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The Green Mill resident band lets it all hang out.

Friday Mar 12, 2010.     By Centerstage Chicago Staff

Music Feed

Follow Friday is a weekly interview series in which each Chicago artist we talk to recommends a fellow local act.

This week's guest: Sabertooth
Recommended by: Model Citizens Big Band

Though it may seem like Sabertooth has been playing at the Green Mill forever, there was a time - say, when Al Capone hung out there - when another band presided over the late-night sessions at the famed Uptown jazz club. But for the past 16-plus years, the local quartet has had a stronghold on the stage, and it doesn't look like the relationship is going to end anytime soon. Saxophonist Pat Mallinger gives us a little more information.

Describe your sound in 140 characters or less.
In a variety of musical genres Sabertooth performs original compositions, standards, jazz classics, and rock covers with two saxophones, drums and organ.

Where and when was your first show - and what was it like?
Our first show was in 1992 at the Jazz Bulls in Lincoln Park. I immediately hooked up with Cameron [Pfiffner], the co-leader. One of the last of the underground dark jazz clubs in Chicago created a scene similar to the beginnings of jazz.

Name three of your favorite Chicago spots.
- A Tavola
- Green Mill
- Gallery Cabaret

What Chicago artist/band should we interview next and why?
Chicago Yestet, includes some of the most noted jazz players in Chicago, with a high level of composition, performance, and improvisation.