The Chicago Horns

It doesn't take long for this group to warm up and they did just that with an opening John Coltrane composition entitled "Mr. PC." Each member stretched their limbs with extended solos as would be the case all night long. These guys work like a "well-oiled machine," seldom, if ever, missing a beat.

Wayne Shorter's "Black Nile" was next on the agenda. This number can be found on their "Live and Alive" CD, which contains some great standards in addition to a few pieces composed by several of the ensemble members.

McFarland dedicated Freddie Hubbard's "Little Sunflower" to the memory of this great trumpeter who recently passed. Although this was written for a trumpet lead, saxophonist Hank Ford took the lead and "stole" the spotlight with his wide ranging bellow-like sounds. Not to be completely outdone, trumpeter Anderson took center stage with his flugelhorn to transmit his message to the large Checker Jazz crowd. Keyboardist Kirk Brown got a piece of the action as well. All along, bassist Zara was working hard in the background producing nice sounds without even taking a solo. This is truly an "equal opportunity" band.

Prior to the tributes during intermission, it was announced by the Society's secretary, Judith Stein that Charlie Thomas had been appointed the new President, taking over the position that was previously held by founder Jim Wagner, who passed away in January. Charlie has "large shoes" to fill, but he's up to the task.

As usual during these presentations, Lady T of the John Wright Music Group, presided over the tributes. Drummer/vocalist and retired Chicago Public School teacher Teddy Thomas along with pianist Yogo Noge received flowers and plaques for their continued contributions to the Chicago Jazz scene. Yoko performs each Monday night at Andy's Jazz Club and Teddy is a regular with Von Freeman at the New Apartment Lounge on 75th Street each Tuesday night.

The 2nd set began with another Coltrane selection, "Impressions." Percussionist Tinnin demonstrated her skills on the "cajon" (box shaped instrument) to the delight of the audience. Certainly a highlight thus far.

During this set, they played a nice version of "Moanin'" with an extended introductory solo by the man of the hour, tenor man Hank Ford. Hank was in a "zone" tonight and took the lead on several ballads without the presence of the other horns.

Before closing the three set performance, honoree, Teddy Thomas rendered a beautiful ballad entitled "For All We Know." Teddy's been around awhile, but he's still able to hit those high notes as he demonstrated on this touching song. McFarland also produced a nice trombone solo while accompanying Thomas.

Before calling it a night, what's a Chicago Horns set without their signature song,"Harold the Great." Of course, this number was written by McFarland, years ago in memory of the great former mayor of Chicago, Harold Washington. What an outstanding finale to another excellent night of jazz at the Checkerboard.

Ernie Adams will lead an all star group of musicians next Sunday, February 22th at the Checker Jazz Set. With Ernie will be guitarist Henry Johnson, keyboardist Charlie Johnson, and bassist Bill Dickens. This is one of those sets that will require an early arrival.

For details about future Checker Jazz Sets, refer to their website at www.checkerjazz.org.