The phrase “jazz on a summer’s day” will remain forever synonymous with the 1960 movie of the same name – the very first feature-length concert film (a decade before Woodstock). But it now has a Chicago-area connection as well, thanks to Portoluz, the arts presenting organization that grew out of the late lamented Hothouse.
This summer, Portoluz kicked off a limited series of jazz performances in Harbor Country (as the Indiana Dunes area is more formally known), which continues this Sunday with a double-bill of bands led by flutist Nicole Mitchell and bassist Josh Abrams. Working in cooperation with the newly opened satellite site of Lillstreet Art Center in Lakeside, Michigan, the Portoluz series takes place at Lakeside Inn, which also offers overnight accommodations for those wishing to make a weekend of it.
Nicole Mitchell’s remarkable string of successes (see related articles) includes recent victories in the DownBeat Critics Poll and the Jazz Journalists Association awards, and will continue Labor Day weekend at the Chicago Jazz Festival, where she is this year’s Artist-in-Residence and will present several new compositions. In Lakeside, she will lead a little-known group with a new name, her Ice and Crystals Quartet.
This weekend's concert begins at 4 PM (Michigan time, which is one hour ahead of Chicago) in the ballroom of Lakeside Inn, 15251 Lakeshore Rd. You can find driving directions here. Amtrak trains to New Buffalo leave Chicago’s Union Station at 7:30 AM and at 4 and 6 PM. Phone the Inn at 269-469-0600.
The “Jazz on a Summers [sic] Day” continues September 19 with the Chicago Underground Duo of Rob Mazurek (cornet, electronics) and Chad Taylor (percussion, electronics).
A reminder, as we near the Labor Day weekend: Drinking + driving = stupid. Don’t risk arrest, and don’t risk your life. Plan for a sober driver or use public transportation this and every weekend.
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