Claudio Roditi

Andy's Jazz Club, Chicago,IL
Mar. 12, 2008

Larry Gray, Cladio Roditi & Tito Carillo

Larry Gray, Claudio Roditi & Tito Carillo

Story and Photos by James Walker

Claudio Roditi, hard bopping Brazilian trumpeter, recently opened Andy's new "Spotlight Performer Series" with a superb performance on March 12th.In its attempt to capture the Chicago jazz audience that once frequented Joe Segal's Jazz Showcase, Andy's Jazz Club at 11 E. Hubbard St. has launched a monthly series hosting "World Touring Jazz Artists" for at least two nights each month. With that in mind, Roditi and his "pickup" band consisting of four of Chicago's finest musicians certainly didn't disappoint the sparse audience that gathered to hear these veteran musicians. Roditi, perhaps not a household name to the casual jazz fan has performed with the likes of the late Dizzy Gillespie United Nations Band, Paquito D'Rivera,and Herbie Mann. Although he is billed as a trumpeter, the instrument he blows has the appearance of a trumpet turned sideways, but is actually called a 'Rotary Value Trumpet.' Same sound,with different look.

What an aggregate consisting of bassist Larry Gray, often seen performing with Ramsey Lewis among others, fellow trumpeter Tito Carrillo, fast rising composer and band leader, drummer Ernie Adams, one of the hardest working timekeepers in the City, and pianist Jim Trompeter, new to this writer but left a lasting impression on all assembled. Throughout the evening this exceptional quintet took a journey showcasing both Roditi's original tunes with his own compositional style and the seamless interplay of his band mates. It was amazing to watch these professionals playing together for the first time without missing a beat.

The first piece played was a mellow tune penned by a Brazilian composer translated as "The Frog." Both Tito and Trompeter were featured with nice solos.This was followed by a Duke Jordan tune that was recorded by Art Blakley, entitled "No Problem". Seeing his old friend, Jazz Showcase's Joe Segal in the audience, Roditi used his vocal instrument during this number, dedicating it to Joe (Segal isn't always admiring of jazz vocals). Actually, his vocals had a tender touch and were beautifully complemented by soft strokes on the bass with the bow by Larry Gray.At the conclusion of this ballad, Rotiti quipped "This is my first time singing in Chicago. Wherever I appeared at the Showcase, Joe wouldn't allow me to sing."

"Blues for Ronnie" was a new composition Roditi wrote in honor of a friend who operates a club in New Jersey. This piece featured Larry Gray. He produced some crisp tones on the bass, always staying within the recognized melody, never committing musical sacrilege. The band hit its peak on this number with pianist Trompeter demonstrating some rapid fire stroking of the 88s. At this point, he appeared to find a comfort level and continued in this mode for the remainder of the set. It was also during this tune that Carrilo distinguished himself with some friendly bantering with Roditi,trading phrases with care and affection.

Although Roditi was the headliner of this well played set,it must be noted that pianist Trompeter emerged as the unexpected star in the opinion of this writer. He controlled the keys with the greatest of ease and picked up steam as the set progressed. He indicated that in recent years, he's been concentrating on writing and studio work with few public appearances. Let's hope that his performance with Roditi will inspire him to hit the club circuit and allow Chicagoans an opportunity to enjoy the sounds that were demonstrated at Andy's.

Although little mention was given to drummer Ernie Adams, as always he was on top of his game. He's such a pleasure to watch perform with that infectious smile and silver quick hands. This writer has never seen a poor performance from this world class musician.

Kudos to Andy's for its endeavor to provide a safe haven for nationally recognized jazz performers in Chicago.Contrary to the belief of some, Chicago does have a market that can and will support the type of acts that will be showcased at Andy's over the next three months. Chicago, here's your opportunity to "step up to the plate" and prove that Jazz is alive and well in Chicago by supporting Andy's and other venues throughout Chicago. For detailed information about future national and local jazz acts at Andy's, refer to its website at: www.andysjazzclub.com.