The Chicago-based band Illville Vanguard pays homage to R&B legend D’Angelo’s Black Messiah album. Illville Vanguard (no relation to D’Angelo and The Vanguard) is led by Gabriel Alston and consists of three other band members. Joining the lineup of performers from Chicago are Vocalists Sam Thousand (and trumpeter), Erthe St James, Amyna Love and Rhea the Second. The crowd will be treated to a warm opening act by Amyna Love, and the entire night will be hosted by the talented Nola Ade.
Black Messiah is technically credited as D’Angelo and The Vanguard–a veritable who’s who in jazz. To bring this masterpiece to life, D’Angelo’s band consisted of Keyon Harrold, Kenneth Whalum III, Rodrick Simmons, and several others. The album was released in 2014 around the time police killed Michael Brown in Ferguson, MO and several songs speak to a nation that was (and still is) finding its way.
If their cover of Justin Brown’s “Fyfo” or their own original “New Joint” are indications of their talent, then we’re confident this tribute of Black Messiah will reign supreme and is a must see.
The performance takes place at The Promontory in Hyde Park on June 28. Purchase your tickets in advance. Doors open at 7 p.m.