The Vandermark 5 was an avant-garde jazz ensemble that carved a unique space within the global music scene, particularly noted for their innovative explorations in the realm of free jazz and post-bop genres. Formed in Chicago in 1996 by reedist Ken Vandermark, who received a MacArthur Fellowship ('genius grant') in 1999, the group consistently showcased a remarkable fusion of composition and improvisation. Alongside Vandermark, the original lineup included other stalwarts of the Chicago jazz scene: Dave Rempis on saxophone, Jeb Bishop on trombone, Kent Kessler on bass, and Tim Mulvenna on drums. Over the years, the ensemble saw changes in members but not in the inventive spirit that they were known for.

The Vandermark 5 was prolific throughout its existence, releasing a regular stream of albums that captured the ensemble's dynamic energy and creative edge. Their most recent releases before disbanding include "Beat Reader" (2008), which offered a blend of intense rhythms and intricate melodies, demonstrating the group's evolving compositional prowess; "A Discontinuous Line" (2006), showcasing their flair for dissonant yet harmoniously structured soundscapes; and the ambitious "Free Jazz Classics Vols. 1-4," wherein they reinterpreted works from the free jazz canon, infusing it with their contemporary perspective. "Burn The Incline" (2000) is another highlight, praised for its robust performances and compelling arrangements. The Vandermark 5 disbanded in 2010 after a 14-year run of pushing the boundaries of jazz, leaving behind a rich legacy of recorded material that continues to inspire and challenge listeners.