Novemeber 2013

Gobble ...gobble, blogspot readers! Autumn winds are blowing strong but don't let the chill in the air stop you from enjoying the following rockin' events happening around town (and elsewhere). Be thankful there's plenty to see and do this month...

Please note all shows/events are 21+ unless duly noted.

Oct 31 & Nov 1:
Bad Genie (Milwaukee, WI) - it's Static Chicken Umphrey's Halloween After parties!
For more information, visit http://www.badgenie.com

Nov 1 - 10:

24th Annual Chicago Humanities Festival. This year's theme - Animal: What Makes Us Human

tickets $8

For more information, visit http://www.chicagohumanities.org or phone 312-494-9509

Nov 1:
House of Blues (Chicago) - Todd Kessler & The New Folk will be sharing the stage with Nicholas David
ALL AGES / 8p

Chicago Urban Art Society (600 W. Cermak) - party at GozamosDia Los Muertos 2013 featuring Sonorama, Soulphonetics and Sound Culture

Nite Cap - it's still Halloween at this bash featuring Devils In Angels, 4 Without, Broken, Sinister Fate and Loose Lips

Exit - celebrate Wildcard's 1 yr Anniversary with Redux DJ's Risky, DJs Demchuk, Red Rum, Eddie Riot, Molly Bass, Annihlist and Mr. Bobby

Primary - DJ Decon, Tyler Fornell, Them Flavor DJs and Derek Spees will be spinning on this night
$10 adv / $15 dos

Montrose Saloon (2933 W. Montrose) - check out Donna Frost performing on stage here
No cover charge / donations welcome

Coq d'Or (Drake Hotel) - Jesse Charbonier begins his winter performance schedule which includes other dates - Saturday Nov 9, Friday Nov 29, and Saturday Dec 7

The Burlington - it's Freaky Friday at Adam & Dana's Halloween Hoedown featuring performances by Haymarket Riot, The Harrow, American Draft with comedy by Anne Poler and Mike Garvin as well asDJ Dietzler and DJ Joe

Liar's Club - Wrecking Ball Production presents Chicago Punk Rock Showdown featuring The Mizzerables, The Obsession, Calling All Cars and Mama
$5

Fitz's Spare Keys - every Friday, this venue will host some of Chicago's best DJs starting with DJ Jem of Dance Floor Junkies and 103.5 KISS FM. There will be a special Black Wednesday show featuring Dance Floor Junkies on Nov 27.
NO COVER / 10p

Nov 2:

The Mouse Trap - it's Voice of Addiction rockin' the stage along with 40oz Sidekicks, Die Mutts and Butchered

ALL-AGES / $5 donation / 7p

email - johnnyx.wbp@gmail.com for the address

Double Door - rock out with Lamp, Rah Rah, The Damn Choir and The Kuhls
$10 adv / $12 dos / 8p

Fairfield Tap (Long Lake, IL) - rock with Banned In Grayslake

Atlanta, GA - singer/songwriter Jess Godwin will be opening for Jan Smith at the Mountain Way Denim and Diamonds Soiree

Hard Rock Cafe (Chicago) - check out Jack Salamander performing Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon with special guests goodbyehome and Beacon James
18+ / $10

Bottom Lounge - Adora will be rockin' the stage with The Run Around, Underfire and Storm The Front

Nite Cap - 6 DOS (Degrees of Separation) returns to the stage featuring Jack Mazzenga's Space Time Trio and The Cubes

Mitchell's Tap (3356 S. Halsted) - Donna Frost featuring James Scott will be performing here

LiveWire Lounge - help Save Toby's Ass! this Chicago benefit show pits Indie vs EDM featuring some of Chicago's leading artists getting together and lending their support to help Toby Tyler Heidebrink (lead singer of Hex Rx). Live performances by The Gothsicles, One Quick Fix, JILT, Biocarbon 3 with DJs Scary Lady Sarah, Peter Propaganda and more to be announced

Martini (3124 N Central) - live on stage from Mexico City, Antidoping featuring DJ Senor Lebowski
18+ / 21+ to drink (must show ID) / $19 adv / 9p doors
For tickets, visit http://www.antidoping.brownpapertickets.com

Beat Kitchen - Artisans Chicago presents Off The Beaten Path, a show of handmade objects featuring The Alley Tattoo artists selling some art
FREE / 12p to 4p

Beat Kitchen - rock with Chasing Mars, When Clouds Attack, Loud Loud and Spooky Action Space Captain with DJs in between
$5 / come in costume

Nov 3:
Fitzgerald's (Berwyn, IL) - check out "A Tribute To Lowell George" performed by New Orleans Suspects featuring Paul Berrere and Fred Tackett of Little Feet
$20 adv / $25 dos / 7p

Emporium Arcade Bar - hey, gamers, Chicago Loot Drop Presents: Tokens & Tankards, an arcade game and craft beer pairing event.
$28 adv / proceeds benefit Child's Play and University of Chicago Comer Children's Hospital

Stage Left Cafe (Woodstock, IL) - attend the Donna Frost Interactive Concert and Q&A
$10

LiveWire Lounge - rock with Marmora, Grel, Five-Eight and Small Awesome
8p

Nov 4:
Empty Bottle - it's a FREE Monday show featuring Good Willsmith, Nyodene D, Requiem and Eitanoara

Reggie's - Bear down, fans, while raising money for a good cause. Join Hope for the Day at the Reggie's rooftop deck for smoked brisket, pork shoulder, sausage links with baked beans, mac n cheese, cole slaw and fries ...plus a hosted PBR bar from 7p -8p while watching Bears vs Packers. There will be raffle prizes from The Willow Hotel, Osteria Via Stato, Phil Stefani's, Oh Olive!, Man B Que gear. This event is sponsored by Reggie's, MANBQUE, Unholy Empire and PBR.
Space is limited - so get your tickets now at http://www.ticketfly.com/purchase/event/402683
$20 donation - all proceeds support suicide prevention and awareness

Nov 5:
Empty Bottle - Yamantaka along with Sonic Titan, Electric Hawk and Cleric will be rockin' the stage
$8

Act One Pub - it's Chicago Acoustic Underground's monthly "Singing For Your Supper" showcase featuring Donna Frost

Mojoe's (Joliet, IL) - check out this progressive metalcore band from Alabama, ERRA, when they feature songs off their latest release "Augment". SouthSide recommends listening to "Pulse" and "Hybrid Earth".

Nov 6:
Elbo Room - every Wednesday, it's Mug Night at this popular Lakeview bar. Here how it works ...buy a 22oz mug for $5 and then fill it with any draft for $5. Then come back next Wednesday (with your mug) and fill it up again for only $5

Park West - check out the Jimi Hendrix of the Ukulele Jake Shimabukuro at this Lincoln Park venue

Smartbar - it's the midweek dance scene ...MACHINA with DJ Scary Lady Sarah spinning your requests featuring New Wave to Industrial to Electro and Alternative ...Goth too!
FREE / 10p

Nov 7:
Sound Bar - are you SRTB (so ready to bang) with Porn and Chicken featuring Borgeous

NV Nightclub (Knoxville, TN) - Oh No Fiasco and Skytown Riot EP Release Party! with Far, Far Away
18+

Nov 8 & 9:
Aragon Ballroom - check Pretty Lights at their "A Color Map of the Sun" Fall Tour 2013 featuring Blood Diamonds and Paul Basic (on Nov 8) and Supervision and more TBA (on Nov 9)
18+ / 7:30p
http://www.clubtix.com

Nov 8:

Concord Music Hall - "...I want your love ...I want your revenge..." yep, Bad Romance the musical production based on the music of Momma Monster herself, Lady Gaga will be performed on stage.

ALL-AGES / 7p / http://www.clubtix.com

Cowboy Monkey (Champaign, IL) - rock with The Handcuffs featuring The Impales and Paul & Gloria
$5 / 19+ (be sure to check with club for the correct age requirement to enter) / 9p

Double Door - check out Chicago Afrobeat Project sharing the stage with Sidewalk Chalk, Ayodele and Trio Mokili
$12 / 8p

Martyrs' - Aryk Crowder will be performing live with DJ No DJ and Bumpus
$10 / 8:30p

Reggie's - rock out with The Quick and Easy Boys

LiveWire Lounge - rock out with Skull Fogger at Alder Kings' CD Release party!

Exit - Strictly House: Grouchy Horse featuring DJs Eddie X, Pete Street, Cedeno, Catalyst and Mark Matras

Empty Bottle - check out Wooden Ships' record release show featuring Cave and Rabble Rabble
$14

NEO - OMFG! it's Danger Zone (#4) featuring Eddie Riot, Pete Augusta, Adam Black, Sissy Spastik, Ruby Dee and more spinning at the most dangerous dance party in town!
NO COVER ($5 after 11p)
Catholics are warned to avoid this party...

The Mutiny - it's Arsenal Road, The Orions, The Heavy Machines, Puritan Pine and Crimson & Coal rockin' the stage
FREE

The Owl - starting on this night (and every 2nd Friday) check out East of Edens Soul Express

Nov 9:
Empty Bottle - check out Handmade Market, a unique event which connects the makers of beautiful things with people who appreciate the unique and handmade
12p - 4p

Uncommon Ground (Clark St location) - The Real Jane Martin performs its last show of 2013 featuring Trick Shooter Social Club

ALL-AGES / $5 

For reservations - phone 773-929-3680 or http://www.uncommonground.com

Double Door - this early show will feature Hinsdale School of Rock performing tribute sets of Paul McCartney, Dave Grohl and Jack White
$10 / 12:30p / Children are welcome if attending with their parents

Empty Bottle - this party will feature live performances by My Gold Mask, Minor Characters and Magicks
$10 adv / $12 dos

Schubas Tavern - Homebase featuring performances by Songo, Joey Pecoraro, Dario X and Blendin Fraser (of Push Beats) with special guests
18+
For more information and tickets, visit http://www.homebaseparty.com

Reggie's - rock with The Dickies, Modern Day Rippers, HotLips Messiah and Brain Vacation
17+ / $12 adv / $15 dos

Record Breakers - rock with electro/indie/psychedelic duo brick & mortar ...free hot dogs and pop will be served
FREE / All Ages / 2p

Nov 10:

Ultra Lounge - A Pale Horse and Death Hemi will be rockin' the stage here

$10

Empty Bottle - check out The Bellwether Syndicate performing with The Foreign Resort, New Canyons and DJ Philly
$7 adv / $10 dos

Cobra Lounge - it's Absu, Wolvhammer, Terminate, and Pete Horseman performing live on stage

Nov 11:
Chopin Theater - attend the All Souls Jazz Festival, a Polish-American jazz festival featuring performances by internationally renowned jazz artists and talented young performers such as Wishing Well, Tom Pilewski Band, Bill Neal (from Australia) on sax, Xazz Quintet, Mieczyslaw Woiny on flute, Ludomir Marcin Januszkiewicz (Chicago Coalition) and Frieda Lee, Grazyna Auguscik Band and many more.
For more information, visit http://www.allsoulsjazz.com

Hungry Brain - check out Duck, You Sucker sharing the stage with Organ Yank
NO COVER / 9p

Nov 13 & 14:
Uncommon Ground (Clark St location) - Jann Klose along with Aryk Crowder will be performing a special Jeff Buckley Tribute show in which this event includes a dinner (at 6p). Show begins at 8p
$60
For reservations - phone 773-929-3680 or http://www.uncommonground.com

Nov 14:
Sound Bar - Porn and Chicken featuring Antiserum

Reggie's Rock Club - On The Grind Management presents Trainwreck Symphony and Asteria to the stage
$10

Subterranean - rock with Blue Eyed Jesus and Northside Ruckus

Nov 15:

Reggie's - rock with Hillbilly Idle and Kent D. Rosenwald featuring Unknown Hinson

Metro - check out The Locals featuring Workout Music, Mer, Leah Druzinsky and Rory Tyler Band rockin' the stage
18+ / 7:30p

The Vic Theatre - Leftover Salmon will be rockin' the stage along with The Big Wu and Old Show
$25 / 18+ / 9p

Touche Chicago (6412 N Clark) - Get Stuffed! with DJ Germ (of Modern Day Rippers/Sexy Baby Records/Rotten Fruits)

Underground Lounge - rock your Friday night with Whiskey Daredevils, Malt Liquor, Jadam Jones & the Mulitfelons and Jailhouse Poets
$7 / 8p doors

Elbo Room - check out Sheriff Scabs, The Sunday Movers, the Reunion and The Outliars rockin' the main stage at this popular Lakeview venue.
$10 / 8:30p

Nov 16:
Various Locations in Bucktown/Wicker Park - it's Chillfest Chicago 2013 which will feature acoustic music throughout the neighborhood with a closing show at Subterranean

Uncommon Ground (Clark St location) - Jann Klose will be performing along with P.J. Pacifico
$10 / 10p
For reservations - phone 773-929-3680 or http://www.uncommonground.com

Tonic Room - Sound Prism Productions presents Glostik Willy, Digeometric Rhombus and Kobrakai to the stage
$8

Chicago, IL - singer/songwriter Jess Godwin will be performing at the Annual Human Rights Campaign Gala

Brauer House (Lombard, IL) - A Sound of Thunder along with Black 4, Guerilla and Dead On TV will be rockin' the stage

Aragon Ballroom - react presents Krewella "Get Wet" Live tour featuring Candyland
18+ / 9p doors

Red Line Tap - celebrate The Polkaholics 16th Anniversary featuring the band performing songs off their 8 CDs as well as new ones along with Nuclear Cock and Adler Kings

Reggie's - The Unseen, Last False Hope, Brickwall Vultures and When Flying Feels LIke Falling will be rockin' the stage here
All Ages / $13 adv / $15 dos / 7p

Nov 17:
Tonic Room - Micah Olsen (from Milwaukee, WI) will be opening for NYC singer/songwriter Jay Stoler featuring Jim & The Povolos

Nov 20:
Wise Fools Pub - check out Rouge! Chicago's Electroswing Night with Lord Joseph Cr Vourteque and special guests
FREE

Nov 21:
Grandbar - rock out with Illusions Fate, Amigo the Devil and Radio Creeps
$7

Nov 22:
Cigars & Stripes (Berwyn, IL) - go "...robble robble..." with the Hamburglars featuring Some Velvet Evening

Chicago Theatre - the music from The Legend of Zelda: The Second Quest will be featured

Subterranean - Great Divide will headline this lineup featuring Chris Medina and Caleb Hawley

Concord Music Hall - rock with Zoe from Mexico featuring Programaton in concert
18+ to enter / 21+ to drink / 8p doors

Nov 23:

The Burlington - check out this show featuring gofight, Baathaus, Glass Lux & Perfect Kiss with DJs Adam Black, Mr. Automatic, Mr. Bobby and Eddie Riot

The Red Line Tap - it's Vortis along with Mike Hard (of God Bullies) and Depravos de la Mour performing live on stage.
For more information and tickets, visit http://www.heartlandcafe.com

Primary - Machinedrum ...a Vaporcity Live show

Subterranean - Green River Ordinance's "Chasing Down The Wind" North American tour stops in Chicago featuring Rosi Golan and Grace & Tony
17+ / $12 / 8p doors

Reggie's Rock Club - rock out with Wookiefoot featuring That 1 Guy
18+ / $15 adv / $20 dos / 8p doors

Mercury Lounge (NYC) - check out Finley Knight performing on stage here

Aragon Ballroom - attend Alesso's "Uprising" North American tour
18+

Ye Olde Town Inn - rock with Pale Horseman, Dark Fall, IX Gates and another band TBA
$8 / 9p

the Mutiny - it's Chicago Punk night featuring Get Up & Go!, The Damn Trades, Dun Bin Had (CA) and Butchered
FREE

Nov 24:
Juniors Sports Bar (2058 W Cermak) - rock with The Bad English, Pony Attax, Mandatory Abortions, Criminal Kids and The Pervert Preachers at this show
$5 / 8p

Nov 27:

Empty Bottle - it's the 10th Annual Night Before Thanksgiving Show featuring Jet W. Lee, The Phantoms, The Safes with The Differents headlining

$10 / 8:30p doors

Cobra Lounge - attend Unholy Empire's 5th Annual Thrashgiving 2013 featuring Hell Awaits, Slave New World, Metal Up Your *ss, and Among The Living
8p

Bottom Lounge - William Control, Davey Suicide and Fearless Vampire Killers will be rockin' the stage here
17+ / $12 / 7p doors

Metro - be fashionably seen at Nocturna's Black Wednesday party!

Mayne Stage - it's the Black Wednesday CAU Showcase featuring Chicago Acoustic Underground taking over the entire venue! check out Heartsfield, The Lauren Wolf Band and Joe Taylor on the main stage while Greg Jackson Combs, John Till and Hannah Frank on the Act One Pub stage

Nov 28:
Sound Bar - Porn and Chicken with Node Strom, Salva and Sinden

Nov 29:

Concord Music Hall - if you want to funk out the month in style, come to this venue and see George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic!

http://www.clubtix.com

Double Door - check out The Steepwater Band, The Muggs, and The Nick Moss Band rockin' the stage
$12 adv / $15 dos / 8p

LiveWire Lounge - attend Punksgiving Night 1/Canned Food Drive featuring live performances by The Kreutzer Sonata, Solution Unsatisfactory, This Obsession and Light The Fuse
$5 w/non-perishable food donation / 8p

Aragon Ballroom - Eric Prydz performs live here
17+ / 7p doors

The Abbey Pub - rock out your Black Friday at this show featuring Left Setter, Viceroy and Waiflike
$7 / 9p

Mojoe's - Makeshift Prodigy will be rockin' the stage
All Ages

Nov 30:

Multi Kulti - attend the 2nd Annual Black Dot Music Festival featuring live performances by Sole Heiress, ST8 of Grace. JD's Revenge and more

$15 / 21+

Empty Bottle - DJ Scary Lady Sarah will be spinning during this lineup featuring Corrections House and Bloodyminded
$12 adv / $15 dos

Double Door - RedBull Sound Select presents Chicago Curated by 312 featuring performances by White Mystery, Archie Powell & The Exports, Mutts and Daniel Wade
$10 (or $3 with rsvp at http://www.redbullsoundselect.com/events/2013/red-bull-sound-select-presents-chicago

The Mutiny - rock again at Punksgiving Night 2/Canned Food Drive featuring live performances by The Riot, Flagass, Sub X (from Ohio) and Street Fist
FREE w/non-perishable food donation

Cubby Bear - Shoeshine Boy and SwizzleSteve presents Hero Monster Zero and 8090 featuring Ariada, KF Jacques, Distant Brothers and Incognito on stage
$6 adv / $9 dos / 8p

Red Line Tap - donate an unwrapped toy at the 2013 Toys For Tots Rock Party, an annual benefit for the U.S. Marines Toys For Tots featuring live performances by Joe Lapsley, The Rut, The Telepaths Rock!, The Revelettes (go-go dancers), Will Phalen & The Dirty Dollars, David Bon, whitewolfsonicprincess, and Gunnel Pumpers


Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide

20 Oct 13 - Thick As A Brick 1 & 2

"...Are you a Tull fan?" ~ a question used by Tull fans when meeting other Tull fans

It was so good the first time, blogspot readers, that she had to see it again!

Almost three months to the date from when SouthSide saw Ian Anderson perform Thick As A Brick 1 & 2 (in their entirety) at Ravinia that she had to see it at Star Plaza Theatre (located in Merrilville, IN) with her good friend and number 1 fan, Joe. Besides being able to see this incredible theatric-like rock concert again, it gave this reviewer an opportunity to compare both productions. So which one was the best? Good question ...and it will be answered at the end of this review.

Thick As A Brick (part 1) is more than just a concept album but an long lyrical song written by a fictional boy named Gerald Bostock whose poetic words speak of his story about growing up and the decision he must make - should he be a soldier like his father before him or should he be poet. Such a tough dilemma placed on his shoulders. Throughout the course of his young life, he's told serving in a war as a soldier is an honorable profession and that it brings glory meanwhile being an artist garners no such thing in society. Yet while growing older, he discovers war isn't all guts and glory (as he was led to believe) ...there's destruction, depression, and death. Meanwhile Thick As A Brick 2 answers the question - what happened to Gerald Bostock now that he's grown to adulthood? Well, we as the audience are given a few possible ideas since this is the  "...time of maybes, what ifs, might have beens, and wait and sees..." during part two, blogspot readers. We get to see Gerald as a greedy corporate banker, a homeless gay man, a holier-than-thou evangelistic reverend, a soldier serving in the Gulf War, and then finally an ordinary married but childless man who owns a shop. However, throughout the "...maybes, what ifs, might have beens, and wait and sees...", it's not just Gerald Bostock in which Ian Anderson sings about. You will get the general idea (in some sort of way) each and every one of us personifies Gerald Bostock in our own lives as we make crucial decisions that could change our life direction.

Comparing his Ravinia performance three months ago, blogspot readers, Ian's TAAB 1 & 2  performance here at Star Plaza Theatre was slightly different in some ways with a few surprises even though keeping the rest the same. For this reviewer, seeing Thick As A Brick 1 & 2 again still contained that same awe and wonder like it did when she first experienced the magic and music of pied piper known as Ian Anderson. Despite knowing what would happen or which song would be performed next, SouthSide found herself lost in the rhythmic motions of this progressive rock musician while delighting his audience of hardcore Tull fans with each agile prance across the stage with his flute or spoken poetic prose that would have fans shouting excited outbursts throughout the concert. Ryan portraying as the younger version of Gerald Bostock was still thrilling to watch, blogspot readers. With him as Ian's lyrical voice (during certain moments) still made the famous songs pop to life with such acting enthusiasm and vocal vigor.  Overall, it was still a thought-provoking theatric type of rock performance as she listened to songs like The Poet and The Painter, Tales of Your Life and of course Thick As A Brick from part 1 as well as Medley: Upper Sixth Loan Shark/Banker Bets, Banker Wins and Medley: Power and Spirit/Give Till It Hurts (SouthSide's favorite) from part 2.

So what was different this time? How about an impromptu male health inspection featuring "doctor" Muldoon and his patient from the audience named Tom during Ian's public service announcement? Yep, this actually did happen - believe it or not.  Once again during the UK weather (about temperature and depression), Ian once again was on a mission instructing man in taking better care of themselves  upon reaching that certain age. It was funny having a guy on stage getting a "prostate examination" ...don't worry, he was well hidden behind the modesty screen. "...save a life ...it might be his..." says Ian before showing a video image montage of photos of notable deceased faces like Frank Zappa, Joey Ramone, Jimi Hendrix, Telly Savalas - to name a few. SouthSide also enjoyed listening to the audience react ...respond is a better word here, blogspot readers, to each TAAB song performed. Unlike at Ravinia where it was more subdued, this audience was alive and very vocal in their appreciation of Ian Anderson and his music. And those poor ushers - these fans had them working hard whenever many tried to snap a photo or video any part of the performance with their phones. There were moments during the concert when you could hear fans singing along to the famous Tull songs especially during Thick As A Brick and the encore Locomotive Breath. Speaking of which, that was a better version than what was heard at Ravinia. Ian Anderson and the band TOTALLY rocked out ...rocked down the Star Plaza Theatre to the ground with a rousing version which had many Tull fans crowding the front rows (with their camera phones) singing and rocking out with the band. Ian left them hungry for more Jethro Tull, blogspot readers, after taking standing ovations with the band and Ryan as well as shaking hands with a few fans.

SouthSide highly recommends seeing Ian Anderson perform Thick As A Brick 1 & 2 wherever the pied piper of progressive rock performs at a town and/or venue near you, blogspot readers. For more information and where he's performing next, visit http://www.jethrotull.com.


Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide

19 Oct 13 - The Claudettes

Hey, blogspot readers, back in September, SouthSide's good friend The Claudettes performed a debut appearance at the legendary blues club - Buddy Guy's Legends opening for Big James and The Chicago Playboys. Actually, pianist Johnny Iguana has performed there before but this was drummer Michael Caskey's premiere experience at this well known club and tourist attraction. How did it go for The Claudettes? Well, blogspot readers, she heard from the grapevine that the show didn't pan out too well for this local band and/or their performance ...that depends on whom you talk to about what happened. Since she wasn't there herself, this reviewer got in contact with Jeff Elbel, freelance writer for the Chicago Sun-Times to get his bird's eye view of happen that night and more.

The Claudettes aren't your ordinary blues band, blogspot readers. It's a concept type of band where the musicians, Johnny and Michael instrumentally play an upbeat vivacious blues sound while Tatyana, the bar server of Claudette's Bar, handles the managing side of this concept. The "bar" itself is the band's main gimmick that's owned by the mysterious and unseen Claudette who sometimes phones in during the set checking on the band and beer sales. So besides listening to music, the audience's interest is kept when she's doing things like straightening Johnny's tie ...sweeping the floor and/or selling things sometimes it's beer (at a discount price) or CDs (by other bands) or t-shirts and other merch. And according to Jeff Elbel, "...Johnny and Michael were really rocking it..." at Buddy Guy's Legend that night.

So, in his opinion, why the negative response from the Buddy Guy's staff over The Claudettes' appearance SouthSide asked. "...I think it's because they're trying to run a business with a rigid set of parameters..." as well as luring the tourist crowd and those who wouldn't normally visit a club like Buddy Guy's. Jeff who attended the show with his wife told this reviewer he had a clear view of the room and contrary to what was said to Johnny Iguana afterwards, "...people were having a great time..." even if they thought it was weird. And what about the rumor that people were leaving during The Claudettes' opening? That's not entirely true, blogspot readers. People however were leaving during Trombone Shorty's set because like the others, Jeff was waiting for this musician to wow him with something spectacular that never really happened.

"I went with my wife who's not 100% committed to music," stated Jeff who also added that she's good test of what and how the crowd reacted to The Claudette's Buddy Guy's performance, blogspot readers. In his opinion, he told SouthSide that she was entertained and felt the negative reaction to the band wasn't warranted. "...if there isn't a new angle, then everybody should be a Buddy Guy cover band..." he added, "...everyone has an angle..." citing there are more conventional blues bands like Trombone Shorty that have appeared on this club's stage. Yet, a band like The Claudettes isn't conventional to which he said to this reviewer that you sometimes "...have to step out of the box..." and that's what he likes about The Claudettes, blogspot readers. "...a band has to grow and evolve ...bring in new things ...and not be a nostalgic act ...I don't think Buddy Guy wants to be remembered as a nostalgic musician..."

So how Jeff would describe The Claudettes brand of blues music to someone who have never heard of this band before? He did admit to SouthSide that he's not as well versed in blues history as Johnny Iguana is but did state The Claudettes "...is very respectful of blues history and blues knowledge..." And by listening to this local band's music and befriending Johnny, he has come to learn of other blues artists like Otis Spann or Mose Allison saying "...I would not have heard of [them] without Johnny Iguana..." The Claudettes, according to this writer, also bring modern elements into their blues music in which traditional blues and indie fans both can enjoy.  In his opinion, he feels this band is carrying the torch of the blues tradition something the Legends staff should be appreciative of because "...they [the band] played to a group who aren't passionate about music..."

Then SouthSide asked Jeff - if he had to promote The Claudettes, what kind of lineup could the band be featured in. "...since their sound is based on different number of things, The Claudettes could be in lineup featuring an alternative band ...but wouldn't put them in a heavy metal or country lineup..." he replied. He could also see this band in the middle of a folk act lineup just to see how the audience would react to their performance. Jeff mentioned just how the annual Blues Fest features a wide variety of musical acts from soul to rhythm and blues and more he could see The Claudettes performing within rock or soul lineup besides blues. He noted there's a hint of Ray Charles as well as Raymond Scott especially in the title track of the band's new album. SouthSide mentioned how she could see the band performing in a film festival or doing music for a silent movie to which Jeff also agreed saying "...they would be perfect for that..." and would pass along the idea to Johnny.

What's his personal opinion about The Claudettes? Jeff stated they're one of my favorite bands. What he likes about them is that Johnny and Michael play at very unconventional venues outside what's considered the "normal" club scene around town. Besides venues like Tonic Room and places while recently on tour, The Claudettes have appeared at a Blockbusters in Wicker Park/Bucktown neighborhood, a Staples and even a bar like The Whistler (located in the Logan Square neighborhood) ...anywhere and everywhere bringing music to where the fans are. Jeff enjoys hearing two of Johnny's favorite musical styles - blues and alternative together as well as watching Johnny and Michael play off each other having a "...cool tug of war..." during their set. And believe it or not, blogspot readers, Johnny has performed or recorded with legendary greats like Junior Wells, James Cotton, Carey Bell, Koko Taylor and many more. "...I like the fact they [The Claudettes] do things I can recognize ...bringing in R&B I can grow with..." says Jeff adding, "...I feel like I'm walking encyclopedia ...learning a lot thanks to Johnny and Michael..." Another great thing about The Claudettes is that he can listen to them all day and get work done. Lastly, blogspot readers, Jeff wanted everyone to know that they are "...great fun to watch..."

SouthSide highly recommends heading out The Hideout this Friday for The Claudettes' Album Release show featuring Ami Saraiya & the Outcome and Jenny Dragon. For more information, visit http://www.theclaudettes.bandcamp.com.

Until next time, support your local scene,

SouthSide

18 Oct 13 - Carnivale Delirium photos

Hey, blogspot readers, check out the other photos taken during Carnivale Delirium that she was unable to post with the review...

Until next time, support your local scene,

SouthSide

18 Oct 13 - Carnivale Delirium

Hurry ...hurry ...hurry ...step right up and witness magical feats and alluring delights that will astound your mind ...and seduce your senses at this carnivale...

Move along, kid ...you're too young to enter ...move along or I'll box your ears...

That's right, folks, don't be shy ...come closer to the stage ...there's plenty of room for all. Eager to enter through the tent, aren't you, sir? That's right, madam, come closer and see things you've never seen before at Carnivale Delirium!  Oh no, blogspot readers, this isn't some ordinary carnival where the rides are cheap and thrills are weak! No! Our wonderful host, Lord Joseph Cr Vourteque the 4th would never invite you some run-of-the-mill event. That's not his style ...especially since this is also his birthday party. Take a gander at this fine lineup of acts and sideshow wonders, folks, at Carnivale Delirium...

Meet the lovely Karolina Lux, a temptress of the burlesque belly dance and other delights ...her moves will make the proudest of all virgins blush ...if magical tricks and slight of hand is your thing, sir, then watch our resident Magician Michael Burke wow the mind ...if a bit more daring, witness the mysteries of science and together with Sanjula Varama ...or have some fun with Professor Pinkerton and his Dead Man's Carnivale featuring the magic of Shandini ...come hear a tune or two with our resident operatic vagabond, Eric Stern and finally dance to the sweetest vaudevillian gypsy music you've ever heard by Candy Town. While inside the carnivale tents, blogspot readers, peruse the latest in Victorian/steampunk fashion and neckcollars for the ladies ...for the gents (and ladies too) we have stylish mustache tattoos as well as an opportunity to make your very own Clockwork Vaudeville poster... 

Don't be shy, folks... 

Come and enjoy all that you see here with SouthSide at Carnivale Delirium!

Michael Burke

After passing through the tent curtains, blogspot readers, you'll find Michael Burke with his lovely assistant from the audience, Jess, ready to amaze you with a couple of tricks with cards and a clown nose before completely blowing your mind away with the disappearing card trick ...but wait, how did that deck of cards come out of his mouth?! Aw ...that's the wonders and magic of the mysterious unknown ...and he's not revealing how he does it. Now, Michael will further astound your mind with his famous rope trick that started in three different sizes before turning into one single piece of rope and then back to three different sizes again. Yes, madam, that was incredible. To end his time with you at Carnivale Delirium, he will attempt another card but with several cards to choose from with his new lovely assistant, Marlene. His assistant has picked card number four which is a seven of diamonds ...and look - he somehow has picked the same card! Isn't that amazing, folks?! Say goodbye to Mr. Michael Burke ...it's time to see our next attraction.

Karolina Lux

Move along, folks. So much to see ...so little time left to do all and see all. As we approach this next stage, please keep your hands to yourselves, gents ...no touching the beautiful ...seductive mistress while she's dancing. Very hypnotic with each hip movement, isn't it? Yes, watch closely as she expertly uses her divine skills theatrical dance to shake and ripple her hips in an enticing way to lure your senses with such delightful carnal thoughts. Our temptress here at Carnivale Delirium - Karolina Lux (http://www.karolinaluxpresents.com) - combines tribal belly dance with some burlesque to tease as well as tempt you with every swivel performed in time to the lively music. A lovely creature indeed who can further tempt your mind with the feathery fan dance or skillfully handle a sharp saber on top of her head even in a split! Lovely ...quite lovely, wasn't she, blogspot readers? We shall see her again shortly...

Sanjula Vamana

Please be warned ...this next stage is not for the weak at heart or those with a medical condition. Enter at your own risk. Now, we come to the part of Carnivale Delirium where the mysteries of science and magic are answered, folks. Meet our resident rajah Sanjula Vamana (http://www.sanjulavamana.com) who will become a human dart board for your entertainment. Who would like to volunteer? You, sir? Or You madam? How about you, Lord Vourteque since this is your birthday party? Give his lordship a round of applause as he makes his way to the stage ...and yes, those darts in Sanjula's hands are real and sharp. Ah, look, we also have the lovely Mary from Dead Man's  Carnivale assisting our rajah with the inflating of the balloons. Here's how the human dartboard works - for every balloon that Lord Vourteque pops, Sanjula will remove an article of clothing. Ha, he's such a comedian, folks, as he removes his trousers and shirt to set up the act's finale. Poor, his lordship, he got a face full of Sanjula in the end! For his next trick, he has the lovely Jess assisting him as she steps barefoot on a Tesla coil pad. Be careful, Lord Vourteque when connecting the cord to the plug ...yes, folks, that's a dangerous piece of equipment so do not touch her if you have metal on. Wow - that's so amazing while we watch how she lights this tubing with the touch her hand (and being on the Tesla pad). Now holding her hand is the dashing Master Bator and LordVourteque who's holding Sanjula's hand as he sticks a light bulb in his mouth. Voila - the bulb lights up! See the firestick become enflame from the touch against her skin and tongue. This, folks, is fun with science!

Professor Pinkerton

Leaving the science and magic behind, we now arrive to our next stage performance featuring the infamous Professor Pinkerton and his sideshow carnival troupe of Dead Man's Carnival (http://www.deadmanscarnival.com), blogspot readers. Sadly, for our Carnivale, he couldn't bring his entire menagerie of colorful characters with him however he did bring Shandini to amaze us with his spectacle feats of magic and whatnot after his opening act. Again, this stage is not for the weak of heart especially when he's pushing this long needle into his arm. Yes, the needle is real, folks, and sharp! No, there aren't any pre-existing puncture wounds in his arms. Next we have Shandini (and the lovely Marlene assisting) to show you a few slight of hand tricks with his magic ball and cups before revealing how it's done, folks. Again, we have Shandini (this time now assisted by Lauren) with a very dangerous game featuring an array of  cups but under one is the spike! And nervous tensions are running high as he smashes each cup until ...whew - the very last cup had the spike! Isn't that incredibly amazing?!

Shandini

Before leaving this stage performance, Professor Pinkerton needs four volunteers to join him  for this unique game of chance in which he has $60 (yes, real money, folks!) to be given to the lucky person who picks the correct envelope. First, they must choose out of the five envelopes - Yours, Mine, Nothing, Sex and Something - that has the cash prize. Contestant #1 picked Yours and received a sticker ...contestant #2 picked Mine and received a sticker ...now here's contestant #3 feeling a bit lucky but sorry there was Nothing in that envelope except a sticker ...and lastly it's contestant #4's turn ...will that person be lucky? Sorry, folks, the envelope marked Sex had a sticker. Where's the cash prize? In the one marked Something. The good Professor has one last trick for you, folks, and he needs another volunteer to help assist him with his ice pick trick! Our lovely volunteer will gently spike the pick into his face ...please leave now if you have a weak constitution, blogspot readers, because this magic trick is not for the faint at heart. There she goes ...gently spiking a real ice pick into his face! Then, he pulls it out - not a single drop of blood! Oh, he has just one more trick to perform swallowing this balloon whole before your very eyes! Watch as he digests it til the very end and ...out pops the deflated balloon and colorful streamers! How's that for a finishing act, folks?! Weren't you amazed?!

Eric Stern

Rounding the corner here inside this huge Carnivale Delirium tent, we finally meet our vagabond of the operatic voice and accordion extraordinaire, Eric Stern (http://www.ericsternmusic.com) of Vagabond Opera, blogspot readers. At this stage, he will delightfully entertain you folks with song ...a little comedic flare and lively tunes performed on his squeeze box. Yes, madam, he does have a fine tenor falsetto while singing his poetic ballad Love Come To Me before entertaining you with an upbeat tune on his instrument. Yes, folks, please do dance to his music. Ah, listen to his strong vibrato in such fine operatic sound while singing about chess players in the park in this tune called Chess Fiends ...and sadly they never noticed him playing his accordion. Shed a tear or two during his vocal demonstration of an operatic aria, folks. Before we leave, does anyone have questions for our vagabond artist to answer? Yes, you sir - what's your question ...he wants to know where does Jesus make babies? Yes, is there another question ...ah, here's one for you to think about - would you fight 20 duck-size horses or 1 horse-size duck? Hm ...good question. One more - what's the best way to pay the guy who paints the trim on your house? Good news, folks, he will entertain us with a couple more songs. Be moved by his Italian rendition that will make you cry a few tears before the temptress of the dance joins him on stage to perform a song she wrote and will sing especially for you tonight. Not only will she sing and entice you with the seductive swivel of the hips she will also play the trumpet. Now, it's your turn, folks, to join this couple in a rousing drinking song as you Sing For Your Lives ...and dancing to this lively upbeat tune is strongly encouraged!

Before meeting our last Carnivale Delirium performance, just want to mention how fashionably stunning everyone looks in their Victorian/steampunk attire tonight. You lords, ladies, and gentry folks ...the creme of the creme in society strutting around in your finest while attending this non-ordinary carnivale/birthday party. While waiting for the next act to begin, take time out to visit the latest fashion and collar neckpieces for the ladies by our featured vendors of the evening. Don't have a stylish mustache to adorn your face? No problem ...we have a fine selection of mustache tattoos to choose from  at your pleasure, gents ...and ladies too. Also , you can design your very own Clockwork Vaudeville poster to take home! Plus we have electro swing and Vagabond Opera music on sale. Or try your hand at luck at one of many Carnivale contests with Lord Vourteque, blogspot readers. Be judged on your mustache ...or pick what's the best to be judged on. Would you choose - the length of a name ...the shiny baldness of one's head ...the tolerance of shaming or the best one-liner? Hm ...who should win the prize of free drinks/beer at the bar tonight?

Candy Town

Our last act is now ready to perform for you, blogspot readers. Come a bit closely ...don't worry, these musicians adorned in harlequin white face paint don't bite but will entertain you with a unique combination of vaudeville comedy and gypsy rock while moving in sync to the music with their choreographed pantomime movements. And to further your enjoyment with this band, they have cool kitties singing vocals to bandleader Sean on main vocals. Don't be shy. Dancing is strongly encouraged during Candy Town's (http://www.facebook.com/candytown) act, folks. This vaudeville-like band will be performing your favorite swing hits like Private Pennies, Dr. Jangle, Top Hat, Shirley and that old time tune we all love - Shine One Harvest Moon. Notice how the soft lighting illuminates their white make-up bringing a bit of pre-Halloween creepiness to their performance especially with the backup singers (Maggie and Kristin) prancing around the stage as slinky cats (with cat's eyes too!). In between songs, there will some vaudeville style comedy and wedding ...that's right, folks, the young Lord Vourteque is about to be betrothed not one but two lovely women tonight! This will take place after singing the song Home On the Range (a lovely arrangement instead of the standard Happy Birthday) to him. Wow, what a selection of eligible ladies to choose from, folks, as two are brought to the stage to marry his lordship and bandleader Sean performs the quickie ceremony. What a snog on the lips by the alluring redhead! Enjoy the chill down jazz scene with your partner. "Hope all your dreams come true" says bandleader Sean before  Candy Town performs Last Song as this ends our time at Carnivale Delirium, folks...

Just walk through the exit sign to return to your daily lives ...until the carnivale returns next year...

Hope you had fun!


Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide