Blues and jazz have been intertwined since the beginning, and this collaboration between two Chicago institutions shows the power of their convergence. Jazz guitarist George Freeman, 92, is part of a familial dynasty that includes his late brother, tenor saxophonist Von; harmonica player Billy Branch, 67, is one of the most lyrical musicians on the city’s blues scene. You can hear them both on Freeman’s latest album, George the Bomb! (Southport), which dropped in April and features Branch on three cuts, including the title track. Branch has a new record of his own with his band the Sons of Blues, Roots & Branches: The Songs of Little Walter (Alligator). Both men know exactly where blues and jazz meet.
George Freeman and Billy Branch Fri 8/30, 4:15-5 PM, Jay Pritzker Pavilion
