The Jazz Crusaders have scheduled a three-night stand at Anthology this month.
The prolific collective -- known for their signature blend of jazz, soul and pop -- has been making music for nearly 50 years and has released more than 40 albums.
In 1960, following the breakup of their respective projects, saxophonist Wilton Felder, trombonist Wayne Henderson, drummer Stix Hooper and pianist Joe Sample formed what were originally known as the Crusaders in Houston. Shortly thereafter, they signed to Pacific Jazz Records and trekked to Los Angeles to make a name for themselves.
The Jazz Crusaders started out as a soul-flavored hard bop outfit but eventually adopted a funkier style and put out a long string of LPs. They made a few records in the 1980s and '90s, but they were basically on hiatus until reuniting this year with three of four original members (Stix Hooper won't be joining them this time around).
This tour -- the first reunion of these original players since 1974 -- is bound to be a legendary event, and Anthology is giving you every opportunity to see them; the Jazz Crusaders will be playing two shows on each night from Sept. 30 through Oct. 2. Get your tickets here.
T. Loper is a writer for the San Diego music blog Owl and Bear.
