It's a longtime ago the Rippington's played in London. So the audience awaited the group with high expectation. Early personnel included David Benoit, Kenny G, Brandon Fields, Jeff Kashiwa and Gregg Karukas. Currently Russ Freeman's Rippintons are Billy Heller (keyboards), Kim Stone (bass), the man with the hat, Scott Breadman (percussion), Dave Karasony (drums) and Eric Marienthal (sax).

In London/Hammersmith they played "Morocco", "Summer Lovers", "North Star", "Rain",
"Avenida del Mar"/ "One Day In Venice" (2nd night alternated), "South Beach Mambo", "Caribbean Breeze", "Black Diamond", "Tropic of Capricorn", "Tourist In Paradise" and "Get'n Over You" (with Lori Perry). All members of the group are skilfull musicians, but it was undoubtfully the legendary Russ Freeman and Eric Marienthal who shared the limelight. I have already attended Eric's show in Germany two years ago, when he spellbound his audience and the magic was there again. Eric is a very dynamic sax player with a strong sound which hits the highest notes.

"Avenida del Mar" and "South Beach Mambo" especially have a distinct Santana feel. I was fascinated by Dave Karasony's drum and Scott Breadman's percussion solo. Never expected that a tambourine can be a solo instrument. Great show!

This event was certainly the main reason for coming to London. I envy the Londoners for such a great cultural music scene with so many events and clubs. So if you should come to London don't miss a show like this one. As I said before: life is too short.