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While there have been many tributes to Buddy Rich, Buddy’s Buddies is the first by a small group comprised entirely of Buddy Rich alumni. This explosive band came together to celebrate the music of one of the greatest musicians the world has ever seen. Under the direction of bandleader and drummer extraordinaire, Steve Smith, this band is carrying on the best of the Buddy Rich traditions: communicating with music lovers of all generations, striving for excellence and playing non-compromising, burning, straight ahead jazz.

Saxophonists Steve Marcus and Andy Fusco are returning to the music that they cut their teeth on during long stints with the Buddy Rich Big Band. The seasoned reed players deliver lines that twist and weave in ways that masterfully imply a larger horn section. Baron Browne (Jean Luc Ponty, Vital Information) on bass and pianist Mark Soskin (Sonny Rollins) complete the band and bring many years of musical maturity to the group. Buddy would be proud of this high octane project!