Mason and bassist Nathan East have been members since the outset. Fourplay's latest album is Let's Touch The Sky (2010), but early this year the quartet was hard at work on a follow-up recording. A super group in this genre that still radiates vitality. The secret of their success? Elegant, contemporary and constantly smooth music with an unmistakable sexy groove.
