This weekend, jazz fans who head out to Sandoval's will have a unique opportunity. Instead of listening to a sole bandleader doing his thing, they'll be able to sample two veteran musicians in a coheadlined concert showcasing material from the repertoire of both artists' long careers. The concept, says New York-bred guitarist Chuck Loeb, who will play alongside saxophonist Eric Marienthal, is to have "a reunion that incorporates music from both of us."
Each artist honed his chops during the early Eighties. Loeb performed with the likes of Chico Hamilton and the late Latin jazz percussionist Ray Baretto, until he was invited to join the legendary saxophonist Stan Getz in 1979. That partnership lasted six years, until Loeb moved on to pursue a solo career that has produced more than 15 CDs.
Marienthal, meanwhile, began with New Orleans trumpeter Al Hirt, and later joined Chick Corea's Elektrik Band, with whom he recorded six CDs (two of which earned Grammys). His career has been eclectic: He has performed with the likes of B.B. King, Elton John, the Yellowjackets, and Stevie Wonder, while also releasing solo albums that have often reached the top of the contemporary jazz charts.
Loeb and Marienthal have known each other for several years, but this is the first tour they are doing as cobandleaders. "We have a lot of respect for each other," Loeb says. "It's also nice to have a richer palate to play from."
