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Story and Photos by James Walker, Jr.
Keyboardist Ken Chaney's Awakening Ensemble provided the entertainment at the
Hyde Park Jazz Society's most recent jazz set and tribute. In conjunction with
the John Wright Music, the Jazz Society honored two true legends from the South
Side, saxophonist Ari Brown and guitarist George Freeman.
As expected, another standing room only crowd assembled at this increasingly
popular Sunday "Must See" jazz set. Chaney was assisted by his "usual awakening
suspects" of trombonist T.S.Galloway, trumpeter Pharez Whitted, drummer Ernie
Adams, bassist Josh Ramos and honoree saxophonist Ari Brown. These
exceptional musicians have been performing as The Awakening for the past two
years and they're like fine wine, they get better with age. Now if they would
only take time out to record this outstanding original music.
Chaney's original "Lookin' Ahead" kicked off the set. He wrote this piece during
President Obama's campaign in anticipation of what was to come. Ari Brown took
the first lead and was followed by Galloway, Whitted, Chaney and Abrams. It was
quite evident by this initial piece that all would share in the evening's
spotlight.
Galloway's "Mi Nina" had a nice Caribbean touch as Chicago was experiencing one
of the coldest days of the winter season. This number allowed one to forget about
the frigid outdoors and dream about basking in the sun on an warm island beach.
On the next number, "Reach Out", all ensemble members experienced excellent
solos with Ramos distinguishing himself. Throughout his solo, the bassist
combined uncanny speed and and horn like facility while seeming to gain energy
and ideas as he forged ahead.
The set was concluded with Brown's "A Groove Awakening". Ari WAS in a groove on
this number as he proves himself as a hard swinging, technically adept post bop
saxophonist. The crowd roared its approval of his virtuosic display. This
highlight number also allowed Adams to demonstrate his power-precision drumming
which elicited wild cheers from the packed house.
Although leader Chaney didn't take many long solo spots, he introduced the
themes of most numbers and acted as a catalyst for his impressive band mates.
And finally, kudos again to underrated trumpeter Whitted who stunned the crowd
with his blazing chops throughout this set.
During the intermission, guitarist George Freeman and Ari Brown were honored by
the John Wright Music. Lady T Marcelain made the presentations to these two
icons as Denise Williams introduced Brown and Janice Hopkins spoke on behalf of
Freeman. A well deserved honor was bestowed upon the two.
For information pertaining to future Hyde Park Jazz Society sets, refer to their
website at www.hydeparkjazzsociety.org.
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