Richard Elliot
Great Performers Series Artist
Performance(s):
Saturday, October 15, 2005: 8:00 p.m.
Click here to see
pictures from the show.
Like a booming metropolis, saxman Richard Elliot is a rhythmic force of funk and fire, diverse and distinctive, passionate and powerful,
soulful and seductive. A consistent chart-topper, Elliot released his Metro Blue album on June 28, 2005. It’s his fourteenth solo collection, yet
his debut for the newly launched ARTizen Music Group record label, of which he is a partner. Elliot’s emotive sax helps set the tone on the first track
being heard on smooth jazz radio, a cover of The Stylistics’ moody classic, “People Make The World Go Round.”
Metro Blue was produced by Rick Braun and Elliot, who collaborated on nine original songs. Joining them in the studio were Jeff Lorber, Peter White,
Brian Culbertson, Dwight Sills, Gregg Karukas, Lenny Castro, Rex Rideout, Ronnie Garret, Nate Philips and Phil Davis. The record sounds slick and
contemporary yet recalls dusty vintage funk records from the 1970s when hot horn sections and cool keyboards helped create the vibe. On tracks
like “Inside Out,” “Say It’s So,” “Mystique,” and “Maxi’s,” Elliot’s sax is muscular and robust, blowing big hooky choruses over R&B beats and
dance grooves. When the tempo slows, as on “Camella” (named for Elliot’s wife), “People Make The World Go Round,” and the title track,
Elliot chills, backing off the intensity in favor of romance and gentle melodies.
“This album release really represents a turning point for me,” said Elliot. “The creative experience of working with Rick (Braun) coupled with the
freedom of controlling our own destiny with the new label is pushing me into new directions creatively. I feel so lucky to be working with such inventive
and creative people.”
Although his career began in a recording studio backing Motown legends such as Smokey Robinson and The Temptations, the stage has always
been a big part of Elliot’s repertoire ever since he was a teenager when he toured with Melissa Manchester. He went on to spend five formative
years performing with Tower Of Power. While his highly successful solo recording career has made him an icon in the contemporary jazz radio
world, Elliot has always devoted a tremendous amount of time and energy to his live performance schedule, one that helped him connect with
fans across the country, forging an enduring relationship.
Richard Elliot's touring band includes Dwight Sills on guitar, Ron Reinhardt on keyboards, Ronnie Garrett on bass and Dave Reinhardt on drums.
For more information about Richard Elliot, check out
his website at www.richardelliot.com
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Cost:
$28
Seniors: $25
Buffalo State faculty/staff: $25
Buffalo State Student Rush: $15 (cash only), available one hour prior to show only.
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By Phone:
716-878-3005
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