Pharez Whitted

Pharez let a similar aggregate at the Checkerboard several months ago, but this performance was done with confidence and poise. Pharez was in complete control from start to finish, unlike his previous Checker Jazz set when he appeared to defer way too often to his band mates. During that engagement, he often appeared to be indecisive on his playlist, but this engagement flowed like clockwork and was seamless.

The band opened the set with a new Whitted composition entitled "Yes We Can." Sound like a familiar phrase, you're right. !!!! He wrote this number before the election of "President" Barack Obama, and was playing if for the first time five days after his election. It was well received by Obama's "neighbors" at this fabled Hyde Park venue.

Bassist Dennis Carroll was featured on Wayne Shorter's "This Is For Our World." Carroll, a bandmate of Whitted's with the Chicago Jazz Orchestra, is one of Chicago's finest bass players and demonstrated his skills throughout the evening on extended solos . This was followed by a mellow ballad which showcased Whitted's ability as he reached for those high notes that not too many trumpeters are able to hit. Pharez seemed to make this look rather easy.

On Herbie Hancock's "One Finger Snap," Perillo was at his best as he appeared to be in a "zone," with rapid fire attack on the 88s as if it was his last gig. This was the first of several similiar extended solos by Perillo. Ron is another one of those Chicago "sidemen" who often is seen performing with some the the best this city has to offer and occasionally fronts his own group. Either way, the results seem to always be the same. Drummer Artry finally had his opportunity to shine on this number with a crowd pleasing solo. Although this young drummer maybe be somewhat unknown to the Chicago jazz scene, he's often in Chicago whenever Whitted is fronting a band. He's very imposing and leaves a lasting impression.

Pharez closed out the first set with another number dedicated to "President" Obama entitled "Our Man Barack" (there are hundreds of "Obama" songs written in recent months). All ensemble members shared the spotlight on this song.

The second set opened with Carroll again leading the way with a solid solo followed by the quick silver hands of drummer Artry. Another Wayne Shorter composition entitled "Infant Eyes" followed(Shorter appears to be a favorite of many Chicago musicians and Pharez played three such numbers on this gig.) This beautiful track featured Pharez and was perhaps the absolute highlight of the evening. Pharez remained in his "riffing" mode on "Ebony," written by a friend of his from his native Indianapolis.

Although the Checker Jazz crowd was somewhat sparse on this evening, their enthusiasm was not lacking and this was quiet noticeable as they closed this set with some friendly and high spirited bantering between Pharez and Perillo. The crowd loved this action.

Fun was had by all on this night as Pharez Whitted demonstrated why he's considered one of Chicago's most esteem trumpeter. He's as adept when playing a soft mellow number as when riffing away at rapid speed on an uptempo selection. And on this evening, the leadership of Pharez was quite evident as he orchestrated and directed his ensemble during one of Checker Jazz's finest performances on the year. Check out this underrated jazzman in the near future, you won't regret it.

For detailed information about upcoming Checker Jazz sets, log on their website at www.checkerjazz.org.