Jon Faddis' Chicago Jazz Ensemble

Prior to Faddis's CJE's performance, the Columbia College Chicago Vocal Jazz Ensemble warmed up the audience with Miles Davis' "All Blues" and Jason Smith's "Reflections of Dizzy." This able ensemble is directed by Mimi Rohlfing.

When Faddis wasn't thrilling the audience with those high decibel notes, Senegalese djembe drummer Alioune Faye and CJE's artistic director and drummer Dana Hall were "putting on a clinic" that they could have entitled "The Art of Drumming." They engaged in friendly "give and take" on "The Baron," "Teranga," and "What It Could Have Been/The Big Bang" from Slide Hampton's Africa Suite. This duo received numerous rousing ovations throughout the evening. Senegalese sabar player Baba Faye for some unannounced reason was scheduled to join Alioune Faye, but was not in attendance.

This program, unlike others performed by CJE, did not feature a renowned national performer. Of course, Faddis was more than adequate in that role as he's one of the most respected and influential trumpeters of our time. He demonstrated his varied skills with lead on "The Baron," "Hey Lalo," "Waltz For My Father and Brothers," and "Teranga." All are multitalented Faddis' own compositions that he penned for his Teranga cd in 2006. It was on "Teranga" that Faddis aroused and excited the crowd with those oh soooooo high notes that he's recognized for. Faddis also displayed his softer side on "Waltz For My Father and Brothers," and "The European Contribution" from the Africa Suite, with his flugelhorn. "The Hunters and Gatherers" and "Hey Lalo" were done in a similar manner when he muted the trumpet. He concluded "The Hunters & Gatherers" with a serene soft whisper-like tone that could be heard throughout the expansive theater.

Other noteworthy moments included saxophonist Tim McNamara and keyboardist Jeremy Kahn on "The Baron," bassist Dan Anderson on "The Hunters and Gatherers," flutist Dan Nicholson on "Teranga" (with Faddis), saxophonist Pat Mallinger on "Africa's Suite," and "The European Contribution." Throughout the entire concert, drummer Dana Hall's performance was exceptional both as a soloist and while keeping time. He was on point all night long.

Although this listener thoroughly appreciated Faddis's feature role, it would have been exciting had Baba Faye been present to perhaps enhance the "Africa Suite." This listener had the pleasure of seeing both Fayes perform with Faddis in New York several years ago and they really enhanced the performance with their true African beats.

For information about future CJE events, refer to their website at www.chicagojazzensemble.com.