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. ✶
Every year, it goes without saying that I really look forward to the start of holiday songs posted to Chicago blog Big Rock Candy Mountain. If you're not familiar, BRCM often features tunes from early rock and country artists. Hidden gems, if you will. Little diamonds in the pile of coal. If you'd like to fill your Christmas playlist with songs other than the standard fare (at times maudlin, and sad, but still wonderful), head on over to the Big Rock Candy Mountain every day till Christmas, and click away at the awesome.
You might know Alex White as the talented ginger half of the amazing band White Mystery. Now, after singer, guitarist and rock star, she can add "high fashion model" to her resume. Alex recently modeled some fancy fashions for local online shop, E Drop-Off's The Closet blog.
One of my favorite times of year is Christmas. And one of my favorite ways of celebrating is with Christmas music that's strange, wonderful and even a big bizarre. The Chicago blog Big Rock Candy Mountain does an amazing job of promoting great country tunes all year long, but come December 1st, they dig deep into the holiday crates, and come up with something special to post every single day. Visit daily for mp3s you can download or just stream for that extra-added holiday cheer (or jeer) that isn't the same ole same old. Beware, though, as some of their vintage photos which accompany the posts can be a big big on skin, and low on the tinsel, if you get my drift. Of course, this photo below, from the December 1st entry featuring a song by Detroit's Jimmy Kirkland titled "Hang Them High At Christmas," is just big on booze. Merry music!
Fresh off of Pitchfork, A$AP Rocky landed himself in trouble with the law in NYC.
The Music Box in Lakeview is about to host it's Summer Music Film Festival with showings of Monterey Pop and Gimme Shelter starting July 30 and 31, and a lot more.
Still waiting on their Chicago celebrations to be announced, but local label Thrill Jockey's turning 20 this year, and they already have some great commissioned posters for sale from Dexterity Press and Sonnenzimmer that both capture some label love.
Another awesome local label, Numero Group, is tracking down hit Illinois artists from the past, that you may have lost track of.
Nice in-crowd video of Ty Segall taking a little crowd surf at Pitchfork.
It's easy to stay cool, when you're Tom Waits (hopefully also while watching Tom Waits perform). He sang his song "Chicago" on Letterman this past week:
Be sure to stop by the Gapers Block table at the CHIRP record fair tent at the Pitchfork Music Festival this weekend. If you want, make friends and bring the volunteer staffers some ice cream. Or a cold....soda. They won't bite. Preview acts you shouldn't miss.
It's been hot, it's still hot. In classic rock n' roll style, there's a lot of songs about it. Let's cool down with a little Motown, huh? Here's "Heatwave" by Martha and the Vandellas (with some great B&W video [er, film].)
Or maybe, if you prefer, sing some "Summertime Blues" with Blue Cheer.
But really, here's some cool stuff about Chicago music happening around the web:
The Quietus interviews John Herndon from Tortoise about the band's pending back catalogue releases and what musical influences shaped the band's unique sound.
If you missed the tribute to MCA and the Beastie Boys at Lincoln Hall earlier this week, there are a ton of videos from the event, including a full stage performance of "Fight For Your Right" and an appropriately funky "Funky Boss."
Matador records loves local record shops, as shown in this profile of saki.
Brace yourselves for DJ Chrissy Murderbot's upcoming "Friendship" EP (due out July 24).
Pretty psyched to see the photos of concerts past at Metro/Smart Bar's 30th Anniversary "Metrospective" which starts with a gallery opening on July 12 at the Inland Steel Building at 30 W. Monroe.
Snap a picture to enter the Wilco Summer Photo Contest, which began on Monday. Check the rules for more details.
Like some ambient drone? Check out new album "Stereo Stasis" from Chicago's Cinchel.
NPR takes a look back at Chicago's House Music legacy.
Next Wednesday is the deadline to enter Mucca Pazza's "Thought Bubble for a Mucca" contest. Prize includes a Safety Fifth CD, a t-Shirt and a tote bag. See the contest details and post your "thought" on Twitter or Facebook.
Fake Shore Drive has a video of Kids These Days covering Kanye's song "Flashing Lights." The band plays Schubas at a Lollapalooza pre-party on August 2.
DJ Chrissy Murderbot plays a rare Saturday night show in Chicago at the Kioku Lounge at 2130 S. Wentworth Ave. this weekend. Starts at 10pm ends at 3am. Free beer from 312 from 10-11pm. Custom photo booth. Learn more on Facebook.
Grab the entire "world punk" band Firewater's catalog via Bloodshot Records in September. There's also a geocaching campaign to go along with the release. That's right. Geocaching.
With the return of the hot (and packed) days of summer, I thought it's only fitting that we jump back into this weekly post, and try to spread the word about all of the amazing music in Chicago you might otherwise miss. Feel free to make sure we're in the know, by Tweeting at us, or emailing anne@gapersblock.com with tips.
Thoughtful piece on Dale Watson, and his place among the country music canon. He plays Martyr's tonight (Friday) by The Reader.
The Grant Park Chorus and Orchestra celebrates Chicago history with the composition "An Exhaltation of Place." Catch it performed live (for free) in Millennium Park Friday or Saturday night this weekend.
Have a chance to win a gift card to Schubas or Lincoln Hall by Instagramming this video in any Chicago cab.
Numero Group is adding another format to a recent album "spruce-up" with a release...on cassette. Fire up your boombox for Antena's Camino Del Sol.
Another past music venue, Lounge Ax, is putting on a cool retrospective at saki, along with some parties at the store (with live music, of course) August 10 and 11.
Christmas just isn't Christmas without the music. And every year I look forward to hearing some real rare gems over at the Big Rock Candy Mountain blog. They started December 1st, with a handful of tracks from everyone from country artists like Bob Wills and the Texas Playboys (with one of today's rather somber selections) to indie rockers like Isobel Campbell and Mark Lanegan (below) and R&B masters like Bloodshot Records' Andre Williams (who has a very filthy track not appropriate for young kids, but might give adults quite the chuckle). Bookmark the blog and check back for a daily dose of music that won't leave you Grinchy in the least. Check early and often, these tracks don't stay live forever.
The Food Republic blog spent the week interviewing over a dozen DJs about their tastes in food and music. See what Chicago (and nearby) spinners Flosstradamus, The Hood Internet, Michigan's Mayer Hawthorne and Carl Craig, and others from around the country had to say about what they eat before a show, during a show, and after. And sometimes even what their official tour riders supply them with the second they hit a venue. Bonus: there are food-oriented playlists to enjoy at the end of each piece. They'll leave you craving some horsey sauce.
While we're humming the theme to "Love Boat" we're often online checking out cool stuff about music in Chicago.
Head over to the Old Town School of Folk Music's store this weekend for a humongous sale on absolutely everything. August 13-14, 9:30am-4:30pm at the Lincoln Avenue store only. (4544 N. Lincoln Ave.)
Sadly, the London riots are being dramatically felt in Chicago as stock belonging to local labels Thrill Jockey, Drag City, and Touch and Go were destroyed in fires at their London warehouses. Additional info.
Big Rock Candy Mountain blog has another installment of their Six Pack in the Middle of the Road series of special vinyl cuts from their collection.
Hot Biscuits has a special track courtesy of Irish producer Screendeath.
Get your dance on at the Mad Decent Block Party this weekend in Wicker Park. It's free, and will feature Curren$y, Dillon Francis, Dawn Golden & Rosy Cross, Bosco Delrey, Kito, Reptar, Lunice, BBU, Benzi and DJ Say Wut.
Daytrotter's popular touring party, the Barnstormer 5, will hit locally in Monticello, IL on September 5th (that's Labor Day). Grab tickets to enjoy White Rabbits, Wildlife, Princeton, Hacienda, and Hundred Visions.
A review of Kanye and Jay-Z's Watch The Throne collaboration in the Sun-Times.
When we're not trying to remember all of our online group coupon deals, we're eating half-price pizza, listening to music.
If you're going to the Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival this weekend (there's a fabbo lineup including JC Brooks & the Uptown Sound, White Mystery, Hood Internet, Hollows, The Eternals, Netherfriends, and so much more!) stop by the Gapers Block table and say Hi! When you're done festing, take your arm (with your fest wristband, and the rest of your body) to Saki (3716 W. Fullerton Ave.) and get 15% off your purchase!
If you're looking for a bit of nostalgia, check out the Soul Train photo exhibition at the Cultural Center, now through September 5th. If you go tonight, or any Friday before 9/2, there's a live DJ spinning a perfectly Soul Train-appropriate set from 6-8pm.
Thanks to everyone who said Hi at our table at the CHIRP Record Fair during Pitchfork. Great to meet label folk and artists face-to-face and oh, so many cool readers! Now, on to the good stuff.
Lollapalooza 2011 is now officially SOLD OUT. If you were waiting to buy your tickets, now you'll be stuck with the secondary market.
Chicago blog Gozamos interviews local label Trouble In Mind.
Download a set of (most of) the samples used in the upcoming Kanye and Jay-Z collaboration "Watch The Throne" from Fake Shore Drive.
Are you ready for Chicago vs. Atlanta? New tape compilation of psych rock bands from our two states called Vital-Sound I hits the shelves next month with lots of cool local art as an added bonus!
When we're not applying aloe, we're inside, applying aloe. Don't forget your sunscreen!
We'll have an intrepid gang of music lovers hitting the grounds at "Lakeside" for the DMB Caravan this weekend. Tickets are still available at the gate! Stay tuned for our reviews and pictures!
RSVP to stay in the loop for an upcoming August 18th benefit show at Lincoln Hall for the Garfield Park Conservatory! Lineup, additional details TBA.
If you need a playlist for your summer bbqs, why not use this massive one from Girl Talk? With a little effort, it would be like Greg Gillis was AT your house.
Download the remix of Kelly Rowland's tune "Motivation" with raps by Kid Sister on RCRDLBL. Kid Sister ramps up this slow jam!
There comes a time in life to eat tacos and sit outside — this weekend is one of those times. But if you're on some wifi, maybe check some of these items out:
The Deli post a new video from Company of Thieves who will be opening for Hal & Oats at Ravinia next Sunday night. Lawn tickets are sold out, but some reserved seating is still available. And, you know, there's Craigslist.
When we're not reading Goodnight Moon to the tomato plants, we're often looking at some cool stuff about music online.
Heading out to see (or hemming and hawing about) the Neon Marshmallow Fest at the Empty Bottle this weekend? Our intrepid experimental music lover Chris Sienko has the breakdown of the best of the fest. (Look for our epic reviews this weekend.)
If you got all teary watching the very last episode of The Chicago Code and want to relive it, check out the song that was playing by Parlours called "I Dream of Chicago." The band plays at Martyrs' on June 18. (Thanks, John!)
Video from Thao & Mirah at Do Division Fest last weekend. Oh my, remember when it was all sunny and hot? Seems like so long ago.
The Bitter Tears were on 848 back in April. Listen again, for the first time.
saki records is celebrating their first birthday next weekend (June 17-19) not only with three days of in-store performances but with deals and giveaways to boot! Details in their blog.
When we're not applying sunscreen liberally and regularly, we're often inside, looking at cool stuff on our laptops.
Heading out to enjoy the weather this weekend? Don't forget June means the start of neighborhood street festival season! Do Division Street Festival is this weekend with loads of music (including a family stage for your little dudes and dudettes). And check out Mayfest in Lincoln Square to celebrate some fine polka music and German heritage (happening in June this year, just to keep you on your toes).
If you're looking to sell some used CDs, they're in demand at Permanent Records, where they're using Chicago used CD stock to fill bins at their brand new L.A. outpost! If you're on the West Coast head over to their grand opening this weekend.
Working in the Loop has its perks, like the summer Lunchbreak Music Series at Millennium Park. Tuesday-Friday there's always music to enjoy and grass to lounge in, through September.
Do 312 is turning 1, and is celebrating like all one-year-olds, with a FREE party at Schubas on June 23rd. Musical lineup TBA.
New Cool Kids album When Fish Ride Bicycles is due out in mid-July. Tracklist and cover art at Fake Shore Drive.
Speaking of Fake Shore Drive, they get a nod in a NY Times article on hip-hop blogs.
Chicago musician recently Devin Davis performed "The Rainbow Connection". Listen on Soundcloud.
Listen to (and download) the new track by Hollywood Holt - "The Show".
Kind of loving this Hood Internet mix right now, and you can even buyit and give the guys some gas money: Hooray for Earth's "True Loves." Good cruisin' music.
Sounds almost like an April Fool's joke, but Coachella 2012 will feature two weekends of music with identical lineups. Good luck with that one.
When we're not hugging a Vet, we're often sharing our music collection with them. Have a great Memorial Day Weekend!
Talk about bargains! Hit up tonight's Damon & Naomi show for half price. Tickets are now buy 1 get 1 free. Read our preview. Also, check out the Friday Schubas Office Mixtape as curated by opening act Amor De Dias.
When we're not planting ter-maters, we're listening to a lot of music online:
Illinois Republican senate minority leader Christine Radogno quoted Wu-Tang on the state senate floor this week.
Watch the new Ha Ha Tonka video for "Usual Suspects" from their album Death of a Decade (the boys swing back through town on July 23 at the Wicker Park Festival).
Chris in the Live Fix blog has the dish on Pearl Jam's pending 20th anniversary re-release, Labor Day weekend of shows (along with some friends) up at Alpine Valley (pre-sales start Tuesday, 5/24), and Cameron Crowe-directed film.
Already thinking about the end of summer? New video posted shows a lot of joy at last year's inaugural North Coast Festival (The fest returns this year Labor Day weekend in Union Park).
Want to get out of town for Labor Day weekend? Maybe head to Austin, TX where Kanye (and Stevie Wonder) will headline the Austin City Limits Festival.
Do you subscribe to Permanent Records' monthly podcast? You should. Also, hit up the store on Saturday for a Crystal Stilts in-store performance at 1:30pm. Free, all-ages, BYOB. (1914 W. Chicago Ave.) [Read our preview of the show.]
When we're not debating the difference between a tornado watch and a tornado warning, we're often rocking out in the basement.
Time Out has an interesting interview about the arts in Chicago with soon-to-be Mayor Emanuel over breakfast.
This blog series at NPR reminds me of phrases you might hear spoken incredulously by staff at a record store. I sense a meme growing. Might I suggest #overheardinrecordstores?
Speaking of record stores. Grab a Groupon today for Oak Park's Val's halla Records and save on your next dive into the used bin. The store is located at 239 W. Harrison St. in Oak Park.
Watch video of Ha Ha Tonka, Blah Blah Blah performing on JBTV last week. Also an interview with Madina Lake's Nathan and Matthew Leone. Bonus video of a 1995 Metro performance by Mike Watt, Dave Grohl and Eddie Vedder!
The A.V. Club launched a bi-monthly series on tape-only labels. They cover Chicago's Already Dead Tapes And Records this week.
Also over at the A.V. Club, catch Low covering Toto's "Africa" in their continuing series UnderCover. (Super glad they're continuing that series, BTW.)
Did you catch Lupe Fiasco on the Colbert Report? Watch the video of the interview as well as Lupe's performance of "Words I Never Said".
You're gonna have to dig deep in your pockets to get one of these limited-edition silk scarves designed by Kanye West. Only 100 of each if the five designs will be made, and they'll run you $364 each.
Oddly appropriate: the Threadless shirt that proves Biggie was right.
PBS Newshour delves into rap music's history after a historic performance by Common at the White House in honor of National Poetry Month (one which proved, if not controversial, certainly some firey Twitter fodder for a day).
Download the entire new EP by WIN WIN on Epitonic. They play the Empty Bottle on Sunday, 5/8 (FREE w/RSVP) for the latest in the Bottle's Music.Friendly.Dancing series.
Currently Thrill Jockey has 9 (NINE!) mp3s for free download by their artists on their homepage.
Thanks to the reader who tipped us to the mariachi version of Cheap Trick's "I Want You To Want Me" in the comments of our Cinco de Mayo post. For your viewing and listening pleasure "Quiero Que Me Quieras" (note: there's some rather funny scantily clad dancing,and green screens).
Digging on some new additions to Epitonic's front page including Swim Club and The Shivers. Listen or download for free!
If you like your sports played by bands and music venue staff, then this Double Door vs. the Melvins Wiffle Ball re-match game is the event for you. The action gets going at 6:30pm on June 1st at the Double Door. Mark your calendars.
Watch the tUnE-yArDs live in Paris video of "Doorstep" (via).
Quite the week for Kanye news, as his school charity, the Kanye West Foundation, shut down, and he got a lot of press for a very emotional performance at Coachella.
Can't afford records, or a turntable? Make one for free out of paper that also doubles as an April 2011 calendar.
So, Mayor Elect Rahm Emanuel got out and enjoyed (I hope) the Black Joe Lewis show at the Double Door last weekend. WBEZ has some suggestions for his next weekend jaunt.
The CHIRP Record Fair approacheth! Grab your square bags and limber up your crate diving fingers for the annual CHIRP Record Fair & Other Delights April 9-10th at the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Union. Details in Slowdown.
Big surprise as Weaselfest at Reggies is cancelled.
June's Chicago Blues Fest will not only honor legend Robert Johnson, but also venerable Chicago blues label Alligator Records' 40th Anniversary.
Live Music Blog has the skinny on the upcoming Midwest tour dates for The Budos Band, and some tunes to ease you into your afternoon. (They hit Subterranean on 4/21.)
Interview magazine always pairs up a couple of celebrities, one who interviews the other. The big stink on the internet this week was Will Oldham's interview with R. Kelly.
Get something free for Valentine's Day, like this Bloodshot Valentine's Day-themed sampler available for download on Amazon which includes tunes from Ha Ha Tonka, Alejandro Escovedo, the Old 97s, and more.
Don't miss out on a chance to see Elvis on the big screen at Sound Opinions' next movie screening, featuring Jailhouse Rock on Tuesday, February 8th at the Music Box. (Oh! Those hips!)
Check out the latest Schubas/Lincoln Hall Friday mixtape from this weekend's residents Tapes 'n Tapes. (We'll have a review of their Lincoln Hall show on Saturday, so keep eyes here for more.)
Jazzman Ken Vandermark will play in sweet home Chicago with friends before he kicks off a new European tour with CINC in February with some cozy nights at the Green Mill, February 4th and 5th.
By tradition, hip-hop videos are always great for capturing neighborhood vibes, and these couple from Chicago rapper Cojack, feature the city's Southeast side.
CMJ talks to Thrill Jockey artists Future Islands' frontman Samuel T. Herring. (They play the Empty Bottle on 2/19.)
Chris Catania explores whether going to fewer shows in 2010 led to better experiences, and how a dip in show attendance affected the music industry.
Download some tracks from Chicago psych/Kraut rockers Verma. (They'll play the Hideout on Saturday 1/22 as a part of Psych Fest.)
The Hideout's weekly (delicious) Soup & Bread events are getting more musical as of late, with reports of DJ sets from the likes of The Reader's Peter Margasak and music and vats of soup from Numero Group's Michael Slaboch who made Spicy Tortilla Soup last week (recipe). Recently behind the soup pot they've also had Sound Opinions producer Robin Linn, and Bloodshot Record's Rob Miller (with reports he brought over a Venison Chili). Check out who's up next by keeping an eye on the Hideout's calendar every Wednesday this winter, or the Soup & Bread blog.
When we're not exchanging trees for mulch, we're exploring music stuff online:
Did you get missed at the New Year's Day Hood Internet show at Lincoln Hall? Someone wants to find you!
Local jazz musicians take the shuttering of the Velvet Lounge for an opportunity to open a new music venue nearby. They'll launch on January 21st with the L26 Restaurant and Lounge.
If you missed out on Yeasayer's NYE and NYE-E shows at the Metro last week, you can still get a dose of them live by paying "what you want" for their Life At Ancienne Belgique album which was just released digitally.
Need a reason to test out those new speakers? Check out this 12-CD mp3 compilation of female-fronted heavy metal bands from 1976-1989. The title of the project lacks some imagination, Female Fronted Metal, but the music doesn't!
When we're not doing egg nog shots, we're listening to music, while we're doing egg nog shots.
Get into the honkytonk Christmas spirit with the always anticipated downloadable Christmas music posted daily by Big Rock Candy Mountain. And it's sounds you won't hear on The Lite, neither.
Not too surprising that Kanye's latest is ending up on a lot of folks' "Best of 2010" lists, including Carrie Brownstein's.
Someone just give young Spencer Tweedy a record deal already. Here's his version of Beyonce's "Single Ladies" as a song about mathematics. (If you don't know, his papa is Jeff Tweedy, of WIlco fame.)
Speaking of Senor Tweedy, the Second City's annual 24-hourfundraiser starting on 12/14 will also host a raffle prize of an at-home concert by same said Tweedy.
Fake Shore Drive is just totally killing it this week with great posts. Here's the 50 Greatest Chicago Rap Songs....
...and then a new track "Kiss Kiss Kiss" from Kid Sister. And a nod to her video for "Do! Do! Do!" up on Perez Hilton.
Great new dreamy stuff at Coach House Sounds from a Steve Krakow (Plastic Crimewave Sound) side project called Solar Fox.
Jim DeRogatis been making a lot of lists at the Mayor's Office of Special Events this week, but probably not the good kind. He wrote a pretty intense piece speculating on how political connections might play a part in the hiring at MOSE, and how hiring in turn influences summer music festivals. He then got a terse email from the Executive Director, Megan McDonald.
Get some Christmas music without the Fa La La's at Martyr's on 12/13. Shalloboi will play a "somewhat holiday-themed show" with Friends Having Fun (Essex Chanel side project) and the pawns.
Member of Pelican's spin-off band Chord gets going with a second album.
Great gift for that drummer in the garage band down the block (who you want desperately to be able to afford a new practice space): The Indie Band Survival Guide.
Some nice synth available on a remix of "Night Game" from The Phantom via Trash Menagerie.
Fake Shore Drive points us to this new track "Big Talk" from the Cool Kids which definitely brings the mellow.
Kanye had a little problem with his interview with Matt Lauer on the Today show, and just, ahem, today, announced he won't be performing on 11/26, as previously planned.
WFMU's Beware of the Blog has an especially funky selection of downloads available on their Mining the Audio Motherlode series. Funk Cargo? Yes, please.
Local Ukulele vampires play the "Song of the Count" at a recent Ukulele Open Mic at Silvie's. Also, "Bela Lugosi's Dead" by Bauhaus and "Bad Things" which you might recognize if you're a True Blood fan.
Anyone noticed the new cat stickers at the Empty Bottle men's room?
If you've been, or will go to the Hideout in the near future, expect some changes (for the better) on Wabansia. Tim Tuten explains it all in true Tuten style.
Big Rock Candy Mountain wants your opinion on its next mix: Cheatin' or Hangovers?
When we're not wrapped up in down comforters, we're internetting like crazy!
Getting your craft on at Renegade this weekend? Mucca Pazza and Environmental Encroachment will be rocking for your pleasure, plus loads of DJs from Reckless Records! Plus, records for sale! Bring cash!
The New York Times looks at jazz's influences on Chicago's hip-hop scene. Short answer: there are many.
St. Louis is wooing Jeff Tweedy pretty hard. It proclaimed August 29th, 2010 "Jeff Tweedy Day". That's some fancy calligraphy, but back off, Missouri!
Listen to Mavis Staples' latest and greatest album, You Are Not Alone, produced and partly written by Tweedy over at NPR. And more importantly, get out to your favorite local record store and pick up a copy when it comes out on 9/14! See her performance on the Tonight Show.
The Reader discusses the beautiful sounds of The Dø (and makes everyone scramble to figure out how to post that darn slashed o). They play Schubas Monday night, 9/13.
DVD from Metal Haven's final celebration is available to all headbangers who want to reminisce a bit.
When we're not drooling over album tacos, we're wasting even more time online.
Coming to our party tonight at the Metro? It's FREE when you bring this flyer with you before 9pm (just $6 with the flyer after 9pm, and $9 at the door just by yourself). My My My, Camera, Reds and Blue and Hudson Branch play for your dancing pleasure!
Summer colds won't keep us down! (Though they do make us spend more time online.)
Come party with us! Gapers Block and CHIRP are hosting a night of awesome Chicago bands at the Metro on Friday, 9/3! FREE if you print out this flyer and come before 9pm! Details.
Ticketmaster/Live Nation launch a new blog called Ticketology, along with some changes in how they communicate pricing and fees. But has anything really changed?
DePaul students looking to save a few dollars can save 15% off food at Lincoln Hall with their ID.
Numero Group puts out a previously unreleased 45 by The Four Mints.
You can stream part of the Andrew Bird soundtrack for the Field Museum's Mammoths and Mastodons exhibit from the comfort of your own computer.
Get ready for Hollywood Holt's forthcoming album These Are The Songs That Didn't Make The Album But Are Still Cold As Hell So Shut The F*** Up Vol. 1 with this video of the remix for "Deep Cover" at Fake Shore Drive. Also Holt, did I sit just behind you at the Devo show at the Congress? If so, nice jukin'!
Speaking of much-praised up-and-coming Chicago rap talent, the Cool Kids have a new video that's sneaked online for "Gold Links."
Itching to hit the open road, and need a soundtrack? Download Big Rock Candy Mountain's Road Hog mix and start your engines.
Video from last week's Swell Season/Once event at Lincoln Hall at WBEZ Music. Sadly, last night in Saratoga, an audience member apparently committed suicide at the Swell Season's show.
This version of Tom Waits covering James Brown's "Papa's Got a Brand New Bag" reminds me of the outstanding (and ill-appreciated) '80s covers by local Tom Waits' tribute band B1G T1ME.
Stream (or even better, purchase) the forthcoming Sufjan Stevens EP All Delighted People on Bandcamp.
Seeing all the cool kids at music festivals makes one Lollpalooza-goer want to have kids, so he can bring his cool kids to music festivals.
Did you catch Rhymefest on WTTW's Chicago Tonight? In 2007 he was the first rapper to appear on the program. Love the handslap from Phil Ponce!
The Green Day superfan who was selected to sing onstage with the band last week was Dan Michie from Palatine. His band, Patmos, gets a nod in the interview piece MTV did this week.
It's not just about radius clauses, it's about supply and demand. The A.V. Club writes about how those small neighborhood festivals are hurting local venues. But they are a good bet if you want to see Elevation play.
When we're not hugging it out, we're checking things out online like these:
Weather looks great for Lollapalooza! Did you get your festival questions answered by Time Out: Chicago's Crabby columnist?
Get psyched up (or hear what you're missing) by listening to Future Perfect Radio's Lolla stream.
Will Arcade Fire reprise their cover of Jay Reatard's "Oh It's Such A Shame" this weekend? You'll have to wait and see.
What's a music festival without a day of celebrity kickball? A lucky 50 get to watch on Saturday.
Not into Lollapalooza at all? DeRogatis has a great list of ways you can fill your weekend with good ole hometown rock that have nothing to do with the festival.
Russian Circles had a terrible van accident last week, which totaled their van and most of their instruments, cost them their tour dates, but luckily spared them any serious injury. Hope the guys are back on tour soon! Donations can be made via PayPal.
Remember that bit last week about Howard Stern ranting about Carl Kassell and the Radio Hall of Fame? Here's Carl's awesome response. In the end, it turns out Carl is far more popular with the Hall of Fame voters, as he was voted in this week, along with WXRT's Terri Hemmert. Congrats to you both!
Mark your calendars, and steel yourselves for the free Mad Decent Block Party at the Hideout, August 21st.
Behind the scenes of Kanye's "Power" video with director/artist Marco Brambilla (Warning: it's got some naked bodies, so maybe NSFW.) And here's the video itself.
Some interns fetch coffee. Others end up on stage with Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros.
Reckless Records employee Chris Connelly uses his commute time well. He wrote a novel and two albums while on the "L".
Watch Chicago punk scene documentary You Weren't There for free online for just 1 week, courtesy of Pitchfork TV.
Get your limited edition Lollapalooza 2010 t-shirt right here. Designed by Chicago artist Cody Hudson (aka Struggle Inc.).
Sound Opinions' next night at the movies will take place 8/12 at Lincoln Hall features not only the film "Once" but also a performance by the film's stars, Glen Hansard and Markéta Irglová, of The Swell Season. Tickets are $14. Quite the bargain!
DeRo weighs in on a thought-provoking Reader piece on the rights of summer festivals like Pitchfork and Lollapalooza to limit your right to bring detachable lens cameras into public parks.
Greg Kot also looks at how smaller music venues are doing in the shadow of the dark cloud that big ticket sellers are casting this year.
Memories of Chicago's WMAQ, once the city's oldest radio station, which went off-air ten years ago, on August 1, 2000.
Speaking of Mr. West, I'd nearly forgotten the cuteness of this video for Kid Sister's song "Pro Nails" (in which Kanye makes an appearance). I think she rocks the brunette look much fiercer now, by the way.
Wolf Parade's Hadji Bakara is going back to college for more learnin' at U of C! Here's hoping the events committee finds him in time for Summer Breeze.
Does your favorite bar jukebox have a Twitter feed? Well, the one at Simon's Tavern in Andersonville does. Make suggestions by following @simonsjukebox.
Thrill Jockey signs Roanoke, VA bluegrass band The Black Twig Pickers. Olde timey music, holla!
We're not endorsing pirating anything, but there's some folks out there who are getting mighty DIY with making copies of vinyl records.
Also on your radar should be our free meet-up at the Art Institute Museum's Modern Wing on Thursday, July 29th after work for a special tour of their Sound & Vision exhibit. Insider's tip: enter at the Modern Wing entrance to avoid the long lines for free admission at the Michigan Ave. doors! RSVP on Facebook if you're fancy!
Why the Pavement set webcast didn't happen last weekend.
But hey, Pavement's Mark Ibold likes Chicago tacos. So we got that going for us.
The Old Town is getting a little bigger. Plans for expansion across the street from its Lincoln Square location.
Save the date! August 21st will be the next Hideout Block Party starring....Diplo!
Does a hip-hop show automatically lead to overreaction from security -- tales from recent Kid Sister and Salt n' Pepa shows have online conversations flowing.
You have until tomorrow (Saturday) at 2pm to get your raffle tickets for a chance at tickets to the Smashing Pumpkins benefit show at the Metro on Tuesday, 7/27. Help raise funds for severely injured musician Matthew Leone (more).
Also, if you haven't checked out WBEZ's new Music section, you can subscribe to their Thursday live music features to get easy reminders via RSS. This week's premiere "L Session" entry features an acoustic performance from St. Vincent.
BTW, tickets are still available for Saturday's Lilith Fair stop in Chicago at Northerly Island. In case you were wondering. Or wagering.
What unites the U.S. Congress? Voting on naming a Wrigleyville post office for Steve Goodman. (It passed both the House an Senate with unanimous Yea votes.) Way to be.
Least surprising is that there is and has been Chicago-style politics at play for the Lollapalooza beer vending contracts.
When we're not mopping our collective brows, we're inside the air conditioner, where it's coolest, looking at things online:
Big Rock Candy Mountain makes up for lost time in praising Chicago music by offering up a swinging mix for your enjoyment.
Get The Hood Internet's latest free mixtape by signing up with Anatomy Magazine.
More free mix fun from Creamteam with Summerfun from Hard Mix.
First annual Great Midwest Ukefest is coming up on August 22nd right here in Chicago at Chief O'Neill's. Details on Facebook.
Can You See the Sunset from the Southside really got me liking Stegosaur.
Fake Shore Drive posts an aptly timed behind-the-scenes video of Mikey Rocks (Cool Kids) recording a rap song "The Choice is Yours" to lure LeBron James to Chicago. Well, we know how that worked out now.
Fake Shore Drive also posts a rumored track list for the upcoming Kanye West album due out this fall.
Chicagoist has Lilith Fair on the "deathwatch" after they've cancelled 10 dates nationally and headliner Kelly Clarkson pulled out of the Chicago stop of the resurrected tour.
While fireworks explode in the alley, we're reading things online:
Kid Sister's "Big N' Bad" video hasn't come out yet, but the behind-the-scenes video has.
If you really need a new Kid Sister video, check her live performance in NYC at Webster Hall singing "Do Do Do."
Andrew Bird, a longtime supporter of Rock for Kids (an organization which provides music education to Chicago kids who can't get it anywhere else) has announced the Andrew Bird Rock for Kids Scholarship to provide one year of music instruction to a worthy student enrolled at ChiArts (Chicago High School for the Arts). Learn more and donate.
Pitchfork is playing blog roundup with its latest venture Altered Zones, to launch mid-July. It'll be an international music blog collective but no Chicago blogs on that bill (so far).
Chicago blogger Chris Catania of the Live Fix takes a long look at why concertgoers riot after a scheduled Drake show in NYC turned very bad very quickly when the crowd quickly surpassed expectations.
Need to get through the afternoon with a smile? Keep an eye out for Schubas' weekly Friday playlists selections you can stream from work, er...your own computer. Here's last week's gem from Digital Media Director Brendan Fitzpatrick.
The Reader previewed Chicago sound object artist and musician Nick Butcher's show at the Bottle.
Bloodshot artist Robbie Fulks covers Michael Jackson with his album Happy.
Bonus play: What future-famous lead singer originally fronted '70s rock band Montrose? (Be the first to answer this bit o' trivia in the comments below and we'll send you a Transmission sticker.)
When we're fighting the Triple H (no, not that Triple H, we're talking hazy, hot, and humid), we're inside, sitting in front of our computer, looking at things on the internet.
Chicago Public Schools teacher Joe Becker is also a rap artist. He uses his music to reach his students at Rachel Carson School on the South Side. (Unfortunately, his contract was not renewed this year.)
File under "Forgot to post earlier" but here's some video of the Dutchess & the Duke performing from the bar at the Empty Bottle earlier this month. (Actual singing starts around 1:30 in.)
Got plans for the Fourth? You can combine record shopping (i.e. stimulating the local economy) with feeling patriotic at Laurie's Planet of Sound. Edward Burch to play.
Chicagoans! We are being beaten by D.C. in the "Best Michael Jackson Shrine" competition! Get to it! (Also, London.) Gary, IN remembers MJ today. (Personally, I think today would be perfect timing for a Thriller zombie walk.)
It's like Frankenstein meets the Wolfman, but here's John Hodgman, Neil Gaiman and OK GO's Damien Kulash singing "So Happy Together" in St. Paul recently.
Gold star time. Name all the members of the muppets' band, which features Animal on drums (without using the Google!). Bonus for the full name of the band. Answers in the comments, please. Extra bonus stars for naming which instruments they each play.
When we're not streaming Ren & Stimpy episodes on our laptops, we're thinking about the jingle for LOG (from Blammo), and other great music.
An interview with The Cool Kids by Time Out Chicago.
Win front-row seats to Pavement's Millennium Park show (9/13) if you donate $35 or more to CHIRP by 10am Saturday, 6/19. [Tickets for the show go on sale Saturday at 11am.]
Win tickets to see Wilco in South Bend, IN on July 30th, courtesy of Jam.
Columbia College of Chicago professor Jeff Schiff was on NPR's The Story this week talking about his Deadhead experiences.
Kot has his picks on what shows you simply can't miss this summer.
WBEZ's Steve Edwards had a video interview with word-lover Rhymefest. "We're the conscience of hip-hip....Chicago artists can't help but tell you about our pain."
Speaking of radio shows in video clips, catch Bloodshot artists the Deadstring Brothers on Live on KXEP.
Remember when those Lady Gaga performances at the Chicago Theater had to be moved because the stage was too small for her production? Well, Lolla won't be a problem for Gaga. (via)
In other summer festival tidbits, Threadless held a contest for a Lilith Fair t-shirt design. The winning shirt is, well, a little girly.
Missed Bonnaroo? Listen to concert recordings at NPR Music.
MTV's new "Twitter Jockey" will earn $100K/year. Jaw officially dropped.
Chicago-based Americana band Dastardly have released a live performance video for their song, "Villain." The video can be viewed below. Dastardly play Lincoln Hall (2424 N Lincoln) this Saturday, June 19 with Aktar Aktar and Automata. The show is at 10pm, $8 in advance and $10 at the door.
When we're not fainting during hockey games, we're reading things online:
Getting excited for the World Cup? (Check out our Tailgate section for previews of the matchups.) One local band, Manwomanchild, has released a single in honor of the soccer action in South Africa. They're rooting for the Chilean team with "Chile La Roja."
A review of Breathe Owl Breathe at Oh My Rockness. (They play Schubas 6/15.)
More great Chicago psychedelic rock? Yes, says Deli Chicago, from Secret Colours.
This past week Chicago Public Radio also interviewed the fine folks at Rock for Kids who are bringing music education to Chicago's at-risk youth.
Help the Nashville flood relief efforts while also supporting Chicago indie mag Venus. Get yourself a poster of their Summer 2010 cover featuring Jack White and part of your purchase price goes to the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee.
More from the Nels Cline Singers with "Floored" as the "Song of the Day" on NPR's Music site this week.
Isn't this interesting: the same PR consultant who worked for the RIAA all those years is now working for BP. Maybe the Gulf will soon be plastered with tiny black advisory stickers.
Jessica Hopper at The Reader talks to Rhymefest about all things Chicago including what qualifies as the "East Side" (reprazent).
In case you missed Kanye West's new leaked single "Power," Fake Shore Drive also has the really cool album art.
Interesting afternoon activity once the weather starts to really warm up, check out the "Blues With a Feeling" photo exhibit.
I've been neglecting Big Rock Candy Mountain in my weekly web perusals. (Shame on me.) There's some good stuff from Ten Foot Polecats on there now.
CYSTSFTS has the line on some sweet honkytonk from Arliss Nancy, including a link to download the EP for free.
In his new Vocalo blog, Jim DeRogatis weighs in on the merits of Sleigh Bells and the moral highground concerning Tipper and Al Gore's pending divorce.
Caribou is coming all the way from Dundas, Ontario. A tiny-fraction-of-the-way-road-trip from Chicago will complete the circle. (And while in town, might I suggest sampling the deliciously delicious Great River Brewery, Far Out Espresso Stout?)
Tickets are $12 in advance, $15 at the door. Rock Island brewing Company is located at 1815 2nd Ave., Rock Island, IL. 309-793-1999.
A phenomenon of decorating bicycle spokes to create "scraper bikes" is rolling through Oakland, CA. I'm enjoying the musical wing of the movement. (And waiting to see Chicago's spin on it.)
Bono got emergency back surgery, which doesn't lend itself to a North American tour. All North American dates (including U2's July 6th Chicago show) have been postponed, to be rescheduled at a later date.
30db (a side project of Umphrey's McGee and Yonder Mountain String Band members with Chicago connections) covers Wilco's song "Handshake Drugs."
One thing I didn't expect to find on Lincoln Hall's calendar: hockey. (Watch the Stanley Cup games in the music room next week.)
Not a friendly reminder of their recent Chicago show, the band Torche had their van broken into after their Friday night Congress Theater performance supporting Coheed and Cambria. (via)
Drummers and music lovers of all sorts can test their knowledge by playing Name That Drum Fill.
Like your music visual? Think what Girl Talk did wasn't all that hard? Check out this visualization of all the samples in Feed the Animals as they happen.
Frank Sinatra's catty letter to George Michael c. 1990.
RIP Ronnie James Dio. Remember him when you next make the sign of the horns. Holy diver, you've been down too long in the midnight sea.
OK Go (as we mentioned) was on PBS' News Hour website last week. During the taping, Damian Kulash applied some "percussive maintenance" to a downed light. Next: his work gets reviewed on Angie's List. (I kid.)
N.W.A. was just kidding with all that 40 business. Some serious posse research by the L.A. Weekly.
When we're not paving the way for our new space ant overlords (Hail Ants!), we're often reading about music in Chicago online.
Remember all those great music classes you had in school? Many would go without if not for Rock for Kids' innovative music programs in Chicago. Vote every day for Rock for Kids to get a $50K grant from Pepsi to help them continue their awesome work.
How do you get tweens interested in baseball? Add some Bieber (squee!). [Suggested Cubs topper: Lady GaGa singing "Take Me Out To The Ballgame."]
Speaking of Lady GaGa, don't say that NPR doesn't have a funny bone. Warning: if you prefer to not know what Rogert Siegel or Ari Shapiro look like, don't watch this video.
Tim Stephans of Schubas and Lincoln Hall took his time crafting his thoughts on SXSW 2010. Check out this entertaining blog post (and video!) which includes, puppies, kabab food trucks and duct tape.
When we're not running down hills covered in flowers, we're inside, in the dark, looking at our computers.
Hope to see you at our April Get-Together tonight at Beauty Bar! Transmission staffers Lisa White and Michelle Meywes will be spinning in the DJ booth from 7-10pm. Details, RSVP.
And wow, what a media sweep this week for Bloodshot artists! WBEZ's Eight Forty-Eight program sat down with Chicago band The Blacks. And you can listen to The Bottle Rockets on NPR's Mountain Stage program. Also, catch Justin Townes Earle on this week's Prairie Home Companion, as well as in the upcoming episode of HBO's Treme (alongside his dad, Steve Earle). Dang, y'all.
Nice piece on the Uptown Theatre and one man who helps tend the ghosts.
Chicagoist has an adorable video of Kid Sister's cover of Extreme's "More Than Words." If only my high school talent show had been like this, instead of, well, more like Extreme's original (which follows).
Loud Loop Press has the word on some video shot of Thom Yorke performing "Black Swan" at the Aragon for Atoms for Peace.
CYSTSFTS takes a second listen to Friends of Friends debut album Deep Search and finds it agrees with him.
Love JC Brooks & The Uptown Sound's soulfull Wilco cover "I Am Trying to Break Your Heart"? We sure do! Here's a video to go with. (And keep an eye on this space for more about our love for this band.)
Submit your fan photos and videos of Bloodshot artists Ha Ha Tonka for an upcoming documentary about the band. (High quality only. No cell phone pics.)
The Barnstormer III tour — presented by Rock Island's Daytrotter and featuring Delta Spirit, Ra Ra Riot, Nathaniel Rateliff, Pearly Gate Music and Free Energy — kicks off next Tuesday 4/27 in West Libertyville, IA. The tour makes its Illinois debut on Friday 4/30 in Monticello, but Chicagoans can take advantage of a shorter trek and an early start to the weekend in Lake Geneva on 4/29.
Camping is available at four of the tours five stops (sorry Milwaukee). Advance tickets are available now and about to be capped for the Monticello date. So head over to Daytrotter.com to purchase yours now. They're a bargain at $10 and include lossless downloads from Barnstormer 2009 performances. And if the cheap tickets and exclusive downloads weren't already enough, half the price of admission will go to someone in need:
Each night, half of every paid admission will go to someone who needs help. Maybe it's someone you know. We are choosing one individual or family — based on your nominations — to receive some help from the Barnstormer. So, write rsvpdaytrotter@gmail.com with a story of someone who's fallen on hard times and could use some assistance. We'll take the best five stories and do what we can to make things a bit better.
Full tour schedule, links to purchase advance tickets and Daytrotter sessions from all the artists after the jump.
When we're not crate diving, we're listening to records. When we're not doing that, we're often online looking at things like this:
Excited about Record Store Day on Saturday, April 17th? We sure are! Share pictures of your finds with us by emailing transmission (at) gapersblock.com or via Twitter.
Sadly, long-time jazz and big band music venue Green Dolphin Street has suspended some live music and the restaurant's service for the time being. (We're trying to learn more.)
We've got some other awesome upcoming musical events in Chicago along the right-hand side of the page as well as in Slowdown. They include a free '60s themed DJ set called "23 Skiddo" tonight at the Whistler, the Creative Chicago Expo at the Cultural Center on Saturday, and Scotland Yard Gospel Choir's Elia Einhorn's DJ set "Glascow vs. Manchester" at Lucky Number also on Saturday.
Saving Country Music blog has a nice appreciation for Bloodshot Records' newest artist Whitey Morgan & the 78's. "The fact that Bloodshot is looking for new talent, and then is able to find it means there's still hope and upward potential for REAL country music."
Fake Shore Drive has a sweet video from BBU for "Chi Don't Dance."
The Deli Chicago has the skinny on the upcoming Maps & Atlases album Perch Patchwork.
WFMU's Beware of the Blog has more .mp3s for your downloading pleasure including great stuff from Max Roach, reggae from Pat Kelly and lovely stuff from Miriam Makeba and Harry Belafonte.
Loud Loop Press gives more praise to burgeoning Chicago "zany space rockers" The Earth Program.
Sadly, Numero Group announced recently the first of its catalog items that's going out of print. Get your copy of all 33 tracks of influential power pop on Yellow Pills: Prefill now, or go without forever.
Happier news for Numero Group is this project (that I somehow either missed or forgot about) announced this winter featuring the History of Chicago Music (1908-1980) curated by historian Tim Samuelson.
Download a new track from Wilco guitarist Nels Cline's side project The Nels Cline Singers on RCD LBL.
Cream Team serves up Pop Parfait with some recently released B-sides.
Lollapalooza continues making us play the guessing game. (Personally, I prefer Hungry Hungry Hippos, but my parents sold mine at a yard sale when I was eight.)
The Trib put out a lengthy piece on Chicago's Flesh Hungry Dog Show and the state of queer rock.
Alarm magazine's albums of the week include something solo from Pixies' frontman Frank Black (now back to his original stage name Black Francis) and "Ethio-jazz" from Mulatu Astatke among other gems.
Jim DeRogatis posts an enlightening graphic detailing Ticketmaster/Live Nation ticket price drama.
Time Out also notes the changes present in the just-opened Beauty Bar (in the former Sonotheque space on Chicago Ave.). There's certainly a lot more glitter.
Have you been seeing the CHIRP Record Fair posters in your favorite local record shops and businesses? They're pretty sweet, and produced by Steve Walters over at Screwball Press (bit fan, here). If you spy one, take a photo and send it to micha(at)chirpradio(dot)org. They'll love you for it. And save your pennies, the fair takes place at the Chicago Journeymen Plumbers Union hall on April 10-11, 2010.
In fact, the CHIRP Record Fair will be a great warm-up for Record Store Day on April 17th! We're compiling our lists of events and releases. Send any RSD gossip to transmission (at) gapersblock (dot) com.
It's been a pretty great couple of weeks for White Mystery. Their self-titled debut album ended up at the very top of CHIRP's CMJ list.
When we're not soaking up sunbeams (in Chicago!) we're inside, in a dark room, getting a sunburn from our computer monitor while we look at this stuff online:
NBC Chicago has a photo stream of their picks for Chicago's Top DJs which includes DJ Matt Roan and Million Dollar Mano.
Hot Biscuits blog has some downloads for ya. Trip-hop out of Ohio? We're gonna just roll with it.
Grindcore from Plague Bringer on Record Store Day at Reckless' downtown store? Oh yes. The Reader has the tidbit here and a commenter corrects the info. about the purported 7" with the clarification that it will be a "limited edition CD-single box set," instead.
Ted Leo & the Pharmacists covered "Everybody Wants to Rule the World" in The Onion's A.V. Club's tiny (and awesomely decorated), round room. The 25-song "Undercover" project just started, and they'll post a new video each Tuesday. Squee!
Steve Goodman could be immortalized in the name of a Wrigleyville Post Office.
The Moneypenny DJs (with loads of Chicago friends) put out a free mix tape before heading to SXSW this week. Good stuff remixed from Kid Sister, Hollywood Holt, Flosstradamus and M.I.A. featuring Mic Terror (heyoo).
In case you hadn't heard, Big Star's Alex Chilton died this week (apparently from a heart attack while mowing the lawn at his home), just days before he was supposed to perform at SXSW. He was 59. Manyremembrancesonline.
Download Clash cover album The Sandanista Project for free (for a limited time) featuring Jon Langford, Sally Timms, more. (via)
What To Wear During an Orange Alert has a podcast. Episode 2 is up.
Last week's "Honkeytonk Friday" selection at Songs:Illinois was Whitey Morgan and the 78s (the only non Bloodshot band selected to play both of their parties at SXSW next week). Keep an eye on Transmission for some fun vicarious SXSWmusic fun.
Want to see your cold, cold rock'n'roll heart melt? Check out thesethreeposters featuring kids' portraits of Jeff Tweedy. They're for his benefit shows this weekend at The Vic. Tickets still available.
Classic rock meets metal at the apex of Bible of the Devil (straight outta Chicago). They play Quenchers, Saturday 3/13.
Naked Raygun goes back into the studio (and then back out on tour).
Venus Zine will feature none other than former Smashing Pumpkins and Hole bassist Melissa Auf der Maur on its next cover.
In Worst Week Ever news, EMI lost both a court case to Pink Floyd and the privilege of representing local-boys-made-good OK GO (the boys started their own label).
Pete Margesak at The Reader has the line on the reissue of Chicago's own Green's 1986 self-titled album.
WBEZ's 848 program delved into the dark underbelly of rockabilly this week.
When we're not trying to find the right cable to charge yet another portable electronic device, we're glued to our screens checking out things like these:
Thrill Jockey Records' 2nd 12" subscription series is now taking orders. Act fast, fellow record nerds. They will sell out of subscriptions!
Think interviewing musicians is all shared whiskey bottles and Almost Famous plot lines? Think again. Time Out Chicago takes a look back at five years of tears, transcripts and occasional golden moments.
DeRo has the line on the He said/He didn't say controversy about the Elton John/Billy Joel tour that, no matter what, won't be returning to Wrigley Field.
Future Perfect Radio puts a spin on the standard "Best of" list and creates one for albums they're anticipating the release of in 2010.
Getting our listen on for bands heading to SXSW soon at NPR.
Last week ABC7 visited Buddy Guy at his house in Orland Park. I bet the crew for MTV Cribs never got homemade gumbo!
Yet another music festival is set to call Chicago home. This time, it's the North Coast Festival.
Windy City Rock posts about Small Chicago, a project which brings simply-produced music videos from Chicago bands. First up: Coltrane Motion. Next: The Warm Ones. (And hey, Small Chicago, how about some permalinks? Flash...grrr.)
The Reader profiles Robert Manis, a Chicago record collector who's giving back to the music community by way of his own reissue label.
A guy from Lakeview gets a slot on a TV show with his rap video. But it's not the show you think it is.
When we're not watching Olympic ice dancing, we're staring into the void:
Are you coming to our Get-Together tonight at Risque Cafe from 8-10pm? Hope so! Transmission staffers Lisa White and Michelle Meywes will be making their DJ debuts from 8-9pm. And there's cheap beer! RSVP and get details.
Watch a video of The Hood Internet performing on Acid Marshmallow (well, the video is on the website "Acid Marshmallow", I don't know what keeps those guys going. Maybe Skittles?). The set if from their performance at Schubas' Tomorrow Never Knows Festival in January.
Hear a new track "Becoming You," off the forthcoming new album from Canasta The Fakeout, the Tease and the Breather (due out 5/8 with a special set of shows at Schubas). Just launch the popup player at the Canasta website. And keep an eye on the site, as they'll be streaming one new track each week this spring!
When we're not dreaming about fresh fruit (mmm, mangoes) we're burning out our retinas reading things online, like this:
Get your DIY fix as well as make a kicky cigar box guitar. Also on the Reader's site, the latest Sharp Darts podcast by Miles Raymer opines on this funky instrument.
Hot Biscuits features a new downloadable mix by DJ Kid Color: Palette One.
Oh My Rockness really digs blip-electro-pop-gadget-(something something) MNDR. They play the Bottle at the end of the month.
Tankboy over at Chicagoist is really keen on NYC's Menya, and there's a pretty sweet download available, if you do too.
Fake Shore Drive has video of Chicago rapper Mikkey Halsted, who was featured recently in an NPR piece on food deserts on Chicago's South Side.
Eric from CYSTSFTS also makes a departure from his normal punk album reviews to take a second and listen to the latest from electronica-influenced L.A. band Letting Up Despite Great Faults.
Fake Shore Drive cuts through the rumor mill on the supposed "leaked" track from the upcoming Lupe Fiasco album.
Trash Menagerie posted a sweet mixtape from L.A. DJs Nguzunguzu titled "Moments In Love".
We're planning some sweet SXSW Chicago music coverage for March, but in the meantime, get your stream on.
Cream Team takes a big step out front and tags the latest from The Irrepressibles as a potential Top Album of 2010.
WFMU's Beware of the Blog has a great post on Smersh. A New Jersey basement duo with a penchant for releasing tracks on cassette and never playing them again.
What does a skinny blond girl from Toronto have to do with African-American singer and Civil Rights activist Odetta? Chicago Innerview has the scoop on Basia Bulat. (She plays Schubas on Feb. 23rd.)
Speaking of, dude, I sure do wish the Hood Internet would DJ a party at my house or appear in my video blog (if I had one, which I don't. But I do have a house. You see where I'm going with this?) (via).
When Chicago writer Claire Zulkey performs at the Grammys, this is how it'll go.
Hollywood and recording industry star power gathered on Monday to record an updated version of "We Are The World" with the aim to send the single's profits to Haiti Earthquake victims. Chicago angle: Jennifer Hudson, Vince Vaughn (?!?) and Kanye contributed to the track.
Speaking of Kanye West, Gil-Scot Heron's latest efforts apparently has "Flashing Lights" samples. Not sure if this is the best thing or most disappointing thing ever. But it is a good hook. (via)
CreamTeam offers insight into Minneapolis-based house music providers The Moon Goons whose digital track rarity is a legend.
If you like The National, you might like the latest from Clogs according to Stereogum.
Oh My Rockness previews the Kurt Vile show at the Empty Bottle, 2/13.
Bloodshot Records' Nan and Rob were interviewed for Philadelphia radio station WXPN's show "Start Making Cents".
Greg Kot takes a look back at Soul Train, hosted by Southsider Don Cornelius. A documentary airs on VH-1 February, 6th. Anyone else have lots of memories of the Soul Train opening as the cue that Saturday morning cartoons had ended? Check out some sweet video clips.
Familiarize Yourself blog has a recap of a sweet night with a lot of lady (bands) at Lincoln Hall last week including sets by Scotia Widows, The Maybenauts, Leslie Hunt and The Wanton Looks.
Timbaland did little to entertain fans at HOB last week.
Thanks to everyone who came out to our party last week at the Metro! We had so much fun. Here are some shots that GB Managing Editor Dave Shalliol got of White Mystery, Post Honeymoon, and Dirty Diamonds. See other Chicago music photos in our Flickr pool (and add your own!).
Ticketmaster and Live Nation are, indeed, becoming one. Splendid union? Unholy marriage? You be the judge. Here's Greg Kot's take and his interview with Jam Productions about the squeeze such a merger puts on independent ticket sellers (which doesn't mean "that guy" on the corner). Time Out has a list of venues (albeit small) that don't use Ticketmaster.
Want to get your valentine something special-izzle? Snoop Dogg is bringing his show to the Metro 2/16! Tickets go on sale Saturday at noon. Details on a special presale code in Twitter.
Set your Tivos to record Jennifer Hudson, Bob Dylan, John Legend, and others at the White House's next "In Performance at the White House" series to honor music from the civil rights movement set to air online and again on PBS in early February.
Rick Nielsen of Cheap Trick spends his days pining over a Thank You note from Paul McCartney that never was.
Big Rock Candy Mountain interviews Toronto's The Speaking Tongues who prove even Canadians get the blues.
Video of Lupe Fiasco performing live over at Chicago Now.
Country Music Chicago interviews aspiring Evergreen Park native (and aspiring country music star) Katie Quick.
When we're (well, really just me) not getting in fistfights over the last pair of Hunter boots, we're often online.
You're coming to our party at the Metro tonight, right? Four bands for zero dollars if you do the right thing and bring our flyer to the door before 9pm. Details here.
Speaking of White Mystery, Greg Kot has more (very nice things) to say about them (even though he doesn't let it slip that you can get into this show for free, hrm).
Will it be Phish, Dave Mathews, or Billy Joel and Elton John performing at Wrigley this summer? (via)
Enjoy Chicago hip-hop and help Haiti earthquake victims all in one place at this upcoming show on the 31st at Reggie's.
Loud Loop Press has a list of some of the things that Chicago artists are doing to aid Haiti.
Bloodshot Records is proud to feature their "Drinking Buddies" (artists they like, but who aren't on the label) starting with Jane Baxter Miller (performing Saturday at the Hideout).
Peter Margasak has the line on the Pravda Records label reunion show at the Abbey Pub tonight.
And DeRo has the line on the expanded Lilith Fair lineup which actually has my interests piqued. It includes Loretta Lynn, Heart, and Cat Power (I'll believe it when I see her). No dates or specific city lineups set yet.
UR Chicago has the news that Vice and SubPop records have inked a collaborative deal with CNN. I expect the green room to get a whole lot filthier. [And doesn't this smack of that stellar "youth news" program "Channel One"?]
Songs:Illinois has an interesting review of Specimen Product's Little Horn Speaker. The same ones you were enjoying at all those Andrew Bird shows in 2009.
I know, I know, you're sick of Top Artists of the year lists, but this one at Hype Machine has illustrations for all 50 of its top artists of 2009!
And Pete Margasak over at The Reader finally gets his 2009 Best of list completed.
Alarm Magazine's Albums of the Week post details not only the creepy soundtrack to The Road (the movie) by Nick Cave and Warren Ellis but also the latest from Chicago jazz saxaphonist Dave Rempis.
Fake Shore Drive has 5 days of freestylin' by Chicago's own Twista.
Loud Loop Press has the skinny on what Jeff Tweedy and Mavis Staples have in common. (Hint: It's her new album!) She plays Chicago's Old Town School of Folk Music in early February.
Empty Bottle's farmer's market happens Saturday at noon! See what it looks like in daylight and get some leafy greens from local farmers!
Gapers Block: Transmission is honored to be the recipient of a 2009 Schubie Award for "Best Chicago Music Blog or Site". Gosh, thanks all! We're happy to be in the great company of The Walkmen (winner of "Best Headlining Band") and Art Brut (winner of Best 20th Anniversary Show, and tied for Best Supporting Band).
Here's Art Brut performing "The KKK Took My Baby Away" at Schubas:
Cham-bana's Headlights featured on Daytrotter this week.
Lady Ga Ga addresses the Chicago venue change for her 3 shows in the only medium available: Twitter.
If you'd like to be a beta tester for the forthcoming CHIRP radio, sign up online. Testing starts Sunday, 1/10/10.
Loud Loop Press wants you to keep an eye on these 10 Chicago bands in 2010. We've definitely already expressed some love there.
Bloodshot Records has extended its year-end blowout sale. They're craaaaazy with savings!
Mashable touts the rise of digital and the return of vinyl in record sales metrics.
Want new wall art? Buy Dan Gzeca's show posters on Etsy.
Download Thrill Jockey artist Radian's new tune "Git Cut Noise" [mp3] free.
Speaking of, you have until Monday 1/18 to mail a record jacket to TJ for their band Javelin to personalize. Check the details out here (about halfway down) or email orders@thrilljockey.com.
When we're not nursing a sambuca hangover, we're looking at things online. Happy New Year!
Scotland Yard Gospel Choir's Mary Ralph compiled a Top 10 list of her own about her life, post-van accident. Inspiring! Please help SYGC recover by donating a bit of money to this fund.
Come out to the Hideout on Sunday for a special re-play of their annual Holiday Panto to benefit three castmembers who were left homeless and stuffless after a Christmas house fire.
Avant/Chicago lists out his favorites in Chicago music of the year.
Twitter followers can help determine Butch Walker's setlists during his January residency at Schubas.
Big Rock Candy Mountain has been counting down his top albums of the year. And what a long list! Part 1, Part 2, Part 3, Part 4 following Monday after a computer mishap (Y2K?) [Update, here's the final Part 4.].
Wow, the entire staff of Permanent Records did lists of their favorite albums of 2009. Kill some time at their site (just keep scrolling), then go buy some records.
Looking for a party (or just an excuse to get away from the family)? Head over to UR Chicago's shin dig on Saturday at the Hideout. DJs and dancing can work out the kinks and the taste of old egg nog.
Looking for ways to spend that Christmas cash? Or Hanukkah gelt? Or just stimulate a little local economy? Why not head to your favorite local record store? Here's the latest goings on at Permanent Records, Laurie's Planet of Sound and Reckless Records.
In conjunction with Human Rights Day on December 10, LimeWire Store released "Live at Lime with Tom Morello." The album features Morello performing covers of The Killers' "Human" and the classic folk song "Joe Hill." Hailing from Libertyville, Morello is a longtime activist and supporter of Amnesty International. All net proceeds from the album will go to them.
An accompanying video featuring a conversation between artist and activist Henry Rollins and Morello can be viewed in 4 parts below.
When we're not frequenting our local music store and purchasing everything in sight, we read things online.
Time Out Chicago breaks down some new indie Christmas tunes just hanging out there on the interwebs (and the most disturbing ornament I've seen thus far).
Jim DeRogatis puts his Best of 2009 list out for consumption.
Check out Sunday's kids' show at Old Town School of Folk Music, including performances by a host of local talent, including Spencer Tweedy and The Blisters.
Loud Loop Press has the latest album from local experimental artist Mako Sika available for streaming.
Greg Kot has a list of great box sets just ripe for gift giving.
The Deli Chicago talks about Meah!, a punk band out of Pilsen.
If you head out to the Hideout Holiday Craft Fair the next two Tuesdays you can also score some Bloodshot Records items from their table. See the full details in the Hideout calendar.
When we're not staving off frostbite at the bus stop, we're on the interwebs, reading about things.
Time Out: Chicago talks to Delicious Design League about their part in Lincoln Hall's historic first shows.
Don't forget to get your fantastic holiday music downloads from Big Rock Candy Mountain all month.
Songs:Illinois also does Christmas music (with a promo shot of Lauren Graham from Bad Santa that makes me shudder).
Don't forget: tonight's Rock for Kids music auction has hundreds of signed, one-of-a-kind items from your favorite performers.
Check the Chicago Reader's RE Gift blog entries for great shopping ideas, including for that music-lover on your list (like jazz cover art or cheap turntables that play 45s and 78s)
Loud Loop Press has a free track from the upcoming album by Chicago's Puerto Muerto.
What to Wear During an Orange Alert has a review of Thrill Jockey artist Javelin's latest.
Stereogum has your link to 40 minutes of Fugazi stage banter from the '90s. Sweet sweet nostalgia.
WFMU's blog has 20 minutes of Airwave available for streaming.
With no end date, it seems that UR Chicago is still taking submissions to win a pair of tickets to the NYE show at SmartBar, including sets from Hood Internet and Bald E.
The Deli Chicago is really into the new album from Skybox. (They're playing at Schubas' Tomorrow Never Knows Festival in January...tickets on sale now and make a great stocking stuffer. I'm just sayin'.)
Fake Shore Drive also has the latest track from Nikki Lynnette (who you might have seen if you stayed late at our last GB Anniversary Party at the Metro)
Get your speakers ready for Big Rock Candy Mountain's annual Holiday Music post-fest! The links get hot starting today!
When we're not panicking about what to cook on Thanksgiving, here's what we're checking out online:
Download the latest mix from Chicago's own DJ LA Jesus - "Saves the Dance Floor, Vol. 4" (for free, folks).
Permanent Records turns three this weekend, and celebrates with a party at the Hideout. (And if you can't make it, you can still celebrate with their store sale next Friday, the 27th.)
A look at the Wikipedia Files for Lupe Fiasco by WBEZ.
Alarm magazine has a review of David Bazan's latest full band tour.
Greg Kot and Jim DeRogatis both weigh in on the first night of the Pixies' weekend residence at the Aragon.
Become a Facebook fan of Laurie's Planet of Sound to get (nearly) daily favorites from their staff.
CYSTSFTS has loads of album reviews up this week, including the latest from an old favorite, Left Lane Cruiser.
CHIRP has the line on sweet DJ events tonight through Thanksgiving.
Bust Magazine interviews Kid Sister (who's new album, Ultraviolet, is now in stores).
Red Threat has the line on the latest electronica from Jori Hulkkonen.
Twilight author Stephanie Meyer talks about her favorite bands at the Twilight: New Moon premiere, which include Bloodshot Records artists Ha Ha Tonka [Video]. That squealing you hear in the distance is coming from the Bloodshot HQ, I suspect.
Evanston's Ezra Furman is going to make you a special album. No really, just for you.
WFMU's Beware of the Blog talks about the latest from the Free Music Archive, including a remix contest which ends Dec. 20th.
Victim of Time blog has the line on the latest from Uzi Rash, an album that came from the "typical bedroom nutcase recording-style" and which produced Hight and Phree.
This week's Daytrotter session includes music from White Rabbits who roll into town for shows supporting The Walkmen at Schubas and Lincoln Hall next week. Free downloads!
Rogue Wave drummer Pat Spurgeon needed a kidney, right as the band was about to make it big. They made a movie about it, called D Tour. Catch it on PBS next week.
Is the Metro haunted? Ghost Lab investigates. The episode (titled "Murky Water") replays on Discovery on 11/10 or check online clips here (start with part 4).
Local blog Red Threat has the skinny on DJ Zinc and his latest EP. Is it Drum 'n Bass? Jungle Core? Grimehouse? You be the judge.
There's a disturbing trend of Best Albums of the Decade lists popping up on the interweb. And here's one more! A Top 50 to get you through Friday afternoon from the blog "Music for Kids Who Can't Read Good". (via)
CHIRP sure would like you to contact your representatives today about the Local Community Radio Act of 2009 (HR 1147).
Get your hands on a free download of a remix of Sufjan Stevens' Illinoise album, called, oddly enough, Illinoize, by Montreal-based producer Tor. More, um, oddly enough, Sufjan has a new album out all about The BQE in New York.
The Deli Chicago has the line on a cool event called "The Drop" at the Viaduct Theatre where bands drop off their CDs. New local music exposure ensues in coordination with WLUW. The next one is tomorrow night.
Greg Kot reviewed the Wilco shows at UIC Pavilion.
A bit of what's been going on elsewhere online this week:
A.V. Club Chicago asks Jeff Tweedy to react to comments about him on the Internet.
Big Rock Candy Mountain goes all weak in the knees over Chicago band Cococoma and their luscious pink vinyl record.
Lincoln Hall's Official Grand Opening event will be on 10/25 with Ted Leo and the Pharmacists. Tickets on sale now. Just $15.
The Deli Chicago has the line (and a video) from a DA reunion on Chic-a-Go Go.
More in video is on Fake Shore Drive with local hip-hop artists Kidz in the Hall on Mark Bazer's "The Interview Show" which also begs the question: Why isn't there any hip-hop at The Hideout? Or any, really?
Jim DeRogatis has the line on a fledgling band called Ideamen hitting the Beat Kitchen later this month with their newly minted album.
Loud Loop Press has it that Pelican will play an in-store show at
Reckless later in the month, but more importantly, they'll debut a new "Pelican Burger" at Kuma's. Congrats, fellas! You've arrived.
And I totally missed the recent announcement of Kid Sister's long-awaited (and awaited) debut album release. Ultravioletdrops 11/17 and you can be at her show at the House of Blues to celebrate on 11/25. Tickets $16-$18.
Femi Kuti was recently interviewed by the folks at Decider Chicago. He discussed his family, including his legendary father Fela Kuti; his infamous club, The Shrine; and more. He performs with The Positive Force tonight at the Ravinia Festival.
Give credit where credit is due out here in the wild interwebs, as my man at The T.R.O.Y. spot spotlights the jazz and soul samples of mid- to late 90s Chicago hip-hop. (T.R.O.Y. stands for They Reminisce Over You, a 1992 effort by Pete Rock and CL Smooth that is among the greatest hip-hop songs ever made.)
Posted are almost 30 instrumentals done by Chicago production luminaries on a number of classic Chicago albums. Of the samples you can listen to on the page, I highly recommend All Natural's "50 Years." Something to vibe to this Saturday afternoon.
You may had already heard that Jeff Tweedy's 13-year-old son is a a rockin' drummer when his band, The Blisters, played the kids stage at Lollapalooza two years ago, but what you may not know is that Spencer Tweedy is a proficient writer, blogger, and has his own software website/company. That's right, I said he's 13.
On his blog, he talks about all of the above, among other pre-teen musings like his Bar-Mitzvah and how he spent his birthday--with Neil Young, Pegi Young, Will Arnett, Amy Poehler, Jack McBrayer, Fred Armisen, and his family--oh, and filling in for Wilco drummer Glenn Kotche at Madison Square Garden. Yup, just your typical American teen...
Need some good thoughts to get your mind off the latest doomsday news cycle? Turn to Chicago blog Big Rock Candy Mountain for your very own Happy Endings Mix. As a reward to his faithful readers who've been coming back again and again for two years now to enjoy sweet classic country, blues, and folk posts, blogger Brian Reese has made a sweet mix in anticipation of a "big announcement" TBA. Enjoy tunes from the likes of Sally Timms, The Willis Brothers, Johnny Paycheck and Waylon Jennings here [mp3]. (And keep an eye on the blog for his pending announcement!)
Via the community aggregations over at Fake Shore Drive comes word of recent drops and flips from the local hip-hop scene. In recent days, the diligent and indefatigable FSD crew has passed along the following...
Rhymefest delivers a advance caveat to listeners before the release of the video for his new track "Stolen":
"First of all, dumb ass n******s that can't think past the club, the block, or fat booty b******s, DO NOT WATCH THIS! Your brain will explode. Second, self-righteous hip-hop nerds who expect to hear me go line for line in a metaphorical circus, DO NOT WATCH THIS! You will be sorely disappointed."
It gets deeper from there. Read the whole statement here. Also, catch the new leaked 'Fest tracks "In Between" and "Forces of Nature" over there.
Elsewhere, Lupe Fiasco leaks the rare track, "Gangsta (Up In Here)." Check it.
From the "Hold Me Closer, Tony Danza" Department of Misheard Lyrics comes a live clip of The Cool Kids kickin' it on the Rock The Bells tour. At first it seems everyone was reporting the new track as bearing the title "The Sound of Panties Hitting The Ground." It turns out the track is actually called "Pennies." That's p-e-n-n-i-e-s hitting the ground. But here's to wishful thinking, right.
In case you hadn't glanced over the magazine racks in the past month, Kid Sis Melisa's one of URB magazine's "Girls of Summer."
"We're documenting artists and featuring them in ways we've never been able to," says Pitchfork founder Ryan Schreiber. "Pitchfork.tv is really an extension of the kinds of features we've been doing on Pitchfork for years—it's a new way to see these artists and get to know them better as people."
In addition to regular music videos, Pitchfork.tv will air full-length feature films, vintage concerts, and music DVDs free of charge, sharing a different feature every week. The channel will also include interviews with bands on the road and in the studio. For a dash of Beatles/U2 charisma, the channel is featuring "Don't Look Down", a series of New York and Chicago shows performed entirely on rooftops. The channel is set for a soft release on April 7th.
en·core [ŏn'kôr'] n. 1. A demand by an audience for an additional performance, usually expressed by applause.
There was a time not long ago when anyone who regularly attended concerts was treated to encores all of the time, whether they wanted one (or two) or not. Set lists were/are written with line breaks to indicate the end of a set and the beginning of a planned encore. (Let's not even get into the set lists crafted to note when a band banters with the crowd.) The definition became hazy as audiences foresaw encores when roadies would tweak gear in the dark. The thrill of spontaneity eroded as nearly every band would leave at least one good song for an inevitable encore. Although, the strategy famously backfired for Janis Joplin at the 1968 Stax/Volt Yuletide Thing when she kept "Piece of My Heart" and "Ball and Chain" for an encore that was thwarted by a lukewarm audience.
The raucous applause that should induce encores became tepid and the act was mechanical. But recently the encore has been given stingy treatment by some headlining acts. Over Wilco's five-night Riviera residency last month, Jeff Tweedy made some comments disparaging expected encores, such as "When we're done, we don't wanna come back." Once those shows ended, the house lights and a pop song would come on while everyone justifiably went bananas to show their appreciation and ask for one more. (This request was usually honored.) Around that same time, Super Furry Animals took a stonewalling approach at Metro by holding signs that read "Resist Phony Encores" and not returning to the stage. And these are bands putting on shows that'd warrant real encores from adoring crowds. So why does the latest flavor-of-the-month leave the one song that the blogs love until after the smoke break at the 40-minute point? It should be a privilege instead of a right to be asked to play more. If performers continue to spurn every encore, perhaps they will begin to mean something again when truly deserved by the artist and the audience.
Chicago-based musician and producer extraordinaire Steve Albini gets some attention on 37signals' blog Monday for his descriptions of how his studio works -- along with his classic anti-record industry rant, "The Problem with Music." Albini then popped into the comments to add some further thoughts.
If you're looking for something to do today while you're "working", or just want to make a non-barking dogs Christmas mix to take to the in-laws, check out one of our favorite Chicago music blogger's annual traditions — it's the Big Rock Candy Mountain Christmas song posts! Since Thanksgiving, blogger Brian Reese has been pulling together great Country and Western classic Christmas tunes on his site, and has also been contributing to a sister site: Barstool Mountain which has been posting it's own favorite alcohol-fueled Christmas tunes. They're only live for a few days, but you can enjoy the promised "extra special" posts from now until the 25th.
One word of warning: there are occasional vintage images of scantily clad women on the blogs, so if you've got a boss who tends to sneak up on you, it might not be work safe.
-Can You see The Sunset From The South Side? threw together a "hot" Chicago Marathon Mix. If you can stand Ben Lee, followed by Glen Fry and then Archer Prewit this is a mix you might like.
-Audioversity has a lengthy review and sample mp3 from Chicago AfroBeat Project's new release (A) Move To Silent Unrest.
-Seattle's KEXP (KEXP Blog) did the live remote broadcast thing from Chicago's Engine Studio's all last week. They brought in a couple local bands to play live. Here are the highlights:
A lovely little blast from the past, courtesy of the Lovely Little Girl himself, Greg Jacobson (and YouTube) ... 11 (!!!) year-old footage from venerable Chicago public-access kids-and-hipsters dance show Chic-A-Go-Go, featuring "live" musical mayhem from the Scissor Girls (featuring Azita, now better known in her current singer-songwriter incarnation).
Tribune music critic Greg Kot joins the blogging world with Turn it Up. So far, it's notes from the underground SXSW and a piece on Jon Brion — and not a hyperlink to be found — but here's hoping he stretches out as he gets used to the medium. I mean come on, Greg, it's not that different from the Sound Opinions forum.
With so many mp3 blogs in existence and new ones popping up every day it's hard to figure out how and why the mainstream press selects one to be crowned king for a day. But that's just what the Wall Street Journal did for Audiversity the other day. It must be combination of luck, timing and talent that gets a particular blog noticed. I don't know about the first two, but Audiversity certainly has that last category covered.
Audioversity is the project of two Music Directors and a record store clerk. The local connection is Michael Ardaiolo, WLUW's music director and host of the WLUW radio show Audiversity: The Radio Show!The Wall Street Journal article (subscription needed) got it wrong when they said Audiversity features rare music. In fact, they cover pretty run of the mill new releases, but the extent, thoroughness and quality of the coverage is what sets them apart. I think in this new media age the term "content is king" will once again rule and sites like Audiversity that showcase excellent writing will somehow rise to the top.
Local DJ's E6 and Matt Roan have setup a low key blog (warning: super confusing video) highlighting their respective underground finds. I've seen Matt Roan spin a couple times now and come away highly impressed - he works a solid blend of new/old school mashes, 80s dance, and mainstream hiphop into a pretty frenetic set. E6 will be spinning at SmartBar on February 25th, while Matt Roan continues his every-other-Saturday residency at Tuman's Alcohol Abuse Center this weekend.
We're looking for a little help here at Gapers Block, Transmission included. Check out the details over in Detour and let us hear from you!
Bonus: along with our spiffy redesigned page, we've added a new way for you to get involved in Transmission with our Flickr group. Join up and post your pics of Chicago musical happenings.
Brian, a Chicagoan who runs the music blog Big Rock Candy Mountain, has just recently undertaken a huge project: making a list of the Greatest Drinking Songs Of All Time, as submitted by you the drinker...er...music-lover. Represent, Chicago! Check out the details here and get him your votes by March 17th. He'll reward us all by posting the top 50 (or 100, or whatever it takes) when he gathers them up. [Update!] He's also looking for a few more judges. Details here.
I'm a sucker for a good cover song, and one of the best sources for them on the web happens to be right here in Chicago. Copy, Right? is an mp3blog whose "only goal is to share my love/hate relationship with cover songs and to turn readers on to artists of whom they might not have otherwise been aware." Liza's collection is wide and deep, enabling her to do a round-up of Adam Ant covers one week and a random selection of international acts the next. Keep up and you'll have a mix CD of your favorites in no time.
Sadly, indie music paper/blog The Crutch was put to rest at the end of September. But the good news is editor Chad Cheatham is now a contributor to Monte's Gauntlet, a sort of meta-review site that doesn't so much aggregate reviews as it does rate them, cutting through the BS and giving you a critical perspective on the critics. And they give you links to "found" mp3s of each artist around the web so you can judge for yourself.
If you headed down to the Cobra Lounge last night to try to get in to the not exactly secret Naked Raygun show, you were likely denied. Chicagoist's Tankboy laments on his blog and his Myspace page about not getting in (and the volume of bitter emails he's been getting) because the show was made "guest list only" and nobody who wasn't a "friend of Cobra" got in. Well, there's always RiotFest.
Add to Pete Margasek's blog Post No Bills the Reader Music Writers' Crickets. The Reader's third blog features posts from Miles Raymer, Monica Kendrick and Bob Mehr, musing on everything from a drug bust at a music festival in Lawrence, Kansas, to the ubiquity of Gnarls Barkley's "Crazy." Woo.
Welcome to the wonderful world of music blogs, Metro! The big ole Chicago venue has announced that it's got it's own blog rolling on the front page of its website. The blog's got some nice artist Q&A, mp3s, and a peek behind the scenes at the Metro staff plus the occassional bit o' gossip. If you've got a music blog out there that we should be checking out, just let us know at inbox {at} gapersblock.com.
