The Chicago Jamaican Jazz Ensemble is an 8 piece ensemble that plays music in the tradition and style of early Jamaican Studio One dance bands. Before reggae, there was the celebratory music of independence in Jamaica. Music made for dancing, music that was Jamaican Jazz!
Drawing on musicians from Chicago’s diverse jazz scene the music honors tradition and looks to the future of the style. Many of the featured musicians are staples in the Chicago scene and can be heard with/on Swing Gitan, Fox’s Empire Series, Jennifer Hudson, The Drastics, and the Glen Miller Orchestra to name a few.
This is a one of a kind group in Chicago, this is the next generation, and we’re going back to the roots!

DJ Chuck Wren has hosted the ska radio show “Everything Off-Beat” across the Chicago dial since 1989, currently airing Wednesdays at 9 PM on WNUR-FM 89.3. Since 1993, his label JUMP UP RECORDS (www.jumpuprecords.com ) has released 200+ albums including local faves The Operators, The Crombies, Deal’s Gone Bad, The Drastics, and Green Room Rockers plus legacy US acts The Toasters, The Pietasters, Chris Murray, Mephiskapheles, New York Ska Jazz Ensemble, and top international bands Lollypop Lorry, Dr Ring Ding, The Magnetics, Out of Control Army and Los Fastidios.

“Ska night with DJ Chuck Wren” (last Thursday of the month) has been a institution at Delilah’s for 31 years. It is Chicago’s longest running ska/reggae night and has been all-vinyl since day one.