03 Jul 14

SHE'S BACK!

Yep, blogspot readers, SouthSide has returned home from her mini "vacation" in Milwaukee rockin Summerfest 2014. However as soon as she unpacked, it was back on the music beat checking out the touring bands making pit stops in Chicago before heading to Summerfest for the July 4th holiday. Tonight, she's at Lakeview's Schuba's Tavern for some highly intense energetic rock by The Black Cadillacs before heading to Smartbar (the nightclub underneath Metro) the monthly edition of [synthetic].  

Describing themselves as "...all the way live...", this quintet of musicians from Knoxville, TN told SouthSide in a recent interview to expect "...a loud and spirited rock and roll performance..." since they wholeheartedly feel "...that's why people come back to see [us]..." Well, blogspot readers, the "loud" and " spirited" part about this band definitely sums them up correctly after their Chicago performance even though for this reviewer, it was more than loud and spirited. From beginning to end, she had never seen SO much foot-stompin' and jumpin' around the Schuba's stage during her many years covering the local scene. That poor stage took a pretty good beating tonight. Throughout her time with The Black Cadillacs, there was hot, sweaty excitement in the air, blogspot readers, and it wasn't solely contained to the stage ...but within the crowded floor as well. When The Black Cadillacs opened their headlining performance, it didn't begin with a whimper. The entire venue felt this heart-pounding intense bang of energetic rock exploding forth that immediately had many around SouthSide moving to the rhythmic rock beat. The stage was literally bursting to life with music note after note ...just remember this is merely the opening song because it stayed that way until the very end when shouts for "one more song" could be heard. Yes, blogspot readers, there certainly a whole lot of shakin', rockin' and rollin' going on with this band. Enough so, that SouthSide could feel the earth move beneath her feet. These Cadillacs know how to rock and do it quite seriously while still having fun.

"...As far as the set goes, we try to keep it fresh [for ourselves and the audience hahah] every night..." the guys mentioned to this reviewer during the interview, "...whether that means catering to a specific room or audience, we like to move stuff around..." Now during their performance, she doesn't know if they moved the set around however The Black Cadillacs did a fine job of keeping everyone moving and shaking to the music even when taking the intense energy down several notches to allow Will (front man on vocals/harmonica/tambourine) to spotlight his vocals. Not to worry, blogspot readers, the energy is still there yet with enough punch within the chorus to get your feet moving to the twitterpating guitar riffs or the fast thunderous percussion rhythms. And the foot-stomping doesn't stop while in a downtempo groove. You're not encouraged to stand and watch them perform, blogspot reader. Nay, you're suppose to enjoy yourself too whether you're listening to songs like "Find My Own Way" or "Classic Fool" or "Run Run" (off their current release Run) in which the guys recommend listening because they will give you "....a good idea of our influences..." During their set, SouthSide heard electric bluegrass as well as some country rock laced within The Black Cadillacs Americans music. It's that kind of combination, blogspot readers which truly drove this crowd wild with passionate music fervor ...thus leaving you with a sense of amazement of how rapidly their performance went because you're having a good time. That's how SouthSide felt. Not a single minute was wasted of depriving fans away from what they came for - a rockin' good time. It was so much fun and intense that bassist Philip broke a string but continued playing with the 3 other strings. Did SouthSide mention it was sweaty too? If this Chicago show was any indication of how it was going to be at Summerfest, then blogspot readers, everyone in Milwaukee was in for a real rockin' treat with this band.

When chatting with at the guys, SouthSide was curious about Knoxville and its local scene there to which they replied. "...Knoxville is kinda perfect for a band finding itself..." adding "...it had a surprisingly supportive arts community ...it [Knoxville] is not a huge city so you have an opportunity to test your material without a lot of risk..." Then mentioning also how Knoxville "...allows you to grow with a scene ...[and] is traditionally more of an Americana town but it seems like all genres are well received..." So besides, Summerfest, blogspot readers, The Black Cadillacs have a busy rest of 2014 planned for themselves like recording a new album and touring which they're excited for what the future may hold for them as a band. "...we will be on the road this fall and you can definitely look forward to some new music from us soon..." Hopefully, that would include a stop in Chicago before old man winter returns. Still like every touring band, the Cadillacs main goal, blogspot readers, is "..that people dug the music that we played and that they will come back ...see us again the next time. That's all we can ask for really..." And lastly, The Black Cadillacs would like to express their thanks for coming to their show at Schuba's as well as reading this article. "...check out our music at http://www.TheBlackCadillacs.com.

Thanks to The Black Cadillacs for taking time out for this interview. SouthSide highly recommends checking out this band while currently on its summer tour.


Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide

NYE & January 2014

Happy New Year!

Yes, blogspot readers, it's another 365 days of fun and excitement happening around town! So don't let winter's icy chill keep you home and away from these hot shows during the month of January. 

Included in this calendar are a few more NYE suggestions in case you need last minute suggestions $10 and under.

Please note all shows listed are 21+.

Dec 31:

Dank Haus - polka your way into the new year with The Polkaholics!

$10

Fitz's Spare Keys (Elmhurst, IL) - Thrash Martini will be rockin' the stage at this benefit party.

Exit (2nd Floor) - there's a FREE champagne toast at midnight while dancing to featured DJs Eddie Rio, Julio Sierra, El Diablito and more.

NO COVER 

Empty Bottle - rock your way into 2014 with Oozing Wound, Magic Milk and Jimmy Whispers with DJ Mike Lust

$10 adv / $20 dos

Quencher's Saloon - ring in the new year with Furious Frank, The Amen Brothers, Pirates! and Pinto and the Bean

$10

NEO - attend this nightclub's New Year's Eve Speakeasy party featuring DJs Moyers and Razor X ...dressing in a costume is encouraged
$10

Jan 2:
Foundation Room (House of Blues, Chicago) - Empire State Express will be performing a special yet intimate show inside this luxurious VIP lounge
6p

Jan 3:

Scubas Tavern - Verona Red along with Big Paraid and Tanks & Guns will be performing on stage here.

$10

Double Door - The Alder Kings along with The Buckshot Hounds, Stolen Silver and The Race To Space will be performing live here
$8

Bottom Lounge - attend this Winter Formal featuring She's Alive, Call It Treason, A Photo Finish and Jordan Benker
ALL AGES / $10

Jan 4:
Penny Road Pub - rock your Saturday night with 6 Degrees of Separation

Coq d'Or (The Drake Hotel) - local Jazz crooner Jesse Charbonier performs your favorite classics and rarities all night long at this legendary bar.
FREE / 9p

Reggie's Rock Club - Dread Zeppelin, Mr. Blutto and Blue Dream will be rockin' the stage here
7p / $15

Jan 6:

Schubas Tavern - check out MER's Music Showcase featuring A Friend Called Fire, Anthony Bagnara of Makeshift Prodigy, Gordon Robertson of The Damn Choir and Noah Gabriel performing acoustically on stage

$8 / 7p

Empty Bottle - it's a FREE Monday show featuring Chandeliers, Videotape, Spaces of Disappearance and Distant Cities

FREE

Jan 8:

Mayne Stage - Elle Casazza will be performing here

Door No.3 (Double Door) - Door No.3 presents FABITAT: Live featuring a live set by The Iceberg with DJ Adam EL (of 16 Candles/Berlin) and also a drag performances by Lucy Stoole, Anita Bershen and Curlene Ribbon.

FABITAT is a night for the west side's LGBTQ community and its supporters

FREE

Jan 9:

Underground Wonder Bar - Room 11 begins their residency again at this venue

Metro - Carter Tutti plays Chris & Casey with John Elliot's Hieroglyphic Being and DJ Scary Lady Sarah

$21 / 18+ / 8p

Jan 10:

Debonair Social Club - 8090 along with Middle City Sound, Sansara, Brad Brubaker & The Crowd Goes Wild will be rockin' this venue

ALL AGES

Wynfields Sports Bar (Satellite Beach, FL) - rock with Staring Blind, Southside Junction and Anyone's Guess

Metro - Comasoft with The Dead On, Hard Kiss and The Queue will be performing live on stage

$10 / 18+

Double Door - CAU Dog Records Showcase presents Matthew Morgan and The Lost Brigade with special guests Flabby Trio headlining the lineup featuring Pitchy and the 44s and Kathy Greehholdt. Also - it's BYO crotch stuffing zucchini!

$7

LiveWire Lounge - attend Famous Fido Animal Shelter (located in the Andersonville neighborhood) benefit show and help support a good cause
For more information, visit http://www.famousfidorescue.com

Coq d'Or (The Drake Hotel) - Jesse Charbonier will be performing your favorite Jazz classics as well as seldom heard rarities inside this legendary bar.
FREE / 9p

Junior's (in Pilsen) - NSP Live presents polka and more inside Pilsen neighborhood featuring The Polkaholics, Krol Kleks and The Lucks!
$7

Cobra Lounge - attend the Man On Fire ...a benefit for Diane Larsen.
All donations will be going to help pay medical bills and time missed from work due to a recent accident.
There will be live music performances by Guns and Ammunition, Tutu & the Pirates and The Dyes with an extra special performance by Sanjula Vamana
$10 suggested donation

Lincoln Hall - check out this special screening of the new Chris Hefner feature film, The Prisoner which will feature a live overture performance by Daniel Knox (who composed the movie's original score).
Two showings - 7p and 10p
$15

Jan 11:

Phyllis Musical Inn - JD3 will be performing live on stage.

FREE / 9p

Martyrs' - rock to Sousaphenia 3 featuring Bassel & the Supernaturals with Environmental Encroachment, The Viper & His Famous Orchestra and Four Star Brass Band

$10 / 9p

Cobra Lounge - it's Hate Department, Project .44, JILT, Lockjaw and WORM rockin' the stage

Exit (2nd Floor) - it's VENUS featuring Eddie Riot and Akira Smith spinning at this party

NO COVER

Metro - Honey & the 45s along with Gramps The Vamp, Felix & Lyons, Sara Masterson and Bluefish Fellows will be rockin' the stage here

18+

Double Door - Why So White, Deep Fayed, Patrick Hartman and The Last Glances, Mos Scocious with DJ Ricky Drako will be rockin' the stage

$10

Door No.3 (Double Door) - Akasha presents: Simmer Down Sound with The Graduate, Rad Brian, Marcus I featuring a live performance by Akasha  and family

FREE

Prop Theater (3502 N. Elston) - learn how to speak Rhinoceros during the 25th Annual Rhino Fest in which Sid Yiddish & His Candy Store Henchmen will be making their debut on this date.
Tickets are $12 online or $15 at the door OR pay-what-you-can, NO ONE will be turned away.
7p

JJ Kelly's (Lansing, IL) - attend the South Side Metal Shred Event featuring David Shankle (ex-Manowar) and Gabriel Anthony (ex-Tyrants Reign) with Testimony and ScreamKing
$7

Jan 15:

Fizz Bar & Grill - electro swing at this edition of Rouge! Chicago's (premiere) Electro Swing Night!

Tonic Room -The Great Divide will be rockin' the stage as part of Chicago Bluegrass & Blues Fest with Bigg Otis and Nick & The Ovorols
$10

Jan 17:

Double Door - The Coop and Jon Wayne & The Pain will be rockin' the stage

$10 / 8p

Liar's Club - rock at Slash Fest with Voice of Addiction, Death and Memphis, The C-Sides and Dollar Drafts

Jan 18:

Double Door - it's Soul Summit's 4th Anniversary Party with DJs Sloppy White, Dave Mata and Duke Grip

FREE ($10 VIP tix avail)

Cobra Lounge - rock with Modern Day Rippers, The Brothers Gross ("Ready To Roll" CD release), Ridgelands ("Daggers Down" CD release), The Dewtons and The Morons
$5

Jan 22:

Door No.3 (Double Door) - Door No.3 presents FABITAT: Live featuring a live set by The Iceberg with DJ Adam EL (of 16 Candles/Berlin) and also a drag performances by Lucy Stoole, Anita Bershen and Curlene Ribbon.

FABITAT is a night for the west side's LGBTQ community and its supporters

FREE

Jan 23:
Empty Bottle - North by North will be celebrating the release of their debut double LP - Something Wicked along with Aktar Aktar and The Ivorys
$8

Jan 24:

Double Door - attend Double Door's Winter Formal featuring Brother George, Jonny Drake and Santah on stage.

$10 adv / $15 dos  / 8p

Concord Music Hall - dance the night away to the electronic groove of BOOMBOX with special guests to be announced

Get tickets at http://www.clubtix.com

18+

Goose Island (Wrigleyville) - check out Josh Hill rockin' the stage here

Beat Kitchen - join Polarizer rockin' the stage along with Moon, A Friend Called Fire and Injecting Strangers
$8

Mayne Stage - rock to a night of tributes featuring Kid A (Radiohead), Gnuman (Gary Numan), Unknown Pleasures (Joy Division) and Guns and Ammunition (Clash)
18+ / $12

Jan 25:

The Burlington Bar - check out Magicks at Savage Sister's and Lykanthea's record release show with Architecture

9p

Concord Music Hall - Rusted Root and Donna The Buffalo will be rockin' this Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Fest
$30 adv / $35 dos / 17+

Jan 31:

Uncommon Ground (Clark St) - attend this unique acoustic show featuring A to Z ...Matthew Alfano of Mason's Case and Nate Z of Jack Rabbit

ALL AGES

Beat Kitchen - it's an evening of Punk, Metal and Experimental music at Ideamen's "Schemata" CD release show featuring Voice of Addiction, Downtown Brown, Maggot Twat, Something Involving A Monkey (from Cleveland, OH) and Stuck Underwater (also having a CD release)
17+ / $10

Lincoln Hall - GoldFord will be opening at Caleb Hawley's record release with Tall Walker and Mighty Fox
$12 dos / $10 adv


Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide

09 Dec 13

 "...this is our first U.S. tour ...we're going to remember this rest of our lives..."

Anna von Hausswolff

Hey, blogspot readers, winter's frosty chill has arrived a little head of schedule yet that doesn't stop SouthSide from rockin' the scene on a Monday night. Tonight, she's hanging out at Schubas Tavern to witness the instrumentally ambient /experimental rock sounds of Anna von Hasswolff (from Sweden)  and her band who made a special stop here during her first U.S. tour. Opening for her was another amazing talented woman - Noveller (from New York) who stunned this crowd in silence from beginning to end during her set. 

Under the cover dark toned lighting and random images projected behind her on a screen, this musician rocked the venue with a unique symphonic sound using only her electric guitar but not without some help from her elaborate pedal board. Combining the two created the most wondrous vibe of flowing electronic rhythms and ambient melodies bursting continuously bursting to life. And as SouthSide mentioned earlier, she indeed had this audience (including this reviewer) in complete awe ...and deafening silence - believe it or not, blogspot readers. It was like watching an artist at work especially gently strumming her guitar like cello or viola which produced an eerie vibe floating across the stage while running in sync with the images shown on screen. These images (some of them independent movie shorts) helped enhanced everyone's listening pleasure as well as convey the story being told by Noveller's orchestral music of the night. The music itself was too beautiful for lyrics yet you could basically feel stories being told during each song. For example, whenever the scenes had spinning tops or showing a side view of an x-ray on screen, the music was moving along with those images until fading out like a cold whispering wind blowing against the surf. At one point of her performance, you could literally feel the thunderous vibrations surrounding the venue ...encompassing you with such intense floetry and melodic beats, blogspot readers. Truly magical to behold yet very intense to hear whether she's fingering the strings and/or pushing the pedals with her hands. You definitely must see this artist live in order to fully experience her night music. For more information, visit Noveller at http://www.sarahlipstate.com.

Though needing to turn down the electrics a bit during certain songs, SouthSide highly recommends attending a performance by Sweden's Anna von Hausswolff while she's touring the U.S., blogspot readers.  Here's another artist creating instrumentally ambient/experimental (with some songs containing lyrics) for a frosty night in Chicago that kept the audience stunned into awe and silence throughout her set. Amidst the red glow of the stage lighting, Anna and her band lured everyone to feel the chill of the Scandinavian winter with the image of a full moon projected in the background while the crescendo rise and her soft aria-like vocals enchanted the entire room. What a grand entrance, blogspot readers, to feel that thunderous burst of sound filling the ears (even while wearing earplugs) triumphantly announcing that the Swedes have arrived thus easily conquering Chicago with one haunting sweep of Anna's melodic sound. SouthSide might find it hard to fully describe Anna's music since she spent considerable time mellowing within its orchestral wave that floated from the stage. There was so much to take in throughout this performance ...from the intense feeling of the electric vibrations to the roaring thunder of Valhalla off the drums and then soothing sounds of the band's melodic side gradually merging (or more like intertwining) in between all of the harshness. Again it was simply musically beautiful to behold ...enough to stop writing notes and enjoy more night music, blogspot readers. Like Noveller's opening set, art and music ran in sync to allow the stories within each song unfold besides setting the tone and atmosphere for this audience who either stood or sat in complete awe of this musician's performance. Not once making a verbal sound until clapping after each song ...this is the second time, SouthSide had experienced this from a Chicago audience during a concert. Yet, she must warn you - she's not kidding about the thunderous sound that bursts to life during Anna's set. It was fantastic to feel the vibrations around her but also a little hard on her ears. So earplugs are a must if extremely loud noise hurts your ears yet it's designed for you to feel (as well as hear) the impact of each grandiose note before wowing you how soulful her dynamic voice could be. There was passion ...intense emotions especially when she sang in her native tongue. This reviewer didn't mind there were lyrics to Anna's songs. It was mostly the music that had her riveting with excitement each time she felt Thor's thunder or melodic rhythms. Yet, it wasn't mostly thunder all of time, blogspot readers. Anna did entertain us with a lighthearted (almost child-like) twinkling music which for SouthSide was totally unexpected but playfully welcome to balance out the Nordic booms that previously surrounded the venue. The upbeat rhythms created a symphonic lullaby while her heartfelt voice matched the playful tune in between the intense sound. Visit Anna von Hausswolff at http://www.annavonhauswolff.com for more information of where and/or when her tour with Noveller comes to a venue near you, blogspot readers. It's truly an awe-inspiring music experience.

Until next time, support your local scene,

SouthSide

26 Nov 13

Hey, blogspot readers, the Thanksgiving countdown begins! SouthSide has a busy schedule of shows/events before and after the holiday that's rockin' around town from Double Door's Door No.3 to The Mutiny and more in between. Tonight, she's at Schubas Tavern in the Lakeview area to jam with her friends of the local band - Swearwords, opening for the touring Canadian band Hollerado. This reviewer highly recommends checking out this band whenever they're performing next at a venue near you.

What SouthSide enjoyed about this band was how each member rocked the stage with such enthusiasm and energetic vigor which instantly jumpstarted the audience into toe-tappin' dance moves. Swearwords  had the venue feeling the melodic rhythms and 3 part harmonies (sometimes) within their lively pop alternative rock, blogspot readers. This band was serious at the business of making sure everyone was having a fun time. Performing songs like West of Western and Not To Be Afraid, Swearwords' music sometimes had an electric edge to its rock sound to match a certain tone or mood  of the song and/or Neil's strong falsetto voice. Check out new one Native Fortune in which the band had a gritty blast of retro guitar rock sound that totally dominated this particular song. Yes, it did definitely told a sad take of a tortured heart, blogspot readers, under its intense music especially when gradually leading towards the outro end. But there was also a "lighter" side to this band with No Move No Shake that you can groove to the rhythmic beat.

Midway thru, this performance suddenly became too loud ...even for SouthSide's ears. It wasn't music being performed on stage but either fuzzy noise or overpowering noisiness, blogspot readers. In her opinion, she felt certain songs had the sound turned up at the highest volume than what it originally called for. For example, while performing Common Enemies, she felt overwhelmed by the band's noise that it didn't register the melodies being jumbled together as chaotic confusion ...even the vocals sounded like they were shouting the lyrics instead of singing them. Yet, this was the first instance of the band having this technical problem, blogspot readers. During another song, she heard some muffled off the monitors especially when the electric guitar overshadowed the keyboard rhythms or the keyboards had a moment of bad reverb off the monitors. The blame isn't being placed on Swearwords but on the sound guy. Songs like Distant Planets and Young Bats needed to have less electric or keyboard to merely allow the melodic side to shine and not overwhelm its listener. Songs like Sweet Graffiti and Native Fortune needed that gritty edge to its rock sound so it can match Neil's vocals.

Though sounding a little too noisy for her ears, she still enjoyed herself at Swearwords' opening show at Schubas Tavern. Be prepared, blogpsot readers, to dance a little (or move to the beat) under the band's energetic liveliness and a have fun time.  For more information about the band, visit http://www.swearwordsmusic.com.


Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide

December 2013

Happy Holidays, blogspot readers!

There's plenty of time left to rock out your 2013 by checking out the following list of shows happening around town and elsewhere this month.

Please note all events/shows listed are 21+ unless otherwise specified...


Dec 1:
Reggie's Rock Club - check out sludge metal group Pale Horseman sharing the stage with southern sludgebilly The Midnight Ghost Train (KS) and reptilian acid rock King Hyss
$7

Dec 3:
Livewire Lounge - attention humanoids and robotics, check out Wire-Tripped that will feature not only the best in Electro/EBM/Industrial and Synthpop by The Audio Assault, Circuitry, and Peter Propaganda but also a screening of Blade Runner.
NO COVER

Dec 4:
NiteCap - Asgard Radio, Chicago Metal Alliance and Spook Show Entertainment presents The Devil's Playground featuring host David Bates (of Sinister Fate) as he spins your favorites in metal, rock, industrial, punk and goth with burlesque performances by Jezzibel Bates, Ammunition, Lenux Antibiotix, Lady India Deminuit ...also live music performances by D-Railed, Saence, Pulse Urn and Virtucide of Voodoo Queen Management
FREE / 10p

aliveOne - starting on this Wednesday (and every Wed until Dec 18) Cole DeGenova & the Peoples Republic will begin its residency. The 2nd set will be an open jam session with musicians/singers
FREE

Dec 5:
Double Door - RAWards (in music / fashion / art / comedy / film / multimedia)
$15 adv / $20 dos / 7:30p show

SoFo Tap (4923 N. Clark) - it's Back2Skool time with DJ VoxBox, Tommy Hall and Fred Says happening every 1st Thursday of every month
NO COVER

Abbey Pub - rock with Joe Marcinek Band featuring special guests Jennifer Hartswick and Allie Kral with Spare Parts and Business As Usual
$10 adv / $12 dos

Dec 6:
Ye Olde Town Inn - check out Of The Fallen, 3 Hour Catalyst, Spinning Red and Sinister Fate rockin' the stage here.
$8 / 10p

The Riverside Complex (2313 S. Throop) - It's Ballistic 3 featuring 30k watts of bass and custom video mapping stage to enhance your EDM experience as well as redefining (R)adical (A)udio (V)isual (E)xperience
$13 adv / $20 dos

Joe's Sports Bar - Casey Donachew Band performs material off their new album "Stand Off" at this venue

Double Door - check out Miles Nielsen with Ryan Powers and the Secret Weapons, Daniel and The Lion and Geoff Dolce
$8 adv / $12 dos / 8:30p

Elbo Room - rock with Front Runners, Workout Music and What It Do (On Your Marx)
$10

The Castle Theatre (Bloomington, IL) - check out Electric Elements with Gummy and Team Bayside High featuring Drop Dead and guests Kosmosis Jones and Notorious Nino
18+ dance floor / Exclusive 21+ VIP balcony / $20 (+$1 underage fee charged at the door)

Brauer House (Lombard, IL) - check out Radio Creeps along with WORM (the World Organization of the Righteous Movement) and Flood Damage rockin' the stage

Dec 7 & 8:
Division Street (Between Ashland and Leavitt) - shop local during the Do-Division Holiday Fest
11a / NO COVER

Pulaski Park Fieldhouse (1419 W. Blackhawk) - check out the Renegade Craft Fair Winter Market
NO COVER / 11a

Dec 7:
Saint Gertrude's Church (1401 W. Granville) - shop at this Christmas Bazaar and check out the lovely jewelry selection by Tracy Pilarczyk Shen (or shop online at http://www.stonecove.etsy.com)
FREE / 10a - 4a

LiveWire Lounge - prepare for Sacred Monster returning to Chicago for this one-night only performance featuring Relentless and Psycho Sister

Concord Music Hall - attend Midnight Conspiracy's "Rays of Ra" lazer show featuring Team Bayside High
18+ / $10

Elbo Room - attend Chords For A Cure's yearly concert event to benefit cancer research and help those in need of treatment. **ALL proceeds from this event will benefit the Leukemia Research Foundation** This event will feature acoustic sets by A Friend Called Fire, Crimson and Coal, Letters to Lillian and Rachel Katzman
$10 / 8p

Cubby Bear - it's Calm Like A Bomb's 10th Anniversary show featuring Lateralus Tool and Alice In Chains tribute bands
$7 / 9p

Dec 8:
Double Door - Da Bears Blog and Art of Men present an event to benefit the Otis Wilson Charitable Association featuring a Mike Ditka Look-A-Like Contest
$10 / 7p

Schuba's Tavern - it's the 2nd Annual Woman Power Holiday Show featuring Liza Day, Diana and The Dishes and Lady Laura performing at this benefit for Deborah's Place
$15 / 8p

Dec 9:
Chicago Cultural Center - Chicago Artists Healthcare Town Hall event where artists/bands can learn more about the Affordable Care Act (aka "Obamacare") and how to sign up, find affordable health insurance plans, connect with Chicago-area health resources and enroll in IL Medicaid (if you qualify). Also get a FREE flu shot.
FREE

Schuba's Tavern - Sweden's Anna Van Hausswolff makes a special stop at this Lakeview venue during her US tour performing material off her latest album Ceremony

Double Door - check out this week's Double Holiday Feature: A Christmas Story and National Lampoon's Christmas Vacation with NO commercials!
FREE / 7p

Dec 10:
Double Door - 30 Seconds Over Chicago presents the Chicago Venue Advertising Competition ~ Finals
$10 / 7p

Dec 11:
Door No.3 (located at Double Door) - FABITAT featuring DJ Adam El (of 16 Candles / Berlin) spinning
FREE / 9p

Dec 12:
Liar's Club - it's Current Seas EP Release tour

Abbey Pub - NSP Live presents LEP Bogus Boys, Notrydo Sincere with Kaotic drumline, Beadz and more at this show hosted by Chi-Bizz and Suanye with DJ Kool Ant and DJ Shaun T spinning in between sets
$15 dos / $20 VIP / 9:30p

Dec 13:
Wynfield's (Satellite Beach, FL) - rock out Vertebreaker, Dropshots and Wallow Sound
$5 / 9p

Schuba's Tavern - attend this annual winder coat drive event, Warm, Safe Sound, in which fans are asked to donate coats (and/or sweaters) in exchanged for a reduced cover. There will be live music performances by The Locals, The Bright White, Ace Reporter, Hard Kiss and Young Distractions.
If interested in volunteering, email nowishistory@gmail.com

Ye Olde Town Inn - celebrate Armored Assault's Ten Year Anniversary Bender! featuring guests Cause Of My Affliction, Beyond Death, Testimony and Armored Assault
$8 / 9p

Cubby Bear - Hail to chivalry and honor! Take up arms, Red Team (and you too, Gold and Brown) because Cealed Kasket is returning to the stage in support of Moistboyz featuring Dean Ween
$16 adv / $18 dos

Mayne Stage - check out Jess Godwin rockin' the stage with a full band.
ALL AGES / 7:30p

Metro - rock out with Trainwreck Symphony, Tomorrow Has Arrived, The Run Around, Chicago Loud 9 and Standing On The Shoulders of Giants
18+ / $7 adv / $10 dos

Joe's Bar - Elizabeth Lyons with Brushville will be performing on stage here
$8 / 8p

Lincoln Hall - check out CIMMfest's FILMAGE:  the Story of the Decendants & All with special guest Q & A
18+ / $10 / 8p (sold out) / 10:30p

Dec 14 & 15:
Plumbers Hall - it's the Randolph Street Market's Beaux Arts
$8 - 10 / $3 - 5 (for students)
Please note the admission includes a $5 to $10 voucher good towards purchases
10a

Dec 14:
Empty Bottle - shop at Homemade Market for that special holiday gift
NO COVER / noon / 21+ event

Door No. 3 (located at Double Door) - Akasha presents Simmer Down Sound featuring The Graduate, Rad Brian, Marcus I with live music performances by Akasha (featuring Illuminati Congo) and visuals by Odd Obsession Movies ...drink specials and dancing's required
FREE / 9p

Martyrs' - The Steak House Mints will be performing their final show of the year with Leslie Hunt and Temple Schultz
$8

BBC (Milwaukee, WI) - it's the Heavy Holiday Hoedown featuring a cookie decorating contest and raffle and more with live performances by Modern Echo, Circus Fires and Lost In A Name
$7 adv / $10 dos

Tonic Room - SoundPrism presents Digeometric, Business As Usual, That Freak Quincy and Kabrakoi performing on stage here
$8

Subterranean - it's the 3rd Annual Noise For Toys in which  all proceeds (cover fee and/or unwrapped toys collected) will be donated to Toys For Tots organization (providing families in need with toys during the holiday season) featuring live music by Blane Fonda, The Noise FM, Board of Governors and Chasing Mars
$10 or $5 with donation of unwrapped toy / 17+ / 8p

Dec 15:
Double Door - The Retar Crew with Scratch Pilots (featuring Griff from the Verve Pipe), The Dirty Dirty Dollars and DJ Supernova
FREE

Exit (upstairs) - attend Gigi's (Giselle) Breast Cancer Benefit featuring DJ sets by Tomogatchi, Gil GAvin, Cecil Medin, Scarylady Sarah, Peter Propaganda and more with performances by Gigi Arroyo, Rya Red and Amourena Tsokatos
$1 to enter the raffles / 7p

Serbian-American Museum - attend the Jesse Charbonier Album Release party featuring delicacies by Chef Dejan and performance by Chicago's local Jazz singer, Jesse Charbonier along with Adrian Ruiz (on piano), Michael Lough (on bass) and other special guests. Attendees are asked to dress in vintage wear from 1920's to 50's.
$25 adv / $35 dos / 5p

Dec 16:
Double Door - it's another Double Holiday Feature: Elf and The Nightmare Before Christmas
FREE / 7p

Dec 17:
Double Door - it's the Double Door Holiday Rockathon featuring Magatha Trysty , 10,000 Light Years and The Elements of Style
$7

Reggie's Rock Club - The Wooten Brothers, Victor, Joseph, Roy "Futureman"and Regi will be rockin' this Southside venue.
17+ / $30 adv / $40 dos / 7p








Dec 18:
Door No.3 (located at Double Door) - it's the Thantos 20th Anniversary show with guest guitarist William Faith, Binary Partners, tim Larson and special guest DJs Scary Lady Sarah and Philly Peroxide
$7 / 8p

Fizz Bar & Grill - it's Rouge! Electro Swing time again. Don your finest Victorian / Steampunk / vintage wear and swing the night away with DJ / host Joseph Vourtequue
FREE

Dec 19:
SPACE (Evanston, IL) - actor Harry Shearer and his wife Judith Owen bring their annual Holiday Sing-Along tour with special guests to this venue
$22 - $36 / 7p

Dec 20:
Elbo Room - attend the Philippines Benefit Concert featuring Michael Laechel performing on stage. **50% of all proceeds will be donated to the victims of the Phillippine typhoon**

Double Door - it's the Deal's Gone Bad's 2nd Annual Holiday Homecoming with live performances by Deal's Gone Bad, Hard Lessons, Green Room Rockers and 6'10'
$10 adv / $12 dos / 8p

Lincoln Hall - Derek Nelson's new project Martin Van Ruin will be celebrating the release of their debut album Every Man a King with Pet Lions, NE-HI, and Derek himself opening the show
$12 / 18+

Dec 21:
Subterranean - check out the Steve Stone record release party featuring Molehill rockin' the stage

Ye Olde Town Inn - Celebrate Matt Wolf's birthday with Something Beautiful, Skull Fogger and 5 Minus X sharing the stage along with other birthday surprises.

Rockwood Music Hall (NYC, NY) - Jess Godwin will be performing solo on stage 1
3p

Lincoln Hall - it's the Black & White Dance Party gala featuring Autograf, Them Flavors and Covalence.
Formal wear/classy/fashion forward attire required
18+ (21+ to drink) / $7 adv / $10 dos

Red Line Tap - rock with 6 Degrees of Separation

Another Hole In The Wall (Steger, IL) - 89.1 Pure Rock presents Dark Days of Christmas featuring the following bands scheduled to rock your faces off - The Letter Black, Righteous Vendetta, Echoes of Ruin, Left At The Altar, Forgetting Last Monday, Monolith, Escape The Paradigm, The Trademarked and Unknown Zodiac.
ALL AGES (21+ - need ID to drink)  / $11 adv / $13 dos / 4:30p

The Mutiny - Queer Fest America presents A Very Queer Fest-Of-Us, a benefit event for Gay Liberation Network
NO COVER

Dec 22:
House of Blues (Chicago) - Villains unite! V Is For Villains is taking over House of Blues (again) with El Famous, Seconds to Serenity and Savior Self. Grab your ticket now from any member of V Is Villains and receive a special bonus (pre-holiday) gift!
ALL AGES / $10 adv / $13 - $15 dos / 5p

Dec 23:
Double Door - check out this Double Holiday Feature: Bad Santa and Die Hard
FREE / 7p

Dec 28 & 29:
Ravinia Festival - it's the 2013 Walgreens National Concerto Competition for Young Soloists hosted by Midwest Young Artists.
For details and entry information (including application), visit http://www.secure.mya.org/forms/competition/php

Dec 30:
Concord Music Hall - Gramatik celebrates the new year with Lowtemp
18+ / 9p


Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide

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

29 Apr 13 - Motive

Hey, blogspot readers, it’s a busy week of fun adventures On The Town for SouthSide! She’s rockin’ around the local scene near and far covering shows and events at Millennium Park to Cobra Lounge and more. Her first stop happened recently at Schuba’s Tavern where she got the chance to check out the Brooklyn, NY band, Motive and Fall Classic.

 

SouthSide highly recommends rockin’ to the eclectic alternative rock sound by this local band at their next show which had a simplistic style amidst heartfelt voice on lyrics. Lyrically, she found them to have a similar songwriting style to Peter Gabriel in brought out the powerful emotions in the words thus complementing Fall’s one of a kind rock music. Though hearing some Lenny Kravitz music influence, don’t spend time classifying the band’s core sound since it combines more than one genre flipping it into something new for the ears. This reviewer suggests listening to Fear – you may get the feeling the notes/rhythms are somewhat out of place yet in reality, they’re not. For more information about Fall Classic, visit http://www.fallclassic.bandcamp.com.

 

Incorporating the taste of their hometown, Seattle, WA with the rock sound of Brooklyn, NY, Motive performed a highly energized headlining set of “...good classic [indie] electric rock show...” Though Chicago is still a new territory for this band, they have performed at other venues such as Wise Fools Pub and Pancho’s Bar (now known as Township) so this was a “...little miniature run before going home to Seattle...” for their west coast tour this summer. Sadly, this would be the band’s only Chicago appearance but you might see them rockin’ a local fest or two on their way back to New York. After opening with the rhythmic floetry of Summer Solstice, Motive didn’t waste any time popping the stage to life within a lively tempo that was little reminiscent of 70s ballad rock-n-roll, blogspot readers. This reviewer enjoyed the band’s energy that was not only projected in the music but also in the lyrics from other songs like Somber Days and Dance For Your Maker (lots of vibrant energy in this particular song that had SouthSide dancing). Yet amidst the fun and momentum, there was a moment of a slight political overtone heard in Mammals or a poetic imagery in the words in What’s So Bad?. While conducting a recent interview with Nick (front man and guitarist), SouthSide asked him which Motive song did he recommend listening to which he replied It’s Illicit and suggested checking out the Youtube video for it. He did hint that the remix version of It's Illicit (a bonus track on the EP) will also have its own video too. For more information about Motive, visit http://www.motiveband.com.

 

 

Until next time, support your local scene,

SouthSide

March 2013 update

Hey, blogspot readers, March has barely begun and there are MORE hot shows and events rockin' around town ...near and far.

 

All of the following shows listed are 21+ unless duly noted.

 

Tonight (March 8):

Ultra Lounge - Check out No Two Waynes, Vortis, The Mons, Wide Angles and Shut Up (from Dayton, OH)

$5 adv / $8 dos

 

Underground Lounge - Jeff Daschbach has a last minute scheduled performance happening at 10:30p!

 

March 9:

The End Zone Bar & Grill (Aurora, IL) - Devils In Angels, Broken, Born Rotten and Red Poet will be rockin' the stage here.

$5 entry (with printed flyer)

 

Metro - Attend the monthly Nocturna meeting! Now in its 24th year, this is your chance to be seen while dancing with the other fashionable guests as DJ Scary Lady Sarah spins one of your favorite and/or highly requested mix of current and classic goth to industrial, post-punk and more. It's a lot of fun dancing until 5a (dawn)

18+ / 21+ to drink / $10

 

Schuba's Tavern - K.Serra, My Gold Mask and Shuteye will be performing here.

 

March 10:

Beauty Bar (Chicago) - it's Nickel & Dimed with 50cent Beers and FREE Pie-Eyed Pizza (while supplies last) featuring DJs Red Rom Rio, Kite, White Owl and Stella. Hosted by Johnny Zombo

FREE

 

March 14:

Bada Brew (Crest Hill, IL) - Denial Machine and Brave the Pain will be rockin' the fans here.

 

March 15:

Brauerhouse (Lombard, IL) - It's a hot rockin' punk show featuring The Fisticuffs kicking off their tour along with The Horrids, Voice of Addiction and Shotgun Gambling

$5 adv / $7 dos

 

Red Line Tap - DEFCON, SUTURESELF, and Genus will be rockin' a Flabby Hoffman style St Patrick's show!

$5

 

Olympic Theater (Cicero, IL) - it's the Electric Shamrock Festival featuring the best in electro, dubstep, House, trap, trippy rock, hardstyle and more during this St Paddy's Day Dance party. 3 stages / 3 bars / 25 acts with easy access to CTA

$15 discount tickets available (before 8:30p) / $40 ALL ACCESS VIP tickets / $20 at door

17+ / 21+ to drink 

 

Liar's Club - It's a record release party featuring The Demerits, The Ex-bombers and The Artist Formerly Known As Vince Band

 

Underground Wonder Bar - it's Forbidden Knowledge with special guest Boris Kofman on percussion rockin' a double set.

$15

 

March 16:

The Grid Chicago - it's the 1st Annual St Paddy's Party featuring leprechauns jumping rope ...bag pipers and Irish drummers! Plus there will be stilt-walking leprechauns too and much more green fun happening here! Try the green beer and eggs from 8a til noon

$30 per person (for tickets http://www.gridgree.com) or email events@thegridchicago.com for details on how to reserve a table.

 

Lincoln Hall - it's Safe Haven's CD Release show featuring Catfish & The Dogstars and Weber Band

18+

 

Reggie's - Akasha, Stick Figure and John Wayne will be rockin' the lineup here

17+

 

March 17:

Red Line Tap - celebrate your St Patrick's Day here with drink specials and The Rogers Park All-Stars: Micki Croisant (of the Good Name Band), Ian Brocker (of the Grizzly Sweets), Justin Gillom and James Weigel (of Outlaw Family Band/Muddflapps) and more!

 

March 21:

Liar's Club - Band Practice returns to Liar's Club featuring Evil Empire, Vatican Junkies and special guests with a guest DJ set by Johnny Zombo

$5 suggested donation

 

Beat Kitchen - It's the "Choose Your Own Adventure" EP release show featuring Wally Dogger's five new garage anthems rockin' the stage along with Quiet Company and The Websters

$10

 

March 22:

Glasslands Gallery (Brooklyn, New York) - check out Stone Cold Fox and Land of Pines rockin' the stage.

$10 / doors at 8:30p

 

Debonair Social Club - come to the final Rebhab party featuring DJs Zebo v Matt Roan, Hey Champ v Greg Corner, Knife Fight v Ryan Paradise, Johnny Walker v Special Guests (???)

No cover until 10:30p (rsvp at http://www.tinyurl.com/lastrehab)

 

March 23:

Elbo Room - Bob Erl rocks the acoustic stage with DJ Teks Boogie spinning afterwards

 

Penny Road Pub (Barrington, IL) - Blue Eyed Jesus will be performing here

 

SubT - Great Divide's Record Release Party featuring The Congregation and Cole DeGenova & the Peoples Republic rockin' the stage

$10

 

Tiger O'stylies (Berwyn) - Hot Lips Messiah, Mandatory Abortions, Lunatic Click and Aggro Control rockin' the stage here

Sorry this is a 21+ show (ID a must to enter) / $5

 

March 25:

Red Line Tap - Izzy and the Catastrophics will be rockin' the stage here

$5 adv / $7 dos

 

March 27:

Beat Kitchen - Spaces of Disappearance along with Timetables and Daemon Familiar will be rockin' the stage here.

 

March 29:

Hard Rock Cafe (Chicago) - Kelsey Montanez performs an ALL-AGES show that will feature Trainwreck Symphony, Iliana, Julian Bell and Jessica Brown

$10 / All Ages

 

Beat Kitchen - Model Stranger opens for The Western featuring The Damn Choir and Bullet Called Life

$10

 

Cole's Bar - It's Alen's Birthday and Record Release show featuring Bad Bad Meow releasing its Run Through the Middle Ep with Teenage Rage and Peeaboos ...plus an early treat by Bourbonaires.

After party details to be announced

 

March 30:

Red Line Tap - Michael McDermott performs live with Kevin Mileski

$15

 

 

Until next time, support your local scene,

SouthSide

28 Aug 12



"...We apologize. This might be the unfunny portion of the evening..." ~ The Grownup Noise

SouthSide loves comedy, blogspot readers.

She loves a hot rockin' show too.

And guess what - she was able under to get both under one roof at Schuba's Tavern after a long weekend of partying, premieres and "...trainwreck" antics. Tonight, there was comedy and music wrapped into one lineup when her Bostonian friend, The Grownup Noise, and Golden Bloom rolled into Chicago as part of The Make America More Awesome Tour featuring comedian Timmy Williams of The Whitest Kids U'Know. It was an interesting combination yet SouthSide, in all honesty, didn't find the comedy to be funny one bit. Timmy's opening monologue totally fell flat but not without some (and she means some, blogspot readers) laughs from the sparce audience. And that's just putting it nicely. It was a pretty tough group of people especially when you're joking it up about South Dakota when you're in the big city like Chicago. Other parts of his schtick included why he wouldn't poop or pee on the tour bus (in reference to the Dave Matthew's incident long ago) to how he wants to die. His second attempt after The Grownup Noise performance was slightly better even though this reviewer didn't feel that "Ha Ha" funny in her humorus femor (funny bone to you). Perhaps, it was an off night for the comedian after many stops made during the tour ...who knows.

Meanwhile on the music side to this traveling show,  The Grownup Noise, well, has "grown up", blogspot readers. With Aine on the drums for this tour, SouthSide enjoyed how the band's eclectic Americana/folk/alternative rock sound was popped to life with such exuberant energy and momentum than their last Chicago performance. Not only did she add some thundering percussion rhythm to Grownup's rhythmic, toe-tappin' groove but also a harmonizing feminine touch on the vocals to balance out the male testosterone heard on the mic especially during the song, New Outsiders. Performing other songs like Fife & Drum (a tune about not giving up) and Carnival (off the band's current release), this reviewer thoroughly identified with the "everyman" heartfelt sentiments expressed from lead vocalist/guitarist/keyboardist Paul to which his voice projected a "never say die" fighting spirit (listen to Fife & Drum) but also true raw emotions off the words. Yet, blogspot reades, it's a unique combination of vocals and music blends which truly makes this particular band a pleasure to review each time SouthSide sees them. Listen to Come Sunday where the vocal harmonies lit up the stage amidst of lively zyedco sound within a downtempo rhythm or Astronomy where the banjo and accordion are featured in the band's Americana/folk blend to almost give the music a lullaby feel while Paul wonderfully expressed his emotions in a sweet loving way from beginning to end. The Grownup truly had this audience fired up for more during Carnival and especially Outside when the band rocked out Schuba's hard with a jam session. SouthSide highly suggests checking out the "evolved" and "gown up" rock vibe of The Grownup Noise at their next scheduled performance. For more information, visit the band at http://www.thegrownupnoise.com.



Until next time, support your local scene,

SouthSide

06 Aug 12

Hey, blogspot readers, it's another rockin' jamboree deep within the heart of Lakeview on a Monday night! Tonight, at Schuba's Tavern, many came out to the first perfomances of The New Folk & Practice Space residency featuring top notch local folk bands/artists like Common Shriner, Jonas Friddle, Band Called Catch, New Folk and Cyndy Fike rockin' the stage every Monday during the month of August. New Folk will be releasing their debut album, Sea Fever, on Aug 27th. For more information about upcoming shows, visit http://www.schubas.com.

~ The Damn Choir

Tonight, the audience was treat to a lineup featuring performances by Cyndy Fike and Jeremy Keen and the False Starts with The Damn Choir as headliner. Comparing this performance to the one seen earlier during the spring, SouthSide thoroughly enjoyed this show and highly suggests checking out this local band at their next scheduled show. This quintet of musicians brought to the stage such intensity amidst high energetic momentum highlighting the emotional vocal falsetto (from front man/guitarist Gordon) and harmonizing backing vocals that she didn't hear at their The Hideout performance. At times, you could literally feel the intense sound of The Damn's melodic Americana/folk (with some pop/alternative) music besides hearing it uplift your soul to which the vocals wonderfully translate the fierce passion and emotions within its three-part harmonies. After opening the set with a moving yet boisterous blast of sound and vocals conveying the melodic aria tone in Road, The Damn Choir rocked the audience's senses with differentiating tempos of happy-go-lucky feel (with the tambourine adding a touch a lively, toe-tappin' beat) to downtempo rhythms and upbeat energy. There was even a moment when the band performed an impromptu jam while switching between guitars to keep fans and audience wrapped inside the organic-ness of their folk vibe.

Yet, the intensity wasn't only reserved for the music, blogspot readers, but was also heard within the vocals too. It seemed we were meant to ride this emotional wave of feelings as taken straight from the songwriter's heart and  placed throughout each of The Damn's lyrics. It was amazing of what one could feel from their music and words combined within such intensity. For example, check out the new song - Creatures of Habit in which Gordon grabbed the heartstrings with an outpour of emotions behind his strong falsetto voice while the upbeat music nicely matches the mood and tone of the song. Or listen to Nowhere, where it was directly the opposite. Though in a slight downtempo rhythm, SouthSide enjoyed the liveliness of this particular song but more importantly it was to highlight the strengeth of Gordon's falsetto voice not the music (in her opinion) ...and especially liking the acapella harmonies towards the end. This reviewer truly felt him and his emotional side during another particular song in which he pleaded "...did I mention I'm falling in love with you..." yet during Devil's Frown you could still hear (and feel) his vocal intensity of angst and dynamic tone even while rockin' to the band's toe-tappin' energy and sound. And The Damn, without the intense tone, performed a vividly image-laiden ballad to which Gordon's voice pops to life amidst the soothing melodic lull of the bass cello while the rest of the band takes the harmony route inside the music.

For more information about The Damn Choir, visit http://www.thedamnchoir.com.


Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide

30 Jul 12

If you make a little more noise, you'll probably get Doug to perform shirtless*

Like to apologize to my family from Wyoming ...it's not always Magic Mike

Hey, blogspot readers, SouthSide's rockin' the local scene on a rare Monday night appearance at Schuba's. Here, along with many others crowding the venue in the back of the pub, she's jammin' to the funky Americana rock groove of The Shams Band tonight as they concluded their month long residency at this Lakeview venue. Also helping them close out the final Monday night there was Young Hines and Archie Powell and the Exports featuring Mr. Gac.

After good friend, August Forte (of Novo Arts, Inc) introduces the band, this quintet of musicians immediately got down to the task of rockin' out the packed house featuring songs off their current album - Cold City. In a flash, this band impressed this reviewer with a gritty sound of thundering hardcore Southern rock that was accompanied by heat on the lyrics within a 3 (and sometimes a 4) part vocal harmonization especially during the opening number. The Shams were totally bringing out the emotional angst and frustration before surprising the reviewer's ears with a jump in chord change that livened up the mood and tempo in the end. With an opening like that, blogspot readers, SouthSide knew this wasn't the band she first met couple of years during the Taste of Chicago. The Shams Band's music and core rock sound was a little sharper ...had more bite and steam added to the guitar rock genre within their Americana/alterntive  (especially when there are four guitars occupying the stage on any given song) and the vocals - well, they popped time after time with precise harmonization that you heard each person's part.

This band had the crowd kicking up their heels to the hillbilly/rock vibe even while in a downtempo rhythm but still having some two-step groove to sway to the rhythmic beat. For example, check out Shams' Truck Whiskey which had that Grand Ol Opry country feel within this particular tune that had many in the crowd dancing and twirling around to the lively, hot tempered music. Though no one tossed any whiskey bottles, the music sparked a few cheers and catcalls whenever the word "whiskey" was mentioned. Or try your hand at City Slicker for it's toe-tappin' groove amidst the band's Americana/folk with a spicy dash of rockabilly (and some bluegrass too) woven throughout the tempo and the organic sounds of the tambourine livening up the rhythms. Then there was another particular song to which exploded with bursts of energetic momentum now that all four guitars were visibily rockin' the stage as well as amongst the crowd who were loving the mentions of Chicago tucked in the lyrics. A few fine examples of the way this local band kept their fans, family and friends delightfrully entertained with the music's exuberant energy and life. But what held SouthSide's interest the most was the 4-part vocal harmonies.

She was mostly impressed on how song after song the guys, Donnie, Paul, Brian and Ben, tickled the ears with such falsetto harmonies popping the words to life. They made the songs have that lively spirit needed to match the same felt as well as heard in the music but then again - this reviewer enjoyed the acapella touch to certain songs to truly soak the ears deep within the harmonies, blogspot readers, like they did near the conclusion of Truck Whiskey. There were two particular songs in which during one the guys jammed to the vocal harmonies amidst hot twitterpating guitar riffs while in the other took it slow amidst the bluegrass feel and sound though retaining that fun tempo for people to dance.

SouthSide highly suggests checking out The Shams Band at their next live performance and get ready to rock your shoes off from an eclectic mix of music genre but also be mesmerized by the vocal harmonies sweetly singing the tunes..

For more information about The Shams Band, visit http://www.theshamsband.com/

Until next time, support your local scene,

SouthSide

*and he does