empty cell Metropolitan Jazz Octet
The Metropolitan Jazz Octet (MJO) is a Chicago-based jazz ensemble originally founded in the 1950s by saxophonist and arranger Tom Hilliard. In 1959, they released the album "The Legend of Bix" under the Argo Records label. After Hilliard's passing, his former student Jim Gailloreto revived the MJO in 2014, continuing its legacy. In 2023, they released "The Bowie Project" in collaboration with vocalist Paul Marinaro, offering jazz interpretations of David Bowie's songs. The MJO is known for its innovative arrangements and contributions to the Chicago jazz scene.