4th Annual Chicago Latin Jazz Fest

Grupo Cha Cha, led by multireedist Lise Gilly opened the festivities for the evening. Lise was joined on stage by pianist Darwin Noguera, bassist Brett Benteler, drummer Jean LeRoy, percussionists Alberto Arroyo and Janet Cramer, trumpeter Victor Garcia, and vocalists Nythia Rivera and Nigel Mack.

What a set!!!!! They set the bar very high for the evening , primarily with original spirited selections from their CD entitled Direcciones. One exceptional moment was the cameo appearance of guest vocalist/harmonica player Nigel Mack who joined forces with Rivera for a splendid Latin-tinged blues number entitled "Bedroom Eyes." This left the large crowd ecstatic.

Mondongo! followed with an array of standards and Latin jazz numbers. This group was led by percussionist Robert Self and included multireedist Michael Levin, pianist Adrian Ruiz , drummer Don Skoog and bassist Bob Lovecchio. Although as a whole they were outstanding, special mention must be given to keyboardist Ruiz and multireedist Levin. Both did exceptional work on extended solos and received numerous rousing ovations from the crowd.

Chevere, one of Chicago's finest and longest lasting bands put the finishing touches on this three plus hours of sensational Latin Jazz. This group, under the direction of founder and drummer Alejo Poveda, wowed the audience with a wide variety of tunes that covered a collage of rhythmic sounds. They have been entertaining Chicago audiences for more than 30 years. This group consisted of Grammy award winner Howard Levy on keyboard and harmonica, Ruben Alvarez on percussion, Chris Cameron on keyboards, Rev. John Moulder on guitar, Steve Eisen on saxophone and percussions, Eric Hochberg on bass and vocals, Mark Ohlsen on trumpet and Joe Rendon on percussion and vocals.

One of their many highlights included a "back to the roots" segment that primarily consisted of the percussion section which was the initial focus of this band at its inception back in the 70s. It's amazing and a testament to their commitment to Latin Jazz/funk/blues music that they have remained together over three decades.

As the evening came to a climatic conclusion, no one seemed ready to leave. Everyone was in such a festive mood that unfortunately had to conclude at some point and time.

Congrats again to the Jazz Institute of Chicago and the Chicago Park District for their continued collaboration on these free monthly "Jazz City" functions that showcase park district facilities and the endless talented musicians that this great city continues to produce. For details about future Jazz Institute events, refer to their website at www. jazzinchicago.org.