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Story by James Walker This new music reflected Michelle's life from her South Shore days in Chicago to her current role as the World's most influential "First Lady". What a deserving honor as Ms.Mitchell assembled a group of some of Chicago's finest musicians to assist in her endeavor. Accompaning Michelle in this prelude to the annual Chicago Jazz Festival was saxophonist David Boykin, trumpeter David Young, pianist Justin Dillard, bassist Darius Savage, percussionist Avreeayl Ra, violinist Renee Baker, celloist/vocalist Khari Lemuel, cellolist Tomeka Reid, sitarist, Shanta Nurullah, and Chicago's premier vocalist Dee Alexander. This entire piece was somewhat different from previous works of Mitchell and consisted of several up beat numbers that actually had more of a "hip-hop" tone. Perhaps the intent was a reflection of Michelle's upbeat attitude and disposition. Vocalist Alexander was featured on "New Light On Chocolate City" which included her patented scatting and chirping like only Dee can do. David Young and Dee engaged in friendly bantering on this number with David challenging Dee with high trumpet notes while Dee responded by scatting. Dee was also featured on "How Could I Know", as she sang out Michelle's words of not realizing that the man she fell in love with and married would become this Country's first Africian American President. Although Mitchell primarily orchestrated the music, she did take several solos with a feature on "Destiny Of Honor and Grace". Sitarist Nurullah was also highlighted on this number. Although all ensemble members were on point all night, special mention must be given to bassist Darius Savage, as he maintained the beat with rhythm and flair during this entire splendid evening. This marvelous concert was brought to a climatic conclusion as Khari Lemuel belted out a "soulful" version "Michelle" with his falsetto pitch. Again , Nurullah was featured on the sitar with Young belting out nice tones on the fluglehorn. What an exciting evening of music composed by Nicole Mitchell. Let's hope she takes this group to the studio , for the entire world needs to hear this special piece honoring Michelle Obama.
Prior to the concert, the Institute honored the following for their
contributions to the Chicago Jazz community: Saxophonist Jimmy Ellis, Pianist
John Wright, club owner Joe Segal, public servant Lois Weisberg, and longtime
Institute officer, newsman Harry Porterfield.
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Check out other recent concerts reviews and photos Contact James Walker and JazzChicago.net at jwjazz@att.net