Santa Barbara Jazz Society Our Next Gig

The Santa Barbara Jazz Society is pleased to present The Leslie Lembo Quartet featuring Justin Claveria on Sax, at their monthly event on April 11, 2010 from 1 to 4 pm at SOhO.  Tickets may be purchased at the door and are $12/members, $7/students and musicians and $15/general public.  For more information please call 805-570-1053.  www.sbjazz.org

Leslie Lembo wanted to be a singer as far back as she can remember.  Born in San Francisco into a musical family, she grew up surrounded by a myriad of musical styles.  She journeyed through folk groups, rock & roll and rhythm & blues bands, at the same time becoming proficient on the guitar and harmonica.  Song writing ala classical voice study were also on her musical agenda.  Influenced by Aretha Franklin, Sarah Vaughn, Gladys Knight and James Taylor, she shaped her own distinctive style.

After Graduating from the University of California with a Bachelor of Arts degree, Leslie co-founded the popular Southern California band "Raw Silk" and developed the vocal power and stage presence that she possesses today. Leslie Lembo has been in constant demand as a first-class concert performer.  Her impressive musical credentials include performances with Kenny Loggins, Michael McDonald, Tower of Power, International Jazz Festival, Strawberry Festival and The Santa Barbara Vintners Festival.

Leslie has also used her vocal talents for causes she supports.  She has performed her uplifting original music at benefit concerts for Planned Parenthood, United Way, Boys and Girls Club, Environmental Defense Center, Heal the Ocean and the Christmas Unity CD Project.  Her music and voice come from a depth and beauty that etch a place in your soul.

 Justin Claveria has been heavily influenced by John Coltrane, Bob Minter, and mostly, the late great Michael Brecker. This is evident in Justin's tenor sax sound which captivates and excites all who listen. The fusion of soul, gospel, funk, and pop alto sax playing, combined with his now found traditional jazz Brecker tenor sax influenced sound makes Justin's style very much his own.  Justin has played with many artists, including Kenny Loggins, Les McCann, Shahin & Sepehr, Nate Birkey, Flora Purim, jazz composer Maria Schneider, Jana Anderson, Michael McDonald, The Coasters, Warner Brothers artist Robert Shimmel, 70s funk sensation Funk Inc.

Leslie and Justin will be joined by Kevin Kelly on piano and Larry Perpoli on drums.