Listen to this week’s playlist on YouTube and Spotify.
Greg Fishman is a dynamic tenor saxophonist who has been on the Chicago jazz scene for the past twenty-five years. His bright and appealing tone and his steady stream of creative ideas have made him a major force in both the Chicago and international jazz world. He has performed everywhere from the North Sea and Monterey Jazz Festivals to concerts and clubs in Southeast Asia. His collaborations with pianist and singer Judy Roberts, guitarist and singer Paulinho Garcia, and as the leader of his own quartets, display his talents as a multi-faceted improviser. Greg is also well known for his work in jazz education as a teacher and as a publisher of more than twenty highly acclaimed books focusing on jazz saxophone, music theory and improvisation. On his new CD, “So You Say,” he teams up with famed L.A. saxophonist Doug Webb and an all-star rhythm section with keyboardist Mitchel Forman, bassist Kevin Axt and drummer Dan Schnelle.
Stephen Holden, in a New York Times concert review, praised Karrin Allyson as “one of the most grounded singers working today,” with an “exceptionally keen eye for the smart, semi-obscure pop or jazz number that speaks directly to the moments.” In his Wall Street Journal preview, writer Will Friedwald buzzed, “she sings with amazing subtlety.” And in his lead Jazztimes Magazine CD review, critic Christopher Loudon said Allyson’s songs “shimmer with tender vibrancy.” Now, on a brand new album, “Some of That Sunshine,” Karrin steps forward commandingly in a new role—as songwriter, revealing thirteen new songs in an astonishing range of styles and moods. Special guests include saxophonist Houston Person, violinist Regina Carter and bassist Lee Sklar.
Also this week, the Verve Jazz Ensemble expands from a quintet to a septet for their fifth disc, “Connect the Dots”.
After paying tribute to her musical heroes on her 2016 debut, baritone saxophonist Adison Evans’ own compositions take center stage on her sophomore release, “Meridian,” inspired by the Tuscan countryside.
Drummer Jay Lawrence is joined by bassist John Patitucci, pianist Renee Rosnes, and saxophonist Harry Allen on the all-star session, “Sonic Paragon.”
We are saddened to learn of the passing of a great musician and friend, John Shultz. Music fans knew John as one of the region’s top keyboard players, in groups like The Beaker Brothers Band, The Moe Band, Big Fun, and his own John Shultz Organization.