Bill McFarland and the Chicago Horns

Checkerboard Lounge, Chicago,IL
May. 11, 2008

Hank Ford

Bill McFarland

Kenny Anderson

Story and Photos by James Walker

Bill McFarland and the Chicago Horns have been described as a "throw back "group of the Bee Bop era with the "big band" sound. Actually, this sextet is comprised of some of Chicago's finest musicians that produces a vibrating sound with those hard-driving horns. Recently, they ascended to the Checker Jazz stage at the Checkerboard Lounge to the delight of the appreciative crowd. Leader McFarland, along with mainstays, saxophonist Hank Ford and trumpeter Kenny Anderson, have performed together for years around the Chicago area. On this evening, they were accompanied by veteran keyboardist Kirk Brown, drummer Avreeayl Ra, and young hard working bassist Jack Zara.

They opened the set with a Sonny Rollins selection, "Tenor Madness." This upbeat tune featured a nice solo by saxophonist Hank Ford, followed by trombonist Bill McFarland. Bill's performance this night was significant in that this was the second consecutive week that Checker Jazz featured a trombonist (T.S.Galloway appeared the previous week with Ari Brown's Awakening group). Kenny Anderson and Kirk Brown also were featured on this number. It was quite evident that this would be an "equal opportunity" gig, with all contributing.

Freddie Hubbard's "Sunflower" followed with the brass playing in unison and on extended solos. Bassist Zara distinguished himself on the number while complementing the "horns" with deep bass tones. This was his finest moment as he was working overtime in overdrive. This writer has seen him previously with the "horns" but on this occasion, he seemed to be more confident and gained energy with each stroke on his upright.

McFarland quipped about bringing sunshine to cold, wet Chicago before stretching his trombone on the beautiful standard "Summertime." Kenny Anderson also contributed with some high octave notes with his trumpet. They performed this number in a up tempo mode.

Duke Ellington's "Sentimental Mood" featured the mellow tones from Hank Ford's tenor sax. Also on this beautiful change of pace ballad, keyboardist Kirk Brown, with his normal stolic like posture, did the "Duke" proud. Kirk was steady all night long , and on this selection, he ALMOST displayed an emotional side of that's seldom shown by this outstanding, composer, arranger and pianist.

The first set was brought to a rousing conclusion with a stirring drum solo by Avreeayl Ra. Avreeayl, one of Chicago's finest percussionist wailed away on John Coltrane's "Impressions." He brought the house to its feet with a standing ovation.

The second set began with Miles Davis's "Walkin'." The "horns" alternated soloing as the other members complemented in the background. Kirk Brown also was featured with the others providing support.

Another successful evening of great jazz sponsored by the diligent Hyde Park Jazz Society.This group is determined to restore jazz on the South side and great crowds in recent weeks is evidence that they are accomplishing their goal. Vocalist Margaret Murphy and her band takes center stage at Checker Jazz this Sunday, May 25th. For detailed information about future sets, refer to their website at : www.checkerjazz.org.