Charlie Johnson

Dickens' appearance was a surprise, as he was not scheduled for this date with underrated keyboardist Charlie Johnson, drummer extraordinaire Ernie Adams and saxophonist Mike Carson. Dickens made a cameo appearance a few months ago at the Checkerboard and his incredible playing left a lasting impression with those jazz aficionados present at that date.

Although Gary, IN-based Mike Carson was an unknown to me, Johnson and Adams are two of Chicago's finest musicians, and combined with the Evanston-based Dickens, this promised to be a "top ten" set. And guess what? It became an "instant classic."

Their initial number, Freddie Hubbard's "Sunflower," enabled each member ample strteching room, as all demonstrated that this would be a very special evening. No easing into this gig, as they played this song as if it were the finale. Carson was the first to extend a nice solo, proving he clearly belonged on the stage with his esteemed Chicago counterparts. Flett fingered Johnson used every key on his board with rapidity seemingly with the greatest of ease. Adams tested every piece of his drum kit on his solo, including cowbell and bongoes. Not to be outdone, Dickens began to make his upright electric bass "sing" a sweet melody. These gentlemen were off to a fast start and the crowd was loving it!!!

Throughout the entire evening, the band played many standards, but with a nice Charlie Johnson arrangement. It was quite refreshing to hear these classic numbers that were rearranged to challenge the skill level of this world class group. His arrangement of Horace Silver's "Song for My Father" was an example. It was played with an upbeat tempo and concluded with a nice Latin tinge from Johnson, while Adams banged away on the drums.

After those two numbers, they slowed the pace and allowed Carson to lead the way with the alto on "Someday My Prince Will Come." Dickens used his seven-string bass on this numbers as if it were an electric guitar. He's simply amazing with the seven string, as it allows him to play both the high notes in addition to the standard bass tones. He is quite a sight to see once he gets into a "zone."

They concluded this hot set with a sizzling Joe Sample number entitled "Seven Years of Good Luck." In addition to Johnson's rapid fire action, Dickens really worked his seven-string, making it funky with his thumb action, while at the same time making it "cry," as he rode the strings from top to bottom. Of course, Mr Adams again used the entire drum kit with his sticks, hands and elbows. His all out assault resulted in a spontaneous rousing ovation from this large Checker Jazz crowd.

Highlights of the final two sets included Dickens stroking his five-string electric bass with such ferocity, which resulted in him blowing a fuse on his amplifier. This occurred as Mike Carson was featured on Marcus Millers smooth jazz selection of "Maputo." Mike was blowing fast and furious on the stage and Johnson was effectively using the synthesizer when Dickens was silenced.

This outstanding ensemble concluded another splendid Checker Jazz set with their rendition of Stanley Turrentine's "Sugar." All band mates exited with memorable solos that surely left a final impression on this appreciative crowd. Saxophonist Ernest Dawkins takes center stage with his quartet thsi Sunday, May 3, 2009. The entire May lineup information can be obtained from the Checker Jazz Web site at www.checkerjazz.org.