Deep Blue Organ Trio

In addition to the exceptional music that was on stage, the society, in conjunction with John Wright Music, paid tribute during intermission to a couple of "giants" in the Chicago music scene: world class saxophonist Fred Anderson and legendary South Side record shop proprietor, Ezell "Coop" Cooper. Both were presented with customary plaques and flowers. Lauren Deutsch, director of the Jazz Institute of Chicago introduced Fred, while Coop was introduced by a host of friends, including Chris Foreman, Bob Martin, retired DJ from WHPK and others. Lady T Marcelain, vocalist from Wright's group made the presentations.

Deep Blue began the set with a swinging number entitled "Easy Times." Although they experienced slight sound problems with Chris' organ, they quickly remedied the issue, picking up exactly where they stopped without missing a beat. It was almost as if it had been planned. These true professionals didn't allow this slight problem deter them from the task at hand.

They continued with the first of many selections that were taken from their new CD, entitled Folk Music. Don't allow the title to mislead you, this CD is not about folk music as much as it is music for "the folks." "This I Think of You" was played, allowing all to stretch a little with nice extended solos.

They really began to reach their groove on the next number that had a blusey tinge, reminiscent of the late organist Jimmy McGriff. Foreman once informed this writer that McGriff had more influence on his career than any other organist. He began the song softly before reaching crescendos on several solos, while Broom rocked back and forth stroking his six-string instrument.

They slowed the pace with "I've Grown Accustomed to Her Face," which permitted drummer Rockingham to softly slide the brushes across the snare drum. Nevertheless, Foreman brought this selection to a climactic conclusion, to the delight of the crowd.

The first set was completed with another new song, "A Deeper Blue." Broom was again at his best, while Rockingham got a piece of the action with his patented drum roll, like only he does. Although this set started out rather slowly, it concluded with this hot and steamy number.

It only got better during the last 90 minute set!! They began with "I Love You More Today Then Yesterday," which complemented Foreman's swinging style perfectly. By now, he was feeling the feedback from the audience and was in a "zone." When he's in this attack mode, there is no stopping him. These guys play so well together and know each other's next move. That's explained by the fact that they've been playing together since the '80s, when they were hired to play at the now-defunct Cotton Club, by none other than Checker Jazz's own program director, Carolyn Albritton.

This group was spectacular all night, and had several Jazz Society officials, including President Charlie Thomas, up on their feet dancing during the playing of "Blues #1" and the finale, "These Foolish Things."

Unfortunately, another successful Checker Jazz set had to come to an end, but the thrilling conclusion had the remaining crowd showing their appreciation with a thunderous ovation. They could have played all night and no one would have complained.

Pharis "PJ" James entertains at the next segment of Checker Jazz with his baritone sounds on Sunday, April 19, 2009. For additional Checker jazz information, refer to their Web site at www.checkerjazz.org.