Bunny Brunel & Friends — Bass Ball 2 CD Release Celebration
Bunny Brunel presents an extraordinary evening of music and collaboration with the Bass Ball 2 CD Release Celebration, bringing together an all-star lineup of world-renowned artists to mark the debut of one of his most ambitious projects to date. Joined by legendary bassist Stanley Clarke, acclaimed composer and bassist Kyle Eastwood, and internationally celebrated bassist Armand Sabal-Lecco, the event stands as a rare gathering of distinct voices within the global bass community.
More than a traditional release concert, the evening reflects Brunel’s vision behind Bass Ball 2—a project designed to unite leading bassists across generations and styles in a cohesive musical dialogue. Each artist brings a unique perspective to the stage, from Clarke’s pioneering fusion language to Eastwood’s cinematic lyricism and Sabal-Lecco’s deep-rooted world music sensibility. The result is a dynamic and richly textured performance where the bass is elevated beyond its traditional role, emerging as a fully expressive, front-line instrument.
The celebration is further enriched by the presence of Larry Dunn, whose signature keyboard artistry adds depth, warmth, and harmonic sophistication, alongside Kaylene Peoples, whose flute and vocal contributions bring an elegant and atmospheric dimension to the ensemble. Together, they expand the sonic palette of the performance, creating a layered and immersive musical experience.
Supporting the core lineup is an exceptional rhythm section featuring Mahesh Balasooriya on keyboards, Monette Marino on drums, and De Carlos “Hulk” Davis on percussion, providing a powerful and responsive foundation for the evening’s intricate arrangements and spontaneous interplay. Their presence ensures that the music remains both grounded and fluid, allowing each featured artist the space to contribute while maintaining a unified ensemble sound.
Throughout the performance, Brunel’s role as composer, bandleader, and curator is unmistakable. His melodic approach to the bass anchors the evening, guiding the flow of the program while seamlessly integrating the diverse voices on stage. The music moves between high-energy fusion passages, lyrical moments of reflection, and globally influenced textures, reflecting the expansive vision behind Bass Ball 2.
CDs are available for purchase at the event, offering audiences the opportunity to take home a recording that captures the spirit of the evening—collaborative, forward-thinking, and deeply rooted in musical excellence. More than a release, this celebration stands as a statement of artistic unity, highlighting Brunel’s ongoing commitment to innovation and his unique ability to bring together some of the finest musicians in the world within a single, cohesive musical experience.
