Richie Cole

Upon arriving around 9pm for this 9:30pm start time, the room was nearly at capacity. Andy's does great weekend business, and this night was no exception. Joining Richie on the stage was bassist Aaron Mitter, keyboardist Mark Burnell, and Chicago's hardest working drummer, the incomparable Ernie Adams.

Richie began the set with a nice version of "Jeannine." Each ensemble member "warmed up" with extended solos. They followed up with a smooth ballad that really gave Richie an opportunity to serenade this lively crowd with some mellow blowing. All seemed to really enjoy this tune with the exception of a loud group of "young people" who obviously were not in attendance for this beautiful music. Nevertheless, this did not deter the group from giving it their best.

"Billie's Bounce" was Mr. Adams clue to cut loose and let those unfamiliar with his varied skills to see why he's considered Chicago's finest. Ernie doesn't waste time giving his complete drum kit a workout. As usual, he doesn't spare any part of the drum set from his all out assault. It's such a pleasure seeing him in action. He does this while keeping within the melody of the song.

The group slowed the pace down with a couple of Duke Ellington tunes, "Mood Indigo" and "Caravan." Again it was on Caravan that Ernie displayed another highlight on the drums without the usage of the sticks. Ernie is a master of drumming with his hands and fingers, and did so on this tune.

Richie introduced a new mid tempo number that he recently wrote entitled "Chicago Stroll." It was vintage Richie Cole on the piece. From the reaction of the crowd, this could be a hit.

Although keyboardist Mark Burnell was not able to display his vocal skills on this evening due to a cold, he was at his best on the piano, especially when they played "I Got Rhythm."

What a pleasant evening to see Richie Cole as he entertained the crowd with his "alto madness" and his wealth of anecdotes and stories. Richie returns to Andy's on April 3rd and 4th. He brings his seven piece "Alto Madness" band on Friday, and the quartet on Saturday. Don't miss this veteran who still can blow with the best.