That Ceda Life

…And All that Jazz (Part 1)

February 19, 2014

 

I was excited to be back at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra (CSO) on Saturday February 15th. For those of you that don’t know, I love music especially jazz! It’s the soundtrack to my dreams and fantasies; it speaks to my heart. This was my second concert in the Jazz Series. I had great seats (front row of the balcony). From this vantage point I can see everything; not only the performance but also the woman in the audience telling the man in front of her to put his phone away. Yes, one day I would like to sit a little closer so that the performers’ faces aren’t a blur but for right now I am happy just to be able to attend.

 

The first group (Gregory Porter’s quintet) started off on a high note, with a song highlighting the saxophone called “Painted on Canvas.” The sound of the sax went straight to my heart, and then the singer began. What came out…oh my…was slow and sweet. Gregory Porter has such a clear, strong voice. Smooth as ice and as warm as hot chocolate. My surroundings instantly faded, and it was just me and him. The next song, “On My Way to Harlem”, displayed the attributes of all of the instruments equally; although, the bass in particular called out to me. There is nothing like hearing the bass come through like a heartbeat. Strong, unobstructed, and methodical. Many times the bass goes unnoticed by listeners. Its ability to incorporate itself into the melody makes it hard for some to hear.

 

The third song, No Love Dying, gave the drums the opportunity to shine. Porter had the audience singing along, and even they sounded good! Porter also sang the title song of his 2012 album “Be Good” and “Hey Laura.” The quintet consists of Gregory Porter (vocals), Chip Crawford (piano & music director), Yosuke Satoh (alto saxophone), Aaron James (bass), and Emanuel Harrold (drums). Gregory Porter is one of the best singers and Yosuke Satoh one of the best saxophonist I’ve ever heard; I recommend seeing this group whenever they are in a city near you.

 

After intermission, the lights dimmed…there was a hush through the audience and the second act, the headliners appeared. The Spring Quartet consists of Jack DeJohnette (drums), Joe Lovano (saxophone), Esperanza Spalding (bass & vocals), and Leo Genovese (piano). Spellbound the audience watched as they began to play. The music surrounded us, transporting us to another reality, where anything seemed possible.

 

The group performed songs by each artist and even though I had not before heard any of their music it sounded familiar. Esperanza who has been met with a lot of criticism since she won a Grammy in 2011 (you know how haters can be) held her own in a group of men twice her age, and did not disappoint. She is exotic and enchanting, while her music is mystical and mysterious. She uses her voice as another instrument, not singing words but notes. The most amazing part of the show was the number of instruments the Quartet used. Jack played the drums and the melodica. Joe played the saxophone, clarinet, flute, and what looked to be a trumpet from where I was sitting. Esperanza played the bass and the saxophone. Leo played three types of pianos and a wood instrument that looked like it could have been a clarinet or an oboe.

 

Overall, it was a great concert. Jazz is pure art, uncensored with no boundaries; no rules limiting it. It inspires me and makes my heart long for things I don’t have; makes me dream of what could be. I get lost in the music and for that moment time stands still and I just feel. I hope all of you take the time to visit CSO and experience the magic that takes place there.

 

Sincerely,

Dana