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Earlier today Monica Kendrick mentioned a CD-release party by Sabertooth this weekend, and I just found out about another release celebration this Sunday night–fellow Delmark artist Ari Brown will play three sets, beginning at 7:30 PM, at the New Checkerboard Lounge at 5201 S. Harper Court. A few months ago Brown, one of the sturdiest and most flexible saxophonists in the city, put out a live CD and DVD cut at the Green Mill–no idea why that venue wasn’t chosen for this occasion–and it ably captures his range, from Coltrane-style soprano workouts to blues-rich Chicago hard bop and modal balladry. The album also paints a warm portrait of Brown’s unfussy skill and charismatic humility: for much of his career he’s worked as a sideman, supporting everyone from Elvin Jones to Kahil El’Zabar (this is only his third work as a leader since the 90s), and I’ve always had the sense that he isn’t interested in the spotlight. He just loves to play the horn.
