John Douglas live at the Velvet Lounge, Chicago, Jazz Concert review and photos by Brad Walseth

John Douglas

John Douglas Quartet

Velvet Lounge
Chicago, IL
November 19, 2006

Story and Photos by Brad Walseth

The Chicago Jazz Institute held its' annual members get-together party at the Velvet Lounge last Sunday, Nov. 19th, and members who attended were entertained by a fabulous group from Detroit - the John Douglas Quartet. John is an engaging and energetic trumpet player who has played around the globe with many jazz and R&B greats. While he is well known in his native town, where he has won many local awards (especially with his group - "Jazzhead"), Douglas is not yet a familiar name to Chicagoans. Hopefully after the scintillating performance last Sunday, John and his group will start to gain some well-deserved recognition here in the Windy City.

Starting with a well-oiled blues, the group moved into a plaintive ballad, then into a ferocious cover of Miles Davis' "Milestones" that nearly peeled the paint off the walls of the newly-painted "New" Velvet Lounge. Douglas led the way with a bright, confident sound on the trumpet, while Canadian pianist Whitfield added gracious support and well-conceived solos. Meanwhile, the incredible tarantula-fingered 6-string bassist, Damon Warmack showed why he needs to be considered one of the up-and-coming young stars of the instrument. Warmack's lightning fast fretwork, combined with tasty tapping and chiming, and volume pedal chording reminded one of Patitucci, Pastorius, Wooten, Watts and other bass greats.

Douglas' original ballad - "These Days - A Love Deferred" showed his composition skills, while second-set highlights included a spicy "Caravan," a request ("My Funny Valentine"), and an amazing solo by drummer Bill Hawkins - whose drumming extended from his entire set (including rims and stands) to the Velvet Lounge wall (much to the delight of the crowd - but Fred Anderson may want to send a bill for repainting to the band).

A very enjoyable evening of music and conversation - the Jazz Institute is to be commended for holding the party at the Velvet Lounge, and for bringing the John Douglas Quartet down for this engagement. I hope this will not be the last time we see John and his talented group here in Chicago.