The Ray Jaurique Band is a singer/songwriter/guitar player with seasoned musicians who are focusing on one thing: Presenting well written, soulful songs, written & sung by Ray. It’s the job of the guys in the band putting a little icing on this musical cake.
More than once the question has come up. “…Well what (or who) does it sound like?” The short answer might be “well… it sounds like Ray & The Brothers”. But when pressed to compare, it might be accurate to point to one part Sam Cooke, one part Albert King, a pinch of Albert Collins, one part Delbert Mc Clinton, a touch of Keb Mo’, some Van Morrison with a little Holland- Dozier- Holland thrown in.
What seems to separate this band from so many others is the focus on original roots and blues music that is so accessible it makes it easy to tap your toes. First time listeners comment that Ray’s songs seem so familiar that they swear they may have heard at least one of his songs before.
Its a little taste of blues, a bit of soul, it rocks, it rolls, it swings and after a couple of listens you can sing along. (It’s pretty friendly stuff.) Its music about love, heartbreak, bad times, good times, romance and in the end, making the most of life.
We’ve found it goes well with good friends, good food, and should you choose, a frosty beverage …or three. Add a pair of comfortable shoes and a dance floor to all of this we think you’ll be in pretty good shape.
OTHER ITERATIONS OF THE GROUP INCLUDE: THE UPTOWN BROTHERS, THE RAY JAURIQUE TRIO AND THE RAY JAURIQUE BIG BAND (INCLUDING A 4 PIECE HORN SECTION)
Ray Jaurique, Also known as "RayJay"
Is Ventura California's own Live Wire Bluesman. The California Native Has been known around the area for his soulful singing and powerful guitar work. Since the release of his band’s 2014 CD, many are saying he may be one of the best singer/song writers locally or anywhere else. While the band still covers some favorites, the focus is now on his ever growing catalogue of original songs. you’ll hear this heartfelt material that many are saying is long overdue. We think you’ll agree and we hope you like what you hear
Photographer: Terry Bert
Musician: Ray (RayJay) Jaurique
Venu: Canyon Club Agora 2015
Kirk Maxson
(lo notes)
Kirk is known far and wide as one of the best at what he does. Ray & Kirk go back many years when they were both part of Ventura’s iconic Blue Stew. So when the time for a replacement came it was only natural he got the call Kirk. He’s a friend, a great bass player and one hell of a good guy. He brings lots of groove, respect for space and great tone, what more could a band ask for?
Photographer:Bill Leighton
Musician: Kirk Maxon
Venu: Concerts By The Sea 2017
Michael Golden
(drums, very few vocals)
This guy has played up and down the West Coast for 30 plus years. Since his 2004 move to So-Cal, he’s been in the drum chair with folks from Santa Barbara to Sacramento, from Memphis to Hollywood. Before working with Ray, Mike may have been best known locally as the founder of The Front Street Prophets, (who backed Ashford Gordon’s return to the stage in and later backed Jodi Farrell). He co- produced and played on the recent release by Ray & The Brothers , produced The Prophets’ CD in 2010, Sacramento’s Linda Bracamonte Band’s “Champagne, Rain, Rhythm & Blues” in 2003 and Stark Rhythm Maniacs’ “Play It Loud” .
Photographer: unknown
Musician: Michael Golden
Venu: Plan B Wine Cellers