The Velvet Lounge

The address is different (the original location was a few blocks east), but the booking policy remains the same at this pioneering venue and informal showcase for members of Chicago’s trailblazing Association for the Advancement of Creative Musicians. The club, which was run by veteran saxophonist Fred Anderson before his death, concentrates on free jazz, with high-caliber guests such as Henry Grimes and former Chicagoan Matana Roberts joining the locals.