Hey, blogspot readers, more rockin' around the holiday tree! Saturday night's adventure took this fearless reviewer to a quiant Irish pub/venue - The Abbey for Strange Arrangement's 3rd Annual Holiday Party. This rockin' shindig also featured performances by Land of Atlantis and UV Hippo. SouthSide suggests checking out the lively funk-tastic sounds and rhythmic groove of Fresh Hops. She enjoyed this band's unique twist on the Jazz-Blues combination having lots of soul which included one heck of a rhythm section (percussions, keyboards and saxophone) and violin. This string instrument (the star attraction of Fresh Hops, in SouthSide's opinion) provided some cool breeze to this band's hot groove while the keyboards kept the edgy three-guitar sound mellow but energetic. The music itself was breathtaking especially during classical-inspired song done in a waltz tempo yet performed with a modern neo-Jazz tone. It was also passionate with Fresh's gradual crescendo rises within the tempo and rhythms ...and coupled with the lighting fx - the stage seemed to be pulsating at the same speed and direction of the music. Visit Fresh Hops at http://www.myspace.com/freshhops for more information about this band and its music.
Continuing with the central theme of the night, Land Of Atlantis rocked the stage under a thunderous burst of neo-Jazz yet with an edgier rock sound than Fresh Hops. The song, Alley Cat, kicked off this band's set with an aura of smokin' but sublte Blues tone like a cat stalking the dark alley ways. SouthSide enjoyed hearing the lively passion woven throughout each of Land's rhythmic tempo and sound. This rockin' sound has a little bit of everything for every eclectic musical taste - from Jazz to rock and between. During one particular song, the audience grooved to a Caribbean/Island flavor and then to a classic Stax/funk sound. Even while closing this performance with an eclectic mesh of neo-Jazz and romantic ballad, Land's left everyone ready for more. SouthSide highly recommends checking out this band and its energetic instrumental groove in 2011. Visit http://www.landofatlantis.net or http://www.myspace.com/landofatlantis for more information about this band and future show dates.
Featuring more electronic than the other bands within their neo-Jazz rock combination, Strange Arrangement warmed up the chilly venue with its rockin' rhythmic sound. One extra thing also sets this band apart from the others - Strange's lyrical prose. Though the words might be few, one can still hear the poetry flowing vibrantly inside the music. Coincidentially, this band's eclectic music fueled that energetic vibe wafting throughout The Abbey ...it's so instanteous that their fans felt it upon hearing the burst of guitars and keyboards combined. this was one electronic holiday Jam celebration, blogspot readers, in which many grooved nonstop especially when Strange performed the popular, Front Porch. The wicked Stax guitar sound mixed with a lively techno vibe gave this crowd a brief taste of summertime to dance away the winter cold. In another particular song, the crowd continued dancin' to an 80s pop/electronic feel that contained sharp tempo and rhythm changes (lil surprises hidden in this one as well as others). SouthSide enjoyed Strange's futuristic music resonating very well against the fantastic lighting fx sequences. This reviewer highly suggests checking out the hip and happening of the now within electronic-modern Jazz/rock scene by Strange Arrangement. Visit http://www.strangement.com or http://www.myspace.com/strangearrangement for more information and when this band's rockin' again in 2011.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
17 Dec 10
"...don't ever break your wrist..." ~ Blue Eyed Jesus
Hey, blogspot readers, let's rock around the holiday tree! After a week of seasonal parties with friends, SouthSide's latest adventure brought her back to Elbo Room. Tonight's holiday fun was sponsored by songtress Erin Manning (from Nashville, TN) and local guys Blue Eyed Jesus.
Opening the set with a haunting piece, Erin Manning captivated the audience with a dynamic yet powerful emotional voice under a backdrop of smooth piano rhythms. This songtress poured every bit of herself into the lyrics which brought out her chanteuse-like falsetto vocals during certain songs. For example, You're A Monster was a dark ballad with the piano rhythms accompanying the tone and mood of Erin's voice. Yet, in SouthSide's opinion, the song would have faired better if paired with an acoustic guitar to bring out the dark tempo - the piano made it too childishly playful. Despite performing a short set, Erin did impress the audience as well as this reviewer with her music but needs to work on providing stronger song finishes rather than abrupt piano "ta dah". SouthSide suggests checking out the songtress Erin Manning at her next performance. Visit http://www.erinmanningmusic.com or http://www.myspace.com/erinlmanning for more informantion.
It's been a LONG while since SouthSide first reviewed this band and its eclectic rock sound. Blue Eyed Jesus made a triumphant return after a long absence from the stage. Though a bit rusty, the audience was treated to a rock performance full of edgy guitar hooks within BEJ's unique music and sound. SouthSide still enjoyed the energy permeating from the band's wicked electric licks and heart-thumping bass rhythm. Such rockin' sound had many heads groovin' to the rhythmic beat during songs Hey Beautiful, Lazy with You, and Long Hard Nights. It's not right to categorize BEJ and its core rock sound since they cover a wide range of genres ...sometimes intertwining them together. For example, there's a bit of hardcore/psychedelic with a funk bass groove in Velvet Years (the guitar riffs and smokin' hot drum solo will blow your ears away) meanwhile in Many Moons one will enjoy the dramatic intro before hitting the face with an upbeat allegro yet steady tempo (SouthSide liked the haunting vibe which matched the vocals). BEJ's closing song, Good News, featured a fantastical sound during the instrumental as well as burst of rockin' guitar riffs. SouthSide highly suggests checking out this local band in 2011. Visit http://www.myspace.com/blueeyedjesusband for more information when they're rockin' the stage again.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Hey, blogspot readers, let's rock around the holiday tree! After a week of seasonal parties with friends, SouthSide's latest adventure brought her back to Elbo Room. Tonight's holiday fun was sponsored by songtress Erin Manning (from Nashville, TN) and local guys Blue Eyed Jesus.
Opening the set with a haunting piece, Erin Manning captivated the audience with a dynamic yet powerful emotional voice under a backdrop of smooth piano rhythms. This songtress poured every bit of herself into the lyrics which brought out her chanteuse-like falsetto vocals during certain songs. For example, You're A Monster was a dark ballad with the piano rhythms accompanying the tone and mood of Erin's voice. Yet, in SouthSide's opinion, the song would have faired better if paired with an acoustic guitar to bring out the dark tempo - the piano made it too childishly playful. Despite performing a short set, Erin did impress the audience as well as this reviewer with her music but needs to work on providing stronger song finishes rather than abrupt piano "ta dah". SouthSide suggests checking out the songtress Erin Manning at her next performance. Visit http://www.erinmanningmusic.com or http://www.myspace.com/erinlmanning for more informantion.
It's been a LONG while since SouthSide first reviewed this band and its eclectic rock sound. Blue Eyed Jesus made a triumphant return after a long absence from the stage. Though a bit rusty, the audience was treated to a rock performance full of edgy guitar hooks within BEJ's unique music and sound. SouthSide still enjoyed the energy permeating from the band's wicked electric licks and heart-thumping bass rhythm. Such rockin' sound had many heads groovin' to the rhythmic beat during songs Hey Beautiful, Lazy with You, and Long Hard Nights. It's not right to categorize BEJ and its core rock sound since they cover a wide range of genres ...sometimes intertwining them together. For example, there's a bit of hardcore/psychedelic with a funk bass groove in Velvet Years (the guitar riffs and smokin' hot drum solo will blow your ears away) meanwhile in Many Moons one will enjoy the dramatic intro before hitting the face with an upbeat allegro yet steady tempo (SouthSide liked the haunting vibe which matched the vocals). BEJ's closing song, Good News, featured a fantastical sound during the instrumental as well as burst of rockin' guitar riffs. SouthSide highly suggests checking out this local band in 2011. Visit http://www.myspace.com/blueeyedjesusband for more information when they're rockin' the stage again.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
12 Dec 10 - Urban Folk Circuit
"...bring[ing] an old-fashioned awareness to a hip, urban market..."
Hey, blogspot readers, not even a blustery winter afternoon could stop this rare On The Town outting. SouthSide's latest adventure had her at Elbo Room earlier than usual for the Urban Folk Circuit. This free series of craft market-style vending was created as a way to promote local artisans as well as the neighborhood bar venues. Besides browsing the many vendors on tap with their handmade crafts and art, there was also live acoustic entertainment rockin' the stage by Rachel Katzman, Sleepy Lou, Steve Sebby and The Jonas Friddleman.
The central themes of "recycle, reuse and renew" and natural products were the main focus with many of the items on display for purchase. For instance, Rachel Wiandt's booth had a lovely array of fragrant (natural) soy candles (which burns cleaner than paraffin-waxed candles) and soaps (try the gingerbread man) while another booth had VHS and album art (used/old videotapes and vinyl records turned into decoratively painted piece of art). SouthSide's good friend, Madame Platypus (http://www.madameplatyplus.com) had a booth full of elaborately designed cards and screenings to vintage-like jewelry with whimsical sayings or quotes. One booth during this event caught this reviewer's eye was the handmade cords (for guitars) by Cordinated. Owner Juli Sherry explained how she used 100% wool yarn to wrap around the cables which will tangle and/or twist less while rockin' the stage. Visit http://www.cordinated.etsy.com for more product information.
Across from the Cordinated booth, there were vendors selling knitted bottle warmers (out of Peruvian wool) and handmade items (dish towels, aprons etc) for the kitchen as well as Corinne Niessner and her display of doggie knitwear. The author of the book, Doggie Knits, Sweaters and Accessories for Your Best Friend, had samples of her custom work which would would your beloved pooch stylishly warm this winter. Each doggie knitwear is custom measured and fit to the shape and size of your dog and her items can be found locally at select retail shops. On certain weeknights, Corinne also holds knitting classes at a local shop - email her at luckypennyknits@att.net or visit http://www.luckypennyhandmade.com for more information. SouthSide also recommends checking out the cute handmade Smonster softies (toys) and hats by Shady Sparks. You can even decorate your holiday tree with wee ones too! Visit http://www.shadysparks.etsy.com for more product information.
Besides handmade craft items, there were unique pieces of handcrafted jewelry - rings, pendants, earrings etc - to spice up any wardrobe look. One booth, Something Beautiful, had a display of two-sided bracelets and pendants (as an example). Other pieces included intricately designed patterns and symbols as well as sports insignias to show support for your favorite teams. Visit http://www.somethingbeautiful4u.etsy.com for more product information as well as http://www.ecram1.etsy.com to check out the handmade soy teacup candles and soap. SouthSide also recommends checking out the beautiful handcrafted jewelry items by Jasmin Mitchell. Her pieces were mostly done in semi-precious stones, wood, shells (and other natural materials) as well as recycled leather for cuffs and silverplated. Currently she's trying her hand and design skills with metal for her latest line of jewelry wear. When asking this artisan what's the inspiration behind her designs, Jasmin stated the inspirations come from the materials, stones and whatever moves her to create. Visit http://www.jazjewelz.etsy.com for more product information.
Don't worry, blogspot readers, if you missed this edition of the Urban Folk Circuit ...another one will be happening again in January 2011 at Reggie's with more live local music to accompany your shopping experience. Visit http://www.urbanfolkcircuit.com or email urbanfolkcircuit@gmail.com for more information.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Hey, blogspot readers, not even a blustery winter afternoon could stop this rare On The Town outting. SouthSide's latest adventure had her at Elbo Room earlier than usual for the Urban Folk Circuit. This free series of craft market-style vending was created as a way to promote local artisans as well as the neighborhood bar venues. Besides browsing the many vendors on tap with their handmade crafts and art, there was also live acoustic entertainment rockin' the stage by Rachel Katzman, Sleepy Lou, Steve Sebby and The Jonas Friddleman.
The central themes of "recycle, reuse and renew" and natural products were the main focus with many of the items on display for purchase. For instance, Rachel Wiandt's booth had a lovely array of fragrant (natural) soy candles (which burns cleaner than paraffin-waxed candles) and soaps (try the gingerbread man) while another booth had VHS and album art (used/old videotapes and vinyl records turned into decoratively painted piece of art). SouthSide's good friend, Madame Platypus (http://www.madameplatyplus.com) had a booth full of elaborately designed cards and screenings to vintage-like jewelry with whimsical sayings or quotes. One booth during this event caught this reviewer's eye was the handmade cords (for guitars) by Cordinated. Owner Juli Sherry explained how she used 100% wool yarn to wrap around the cables which will tangle and/or twist less while rockin' the stage. Visit http://www.cordinated.etsy.com for more product information.
Across from the Cordinated booth, there were vendors selling knitted bottle warmers (out of Peruvian wool) and handmade items (dish towels, aprons etc) for the kitchen as well as Corinne Niessner and her display of doggie knitwear. The author of the book, Doggie Knits, Sweaters and Accessories for Your Best Friend, had samples of her custom work which would would your beloved pooch stylishly warm this winter. Each doggie knitwear is custom measured and fit to the shape and size of your dog and her items can be found locally at select retail shops. On certain weeknights, Corinne also holds knitting classes at a local shop - email her at luckypennyknits@att.net or visit http://www.luckypennyhandmade.com for more information. SouthSide also recommends checking out the cute handmade Smonster softies (toys) and hats by Shady Sparks. You can even decorate your holiday tree with wee ones too! Visit http://www.shadysparks.etsy.com for more product information.
Besides handmade craft items, there were unique pieces of handcrafted jewelry - rings, pendants, earrings etc - to spice up any wardrobe look. One booth, Something Beautiful, had a display of two-sided bracelets and pendants (as an example). Other pieces included intricately designed patterns and symbols as well as sports insignias to show support for your favorite teams. Visit http://www.somethingbeautiful4u.etsy.com for more product information as well as http://www.ecram1.etsy.com to check out the handmade soy teacup candles and soap. SouthSide also recommends checking out the beautiful handcrafted jewelry items by Jasmin Mitchell. Her pieces were mostly done in semi-precious stones, wood, shells (and other natural materials) as well as recycled leather for cuffs and silverplated. Currently she's trying her hand and design skills with metal for her latest line of jewelry wear. When asking this artisan what's the inspiration behind her designs, Jasmin stated the inspirations come from the materials, stones and whatever moves her to create. Visit http://www.jazjewelz.etsy.com for more product information.
Don't worry, blogspot readers, if you missed this edition of the Urban Folk Circuit ...another one will be happening again in January 2011 at Reggie's with more live local music to accompany your shopping experience. Visit http://www.urbanfolkcircuit.com or email urbanfolkcircuit@gmail.com for more information.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Friday, December 10, 2010
09 Dec 10
"...that's it ...no merch but the boys are for sale..."
Hey, blogspot readers, SouthSide found some good apples especially for you. Not to eat but to rock your ears! Tonight, she's backed at Elbo Room to see local group, Good Apples, rockin' the stage with an unique blend of alternative/psychedelic/retro rock sound. Yet after watching their performance, this reviewer discovered it's not truly fair to box these Apples into any particular genre or two. Here's why.
After a lively upbeat song to kick off Apples' set, the music took an unexpected twist during the second song. It had this fantastical mesh of (The Beatles) mystery train sound with a (Jefferson Airplane) white rabbit feel - very dark and moody ...quite creepy as well as hauntingly trippy. Add the wild lighting effects (which played a major role during Apples' performance), the audience was falling deeper into Underland of a steady guitar/bass riff leaving probably if not most in a deep inside a space high. Whew - the crashing end brought everyone back to reality ...somewhat. Still that's merely a taste of what was experienced and heard from Good Apples. They certainly kept this reviewer on the edge of her seat (and toes) throughout not knowing what little surprises will happen next. For example, in another particular song, SouthSide was blown away by the wicked hardcore thumping chord while in another there was a profound sense of poetry laced inside the lyrics - very deep and thought provoking. Metal chords abound during the rockin' Metal Man before moving into a metal-psychedelic crossover with punk rock in the next.
As Good Apples closed their Elbo Room set, SouthSide had thoroughly enjoyed her trip into this band's eccentric rock sound. There's no real classification that could perfectly describe this group's unique and particular musical tastes. They simply rocked out the Lakeview venue with a bit of everything and still had enough room for more, blogspot readers. Good Apples is the type of band with a sound you have to hear preferrably live (with the amazing lighting effects). Visit http://www.myspace.com/thegoodapples for more information.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Hey, blogspot readers, SouthSide found some good apples especially for you. Not to eat but to rock your ears! Tonight, she's backed at Elbo Room to see local group, Good Apples, rockin' the stage with an unique blend of alternative/psychedelic/retro rock sound. Yet after watching their performance, this reviewer discovered it's not truly fair to box these Apples into any particular genre or two. Here's why.
After a lively upbeat song to kick off Apples' set, the music took an unexpected twist during the second song. It had this fantastical mesh of (The Beatles) mystery train sound with a (Jefferson Airplane) white rabbit feel - very dark and moody ...quite creepy as well as hauntingly trippy. Add the wild lighting effects (which played a major role during Apples' performance), the audience was falling deeper into Underland of a steady guitar/bass riff leaving probably if not most in a deep inside a space high. Whew - the crashing end brought everyone back to reality ...somewhat. Still that's merely a taste of what was experienced and heard from Good Apples. They certainly kept this reviewer on the edge of her seat (and toes) throughout not knowing what little surprises will happen next. For example, in another particular song, SouthSide was blown away by the wicked hardcore thumping chord while in another there was a profound sense of poetry laced inside the lyrics - very deep and thought provoking. Metal chords abound during the rockin' Metal Man before moving into a metal-psychedelic crossover with punk rock in the next.
As Good Apples closed their Elbo Room set, SouthSide had thoroughly enjoyed her trip into this band's eccentric rock sound. There's no real classification that could perfectly describe this group's unique and particular musical tastes. They simply rocked out the Lakeview venue with a bit of everything and still had enough room for more, blogspot readers. Good Apples is the type of band with a sound you have to hear preferrably live (with the amazing lighting effects). Visit http://www.myspace.com/thegoodapples for more information.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
08 Dec 10
"...I'm sporty spice with pink boots..." ~ Coles Whalen
Hey, blogspot readers, it's a double dose of Hump Day rock shows! Tonight, this busy reviewer's spreading more holiday warmth during her latest adventure around town. First, it's Elbo Room to check out a songtress from Denver, Coles Whalen, and her opening set. Then it's another mad dash to River North's Angels & Kings for hardcore metal by Mara and A Beautiful Nightmare.
Coles Whalen - she's the songtress of heartfelt lyrical prose. That's how SouthSide would describe the marvelous acoustic performance this artist had recently at Elbo Room. This reviewer enjoyed the simplicity of the lyrics (sung with tender sentiment and/or fiery spunk) within her songs as well as the lively inconsistent mix of genres heard throughout the set. Don't worry, blogspot readers, the inconsistency was a good thing in which captivate not only the audience but this reviewer. After warming up the audience with the ballad, So It Is (track 6), Coles had them in the palm of her hand ...better yet, the sound of the spicy yet vibrant waves of Country during Whistle Stop (track 2 off her The Whistle Stop Road Record). SouthSide was delighting attentively on how her voice would change within the dynamics of this song (along with others performed) to fit the upbeat tempo before moving into another ballad - These Small Things (off Coles' upcoming album). Another fine example would be listening to to her sultry Blues vocal tone in Wake Up Easy or that feisty spunk found in the song Go Child (track 1). During the middle of Wake Up Easy, this artist related a funny tidbit about how she slightly improvised on the lyrics (changing it to "...wake up easy makin' lunch...") while performing at a middle school. Also noteworthy off Coles' current CD, listen to track 5 - Wrecking Ball and track 8 - Average 20 Something. Plus off the upcoming new album coming out sometime March 2011, blogspot readers can expect to hear the toe-tappin' Drinking Song and Can't Treat Me Bad which rocked out Coles' opening performance. SouthSide highly recommends catching Coles Whalen next live set - her songs and voice certainly connected with this Chicago audience within a lively rhythmic tempo. Visit http://www.coleswhalen.com or http://www.myspace.com/coleswhalen for more information.
"...get some (ear)plugs if you value your ears..." ~ Mara
Now, SouthSide's at Angels & Kings for another weekly edition of the One Man(no) Show. Tonight's theme was hardcore screamo/metal rock performances featuring Mara with A Beautiful Nightmare headlining.
This was serious headbanging, energetic metal/screamo rock, blogspot readers, that melted the microphone. Blood curdling guitar riffs and throaty lyrical screams wafted throughout the short Mara performance. SouthSide enjoyed the eclectic yet interesting mix of metal and digital voiceover programming (off the keyboard) heard within certain parts of this band's songs. Performing songs such as Zombie Tea Party, Losing Touch and Formation, this reviewer liked the thundering momentum despite the tight constraint on stage in which held back Mara's vibrant excitedness to a minimum. She knows if given the chance this rockin' metal band could do more damage when truly releasing their inner rock demons amongst the audience. There wasn't much room on the Angels & Kings' stage for them to mosh around without the fear of falling off while performing. SouthSide highly suggests listening to Mara's mesh of electro-techno rhythms and hardcore sound in the song Rooms; the heated anger of the gut-busting scream in Withered; and the thundering guitar rock of Sin of All Sins. Mara will be rockin' again at Reggie's Rock Club on Dec 19 ...and she forewarned newbies now - be sure to grab a pair of plugs or face a metal blast of rock for days! Grab a copy of their free CD too. Visit http://www.myspace.com/chitownmara for more information.
A Beautiful Nightmare continued the loud thunderous theme of the screamo/metal rock theme which blasted every eardrum within its stage reach. However this band added more of a fast heart-thumping guitar sound off three guitars and headbanging action to their set. And just like their friends, Mara, this band would truly be more animated if given a larger stage to mosh about while performing their rockin' set. After a fantastic opening to catch everyone's attention, ABN rocked out the River North venue with an angered anti-religious/dogma rant in I Don't Want To Go To Church Today. Obviously no one would be attending any services not after the way Michael (ABN's front man on vocals) lyrically screamed over the microphone in which he vividly conveyed the tempered mood of the lyrics. Also check out You're Worth More Than Gold (don't be fooled by the calm lull in the intro merely a prelude before a wicked blast of guitars and drums) and Therapist(blogspot readers, not your ordinary "on the couch" therapy session as Michael seriously inserts himself emotionally into this song). Despite this being a short performance, ABN packed a lot of metal rock action that totally kicked arse with a crash-spectacular ending to keep SouthSide's ears ringing for a couple of days! This reviewer highly recommends all screamo/metal fans visiting http://www.myspace.com/abeautifulnightmareband for your own personal and daily dose of rockin' music by this local band as well as information on when and where the screams will be melting the stage again.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Hey, blogspot readers, it's a double dose of Hump Day rock shows! Tonight, this busy reviewer's spreading more holiday warmth during her latest adventure around town. First, it's Elbo Room to check out a songtress from Denver, Coles Whalen, and her opening set. Then it's another mad dash to River North's Angels & Kings for hardcore metal by Mara and A Beautiful Nightmare.
Coles Whalen - she's the songtress of heartfelt lyrical prose. That's how SouthSide would describe the marvelous acoustic performance this artist had recently at Elbo Room. This reviewer enjoyed the simplicity of the lyrics (sung with tender sentiment and/or fiery spunk) within her songs as well as the lively inconsistent mix of genres heard throughout the set. Don't worry, blogspot readers, the inconsistency was a good thing in which captivate not only the audience but this reviewer. After warming up the audience with the ballad, So It Is (track 6), Coles had them in the palm of her hand ...better yet, the sound of the spicy yet vibrant waves of Country during Whistle Stop (track 2 off her The Whistle Stop Road Record). SouthSide was delighting attentively on how her voice would change within the dynamics of this song (along with others performed) to fit the upbeat tempo before moving into another ballad - These Small Things (off Coles' upcoming album). Another fine example would be listening to to her sultry Blues vocal tone in Wake Up Easy or that feisty spunk found in the song Go Child (track 1). During the middle of Wake Up Easy, this artist related a funny tidbit about how she slightly improvised on the lyrics (changing it to "...wake up easy makin' lunch...") while performing at a middle school. Also noteworthy off Coles' current CD, listen to track 5 - Wrecking Ball and track 8 - Average 20 Something. Plus off the upcoming new album coming out sometime March 2011, blogspot readers can expect to hear the toe-tappin' Drinking Song and Can't Treat Me Bad which rocked out Coles' opening performance. SouthSide highly recommends catching Coles Whalen next live set - her songs and voice certainly connected with this Chicago audience within a lively rhythmic tempo. Visit http://www.coleswhalen.com or http://www.myspace.com/coleswhalen for more information.
"...get some (ear)plugs if you value your ears..." ~ Mara
Now, SouthSide's at Angels & Kings for another weekly edition of the One Man(no) Show. Tonight's theme was hardcore screamo/metal rock performances featuring Mara with A Beautiful Nightmare headlining.
This was serious headbanging, energetic metal/screamo rock, blogspot readers, that melted the microphone. Blood curdling guitar riffs and throaty lyrical screams wafted throughout the short Mara performance. SouthSide enjoyed the eclectic yet interesting mix of metal and digital voiceover programming (off the keyboard) heard within certain parts of this band's songs. Performing songs such as Zombie Tea Party, Losing Touch and Formation, this reviewer liked the thundering momentum despite the tight constraint on stage in which held back Mara's vibrant excitedness to a minimum. She knows if given the chance this rockin' metal band could do more damage when truly releasing their inner rock demons amongst the audience. There wasn't much room on the Angels & Kings' stage for them to mosh around without the fear of falling off while performing. SouthSide highly suggests listening to Mara's mesh of electro-techno rhythms and hardcore sound in the song Rooms; the heated anger of the gut-busting scream in Withered; and the thundering guitar rock of Sin of All Sins. Mara will be rockin' again at Reggie's Rock Club on Dec 19 ...and she forewarned newbies now - be sure to grab a pair of plugs or face a metal blast of rock for days! Grab a copy of their free CD too. Visit http://www.myspace.com/chitownmara for more information.
A Beautiful Nightmare continued the loud thunderous theme of the screamo/metal rock theme which blasted every eardrum within its stage reach. However this band added more of a fast heart-thumping guitar sound off three guitars and headbanging action to their set. And just like their friends, Mara, this band would truly be more animated if given a larger stage to mosh about while performing their rockin' set. After a fantastic opening to catch everyone's attention, ABN rocked out the River North venue with an angered anti-religious/dogma rant in I Don't Want To Go To Church Today. Obviously no one would be attending any services not after the way Michael (ABN's front man on vocals) lyrically screamed over the microphone in which he vividly conveyed the tempered mood of the lyrics. Also check out You're Worth More Than Gold (don't be fooled by the calm lull in the intro merely a prelude before a wicked blast of guitars and drums) and Therapist(blogspot readers, not your ordinary "on the couch" therapy session as Michael seriously inserts himself emotionally into this song). Despite this being a short performance, ABN packed a lot of metal rock action that totally kicked arse with a crash-spectacular ending to keep SouthSide's ears ringing for a couple of days! This reviewer highly recommends all screamo/metal fans visiting http://www.myspace.com/abeautifulnightmareband for your own personal and daily dose of rockin' music by this local band as well as information on when and where the screams will be melting the stage again.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
04 Dec 10
Hey, blogspot readers, it's a snowy rockin' Saturday night! This reviewer's busy hitting the streets ...spreading a bit of holiday cheer at two hot shows. First she's checking out good friends Sutured Psyche and Beneath The Stares performing at Metal Shaker. Then, she's making a mad dash to Elbo Room to see headlining band Alice Sweet Alice (from Kansas City, MO) rock out the stage with their "electropostpunkadelic" sound.
Sutured Psyche was already in full swing rockin' the stage when SouthSide arrived at the Northwestside bar. Though taking a quick break to fix broken strings, this band performed another thrilling ...exciting hardcore rock show for its audience. However, (and though no fault of the band's own), this reviewer felt the opening set was good. The acoustics inside Metal Shaker, in her honest opinion, didn't have the proper the sound quality thus hampering Sutured's energetic headbanging rock vibe. Still she enjoyed the unique vocal style (by charismatic front man William) that wowed the ears with emotion and dynamic power (listen to The Leap and Trickster - he truly puts a lot of himself emotionally into these songs). The rawness heard deep inside his voice highlighted the realistic and personal sentiment within Sutured's lyrics. SouthSide also highly suggests listening to Kelso's Army and the wicked guitar riffs of Clarity. Start 2011 with a rockin' BANG as Sutured Psyche celebrates an anniversary on Jan 7 at Goose Island or Jan 29 at Elbo Room. Visit http://www.suturedpsyche.com or http://www.myspace.com/suturedpsyche for more information.
Moving into the other end of the rock spectrum, Beneath The Stares delighted this audience with a solid performance of dark hardcore poetry. Despite what SouthSide mentioned earlier in this review about the acoustics, she still enjoyed the thundering epic sound heard within this band's songs as well as haunting chanteuse-like voice by Lisa (though hearing more of the music than the vocals). BTS rocked the stage under an aura of fiery energy and passion not only in the guitar riffs but in the lyrics too, blogspot readers. After opening their set with Guilty Bystander, this band (finally) premiered their epic song triology known as Tropic of Cancer. Three different versions of the same song neither were sounding like the other lyrically and musically ...absolutely demonstrating how versatile this group can be. For instance, Part 1 played out as a hardcore metal piece full of wicked riffs and shape-shifting chords. Meanwhile Part 2 opened with a calming lull before blasting the audience with a headbanging rock sound. Lastly, Part 3 concluded this epic piece with a downtempo ballad though darker and more dynamic than the other two parts. After that breathtaking triology, BTS rocked out the audience with other songs that included new one, Foraging for a Plan and band theme Beneath the Stares. The highlight of this set was their cover of Jefferson Airplane's White Rabbit - still having the drug-metaphor psychedelic 60s feel yet more epic with the BTS sound. This reviewer highly recommends getting familiar with the dark epic yet poetic rock of Beneath The Stares in 2011. Visit http://www.beneaththestares.com or http://www.myspace.com/beneaththestares for more information.
...Guess we're no longer in Kansas...
Hey, blogspot readers, SouthSide's now at Elbo Room just in time to check out the rockin' as well as eclectic music of Alice Sweet Alice (cool Brooke Shields movie reference for a band name). From Kansas City, this band brought its blend of "electro" (off the keyboard) and "postpunkadelic" (off the guitars and drums) sound for a late-night performance. This reviewer enjoyed the lively kick heard within the edgy rock sound ...the bursts of energy instantly grabbed her attention inside the epic feel within each Alice song. At times, there was a fiery essence wafting from the guitar riffs and Ali Kat's vocals sparking that energetic vibe and momentum. Yet during the other times, SouthSide felt the crisp chill of the haunting momentum and rhythmic groove when Scott (on bass) took lead on vocals. This also brought out the dark psychedelic side of Alice's music to light ...more vibrant with a steady heart-pounding metal chords. Enthralled by the band's darkness, SouthSide rocked to songs such as Legends and Ambola (off Alice's current CD). She also suggests checking out Flight of Tonight and set closer Weeping Lily (a rockin' BANG of hard hitting riffs and dynamic vocals by Ali). SouthSide was thoroughly impressed by Alice's Chicago debut even though having some minor technical difficulties, blogspot readers, and she hopes they make a return appearance (or more) again in 2011. Visit http://www.alicesweetalice.com or http://reverbnation.com/alicesweetalice for more information.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Sutured Psyche was already in full swing rockin' the stage when SouthSide arrived at the Northwestside bar. Though taking a quick break to fix broken strings, this band performed another thrilling ...exciting hardcore rock show for its audience. However, (and though no fault of the band's own), this reviewer felt the opening set was good. The acoustics inside Metal Shaker, in her honest opinion, didn't have the proper the sound quality thus hampering Sutured's energetic headbanging rock vibe. Still she enjoyed the unique vocal style (by charismatic front man William) that wowed the ears with emotion and dynamic power (listen to The Leap and Trickster - he truly puts a lot of himself emotionally into these songs). The rawness heard deep inside his voice highlighted the realistic and personal sentiment within Sutured's lyrics. SouthSide also highly suggests listening to Kelso's Army and the wicked guitar riffs of Clarity. Start 2011 with a rockin' BANG as Sutured Psyche celebrates an anniversary on Jan 7 at Goose Island or Jan 29 at Elbo Room. Visit http://www.suturedpsyche.com or http://www.myspace.com/suturedpsyche for more information.
Moving into the other end of the rock spectrum, Beneath The Stares delighted this audience with a solid performance of dark hardcore poetry. Despite what SouthSide mentioned earlier in this review about the acoustics, she still enjoyed the thundering epic sound heard within this band's songs as well as haunting chanteuse-like voice by Lisa (though hearing more of the music than the vocals). BTS rocked the stage under an aura of fiery energy and passion not only in the guitar riffs but in the lyrics too, blogspot readers. After opening their set with Guilty Bystander, this band (finally) premiered their epic song triology known as Tropic of Cancer. Three different versions of the same song neither were sounding like the other lyrically and musically ...absolutely demonstrating how versatile this group can be. For instance, Part 1 played out as a hardcore metal piece full of wicked riffs and shape-shifting chords. Meanwhile Part 2 opened with a calming lull before blasting the audience with a headbanging rock sound. Lastly, Part 3 concluded this epic piece with a downtempo ballad though darker and more dynamic than the other two parts. After that breathtaking triology, BTS rocked out the audience with other songs that included new one, Foraging for a Plan and band theme Beneath the Stares. The highlight of this set was their cover of Jefferson Airplane's White Rabbit - still having the drug-metaphor psychedelic 60s feel yet more epic with the BTS sound. This reviewer highly recommends getting familiar with the dark epic yet poetic rock of Beneath The Stares in 2011. Visit http://www.beneaththestares.com or http://www.myspace.com/beneaththestares for more information.
...Guess we're no longer in Kansas...
Hey, blogspot readers, SouthSide's now at Elbo Room just in time to check out the rockin' as well as eclectic music of Alice Sweet Alice (cool Brooke Shields movie reference for a band name). From Kansas City, this band brought its blend of "electro" (off the keyboard) and "postpunkadelic" (off the guitars and drums) sound for a late-night performance. This reviewer enjoyed the lively kick heard within the edgy rock sound ...the bursts of energy instantly grabbed her attention inside the epic feel within each Alice song. At times, there was a fiery essence wafting from the guitar riffs and Ali Kat's vocals sparking that energetic vibe and momentum. Yet during the other times, SouthSide felt the crisp chill of the haunting momentum and rhythmic groove when Scott (on bass) took lead on vocals. This also brought out the dark psychedelic side of Alice's music to light ...more vibrant with a steady heart-pounding metal chords. Enthralled by the band's darkness, SouthSide rocked to songs such as Legends and Ambola (off Alice's current CD). She also suggests checking out Flight of Tonight and set closer Weeping Lily (a rockin' BANG of hard hitting riffs and dynamic vocals by Ali). SouthSide was thoroughly impressed by Alice's Chicago debut even though having some minor technical difficulties, blogspot readers, and she hopes they make a return appearance (or more) again in 2011. Visit http://www.alicesweetalice.com or http://reverbnation.com/alicesweetalice for more information.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Friday, December 3, 2010
03 Dec 10 - CD Review
Hey, blogspot readers, give the gift of music as a holiday stocking stuffer! SouthSide highly recommends snagging the following CD when it's released on Dec 9th.
It's a rockin' hoedown happening between SouthSide's ears while she previewed May You Never by local indie group, Dastardly. This 7-track album had a lively, energetic sound off the eclectic groove of the band's Americana/Folk/Alternative music. Dastardly popped the senses with a smorgasbord of sound from an array of orchestral instruments (ie banjo, cello, accordion, etc) in which had her toes tappin' to the rhythmic beat. SouthSide recently reviewed their vibrant opening set which rocked out the Metro stage. And this reviewer was literally floored that the same energy and sound translated very well off the stage onto Dastardly's debut CD.
Recorded at Gallery of Carpet Studios by Brian Zieske (who also worked with local rockers Bailiff and Pet Lions) and mixed by Paul Klimson (who also did The Roots and John Legend), May You Never delighted not only SouthSide but her test audience (Vyolet, 17 and Sunday, 8). They enjoyed The Beatles-esque sounds of the instrumental heard at the end of the opening track, Villian that was soon followed by the lively Exercise in Self Loathing (track 2). Besides the burst of vibrant Dastardly music, this reviewer liked the simplistic as well as heartfelt emotional sentiment within the lyrics. The words (especially in track 6 - Morning Blue) were deep and somewhat personal in which the harmonizing vocals captured very well even while singing acapella.
SouthSide strongly suggests checking out Dastardly live in person when they take over Schuba's Dec 9th for their May You Never CD release show. Brought to you by Heavemedia.com, the lineup will also feature good friends Chaperone and Glittermouse with Jared Bartman.
Visit http://www.myspace.com/dastardlytheband for more information about the band.
Visit 12-09-2010 Dastardly Record Release @Schubas for ticket info.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
It's a rockin' hoedown happening between SouthSide's ears while she previewed May You Never by local indie group, Dastardly. This 7-track album had a lively, energetic sound off the eclectic groove of the band's Americana/Folk/Alternative music. Dastardly popped the senses with a smorgasbord of sound from an array of orchestral instruments (ie banjo, cello, accordion, etc) in which had her toes tappin' to the rhythmic beat. SouthSide recently reviewed their vibrant opening set which rocked out the Metro stage. And this reviewer was literally floored that the same energy and sound translated very well off the stage onto Dastardly's debut CD.
Recorded at Gallery of Carpet Studios by Brian Zieske (who also worked with local rockers Bailiff and Pet Lions) and mixed by Paul Klimson (who also did The Roots and John Legend), May You Never delighted not only SouthSide but her test audience (Vyolet, 17 and Sunday, 8). They enjoyed The Beatles-esque sounds of the instrumental heard at the end of the opening track, Villian that was soon followed by the lively Exercise in Self Loathing (track 2). Besides the burst of vibrant Dastardly music, this reviewer liked the simplistic as well as heartfelt emotional sentiment within the lyrics. The words (especially in track 6 - Morning Blue) were deep and somewhat personal in which the harmonizing vocals captured very well even while singing acapella.
SouthSide strongly suggests checking out Dastardly live in person when they take over Schuba's Dec 9th for their May You Never CD release show. Brought to you by Heavemedia.com, the lineup will also feature good friends Chaperone and Glittermouse with Jared Bartman.
Visit http://www.myspace.com/dastardlytheband for more information about the band.
Visit 12-09-2010 Dastardly Record Release @Schubas for ticket info.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
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