One of the most appealing sounds in Chicago jazz comes from the horn of Bobby Lewis, the veteran trumpeter-fluegelhornist who lately has been enjoying some overdue recognition.
Thanks to a beguiling new album, “Inside This Song” (Southport), and several dates fronting his own groups, Lewis clearly is savoring his moment in the spotlight.
Not that his playing is any less subtle and understated than it always has been. As he demonstrated Monday at Pops for Champagne, a North Side room that has been expanding its jazz bookings lately, Lewis is playing in characteristically cool and lean fashion these days. The pleasure is in hearing just how discreetly Lewis can express an idea.
Playing in an intimate trio setting, Lewis opened Monday night’s show with Jimmy Smith’s aptly named “Mellow Mood.” The purity of Lewis’ tone, the precision of his pitch and the sleekness of his lines neatly suited the tune.
If Johnny Mandel’s classic “Emily” requires a shade more emotional involvement, Lewis provided it by directing his music inward. In other words, by cutting his sound to a whisper and adding an unmistakable breathiness to his tone, he made the piece all the more introspective and personal.
There were upbeat moments, too, particularly in Antonio Carlos Jobim’s “No More Blues,” taken at an unusually fast clip for this idiom. Though Lewis and his group may have sacrificed a little musical authenticity with their hard-driving approach, there was no denying the excitement and propulsion of this reading. Even amid all the fast-flying lines, Lewis took care to emphasize the score’s shift from minor to major and back.
Lewis also proved intriguing as a singer, his version of “You Stepped Out of a Dream” recalling the similarly soft-spoken Chet Baker.
On this occasion, Lewis was joined by bassist Kelly Sill and pianist Jim Ryan, both sensitive collaborators.
Lewis will play Pops for Champagne, 2934 N. Sheffield Ave., again on Monday; phone 312-472-1000. He also plays the Three Arts Club of Chicago, 1300 N. Dearborn Pkwy., at 6 p.m. Wednesday; phone 312-944-6250.
