When the jazz ends in Grant Park, it’s usually just starting somewhere else in the city. This year’s afterfest offerings aren’t as rich as they often have been in the past, but there are plenty of worthwhile options each night, from loose jam sessions to full-blown concerts. There are of course more jazz shows in town this weekend than I’m listing here; I’ve restricted myself to events that have some connection to the festival. See the music listings for more.
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The Jazz Showcase (809 S. Plymouth, 312-360-0234, music at 9 PM Thursday through Sunday, $20) has once again brought in hard-bop veteran and multi-instrumentalist Ira Sullivan to lead its traditional afterfest jam sessions, which usually include some of best straight-ahead players from the weekend’s lineup. At press time, club owner Joe Segal wasn’t making any guesses on the record.
Katerina’s (1920 W. Irving Park, 773-348-7592, music at 6:30 PM, $5) hosts veteran pianist Willie Pickens in a combo with bassist Kurt Schweitz, pianist Bradley Parker-Sparrow, and vocalist Joanie Pallatto; admission includes a free Southport Records CD.