Reedist Keefe Jackson emerged at the vanguard of Chicago's post-millennial jazz community with 2006's Ready Everyday, his first release as a bandleader. Born and raised in Fayetteville, Arkansas, Jackson began studying cello at age three, quickly developing an infatuation with jazz. At ten he acquired his first tenor saxophone and by 15 he was regularly playing local nightclubs. After a year at the University of Arkansas, he relocated to Portland, Maine, playing in local jazz, rock, and funk outfits. In 1998 Jackson returned to Fayetteville to care for his dying mother, but found himself relegated to performing mainstream jazz and in 2001 relocated to Chicago, home to a thriving improvisational scene thanks to the efforts of Ken Vandermark and countless others. Within months, Jackson was part of a loose confederation of musicians gigging at the Hungry Brain, ultimately signing on with ensembles including the Lucky 7s and the 774th Street Quartet. In 2005, he made his recorded debut on the Chicago Luzern Exchange's Several Lights, followed by tours of the U.S. and Europe. In late 2006, Jackson's Fast Citizens -- featuring cellist Fred Lonberg-Holm, cornetist Josh Berman, saxophonist Aram Shelton, bassist Anton Hatwich, and drummer Frank Rosaly -- issued the post-bop set Ready Everyday on Delmark. Leading his 12-member Project Project, Jackson returned in 2007 with Just Like This. Three years later he delivered Seeing You See, featuring trombonist Jeb Bishop, bassist Jason Roebke, and drummer Noritaka Tanaka. In 2016, Jackson paired with vibraphonist/percussion Jason Adasiewicz for the duo recording Rows & Rows. ~ Jason Ankeny