Frank Catalano's Miles and Coltrane Centennial Celebration

Tenor saxophonist Frank Catalano brings his signature fiery sound to Black Cat in a special centennial tribute that marries his current success with jazz history. The Chicago powerhouse, known for his robust tone that recalls Von Freeman and his "roaring" intensity, celebrates the anniversary of his #1 charting album, Love Supreme Collective, while honoring the 100th birthdays of John Coltrane and Miles Davis with classics from both masters.

Catalano has built an impressive career ranging from jazz legends to pop superstars — performing with Miles Davis, Randy Brecker, and Von Freeman while also collaborating with Jennifer Lopez, Beyoncé, and The Smashing Pumpkins. Despite losing his right middle finger in a 1994 accident, he overcame the injury through reconstruction surgery and perseverance to become one of the most in-demand saxophonists today, averaging 150 concerts annually and frequently gracing the stage at New York's iconic Birdland Jazz Club.

The residency features material from his new #1 Billboard charting album, Set Me Free, alongside beloved tunes he's recorded with Tony Bennett and what promises to be "a few surprises." Catalano's live performances are known for their exuberant energy and expansive repertoire — DownBeat noted his "elbows-out" style and how "tunes build to a group shout chorus" rather than traditional trading.

This multi-night celebration captures Catalano at a career high point, with his recent works including "Tokyo #9" with Jimmy Chamberlin debuting at #1 on the Billboard Traditional Jazz Charts. His documentary Sugar Jazz, directed by Colin Donner, will premiere at the Tokyo Liftoff Film Festival, adding another dimension to this prolific artist's story. The show promises both the "sunnily ferocious" intensity that has made him a festival favorite across the USA, Europe, and Asia, and the musical depth that has earned him features in The New York Times and NPR.