Matt Nelson Trio

Olive Black Lounge
Richmond, IL
April 7, 2007

Matt Nelson Trio

Photos & Story by Brad Walseth

Unexpectedly nestled in a former antique shop in downtown Richmond, Illinois - the "Olive Black Martini & Wine Lounge" is the hottest jazz club in the far N.W. suburbs. Owner Charles Mormino has furnished his classy nightclub with Art Deco trimmings, comfortable couches, fireplaces and an outdoor patio that brings a taste of Chicago nightlife to McHenry Co. A delicious array of drinks and appetizers are on the menu, and the musical acts are also served up hot and steaming. Artists like Shawn Maxwell and Lesley Byers have entertained the friendly crowds, which have been growing larger since the club opened last fall; word of mouth has made Olive Black the place to go in the N.W. burbs for cold martinis and hot jazz.

Last Saturday night featured the Matt Nelson Trio - a group who play Olive Black quite regularly, and this combo is a true crowd pleaser. Bandleader/keyboardist Matt Nelson is equally adept and entertaining on the piano and electric piano as he is on the organ during his work with the Shawn Maxwell Organ Trio, and his 12-finger playing style is sure to bring a smile to the face of both jazz fans or casual listeners alike. Providing solid, yet exciting support on the bass, Graham Czach is making his name as one of Chicago's best and most in demand young bassists; while drummer Matt Nischan is a talented and tasteful player on the drum kit. Their live repertoire is primarily standards, but Nelson tells me the trio will be recording a CD featuring some original compositions in the near future - something to look forward to indeed! Meanwhile, until you can make it out to Olive Black, we hope you will enjoy the photo gallery below.