IRIS is a jazz quintet comprised of Lenard Simpson, Kirby Fellis, Austyn Menk, Morgan Turner, and Paul Barrilles. The group was born out of five peers’ mutual desire to fuse jazz music’s historic subgenres, such as hard bop and post bop, with a modern aesthetic. Their compositions are a reflection of their musical upbringing, having been influenced by musicians like Mulgrew Miller, Roy Hargrove, Wayne Shorter and Walter Smith III.  With the release of their debut album on May 3, 2024, on Shifting Paradigm Records, IRIS has been making their mark on the Chicago scene.

IRIS has toured throughout the Midwest performing at venues including Cliff Bells (MI), Merriman’s Playhouse (IN), Jazz Central Studios (MN), Andy’s Jazz Club, The Whistler and Fulton Street Street Collective (IL). In summer 2022, IRIS was one of four groups in the United States selected to participate in the Jazz Aspen Snowmass Academy. 

“The Chicago-based collective IRIS has put together a beautiful debut recording that showcases a refined band sound while allowing room for each member’s unique voice to shine through!  This is a killer band and a great recording!” - Greg Ward, alto saxophonist

Follow Morgan Turner Quartet and IRIS on Instagram, YouTube, and Bandcamp to see and hear more.

The ever-popular CIJS House Band under the leadership of Larry Harms kicks off the evening, featuring outstanding jazz musicians from the area. They present a variety of jazz standards and other popular arrangements. Always a delight!

Concert begins at 6pm.

Trailside Event Center
4416 N Prospect (above Trefzger’s)
Third Sunday of the month (unless otherwise noted)

Members $8
Non-Members $12
Students Free