KEY POINTS:
The annual Playboy Jazz Festival turns 30 this year with US actor Bill Cosby taking on his longtime role as master of ceremonies at the Hollywood Bowl on June 14-15.
Herbie Hancock, who won album of the year at the Grammys, will be part of a two-day lineup that ranges from Al Jarreau, Poncho Sanchez and Keb' Mo' to Dr John and Dee Dee Bridgewater, among others.
Cosby has missed only three turns as host since the first presentation in Los Angeles in 1979.
Cosby was effusive about the experience of what he calls "two days of neighbourly, happy people" at a huge, eclectic, listening party.
