Dr. Lonnie Smith

Jazz Showcase
Chicago, IL
December 3, 2006

Dr. Lonnie Smith

Story and Photos by James Walker

Lonnie Smithreturned to Chicago last week with his organ trio to perfrom at the Jazz Showcase. Smith was last seen in Chicago this past summer closing out the Jazz Festival in Grant Park. To see this great musician close up in an intimate environment like the Jazz Showcase is special. Playing alongside Smith was talented guitar player Peter Bernstein and drummer Allison Miller.

Although the temperature outside was cold and frigid, inside the Showcase was hot and torris. Dr. Smith and his group of fine sidemen were displaying a lively and electrifying fast tempo that had the entire audience nodding their heads and tapping their feet. It was quite a sight to see almost all in attendance with smiles on their faces as they nodded in unison to these infectious funk grooves.

Smith shared the spotlight throughout the evening with his fine guitar player Peter Bernstein . Bernstein emerged as a formidable soloist, playing in the shadows of the image of Wes Montgomery that is largely displayed onm the wall of the Showcase. he seemed to be inspired by Montgomery's image as he played with such ease and confidence. It was quite evident that Bernstein has great rapport with Smith - anticipating his silences and expression changes.

Although Allison Miller had a few moments to display her skills on the drums, it was all about Smith and Bernstein this evening.

In closing, please continue to show your support for this fine jazz venue. The Showcase is slated to close its' doors at the Grand Ave. location on New Year's Eve. Joe Segal is still looking to relocate to a new home after the first of the year. He's still searching for a new facility and is holding a series of special "relocation" giogs each Monday evening through the end of the December. For specifics about the Monday night sets and the remaining December schedule, please refer to their website http://www.jazzshowcase.com or call Joe at 312-670-BIRD. Let's keep Chicago's only venue for weekly national acts alive with your support.