Guitarist and bandleader Russ Freeman started the Rippingtons in 1986 as a configuration to allow for lots of smooth and fusion-tinged musical collaborations. Freeman had moved from Nashville, where he’d done work as a session player, out to L.A., where he continued in that vein and attended Cal Arts. The first iteration of the Rippingtons included Kenny G and David Benoit, among others.
When people talk about “quiet storm” music, they’re usually referring to a different genre, but if you’ve ever wondered what the mellow tunes that play on the Weather Channel are at times, the Rippingtons are among the bands that contribute to that climatic soundtrack. Over the years Freeman has moved from Southern California, to the Rockies of Colorado, to South Florida, and all of those changes of scenery have inspired related changes in his music.
The Rippingtons perform at Infinity Hall, 2 Front St., Hartford, on Thursday, Oct. 5, at 8 p.m. $39.20 to $69. 866-666-6306 and infinityhall.com.
