“…its melodic power and stylish group dynamics make the CSJC a prime portal who don’t limit music by category but are simply driven by the groove.”
“…this is damn smart music for the times. Hard-hitting stuff that really delivers the goods.”
“CSJC builds a vibrant bridge between the classic era of soul jazz and a fresh approach that keeps this music so timeless.”
“…this all-original program holds its own with anything coming out of New York, Los Angeles, or London at this point in 2022.”
“…evocative, top-notch compositions-an album that slots them firmly in the here and now without losing sight of their stylistic ancestry.”
“…admirably channels a lot of the Windy City’s up south Black music traditions that are rooted in Mississippi delta blues and Memphis soul yet gleaming with the northern migration electricity.”
“…Fournier’s gifts as a lyricist should be emphasized…inspired by the accessible yet challenging musicianship and equally inspired by the poetry of the lyrics.”
The Chicago Soul Jazz Collective, co-led by saxophonist John Fournier and trumpeter Marques Carroll, doubles down on the storied jazz idiom.
With On the Way to be Free featuring Dee Alexander, the ensemble’s third record release as of May 13, 2022, the CSJC repertoire effortlessly captures the early funk of such pioneers as Horace Silver and Cannonball Adderley, but also encompasses rhythm-and-blues, classic ‘60s soul, and even neo soul, which Dee Alexander also handles with experiential aplomb. All but one of the new album’s nine tracks were written by Fournier, whose songwriting has evolved to include evocative lyrics and memorable narratives – without abandoning the irresistible swagger that characterized the soul jazz heyday, neatly encompassed in “Behind the Crusaders.” (The title nods to one of the idiom’s most popular bands).
With On the Way to Be Free, the CSJC takes another giant step, showcasing the irresistible force named Dee Alexander on a program of evocative, top-notch compositions – an album that slots them firmly in the here and now without losing sight of their stylistic ancestry.
The Chicago Soul Jazz Collective Live at three venues on three separate dates.