As the lights dimmed and the murmur of the crowd simmered, the first musician walked on the fluorescent pink and lime green stage.

With a crescendo of musical sounds and excitement, the Underground Jazz Series, led by associate professor of the saxophone Tony Dagradi, premiered on Thursday Sept. 25  to jazz enthusiasts and music lovers alike.

The six-part jazz ensemble played one of John Coltrane’s best-known albums, “Blue Train,” as a tribute to the great saxophonist.

“Recreating ‘Blue Train’ was motivation in itself, just to be able to walk in the footsteps of the master,” Dagradi said. “It’s history. It’s tradition.”
The band performed in Satchmo’s in the basement of the Danna Center to a crowd of over 50 people.

“Almost everyone had a foot tapping – I saw a couple dancing together in the corner,” freshman vocal performance major Anna Weisenbaker said. “It was beautiful.”

The line-up included Tony Dagradi playing tenor saxophone, Loyola alumnus Jamelle Williams on the trumpet, Rick Trolsen on the trombone, Michael Pellera playing the piano, Jesse Boyd on the bass and Troy Davis on drums. Dagradi emphasizes that his band mates are “top notch. They’ve played all over the world.”

In fact, the six musicians had never performed “Blue Train” together before. They simply came in, warmed up together and played.

“I thought it was a magical combination of energy, spirit and sound. Very cool.” freshman English major Adam Keller said.

The musicians played the full album, only interrupted by the tumultuous applause of the audience.

For those who enjoy jazz or who would like to develop an appreciation, the Underground Series has a show at 7:30 p.m. every Thursday night through November, alternating each week with names as big as the Thelonious Monk Institute and Ellis Marsalis, to jam sessions performed by Loyola students.

Julie Simmons can be reached at [email protected].