The Radiance of Experimental Jazz: The Art Ensemble of Chicago and Message to Our Folks
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The mastery of Paris’ artistic scene during the summer of ’69 witnessed an invigorating jazz era, one of the chief contributors to this was The Art Ensemble of Chicago. The band’s eclectic fusion of numerous jazz forms, coupled with a striking stage presence flooded with vibrant costumes and face paint, bestowed them with a unique reputation in the avant-garde jazz field. Their ingenuity transcended a conventional five-piece band, with them skillfully handling an assortment of 500 instruments ranging from conventional ones to the likes of bike horns and wind chimes.
Established initially by the Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians (AACM), the ensemble was a quintet during their celebrated 1969 Europe tour. This includes Roscoe Mitchell and Joseph Jarman with their mastery over several saxophones and flute varieties, Lester Bowie pouring melodies from his trumpet and flugelhorn, and Malachi Favors with his captivating banjo and bass guitar tunes. Additionally, these multitalented artists also held an expertise over keyboard instruments and percussion.
Previously known under several names, the ensemble’s establishment in 1967 saw them incorporate talented AACM members, such as Joseph Jarman (saxophone) and Phillip Wilson (drums). The mid-sixties saw them perform under various designations, such as the Roscoe Mitchell Sextet, which included the seminal Roscoe Mitchell (saxophonist), Lester Bowie (trumpeter), and Malachi Favors (bassist). However, their performance as the Roscoe Mitchell Art Ensemble in 1967 witnessed the joining of Joseph Jarman (saxophone) and Phillip Wilson (drums) into their ranks. Their multispectral stage presence, characterized by face masks and diverse costumes was a trademark act, as Joseph Jarman, a member of the Ensemble, explains, “It represented everyone throughout the universe.”
They travelled to Paris in 1968, post their farewell concert at the Unitarian Church in Evanston, Illinois. Their arrival in Paris led to a transformation, a new identity came forth: the Art Ensemble of Chicago, an emblem of their cooperative spirit. Their base was at the famous Théâtre du Vieux Colombier, and recorded their fascinating sounds under the Freedom and BYG moniker.
Late 1969 witnessed the resonating notes of Message to Our Folks echo in Paris. This classic album now reissued in vinyl, continues to reflect the ensemble’s eclectic trait. The innovative ensemble also collaborated with notable artists like Brigitte Fontaine, Areski Belkacem, and Lester Bowie’s wife, Fontella Bass. They soared new heights with albums like Art Ensemble of Chicago with Fontella Bass and Les Stances a Sophie, which was the noteworthy soundtrack for a French movie.
Fast forward to 2019, celebrating overlapping five decades of this ingenious ensemble, they rejuvenated the jazz scene as the Art Ensemble of Chicago – 50th Anniversary Large Ensemble. In spite of suffering the loss of some pioneer members like Lester Bowie to liver cancer in 1999, and Joseph Jarman to respiratory failure in 2019, the ensemble remains dynamic. Alongside include new additions and prominent guest artists such as Nicole Mitchell and Tomeka Reid, they have managed to keep the Art Ensemble of Chicago’s legacy alive, filled with pulsating rhythm, and influential sound. As will be seen in their upcoming project of 2023 with a smaller crew of 20 musicians titled ‘The Sixth Decade: From Paris to Paris’. This would certainly be a rejuvenation in the long, illustrious history of the Art Ensemble of Chicago.
Learn more about The Art Ensemble of Chicago