A friend took me to my first jazz club last Monday night in Chicago. I have been introduced to jazz on and off through the years, but being the humble music listener that I am, I never understood the history or prestige surrounding the genre. So we walk into this little club. It’s dimly lit, yet you can see the beautiful artestry depicted on the walls. Mood lighting illuminates these paintings, lamps are hidden behind architectural accents. There isn’t much room. Beside the bar, there are only a handful of tables and a few chairs in front of the stage.
My friend explains the structure of the music and that each instrument will play solo from the others throughout a single song. We sat beside the drummer which was a great choice because that boy was on fire. I was so impressed with his skill. True to my friend’s words, the next hour was audio delight. The pianoist/vocalist was a bomb, that sax so sweet, the bass pleasantly deep, and, as earlier stated, the drummer was amazing.
I really enjoyed myself. It was a great experience and I’d love to go back, or maybe find something in my area. I have tremendous appreciation for music and love learning something new.
I feel kind of old talking about jazz like this which is…you know…your grandma’s soul music. Lol. There were a lot of grandparents there that night, bless their beautiful hearts. But I’m so in with that crowd! Send me back to the 60’s, baby!
Fanny T Crispin
Written Things 