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The L.A. Jazz Scene calls The Hi-Fi Quintet "Spectacular!" The Hi-Fi Quintet, with its classic "B3" organ sound, is taking the retro-jazz scene by storm. Comprised of five of Southern California's top studio/jazz musicians who share a love for the classic jazz slice of the American songbook. The ensemble embraces the jazz spectrum from its earliest roots to birth of the big bands to the optimistic sounds of the Las Vegas Strip of the 50's and 60's. In addition to being musical virtuosos, the members of the swingin' five-some are engaging entertainers who deliver this timeless music with a Rat-Pack punch. The band, originally formed by trumpeter/vocalist Tony Guerrero and vocalist Elizabeth Lamers a decade ago, evolved into its current incarnation in 1999 when drummer Matt Johnson took over the drum throne. Each member of this ensemble brings a varied musical background to The Hi Fi Quintet but they all agree on one thing: they dig this band's happy upbeat vibe. Lamers, who studied performance at North Texas State University and holds a degree in musicology from UCLA, is also an acclaimed songwriter who won the British equivalent of the Grammy. She has been a staple on Los Angeles radio airwaves for the past 12 years as a regular guest host on KKJZ and the current host of Listening to the Movies on KCSN-FM. In addition, the noted vocalist has recorded voice-overs for numerous commercials and cartoons, including The Animaniacs. In summing up the magic of The Hi-Fi Quintet, Lamers says, "I've worked in myriad musical situations and nothing comes close to the spontaneous interplay of these musicians. These guys can play nearly every style of popular music known to man, but they love to play this music." Guerrero, a longtime Louis Armstrong music and memorabilia collector, has achieved considerable success not only in the classic jazz genre, but also in the Adult/Contemporary market. Three of his seven solo smooth jazz CDs made Billboard Magazine's top-twenty worldwide chart and two ascended to its top-ten chart. Says Guerrero, "I learned my jazz history in reverse. As a teenager, I listened to and played only rock music. After discovering Chuck Mangione, I studied Miles Davis then Dizzy Gillespie and finally Louis Armstrong. After that education, jazz became my passion." Guerrero, whose trumpet sound blends New Orleans and "cool school" influences, fronts the band with Louis-sque vocals and a dry wit. Matt Johnson, considered one of the Southland's most versatile drummers, has an extensive list of credits that includes jazz recordings, radio and television commercials, numerous TV and film soundtracks and countless live appearances on national and international stages. Modern Drummer Magazine says Johnson possesses "captivating technique and creativity." The Los Angeles Times proclaims, "His brush work recalls the footwork of a great dancer," and calls him, "a hurricane on sticks." Well known for his inventive jazz stylings, Johnson is equally versed in all forms of pop and has performed with a range of musical personalities from Andy Williams and the Smothers Brothers to the Jack Sheldon and Steve Allen Big Bands. In addition to his busy performance schedule, Johnson currently serves on the faculties of Fullerton College and the Idyllwild Arts Academy (formerly ISOMATA). Saxophonist Rob Kyle adds a decidedly Latin accent to The Hi-Fi Quintet. He has released six CDs under his own name featuring a mix of Latin, Brazilian and straight-ahead jazz. In addition, he has performed and/or recorded with such disparate artists as Lou Rawls, Della Reese, Linda Ronstadt, Michael Bolton, Kenny Loggins and Carole King, and has Allred for the Academy Awards, the Emmy Awards and the BET Awards, among others. Voted one of the "New Rising Sax Stars" by L.A. Jazz Scene, the respected jazz publication says, "His phrasing is much like that of a strong singer who can connect with the audience through sheer emotion." The Saxophone Journal states, "Kyle is an excellent saxophonist. His tone is first-rate and he interprets melodies with a sound of authority." The band recently released its first CD, the self-titled The Hi-Fi Quintet, which features a style of jazz reminiscent of the Sands Hotel in `62 - very "cocktail." The Hi-Fi Quintet Personnel: Elizabeth Lamers, Vocals Tony Guerrero, Trumpet/Vocal Rob Kyle, Tenor Sax Rob Whitlock, B3 Organ Matt Johnson, Drums Check out the artist's website: http://www.hifiquintet.com Track List: 1. Dansero 2. I Only Have Eyes For You 3. When You're Smiling 4. No Moon At All 5. Steamin' At Steamers 6. Baby, It's Cold Outside 7. My Blue Heaven 8. If I Had You 9. Give Me The Simple Life 10. Dream A Little Dream Of Me 11. Dancing On The Ceiling 12. Petticoats Of Portugal 13. I Can't Give You Anything But Love 14. Thou Swell 15. Comes Love Other Genres:
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