Jazz Up Your Sunday Funday This Weekend

By Katie Karpowicz in Arts & Entertainment on May 3, 2013 6:30PM

Chris Greene/Photo credit: Ozzie Ramsay

Typically rock and jazz don't jive. Fans of either genre rarely see eye to eye on much. So you can imagine our surprise upon reading the first line of the Chris Greene Quartet's bio: "As soon as the Chris Greene Quartet takes the stage, jazz and rock audiences alike notice something different - something besides the fact that they're seated next to each other."

Semi-skeptical, we decided to take a listen to saxophonist Greene’s latest A Group Effort and we're pleasantly surprised.

Played on an electric bass with a bit of distortion the rhythm line on "Stat" would be right at home in a Tool song. "Shore Up" showcases jazz's longstanding ties with Latin music. There's an undeniable undertone of gritty funk in "Bride of Mr. Congeniality" and "Future Emperor of Evanston" is filled with poppy hooks. All the while, you're still quite aware you're listening to a classically trained jazz composer. In short, if you're not a staunch jazz purist, Greene's quartet should be right up your alley.

Catch this local talent at City Winery this Sunday, May 5. Tickets are an easy $10 and the show starts at 7:30 p.m.

City Winery is at 1200 W. Randolph St.