Gapers Block published from April 22, 2003 to Jan. 1, 2016. The site will remain up in archive form. Please visit Third Coast Review, a new site by several GB alumni. ✶ Thank you for your readership and contributions. ✶
Just a reminder that tomorrow night Moby will be coming into town with a full band (a somewhat rare treat) to play at The Vic. Ever since his rise to popularity with the release of his album Play, which sold over 10 million copies worldwide, Moby has been a key figure in helping to bring dance and electronic music into the mainstream.
With his latest album, Wait For Me, we see one of the most personal pieces of work he's released to date. And he recorded the entire thing in his own apartment by himself in New York, giving a new meaning to having music feel like home. The video for the first single, "Shot in the Back of the Head" was done by director David Lynch, and you can take a peek at it over on Moby's website.
Moby plays The Vic tomorrow night, Wednesday September 30th at 7:30pm. Tickets are $34 and can be purchased online.
Influential Chicago group Tortoise has announced that they will be playing an in-store performance this Sunday at Reckless Records in Wicker Park in support of their new album Beacons of Ancestorship. The album is their first in five years and this will be only their third in-store appearance. They play at 5pm sharp, but since it's FREE, we recommend arriving early as they are sure to draw a big crowd to the small shop. 1532 N. Milwaukee.
In other Tortoise news, they are opening for Wilco at their two UIC Pavilion shows on October 18th and 19th. Tickets are $39.50. Show starts at 7:30pm.
Last night the Brooklyn powerhouse known as Grizzly Bear played the first of their two nights of shows at the Metro, captivating a full house of fans with their always lush and mesmerizing music. The band have swiftly been winning over audiences with their hushed yet forceful sound ever since their debut release Yellow House, including a large following in Chicago after playing twice at the Pitchfork Music Festival.
The Metro stage was adorned with mason jars hanging off of beams that looked like telephone wires, as the band sauntered onto the stage and launched into "Southern Point," a song that I believe Thom Yorke might have wished he wrote for Radiohead. It's a multifaceted and layered track, with a heavy bass beat keeping every part tethered to one another. As the song built speed and crashed at a high point, the mason jars above the band flashed brightly, illuminating them in a soft glow, which complimented the always beautiful lighting set-up at the Metro perfectly. The band was off to a strong start, both visually and musically, already more focused and solid than their performance this summer at Pitchfork Festival.
They played the first few notes of "Cheerleader" the first single of their latest album Veckatimest, as the crowd roared in approval. Live, "Cheerleader" has a more murky and muddled sound, the music almost sounding like a stomp as it plods along. This contrasts perfectly with the clear ringing vocals of Ed Droste, making "Cheerleader" an infectious song that glides smoothly along. Droste's vocals throughout are soft and languid, especially on tracks that showcase his simple sound such as "Knife," which I've deemed personally as the sonic equivalent of a warm bath. It relaxes you, is soothing and calming, and all I want to do is close my eyes and just get lost in the moment. Corny as it sounds, it makes sense when you see Grizzly Bear live. Other memorable moments of the set was the haunting "Colorado," which had a beautiful breakdown towards the end, a strong delivery of "I Live With You," which held tension and built before exploding in sound, and a choice ending for the set of "On A Neck On A Spit."
After first being mesmerized by the band a few years ago at Pitchfork Festival, and then let down by a lackluster performance this past July at the festival, it was reassuring to hear the band so dynamic, forceful, and gorgeous as they were last night. Seeing the multiple instrumentation and the careful craftsmanship of their music live truly shows why Grizzly Bear is one of the most innovated, original, and refreshing bands around today.
Grizzly Bear will play their tonight, Monday September 28th, at the Metro. There are still a few tickets left for the show this evening, but if you plan on going grab a ticket now at the Metro site, because I'm sure the show will sell out. Tickets are $25, it is 18 and over, and doors open at 8pm with the show starting at 9pm.
Ever since I've been going to shows, I've been fascinated with the juxtaposition between performers on record and on a stage. Some excel in the studio and don't quite pull it off live. Others can't bottle the live magic on albums. And others with perfectly acceptable recorded output somehow find ways to build upon it and wow audiences. My Friday featured the latter from two headliners.
Lollapalooza 2009 dark horse Miike Snow played two sold out shows at the Empty Bottle. At the early one, the band walked out in their signature black track jackets and white masks (singer Andrew Wyatt looked like Phil Manzanera had he been in Jabbawockeez) and began with the ultra-poppy yet creepy "Burial." As the set progressed, it became clear that they don't have an agenda apart from a set list. Some songs sounded very close to album versions. Others were recognizable, but quickly evolved into heavy 10-minute electronic explorations with Christian Karlsson and Pontus Winnberg (a.k.a. Bloodshy & Avant) leading the way. Even though most of the audience instinctually eyed Wyatt, it was no secret who was running the show and making the music click. They hit drum machines, twisted knobs and basically looked like two DJs thrilled to be out from behind the booth. Slow burner "Silvia" and closer "In Search Of" both got the best treatment with extensive slides into synth-heavy bangers that left the crowd no choice but to dance. Band members left the stage one by one and eventually the lights came up as rapturous applause filled the Bottle. If Friday's show is any indication of the progress Miike Snow has made as an act even since the summer, there should be no doubt that their future is bright.
Just over a mile east down Division (easily bikeable once Friday's rain stopped), the Soft Pack and Smith Westerns played late at the Chopin Theatre. Smith Westerns have accumulated a lot of tremendous press over the last few months. Music bloggers have busted nuts over their lo-fi glam-rock sound (think Times New Viking + T. Rex). But they're still kids. They're undeniably young in both presence and musicianship. They look nervous in front of an audience - even one that shows them a lot of love. And they screw up chords now and then. However, they have a plethora of potential and it's obvious to hear why everyone wants to be on their bandwagon before it closes. In contrast, the Soft Pack were consummate professionals. It took a couple songs for the San Diego foursome to get into its groove, but once they did they were cooking with gas and sounded tight as a drum. Splitting the set between old and new tunes gave the audience chances to sing along, such as on the infinitely livened "Bright Side" (sounds kinda boring on the album, but is massive live), and bask in the glory of a band finding confidence as they grow. The third song in their set (a new one which I have no name for) was simply incredible. The band's raw rock and roll roots (think Modern Lovers with a little Cheap Time) are still in place, but a surf-rock angle creeped into a lot of the new and even where it wasn't in some of the old. Much like Miike Snow, though in a completely different genre, the Soft Pack's success should know no bounds if they continue along their current trajectory.
Growing up very much a part of the metal and hardcore scene, New Orleans, LA has served as one of the most integral and inspiring sources of music for me. Bands like Down, Acid Bath, Soilent Green and Eyehategod — to name only a few — were and are oceans beyond most other bands in this genre. I have a hard time even pairing them together in any way that makes sense. They created their own genre and community. Where one band ends several hybrids have already begun; each adding their own unique piece to the instantly-identifiable whole. While this is representative of artists in New Orleans in general, it's all too apparent in the musical community. They play the music of New Orleans and its inhabitants. They tell the story, good and bad. The beauty that emanates from the city also moves through the music. The devastation, anger and horrible truths that Katrina brought with it will forever be heard in the songs. So will the will to overcome it all. If there is a band that embodies NOLA and this sentiment more than any other, it is Down.
Fun.'s debut album Aim and Ignite was released a mere four weeks ago, but every person in the sold-out crowd at Schubas last night knew every word to every song, often shouting them over the band. Considering Aim and Ignite hasn't left my stereo in the past four weeks either, I was none too surprised at this reaction. If you're unfamiliar, fun. is the new project of former singer of The Format, Nate Ruess, Andrew Dost of Anathallo, and Jack Antonoff of Steel Train. Fun. retains the theatricality of Nate Ruess' songwriting style that I loved in The Format, only slightly more mature and with a more layered sound. I'm not as familiar with Anathallo and Steel Train as with The Format, but having never seen The Format live, I was excited to catch Ruess in action. He sure didn't disappoint.
For the last 20-(cough) years, Ian Svenonius has been an underground mainstay. His music, from early-'90s Dischord-era punk (Nation of Ulysses, Cupid Car Club) to mod garage-gospel (The Make-Up) and even modder psychedelica (Scene Creamers/Weird War), always features the elements of conspiracy rhetoric and ants-in-the-pants dancing.
Svenonius' latest project, Chain and the Gang, is no different, though it sounds far more subdued (no James Brown screaming here, folks) -- more "Folsum Prison Blues" than "N-Sub Ulysses." The band's first album, Down With Liberty... Up With Chains!, is mainly a Svenonius gig, but collaborators include the who's-who roster from K Records, including Calvin Johnson and other members of Dub Narcotic Sound System, Sarah Pedal, Brett Lyman, Karl Blau, Lizet and Veronica Ortuño, and about half of Old Time Relijun.
Catch Chain and the Gang at the Beat Kitchen on Monday, Sept. 28. I'm not sure just who will be in the touring band, but suffice to say it'll be a good ol' down-with-the-Man time. Playing with them is locals D. Rider and The Love of Everything. The show kicks off at 9 p.m., and it'll set you back $10. That is, unless you are the winner of a pair of tickets to the show, courtesy of Gapers Block. Just send an e-mail to contests@gapersblock.com with "Chain and the Gang" in the subject line and your first and last name in the body of the e-mail.Update: We have a winner! Congrats to Eric!
I have to admit, I was only faintly familiar with Os Mutantes before they headlined The Pitchfork Music Fest in 2006. I had heard the name, but never ventured in to the realm of '60s Brazilian Psychedelia. Everyone was freaking out over this band and I knew that I had been missing something wonderful. Kurt Cobain begged them to open for Nirvana in the early '90s. When Beck released Mutations in 1998, the title was in ode to this band. Os Mutantes' influence was slowly brought in the mainstream and the term Tropicalia became part of the indie rock lexicon. It took the band reuniting to get them all over mix CDs and to my ears.
I was at Pitchfork three years ago with my friend who knows music like no one's business. She set me straight on what a powerful band they are. In addition to making some of the most amazing experimental music of the '60s and '70s the band has survived imprisonment, artistic oppression, and exile during a military coup. Yet though all this turmoil, they produced joyous music matching the anger and passion that stemmed from the Tropicalia movement. They just released their first album in 35 years on Anti Records entitled Haih or Amortecedor and play this Sunday at the Subterranean. They have proved themselves as music legends whose stories are gifts to be heard.
We live in exciting times when a band with such a rich and important history plays an intimate venue. I expect to be there in awe and awaiting an experience 35 years in the making.
Os Mutantes play Sunday, Sept. 27 at The Subterranean, 2011 W. North Ave. Doors at 7:30pm, show starts at 8:30. Brooklyn Spanish-pop band Deleon opens. The show is 17+. Tickets are $25 but we've got an opportunity for you to win a pair of tickets for free! Just email contests@gapersblock.com with "Mutations" in the subject line and your full name in the body of the email. We'll choose one entry at random at 5pm today. Update: We have a winner! Congratulations, Oscar!
Tania Bowers has almost an overwhelming seductive quality to her music, and whether it is through the gentle beats or her hushed purr her latest album, Moon Sweat Moon, will seduce you. Earlier this year, Tania self-released a version of this, her second full-length album, but with her recent signing to The:Hours Records, this Fall the album will find its official release. What is most enticing about the Via Tania's sound are the various levels and dimensions that these songs reach. From simple guitar folk melodies on "How Come" to the almost tropical sounds of "Light Years", Moon Sweat Moon slowly progresses through genres giving the listener an array of sounds to enjoy. The albums closer, "Home" perfectly sums up the range through its eight minutes of delicate electronics and plucked guitar. Tania's blends perfectly through the album, but hauntingly echoes through out this track. The albums lead single, "Wonder Stranger", is the most pop-centric tune, but the entire album is very accessible. In fact, Moon Sweat Moon has the feel of album that could launch Via Tania into a more mainstream picture, and she has in fact already played shows on both coasts in support of the albums rerelease.
Six members of Chicago band Scotland Yard Gospel Choir were injured in a rollover accident yesterday in Indiana while on their way to Cincinnati. According to Chicago Breaking News, "Indiana state police said a preliminary investigation showed the band's 1999 Chevrolet van was southbound in the left lane when a tire failed on the rear passenger side, causing the van to roll over multiple times on the grassy median." According to the report:
--Mark Yoshizumi of Chicago was airlifted to Advocate Christ Hospital Medical Center in Oak Lawn with leg and internal injuries, along with major head trauma.
--Eliezer Santana Jr., 32, of Chicago, who was driving, was taken to Jasper County Hospital with a concussion and minor bleeding.
--Alison Hinderliter, 42, of Chicago was taken to Jasper County Hospital with a head injury.
--Ethan Adelsman, 32, of Chicago was taken to Jasper County Hospital with a head injury.
--Elias Einhorn, 29, of Chicago was taken to Jasper County Hospital with a head injury.
--Mary Ralph, 28, of Chicago was taken to Jasper County Hospital with head trauma and a shoulder injury.
We've also got word from Bloodshot Records that Ethan, Jay and Alison have been treated and released for their injuries.
Our thoughts are with them and all of the Bloodshot family in wishing them a speedy recovery.
UPDATE: A fund has been set up to help the band with medical bills and equipment replacement. Donate here.
Tomorrow is the type of night when live music fans are simultaneously enthralled and frustrated about living in a town like Chicago. There are a plethora of shows, but only so much time. As much fun as multi-show evenings can be, there's also location, cost and time to factor into a busy night. It'd be a breeze to see alt-country rockers Son Volt at the Vic and then walk over to Schubas for a 10PM show with the trendy electronic trio Chairlift and British experimental musicians Micachu & the Shapes. That'd be two shows within a half-mile for $35. Or you could see the early Empty Bottle show with Swedish electronic rockers Miike Snow and Jack Peñate at 7:30 before walking (or riding your bike or taking a cab) about a mile to the Chopin for the Soft Pack (né Muslims) and Smith Westerns at 10PM. That package comes out to $22. And if you had some ESP to know when sets really begin, I'm sure you could work in Scottish pop band Bell X1 and New Hampshire indie rockers Wild Light at Double Door. But those scenarios don't even include all of the other shows happening on Friday. So let's do a quick rundown of some of Friday's highlights:
In addition to the Miike Snow and Soft Pack shows, Empty Bottle has a Texan double bill I last saw in 2002 with And You Will Know Us By the Trail of Dead and Secret Machines. The show's at Logan Square Auditorium at 8PM for $15.
To enter, submit two songs here by October 1st. From October 1st thru October 15th, the polls will be open to vote on the best tracks, with a limit of one vote per email address per day. After the voting period, the Chicago Bluegrass & Blues Festival organizers will choose the winner from the top five artists. Simple enough. Local bands, get on it!
For the second article in an occasional series on long lost music venues in Chicago, Transmission takes a look at Medusa's, an all-ages music and dance club that was one of the first New York-style nightclubs to open in Chicago. See our previous look at Off The Alley here.
"you wouldn't believe me if I told you..15 going on 25......favorite color? BLACK! smoke cigs? yup. gotta square? a clove? 13 and drunk? i don't remember...beat up? fucked up? knocked up? new wave, house, industrial, hip hop slam dance, dirty disco, techno, this acid life..ahhhhh the memories...." —Description of the Facebook page MEDUSA'S on SHEFFIELD in CHICAGO
In Greek mythology, if you stared directly at Medusa, the legendary female Gorgon with mesmerizing snake-hair, you turned to stone. In Chicago mythology, if you hung out just long enough Medusa's, the famed nightclub at North Sheffield Avenue and West School Street, you sure as hell didn't turn to stone.
Opened in the early 1980s, Medusa's on Sheffield was one of the defining nightclubs in Chicago's house music scene throughout the '80s and early '90s. "Dark, thumping, alive" and a melting pot with blobs of gum covering the sidewalk of the front entrance, Medusa's was the setting for several legendary Chicago stories: Billy Corgan and company wearing black velvet capes during one of the Smashing Pumpkins' first live shows, the late Studs Terkel saying, "Thanks for a great night. Is that Billy Idol?" and punk rocker GG Allin telling the crowd he was going to kill himself but instead, cutting his body and lighting equipment on fire.
Former site of Medusa's at 3257 N. Sheffield, Chicago
This past Sunday was a dreary and rainy night in Chicago, but in my mind I was laying in the sun somewhere in a tropical climate far away. No, I wasn't hallucinating nor had I finally lost my mind. I was being swept away by the sweet sounds of Fool's Gold.
Tom Schraeder has been hard at work the last year (and still is) on material for his new album, The Death of St. Thomas. Having heard bits and pieces here and there myself, you'll be surprised at some of the turns he takes on what was originally slated to be three different sounding albums. Perhaps you'll also get a peek at some of his new material tonight as Schraeder brings his special brand of Americana to Beat Kitchen.
Also playing tonight is another of Chicago's own, Scott Lucas with his new band Scott Lucas & The Married Men. If you come expecting to hear another version of Local H, you're in for another surprise since this time around, Lucas has opted for softer and slower with less anger, more sadness and a touch of folk.
Tom Schraeder has even made this special video invitation to tonight's "Cassette Release Party" set to "Patbaby (An Ode To)," one of the tracks from his forthcoming album:
Extra Golden rolls into Chicago this weekend on the tails of the Chicago World Music Festival and boy are we in for a treat. They're playing not one but two shows at the Hideout so you get a doubleshot of one of the most entertaining half Kenyan/half American rock bands out there (well, to be honest, it's likely one of the few Kenya/U.S. musical matchups you're likely to hear at the Hideout, but it's a real good time, nonetheless). A member of the Thrill Jockey label, Extra Golden brings a booty-shaking, finger snapping, hand clapping beat straight from the streets of Nairobi to your eardrums (via D.C.). Currently promoting their latest album Thank You Very Quickly, you might remember Extra Golden from their jubilant song release last fall when Obama clinched the Presidency. Beautiful harmonies, happy guitars, and a truly rump-shaking rhythms are a staple of their new release and a real motivation to see this band live. Their latest effort once again features East African guitars, polyrhythmic drums and songs sung both in English and Luo, but also has a special vibe and more of a polished tone than previous albums. A believer that "tight quarters = tight grooves", the album was recorded mostly in the third floor hallway/laundry room of guitarist Ian Eagleson's parents' house. Given that success, I don't see how a show at the intimate space at the Hideout could be anything but a prime locale for this band.
And hey if you want to follow Alex Minoff (the "second best guitarist in Extra Golden") or Thrill Jockey on Twitter. You can do that, too.
Extra Golden plays this weekend, September 26th and 27th at 9pm at the Hideout located at 1354 W. Wabansia, Chicago. (773) 227-4433. Tickets are $12. Endless Boogie opens.
Act now and go for $0! We have two pairs of tickets (one for each night) to give away courtesy of the Hideout! Just be the first to email us at contests@gapersblock.comwith the subject line "Extra Extra!" and you and a friend can get your dance on for free! First who emails gets to pick their night! Update! We have our winners! Congrats to Eric and Chris!
[MP3]: Extra Golden - Anyango from Thank You Very Quickly
I first saw Scout Niblett perform on June 22, 2008. Whatever else I did that day is long gone, but the performance I saw that night will always stick with me. It was a Sunday night and the show was at Schubas. I was there mostly to see Dax Riggs, but Niblett was opening. She began with "Hot to Death" from her album Kidnapped by Neptune, and she got my attention fast. Intense is not a strong enough word for what happened in that room, on that night. I was only slightly familiar with her before she started that first song. By the end of it I was enamored. I knew I was in for a binge. I bought (yes, bought) all her albums that night.
For those unfamiliar with Niblett, allow me a moment to proselytize: She is from Staffordshire, England, but currently lives in Portland, OR. Her music is very minimal, and consists primarily of vocals accompanied by guitar, drums and the occasional piano. Often, only one of these instruments can be heard at a time. She plays them all.
Niblett's singing is unconventional but fervent. She's cited grunge music and astrology as being major influences. She's worked with Chicago's own Steve Albini on multiple albums; her most recent, This Fool Can Die Now, features a hefty four duets with Bonnie "Prince" Billy. On April 14, 2009 she released the 7" single, It's Time My Beloved through Chicago-based indie label, Drag City. Her current tour comes to a close this Friday, Sep 25 at Subterranean: 2011 W North Ave. 9:30pm. 17 & over. Tickets are $12.
But why pay when you could go for free? That would be ridiculous, not to mention wasteful. We're giving away a pair of tickets. Be the first to email us at contests@gapersblock.com with your full name and "Niblett" in the subject line, and they're all yours. UPDATE We have a winner! Congrats to Dan B.
[This guest review comes to us from reader Sarah Avampato, who also took the pictures.]
In front of a crowd of around 250 people, scattered at tables and chairs across the wide open floor of the Art Institute's new modern wing, Andrew Bird showed yet again why he is a force to be reckoned with in today's music scene. His short set drew mainly from Noble Beast, with a few nice surprises: an unanticipated side trip off into b-side territory ("The Water Jet Cilice"), a reworking of some old songs ("Sweetmatter"), and a new song that he's been working on. The crisp, clean lines of the modern wing were well suited to a night of Bird's music, who commented at one point that the environment made him want to play more legato music, broad strokes, instead of "pointy" things. The space really seemed to give Bird's music the chance to grow and take shape, unconfined, to be whatever it wanted to be, the way his music should really be heard.
Bird opened his set with "The Water Jet Cilice", a song which has popped up a few different times on EPs (Soldier On, Fingerlings 3). The song's long been a favorite of mine, and when I heard the opening strains, the churning violin and startling whistle, from way off in the middle of nowhere, aka where the restroom was, well, let's say I walked just a little bit faster to get back to my seat. After the song, he talked to the audience for a bit, mentioning that he was asked to tell an anecdote about the Art Institute. He shared a story about going to the museum when he was around six, with his mother and some other neighborhood children. In looking at the paintings, he recalled standing in front of one - a Rembrandt - and really having the urge to touch it. So, of course, he did, and promptly got yelled at by the security guard. Somehow, I don't think this was the type of anecdote that the organizers were hoping he would share - I imagine they were hoping for something a little more cerebral - but it suited the audience just fine.
Bands might be losing their buzz swifter than a Kanye interruption, but a potential audience member has to weigh the pros and cons of letting the buzz waves determine their lifestyle. The question is: should you go see Passion Pit for free? On the one hand, every trixie and their mother who's gotten a taste of the band on XRT will be in attendance wearing ironic Cubs T-shirts and pink baseball caps. Hipsters have an irrational fear that Clayton Hauck or the Cobrasnake will pop out at any moment and photograph them as one of these cougars hits on them, or a brah knocks them back with a mighty chest bump. Back to reality though folks. Yes, you might see some people who aren't in a quarter-life crisis, and maybe there will be a lot of them (tickets are being provided solely through XRT VIP points). If you can get your mangy mop-topped brain around the horrors of corporate sponsorship (yes, it's brought to you by Bud Light) and just want a chance to see a pretty decent band play some pretty decent songs in a not-too-big venue, check XRT's giveaway page for details on how to get a ticket - the show will be at Logan Square Auditorium on September 30th at 8PM, and will be 21+.
One of my favorite films growing up was Little Shop of Horrors, although, looking back on it now, maybe it wasn't the most appropriate movie for a kid to love. Nevertheless, there was singing and dancing and I thought Audrey was so pretty (the girl, not the plant) that I wanted to be just like her (again, not the best role model for a kid).
A week before Halloween, popular Chicago venue The Hideout plans to bring the musical to life. The cast and crew will be made up of Hideout employees, musicians, friends and regulars. As Hideout owner Tim Tuten says: "This is true 'Community Theater.'" Come and see if Hideout employee Tyler Myers lives up to the legend of Steve Martin as "The Dentist" (no pressure, Tyler) or if musician and regular Marvin Tate makes a believable man eating plant. No matter what, a fun time is sure to be had by all, and it's the perfect way to get geared up for playing dress-up yourself a week later.
Showtimes are: Thursday, October 22 and Friday October 23 at 8pm, Saturday October 24 at 3pm and 8pm, and Sunday October 25 at 3pm and 7:30pm. Tickets are $15.
Folks, I'm gonna lay all my cards on the table; no headline-burying for you lovely souls today. Gerritt is playing in Chicago this Friday (at Metal Shaker, 3394 N. Milwaukee, 9 p.m./$5/21+). For those with chaos-hungry ears, who can (and will) take the time to differentiate between the thousand ways to to make the great din new and exciting, no more need be said, and you've already trampled the messenger on your way to line up at Metal Shaker for tickets. If you're unsure but interested, here's the brief version.
Post-Hardcore/Progressive rockers These Arms are Snakes seem to want to be Chicagoans based on who they have been tour mates with. They are back in town playing the Subterranean Tuesday. This band, who was at the Sub-T last Febuary played what was told to be amazing show, just off the heels of a tour with local instramental rock stars Russian Circles through Europe. They have also spilt EPs with both Russian Circles and fellow locals Pelican.
After releasing the soon to be classic Tail Swallower and Dove last year on Suicide Squeeze, The band decided that Pitchfork didn't know what the hell they were doing and collaborated their own 500 list with what they believe to be the best songs of the past 10 years as opposed to Pitchfork's 30 year exploration. (With of course respective nods to songs they both agreed on.) Anyone who would take the time to compile another list that long is obviously a hard core music fan and TAAS's love of music shows in their thrilling live performances where crowd surfing and stage diving are common. I haven't taken the time to count the number of Chicago based bands on the list.
Act now and get in for free! We have a pair of tickets to give away to the first person to email us at contests@gapersblock.com with the subject "Snakes!". Update! We have a winner! Congrats to Tim!
Experimental Canucks DD/MM/YYYY and Northwest Indiana band Native opens for what is sure to be an intense night of music. The Subterranean is located at 2011 W. North Ave. Doors at 8:30. Show Starts at 9:00.
I've been on the lookout for the film D Tour to hit Chicago since I first heard about the project, and I'm psyched to see it screening for free tomorrow afternoon at the Cultural Center. An award-winning documentary about Rogue Wave's drummer Pat Spurgeon and his quest to find a new kidney, the film follows Spurgeon just as he's beginning to tour heavily with the band. It's an amazing examination of the emotional struggle of living life and following your passion all the while with an illness. Check the trailer below:
Yesterday Live Nation announced they will be offering a "club passport" ticket deal, which lets you get into any House of Blues show in Chicago from now until the end of the year for $49.99. Granted, the House of Blues would place somewhere near the bottom on my list of best music venues in the city, but if you can find enough quality shows there in the next few months, this might be worth it (especially considering there will be no added fees on top of the $49.99). A quick look at their concert calendar tells me KMFDM, Revolting Cocks, Taking Back Sunday, Kid Sister, and GWAR all have gigs there before the end of the year.
Paste magazine sat down recently with our favorite local mashup DJs: The Hood Internet and had a little chat. Read and learn about the creative process behind their dancefloor breaking mashups, their feelings on Girl Talk, and plans for an actual Hood Internet album release. These guys (well, a solo STV SLV, but still) rocked our anniversary party like nobody's business, so we have a lot of love for what they do.
Upon first hearing about this new venue up in Evanston, I immediately wrote it off because, well, it's in Evanston, and that's too far from the city, right? Even the name SPACE, an acronym for "Society for the Preservation of Art & Culture in Evanston," sounds stuffy and official. Then I heard that there was something very special happening there, that it was a sort of co-op for artists and doubled as a recording studio. This piqued my interest. I contacted General Manager Jake Samuels and he invited me to the Buckwheat Zydeco show a few weeks back so I could check the place out and talk with him about the concept. We were lucky to also be joined by Owner/Partner (and musician) Stuart Rosenberg for the conversation where we talked about everything from archaic liquor ordinances, to the abstruseness of jazz, to of course SPACE itself and the concept behind it. Turns out there's a lot going on under the hood.
One of my favorite albums as of late has been Bad Veins' self titled debut--from start to finish. The album reminds me a lot of The Killers' debut Hot Fuss--over-the-top, danceable indie-rock with the same longing in the vocals. Bad Veins have a lusher, more orchestral sound though, and aren't afraid of their softer side. You'll find yourself singing along, yelling the full-of-feeling choruses --I often get them stuck in my head and catch myself singing 'I would be lyin if i said i never hated you!' around my house.
While their name might not be in your musical lexicon quite yet, drummer Sebastien Schultz and keyboardist/guitarist/singer Benjamin Davis have gotten quite a bit of attention lately with their single "Gold and Warm" popping up on indie radio stations, as one of MTV's Bands You Should Know, and songs appearing in Gossip Girl and The City.
The Smashing Pumpkins have just announced plans for their next album, titled Teargarden by Kaleidyscope. The album will consist of 44 songs, released one at a time via free download, starting sometime in the next couple months. A physical EP will be released between every four songs (11 EPs total), and after all 44 songs are released, the EPs will be compiled into a deluxe box set. This will mark the second album the Pumpkins have given away for free - Machina II/Friends and Enemies of Modern Music was released online in 2000 after Virgin Records declined an official release.
The nominations are in, and now it's time to vote for 2009's The Truth Awards, which celebrate Chicago's vibrant hip hop scene. Will Twista win best album? Is Mic Terror the artist of the year? It's your call.
The Truth Awards will be held Oct. 9 in the Grand Marmon Ballroom, 2231 S. Michigan Ave. from 7 to 10pm. Tickets are $25, available by calling 312-980-2681 or emailing midwestgap[at]yahoo.com.
After a stint in the electronic trio Dead Disco, Victoria Hesketh a.k.a. Little Boots used social networking websites for exactly what they're meant. She released recordings of a slew of covers and, with the Dead Disco name still bright in some minds, grabbed the attention of people who could help further her career as a solo electronic music artist. With Greg Kurstin (Geggy Tah, The Bird and the Bee) and Joe Goddard (Hot Chip) assisting with writing and producing, she released some singles in 2008 that caught the attention of even more people and had her debut album, Hands, ready for a much-anticipated 2009 release.
Where Dead Disco was slightly abrasive, Little Boots isn't. Rough guitar riffs have been replaced by grooving synths reminiscent of female-fronted British electronic pop between Rachel Stevens and Goldfrapp. Hesketh's voice carries from ultra sweet to downright desperate (in a good way). In addition to synths, the relatively new tenori-on plays a significant role on Hands. Floorburners like "Stuck on Repeat" and "Remedy" showcase a talent whose music should blow up in clubs. Downtempo songs like "No Brakes" call to attention a performer who has no trouble dialing it down a few notches.
Little Boots performs at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western, on Thursday evening. Boston's Yes Giantess and Chicago's Kid Color open. The show begins at 9:30 and admission is $15.
As CHIRP's physical station is nearing completion at 4045 N. Rockwell St. (and Congress and the FCC are in the midst of reconsidering the law that limits new low-power broadband FM radio stations in big cities), the group is asking for donations to help bring the noise via the Internet. Contributions start at $1 and can run up to as much as $10,000, if you're feeling like that. Through November 11, CHIRP is offering various premiums for donations, from buttons and tote bags to signed silk-screened posters and free CDs. Hell, if you donate $500, various CHIRP DJs are available to spin at your house party!
Bookworks, at 3444 N. Clark St. in Lakeview, is probably best known for selling used books, but inside the store, you'll also find a nice selection of used records and cds. Bookworks' Dylan Underwood passed along these recent top sellers:
I've been to a few shows in my time. I've seen one or two (hundred) drunk performers. For some it's their schtick. For others it's just a result of the way a day's gone. But I don't recall ever seeing someone begin a set quite like Deer Tick at the Bottom Lounge on Thursday. Singer John McCauley walked on stage, ahead of the rest of the band, and talked about beginning with "The Star-Spangled Banner." I have to admit I was looking forward to hearing his gruff vocals through a song so notoriously difficult to sing. But instead he sang "I Left My Heart in San Francisco" as Sammy Davis, Tony Bennett and a few others. Midway through he even took some vocalist requests. Once the band actually walked out and started to play music, things improved. McCauley was absolutely plastered, but everyone else seemed to be more or less on the wagon.
While at times Deer Tick's music may evoke reminders of Fleet Foxes' ethereal Americana, the entrance of McCauley's raspy voice quickly shuts down those comparisons. It's far more Hardy Morris (Dead Confederate) than Robin Pecknold. And that may work like a charm on their two albums, but the 23-year old hasn't quite figured out how to make his alcohol work in his favor during the non-rockers live. Of those, only an amped up "Ashamed" was anything more than mediocre. But it was fantastic, due in large part to the audience singalong of its catchy chorus. As they moved onto the jams late in the set, the band found their groove and came alive for "These Old Shoes" and their highly accessible "Easy."
Slightly accented singer/songwriter Regina Spektor, one of the quirkiest artists in the indie scene come to the Chicago Theatre Saturday. Spektor released her fifth album Far in June which has four tracks produced by Jeff Lynne of Electric Light Orchestra and The Traveling Wilberries fame.
Spektor uses her voice as an instrument (along with the piano) to add coughs, squeaks and hiccups to her already unusual sound. One element of her music that is admirable as well as confusing to her fans and critics is her ability to be a storyteller outside of her vision and experiences. It is rare in a world of autobiographical songwriting and the excessive need to purge and confess through songs that someone like her can stand alone and share small pieces of songwriting fiction with such confidence and conviction.
Regina Spektor will be at The Chicago Theatre tomorrow night. The show starts at 8:00 and tickets are still available through The Chicago Theater's Website. 175 N. State St. (312)462-6300.
What's better than seeing Common and The Roots for free? Seeing Common and The Roots for free with free cognac. The Hennessy Artistry tour is making its first stop in Chicago tomorrow night before sailing through Atlanta, New York, and Houston. Chicago's own Common will be curating the event, with The Roots as the house band and other special guests stopping by. It's all going down at The Shrine, 2109 S Wabash Ave, starting at 8 pm.
There are six ways to win tickets (and yes, you must win tickets to get inside):
Our dear old local label Bloodshot Records is turning 15 this year and they've been partying across the country like Paris Hilton. Setting up this weekend in their sweet home Chicago, you can catch some of the best acts from Bloodshot's roster (past and present) for a measly ten-spot. Plus, there's food, drink, art, activities for the kids, and yes, belt sander races. What follows is our run down of some of the best fun to be had between noon and 10pm Saturday out in front of the Hideout.
Hot dang! Color me excited. 93 XRT have announced they'll be hosting "Night at the Modern Wing", hosted by Jon Langford and including an intimate performance with Andrew Bird. The event takes place Monday, September 21st from 6-9 pm at the Art Institute, and you have to be a 93 XRT VIP member in order to win tickets. What an excellent way to spend an evening. Excuse me will I rush to create a 93 XRT VIP account.
I first saw Amazing Baby back in June when they opened for Phoenix at Park West. I was there to review Phoenix, but I was so blown away by the opener that when I heard they were returning to Chicago to headline Schubas, I had to give them a shout-out all their own.
Their debut album, Rewild, wasn't out by the time of the Park West show, but you can be sure I picked up as soon as it was available. With such a mature sound, it may come as a surprise that Rewild is their first album. The first half of the album entrances beginning with "Bayonettes" and Pink Floyd-esque drones and swells on "Invisible Place" into persistent drum beats driving the intensity of "Kankra" and breathy desperation (reminiscent of earlier Prince?) in "Headdress." Late in the album is the unassuming "The Narwhal" -- which you have to hear live because the recorded version just doesn't hold a candle. While they may wear their influences blatantly, they mold them well and show much promise of continuing growth and longevity in a time when today's hot thing is tomorrow's ancient history.
Here at Transmission we are so excited about this band that we want to make sure you see them, which is why we are giving away a pair of tickets to tomorrow night's show! Just be the first to email us at contests@gapersblock.comwith the subject "Amazing!" and you and a friend get to go to the show for free! Update! We have a winner! Congrats to Patrick!
Amazing Baby play Friday night at Schubas. The Entrance Band opens. Show starts at 10:30pm. 3159 N. Southport. 18 & up. Tickets are $10.
Since Calvin Harris, unleashed his certified gold debut album I Created Disco in 2007, the young Scottish DJ hasn't stopped since. He's collaborated with the likes of Dizzee Rascal and Kylie Minogue (he co-wrote and produced one of my favorite Kylie songs, "Heart Beat Rock"), remixed a plethora of artist, and still has found the time to crank out a new album and tour all over the world (he'll head to LA, Tokyo, and Ibiza following his set in Chicago). All of this is no surprise, given his tightly woven electro-pop music. His style is crisp and sleek (see "You Used to Hold Me" off his latest album, Ready for the Weekend), and each track snaps and pulsates with a sexy loose vibe (for this evidence, check out "The Girls" off I Created Disco).
Harris will be manning the decks this Friday night at Visions Nightclub, as C3 and Dark Wave Disco bring Harris to town before he jets off again across the world, winning over dance floors, one turntable at a time.
Calvin Harris will be DJ-ing tomorrow night, Friday September 11th, at Visions Nightclub, located at 632 N Dearborn St. The show is 21+ and tickets are $25 pre-sale, $30 general admission at the door.
With the work week starting on a Tuesday, it's easy to let the week get away from you, so you'd better start making plans now because you'll be kicking yourself if you miss something like a great show at The Hideout.
Local pop group Grammar has been playing around town somewhat under the radar lately, but tomorrow they play their first headlining gig. Their self-titled EP is purely pop with catchy hooks and feel good melodies, but lead singer and songwriter Brent Pulse (formerly of Bumpus) also shows that pop has a charming side. Tunes like "Won't Let Go" are pillowy soft and sincere, and you'll still be singing along. The group often brings interesting off-color instruments into the mix--everything from xylophone, to accordion, to melodica--in creating these pristine melodies. If you come by simply because you're curious, you're likely to find yourself dancing in the front row by the end of the show.
Last Wednesday was a bit of a bizarre night at the House of Blues. Maybe it was a full moon or something, but things were a little off for the whole evening. The House of Blues is an odd venue in itself--not really the room itself, sound is great in there--but being a corporate entity, rules are strict and drinks are expensive (not exactly what you would expect from a no-holds-barred rock club). And going inside is like walking into a dead zone: zero cell service (which sucks when your date is outside and has lost his ticket).
Polvo, one of the most intricate guitar bands of the 90's math rock scene comes to the Bottom Lounge tomorrow night. The band has the talent of making dissonance sound as if it belongs and almost pretty, yet still gives you that satisfying feeling of two trains coming at you at the same time. If you missed their sold out show last summer at Subterranean or couldn't stand the crowds to catch them at Wicker Park Fest 08, This Saturday is a good chance. Polvo is supporting their first album since regrouping entitled In Prisim which comes out this Tuesday. Local rock band Haymarket Riot opens just in time for Labor Day, along with fellow Chicagoians, The Poison Arrows for what should be a very loud night. The Bottom Lounge is located at 1375 W. Lake St. (312) 666-6775. 9 PM The show is $15 and it is 21+
"It's no wonder that Chicago has inspired hundreds, if not thousands of songs, each with a unique perspective that reflects Chicago's incredible energy. Chicagoans have a special pride for their city. Why not sing about it?" That quote comes from Alarm Magazine publisher and editor Chris Force, and that is exactly what the Chicago Public Library wants you to do for their Sound Off music contest. The contest invites local musicians to write an original song composition inspired by our fair city.
Dutch techno pioneer Speedy J released last year Kreate, a huge collection of his original loops and samples that allowed DJs to build entire tracks in a live setting. Then he launched the "Open Collabs" project that encouraged producers worldwide to submit samples and loops to him, so that he could build an entire album from them. It's like open-source track creation; open source being a term that, in the software world, allows one to have access to a software's source code--the guts of a program--so that they can use it as they best see fit, and / or continue to develop the program on their own. It's become totally hot as of late, with the internet providing access to many minds and distribution methods.
So how has SJ's methodology affected his DJ performances? Check him out this Friday at Smartbar.
It's not Monday, but a Chicago-based indie band will be taking the Pritzker Pavilion stage at Noon today. You've still got about an hour to get down there, so treat yourself to a lunch outside the office today and relax on the lawn while listening to the tunes of the 1900s.
I'm sure all you fine readers are polishing your dancing shoes and laying out your outfits for tomorrow night. Because I know you'll all be attending the 6th annual Gapers Block Party that we told you about last week!
I'll just quickly remind you of the awesome line-up: Nikki Lynette, The Hood Internet, Blane Fonda, and Panda Riot. And the fact that IDM Photography will be there with a photo booth is just the cherry on top of my musical Friday night sundae.
So how could things get any better you ask? How about this amazing poster by Dan Grzeca?
The poster itself says so much about Chicago, and who can resist the adorable charm of an angsty parking meter monster?
So we'll see everyone tomorrow night at the Metro. Remember, come before 9:30pm, and it won't cost you a thing to get in. Free event people, bring all your friends. Don't fret if you're running late, anything later than 9:30pm and it will just cost you $6. And while you are there you can pick up one of these really cool posters to class up your apartment. We'll see everyone tomorrow night, and I'll save a dance just for you.
Riot Fest is the little punk festival that could, a celebration of music only in it's fourth year, but rapidly expanding and gaining a strong presences each year in Chicago. This year the line-up includes an impressive roster, from legendaries like Naked Raygun and Screeching Weasel to hometown heroes Alkaline Trio, and everything in between. And it was with great pride to find out that our "little" festival was spreading out West. So it's with heavy hearts to report that Riot Fest West has been postponed, and even heavier hearts to share the reason why.
The mid-November festival in Los Angeles will be pushed back until Spring 2010 due to health issues challenging the founder, Riot Mike. Very sad news, but we know Riot Fest will still be kicking Chicago's ass later next month, and have no doubt that come Spring 2010 L.A. will get a taste of it as well. Riot Mike's personal statement is after the jump.
Chicago-based casting agency ExtraOrdinary Casting is searching for 2,500 volunteers to dance on an unnamed television program with the Black Eyed Peas. Details about the event are being kept hush-hush, but we do know it will be filming somewhere in Chicago on Tuesday, September 8th, and extras will also be required to attend a rehearsal on Monday, September 7th. If you'd like to get involved, send a photo and contact number to darlene@extraordinarycasting.net, or check out the ExtraOrdinary Casting website for more information.
Let's just hope Fergie doesn't wet herself in excitement.
The nominations are in, and now it's time to 
