It was a cool night for hot jazz on Sunday as the Chris Greene Quartet brought the heat to SPACE, 1245 Chicago Ave. A packed house came out for a hometown celebration of the group’s album Convergence, their first release after signing with Pravda Records, Chicago’s longest-running independent label, last year.
The Chris Greene Quartet performs Sunday night at SPACE. Credit: Carrie Jackson
While the record came out in November, it was important for bandleader, saxophonist, and Evanstonian Chris Greene to play a release for the local crowd. “SPACE is our favorite venue, and the greatest place that we’ve ever played. It’s amazing to have such an Evanston crowd come out, and we’re all having a wonderful time,” he said.
The group is led by saxophonist and Evanstonian Chris Greene. Credit: Carrie Jackson
Started in 2005, the CGQ is now one the most highly visible bands in the Chicago area. The formidable ensemble consists of Greene on saxophone, Damian Espinosa on piano and keyboards, Marc Piane on double and electric basses; and Steve Corley on drums and percussion. With a mix of new pieces, original compositions, and fresh takes on jazz standards, Sunday’s concert was a spectacular showcase of their versatility, creativity and music mastery.
Damian Espinosa (from left), Marc Piane and Chris Greene at SPACE. Credit: Carrie Jackson
The show came on the heels of the quartet being named “Best Jazz Ensemble” in the 2024 Best of Chicago Reader poll, an annual award determined by reader votes. This is the third time CGQ has received the award, a nod that Greene says is humbling. “We started this band almost 20 years ago, so the fact that people are still thinking about us when it comes time to vote is really cool and an absolute honor.”
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