Hey, blogspot readers, let's play a guessing game. This Hollywood actress has created memorable roles both on screen and television as well as on stage but also is an accomplished dancer and jazz vocalist. Need another hint? You might remember her performance in the movie Jumping the Broom as Aunt Geneva especially during the scene where she's singing a funny rendition of Marvin Gaye's Sexual Healing. Or you probablly have seen her on television as Big Dee Dee Thorne (on Half and Half) or Sandra Lucas, Miranda Lucas Payne's (Keisha Knight Pulliam's character) mother (from Tyler Perry's House of Payne). No googling the answer. Perhaps you attended the Pasadena Symphony's annual Pops program in which she was a featured guest soloist or saw her stage in her Tony nominated role in Fosse or in London's West End production of Chicago featuring legendary great Chita Rivera.
Give up?
The person SouthSide is speaking of is Valarie Pettiford. And this reviewer felt SO honored to interview this lovely woman recently via telephone.
Valarie Pettiford began her career at the tender age of 14 after landing her first movie role ...actually three different roles in the film adaptation of The Wiz where she was a munchkin, one of the Emerald City dancers and part of the ensemble during the Brand New Day scenes. Then, she went on to appear in other films such as The Cotton Club, Glitter (portraying Mariah Carey's mother), Stomp The Yard, Like Mike and Tyler Perry's Why Did I Get Married Too. Her television credits are quite extenstive too, blogspot readers. She originated the role of Shelia Price Gannon on ABC's One Life To Live and appeared in another daytime drama Another World as Courtney Walker. She also made appearances in other drama series like X-Files (as an FBI agent), CSI and CSI Miami, The District, Criminal Minds and Bones. Ms Pettiford also has a recurring guest star role on the HBO series, Treme as the character Victorine Fornerat-Williams. And soon will be appearing in the new ABC Family's series - Bunheads portraying the artistic yet sensible Violet.
Ms. Pettiford's stage credits include her Broadway performance in Fosse that earned her nominations for a Tony, Grammy, Outer Critics Circle and Dora Mayor Moore awards. Besides Chicago, she also performed in the 1987 anniversary of West Side Story tour (as Anita), Dancin', Sophisticated Ladies (understudy to Judith Jamison) and Big Deal in which she was principal dancer, actress, singer and dance captain as well as starred in the Broadway hit, Grind and was part of the national tour of Showboat. This performance earned her recognition for a Vancouver Sun Reader’s Choice Award and an NAACP Image Award, blogspot readers. In the meanwhile, this busy actress is now promoting her new movie - Battlefield America (scheduled for release on June 1) and a follow-up album to her debut Hear My Soul titled Velvet Sky, a unique collection of original lullabies written for new parents to bond with their newborn babies, scheduled for a September release. Though her time was limited on Monday, Ms Pettiford was able spend some time with SouthSide for a friendly discussion giving her an exclusive peek into her new projects ...plus some thoughtful insight about Hollywood and more.
Describing herself as "...a person with a big heart...", SouthSide wanted to know more about her character "Ms Williams" in her upcoming movie Battlefield America, blogspot readers. Don't let the movie title alone scare you into thinking it's another Us versus Aliens bent on destorying the world coming to a multi-plex near you this summer. Nope ...no transforming aliens - this is a dance competition by the same people who did You Got Served. This movie is about a young businessman who hires a dance instructor to turn a group of misfits into a hip-hop dance crew for an underground competition. Looking at credits, Ms Pettiford is simply listed as Ms Williams to which the actress described her as a "...concerned mother..." and this reviewer asked her if she enjoyed playing those types of roles. She loves playing "mom" because it gave her a chance to work with wonderful people like Mariah Carey (in Glitter) and the cast of Half and Half. SouthSide then asked her if she chooses her roles based on her life experiences. She said as an actor, she has a choice to whether accept or decline a role but personally for her "...it's all about being challenged..." Ms. Pettiford portrays the characters as people she knows but unlike the tough, drinking Big Dee Dee Thorne (from Half and Half) or Aunt Geneva (from Jumping The Broom) - she's not like them in real life, blogspot readers. She also picks her roles because according to her they're fun to play and the other people involved in the project make it fun.
Plus she had nothing but praise for the hardworking kids involved in the movie Battlefield America. According to Ms Pettiford, the kids (and their parents) were professional, well-behaved and a reflection of their parents even while doing take after take on set. Though SouthSide was somewhat disappointed that she's not dancing in this movie or in a scene with Lynn Whitfield, Ms Pettiford said the whole experience was wonderful and felt so honored to work with her (Lynn Whitfield) on this project. Also she stated that Lynn Whitfield is one of the nicest people on earth ...never has a bad thing to say about anybody. Plus working with Marques Houston (in which you might know him as Roger from Sister, Sister), Ms Pettiford described him as a young man with a beautiful spirit ...an example of what a man should be. Also he served as a "big brother" mentor to the kids during filming, blogspot readers. Then SouthSide wanted to know if her rousing rendition of Marvin Gaye's Sexual Healing was scripted or ad lib for that particular part within Jumping The Broom. Alas, this reviewer was hoping it was ad lib but it wasn't. According to Ms Pettiford, that scene was thought up by the director and writers.
Speaking of Hollywood, SouthSide wondered with more African-American (as well as other minority) film production making a relevant presence in recent years do we as a race still have a long way to go before cracking through the "glass" ceiling. Ms Pettiford thought the question was a good one and did replied "...yes, we [in African-American race] have a long ways to go..." However, we are making strides and breaking ground with more African-American women taking lead roles in television series than males like Kerry Washington in ABC's Scandal and Loretta Devine in Lifetime's The Client List. Yet is it possible to win an Academy Award without being nominated for portraying the "bad" guy / anti-hero or the "help"? In her lifetime, she hopes so and believes some roles in a romantic-comedy should be recognized by the Academy to which she also stated that's across the board for all racial lines and genders. "...Thank goodness for the Golden Globes..." which does recognizes outstanding performances in a comedic roles for actor and actress. Still, she would like to see the Academy awarding someone for being a "good" guy for once. SouthSide and Ms Pettiford did discuss briefly about "blaxploitation" films, how it generated that sense of how cool it was to live in Harlem when actuality, it wasn't what the movies depicted in reality and how some of today's has that same effect on kids.
Now, don't ask Ms Pettiford who's her favorite in any subject - from jazz vocalist to actor/actress because that would be like asking SouthSide who's her favorite band/artist, blogspot readers. She loves SO many people especially those she has the pleasure to work with as an actress and dancer that she felt she might not mention someone's name in the list. Yet she did mention a few names to SouthSide like Della Reese, Betty Davis, Viola Davis (of The Help) ...believe this reviewer - the list go have gone on and on. With Jazz being her "love" when it comes to music, she does enjoy the classics like Nancy Wilson to Ella Fitzgerald and Doris Day as well as the upcoming modern stuff and all other genres. When singing classics like Nancy Wilson, she hopes people feel what she's feeling when adding her own personal spin to a song (for example The Very Thought of You or Call Me)...also hoping it will inspire a "jazz dialogue" with others about how the music touches their soul. Here's where SouthSide got the extreme chance of stumping her interviewee when asking if there was one artist (living or past) she could collaborate on her next album whom would it be. One name did come to Ms Pettiford's mind - Prince. Her first love, believe it or not, blogspot readers, is Rock and says if having an opportunity, she would like to work with Prince because she feels her vocal style and tone is right for his music. Now that would be a very interesting album to review indeed - Ms Pettiford does rock with original songs written by Prince.
This led to SouthSide asking about her new album Velvet Sky and why a collection of lullabies after her debut jazz album - Hear My Soul. That, according to Ms Pettiford, was the brainchild of her ex-husband who came up with the idea of doing original lullabies. Soon, he started recruited writers Ron Abel, Chuck Steffan, Jamie Wooten and Michael Orland who came up with 13 songs and Tony Radar to produce the project. Ms Pettiford said the lullabies are designed to help new parents bond and build connections through music and play with their babies. The album features a fun song to help putting baby to sleep to some game play with their little ones. Yet there's one song near and dear to her heart titled - My Miracle and it's for parents who have been trying unsuccessfully to have a baby and then successfully having one. For her, it was emotionally heartfelt to sing this particular song. Blogspot readers should be on the lookout for this new album of lullabies in September ...a perfect gift for expecting or already parents of young toddlers.
Alas, time did fly by super fast when engaged in a lively chat with Ms Pettiford, blogspot readers, and it was time for SouthSide to wrap up another On The Town exclusive interview. In parting, this reviewer discussed about being in the "business" i.e. music and acting to which she stated "...I'm in the business because I love it..."
Good words to remember - love what you do and do what you love, blogspot readers. For more information about Valarie Pettiford, visit her at http://www.officialvalariepettiford.com or follow her on Twitter - http://www.twitter.com/MissP160.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Friday, May 25, 2012
Tuesday, May 22, 2012
19 May 12
Banana, blogspot readers!
If you have kids in the age range of 2 to 5 years old, then you'll get the reference to a song that's now stuck inside SouthSide's head. On Saturday afternoon, she and her young daughter ventured deep into the heart of NATO protest "war zone" to cover a free kid's show at Record Breakers. This extra special in-store event featured the reggae/ska/soul band The Aggrolites (CA) performing their Yo Gabba Gabba hit, Banana (as well as others) before rockin' out an older crowd below.
The Aggrolites, taking time out to hang out with their much younger fanbase, rocked out Record Breakers in a mini semi-acoustic set just for the kiddies upstairs performing the Banana song (a Roy Ellis cover) within a rockin' reggae/ska/soul sound and music for everyone to enjoy. After munching on hot dogs and soda, the kids along with many of their parents sang this Yo Gabba Gabba tune while dancing to the island tempo beat. This reviewer liked this band's lively acoustic reggae sound and style featuring guitars (acoustic, banjo and bass) and a simple tom drum for that rhythmic beat even while in downtempo groove during this 30 minute performance. Though not performing from a ready-made set list for the kids, The Aggrolites did take requests to which they did other songs like Complicated Girl and Jimmy Jack for the adults in the audience as well as more kid songs - Work To Do (about climbing trees and being safe ...it's also cool counting song for the kids to learn about subtraction) and Free Time (which was featured in a film called Band Slam). The mini store performance concluded, blogspot readers, with a whimsical nursery rhymed song before having to say "goodbye" to their little fans.
For more information about The Aggrolites, visit http://www.aggroreggae.com.
SouthSide's friend Elle Quintana (who put this show as well as many others for Reggie's) is planning more shows like this one featuring other local artists/bands performing mini sets for the kids scheduled for near future.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
16 May 12
Hey, blogspot readers, ready to anime-nated?
Tonight at Reggie's Music Joint, it's a special pre-NATO rock show featuring the J-Pop/punk superheroes - Red, Yellow, Green, Pink and Silver of Peelander Z! They came to rescue Chicago fans from Mad Tiger and So Many Mike while rocking them with high engery of a fun punk/J-Pop/anime music combination. Yet with Peelander Z, it's more than just an ordinary rock show where you the audience simply watch them perform on stage. No, blogspot readers, you are part of the fun and action too. But before rockin' on planet Peelander Z, the crowd was treated to an epic performance of electronica/instrumental rock by Arc Impulse (http://www.arc-impulse.com). This local band powered their way with an exciting hour that featured renditions of video game themed songs from Zelda (2 and 3 included) Mario Cart as well as their own originals like Rainbow (a fantastical journey comprised of three songs rolled into one long epic masterpiece with some bars of Somewhere Over the Rainbow at the bridge). The electronic orchestra explosively filled the Music Joint with memorable gamer music, bursts of intense energy and momentum to the delight of the crowd especially when ending their show with a Rocky themed epic song.
They came from a distant planet in an uncharted galaxy far, far, far away called Peelander where everyone speaks Japanese, eats sushi and drinks saki, blogspot readers. And every so often, the colorful cast of anime-nated/punk musicians make perilous journey to Earth to whisk their Chicago (and elsewhere they roam) fans into the nether regions of the universe to experience a journey of music and fun. Peelander Z rocked out Reggie's Music Joint by incorporating the energy and sound of J-Pop with the intensity of punk rock and the action packed dazzle and fun of anime done live rolled into one hour of a performance. Yet, when you're having so much fun rockin' to songs So Many Mike, Mad Tiger and Lucha Libre (yes, it seems these "aliens" enjoy Mexican wrestling) like SouthSide was, it truly didn't feel such an amount of time had passed. Don't think just because the venue was a bit smaller that this band skimped on fun and excitement either. Peelander Z, though downscaling the rowdiness and action a little, still brought to their enthused fans everything that Peelander Z is known for. Whether it was participating in a group limbo line (how low can a group of adults go?) to jumping rope with Peelander band members and a Mad Squid ...or how about Mad Squid bowling and then baseball - there was something happening throughout this show. Believe SouthSide, all that and more happened inside this Southside venue, blogspot readers. There were moments of Red Z standing on the shoulders of a group of fans and then body surfing while playing his bass ...lucky fans rockin' stage on Peelander instruments and/or banging pans along with the band which truly intensified the crazy fun all around. Performing songs off their latest album, Space Vacation, Peelander Red, Yellow, Green, Pink and Silver also delighted their fanbase with favorites such as E-I-E-I-O, Learn Japanese and Ninja High Schooool (a retro rock-n-roll tune) as well as some new ones - Get Glasses, Space Vacation and Star Bowling. Still it wouldn't be a Peelander Z show without any mention of their favorite food to eat (besides sushi) like Taco Taco Tacos, Ice Cream! and S.T.E.A.K.(yes, there's a song about eating a medium-rare steak, blogspot readers!). Sadly, our journey had to come to an end but not before performing a goofy rendition of Cyndi Lauper's Girls Just Want Have Fun to Boys Just Want Have Fun. SouthSide highly recommends rockin' to the anime-punk style while doing some human bowling with SouthSide's friend Peelander Z. Visit this J-Pop/punk band at http://www.peelander-z.com.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Tonight at Reggie's Music Joint, it's a special pre-NATO rock show featuring the J-Pop/punk superheroes - Red, Yellow, Green, Pink and Silver of Peelander Z! They came to rescue Chicago fans from Mad Tiger and So Many Mike while rocking them with high engery of a fun punk/J-Pop/anime music combination. Yet with Peelander Z, it's more than just an ordinary rock show where you the audience simply watch them perform on stage. No, blogspot readers, you are part of the fun and action too. But before rockin' on planet Peelander Z, the crowd was treated to an epic performance of electronica/instrumental rock by Arc Impulse (http://www.arc-impulse.com). This local band powered their way with an exciting hour that featured renditions of video game themed songs from Zelda (2 and 3 included) Mario Cart as well as their own originals like Rainbow (a fantastical journey comprised of three songs rolled into one long epic masterpiece with some bars of Somewhere Over the Rainbow at the bridge). The electronic orchestra explosively filled the Music Joint with memorable gamer music, bursts of intense energy and momentum to the delight of the crowd especially when ending their show with a Rocky themed epic song.
They came from a distant planet in an uncharted galaxy far, far, far away called Peelander where everyone speaks Japanese, eats sushi and drinks saki, blogspot readers. And every so often, the colorful cast of anime-nated/punk musicians make perilous journey to Earth to whisk their Chicago (and elsewhere they roam) fans into the nether regions of the universe to experience a journey of music and fun. Peelander Z rocked out Reggie's Music Joint by incorporating the energy and sound of J-Pop with the intensity of punk rock and the action packed dazzle and fun of anime done live rolled into one hour of a performance. Yet, when you're having so much fun rockin' to songs So Many Mike, Mad Tiger and Lucha Libre (yes, it seems these "aliens" enjoy Mexican wrestling) like SouthSide was, it truly didn't feel such an amount of time had passed. Don't think just because the venue was a bit smaller that this band skimped on fun and excitement either. Peelander Z, though downscaling the rowdiness and action a little, still brought to their enthused fans everything that Peelander Z is known for. Whether it was participating in a group limbo line (how low can a group of adults go?) to jumping rope with Peelander band members and a Mad Squid ...or how about Mad Squid bowling and then baseball - there was something happening throughout this show. Believe SouthSide, all that and more happened inside this Southside venue, blogspot readers. There were moments of Red Z standing on the shoulders of a group of fans and then body surfing while playing his bass ...lucky fans rockin' stage on Peelander instruments and/or banging pans along with the band which truly intensified the crazy fun all around. Performing songs off their latest album, Space Vacation, Peelander Red, Yellow, Green, Pink and Silver also delighted their fanbase with favorites such as E-I-E-I-O, Learn Japanese and Ninja High Schooool (a retro rock-n-roll tune) as well as some new ones - Get Glasses, Space Vacation and Star Bowling. Still it wouldn't be a Peelander Z show without any mention of their favorite food to eat (besides sushi) like Taco Taco Tacos, Ice Cream! and S.T.E.A.K.(yes, there's a song about eating a medium-rare steak, blogspot readers!). Sadly, our journey had to come to an end but not before performing a goofy rendition of Cyndi Lauper's Girls Just Want Have Fun to Boys Just Want Have Fun. SouthSide highly recommends rockin' to the anime-punk style while doing some human bowling with SouthSide's friend Peelander Z. Visit this J-Pop/punk band at http://www.peelander-z.com.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Friday, May 18, 2012
12 May 12 - Nocturna
Hey, blogspot readers, it's the bewitching hour and SouthSide's night has just begun! After rockin' part of with The Future Laureates at SubT in Wicker Park, it was now time to dance til dawn in the Wrigleyville/Lakeview area at Metro with the other fashionable vampires.
In its 23rd year, this monthly event hosted by friends William Faith and DJ Scary Lady Sarah (also of The Bellwether Syndicate) spun featured requests (by the Facebook Nocturna group members) from industrial, dubstep and emo to techno, metal and more. This local club scene is nothing like the club scene along River North area - no one's dressing impress another just yourself. Whether it may be a pirate to ALex DeLarge (a Clockwork Orange reference) or post-industrial or something you create yourself. It's nice watching the reactions from those hanging out at the bars on Clark Street while walking towards Metro on Saturday/Sunday morning. Dressing "weird" in black does tend to keep a few from bothering you, blogspot readers.
SouthSide knows they don't understand that everyday is Halloween. While at Nocturna, this reviewer did her usual people watching before hitting the dance floor - she loved the array of fashions strutting or dancing around Metro. This monthly "meetin" attracts people of all ages as well as racial backgrounds and beliefs ...it's more like a "safe haven" where no judges on how you're dressing or dancing. And if you want to show off your best industrial or metal dance moves, Nocturna is the event to do it especially at this local venue. Plenty of dance floor to show your fancy footwork while rockin' to tunes like a remix of The Smiths' How Soon Is Now, New Order's Blue Monday or SouthSide's request Cyanotic's Alt_Machines.
Tonight's event had friend VVasher VVoman passing out some of her vegan chocolat s'mores - yummy and of course, Sarah's cauldron of sweets to keep dancers recharged with sugar between dance breaks. Yet besides the music, Nocturna also features local artisans from Lunasol Arts (http://www.lunasolarts.com and also on Facebook) displaying their fine handcrafted Goth jewelry, neck pieces and more for sale. Lots of pretty things to accessorize your Dark Shadows like this year, blogspot readers.
SouthSide highly suggests spending a Saturday night with the local "vampires" of Nocturna at the next monthly meeting to dance until dawn.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
In its 23rd year, this monthly event hosted by friends William Faith and DJ Scary Lady Sarah (also of The Bellwether Syndicate) spun featured requests (by the Facebook Nocturna group members) from industrial, dubstep and emo to techno, metal and more. This local club scene is nothing like the club scene along River North area - no one's dressing impress another just yourself. Whether it may be a pirate to ALex DeLarge (a Clockwork Orange reference) or post-industrial or something you create yourself. It's nice watching the reactions from those hanging out at the bars on Clark Street while walking towards Metro on Saturday/Sunday morning. Dressing "weird" in black does tend to keep a few from bothering you, blogspot readers.
SouthSide knows they don't understand that everyday is Halloween. While at Nocturna, this reviewer did her usual people watching before hitting the dance floor - she loved the array of fashions strutting or dancing around Metro. This monthly "meetin" attracts people of all ages as well as racial backgrounds and beliefs ...it's more like a "safe haven" where no judges on how you're dressing or dancing. And if you want to show off your best industrial or metal dance moves, Nocturna is the event to do it especially at this local venue. Plenty of dance floor to show your fancy footwork while rockin' to tunes like a remix of The Smiths' How Soon Is Now, New Order's Blue Monday or SouthSide's request Cyanotic's Alt_Machines.
Tonight's event had friend VVasher VVoman passing out some of her vegan chocolat s'mores - yummy and of course, Sarah's cauldron of sweets to keep dancers recharged with sugar between dance breaks. Yet besides the music, Nocturna also features local artisans from Lunasol Arts (http://www.lunasolarts.com and also on Facebook) displaying their fine handcrafted Goth jewelry, neck pieces and more for sale. Lots of pretty things to accessorize your Dark Shadows like this year, blogspot readers.
SouthSide highly suggests spending a Saturday night with the local "vampires" of Nocturna at the next monthly meeting to dance until dawn.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
12 May 12
"If you don't stick around for The Future Laureates, I'll wrestle you..."
Cobalt and The Hired Guns
There's no other like your own mother ...so treat her right
Hey, blogspot readers, this busy mom's rockin' out her Saturday night with not one but TWO shows! Tonight, SouthSide's hitting the streets going to two hot spots within Chicago's vibrant local scene where she celebrated a record release and then danced with the fashionable vampires til sunrise. And what an exciting (as well as busy) night it was during this latest On The Town adventure. First, this reviewer rocked Wicker Park's other hippest venue (that was once a Capone spot complete with hidden access tunnels), SubT (or Subterranean) while attending CAUDog's show featuring the release of The Future Laureates' Fortress Sessions CD. This amazing venue boasts a "crow's nest" view of what's happend on the main floor especially if reviewing the night's lineup performing on stage or if you want to get away from the crowd below. That's where you can usually find SouthSide, blogspot readers, up in the balcony and tonight, she was alongside with her longtime friend, Michael Teach of Chicago Acoustic Underground (http://www.chicagoacousticunderground.net).
CAU is every music fan's source for original indie music from across the United States and around the world. Michael and his hardworking staffers connects fans to the artists and vice versa through podcasts as well as music downloads, CDs and sponsored shows like tonight's. CAU's shows has showcased some of the best from singer/songwriters to full bands rockin' the local stages around Chicago like Brian Walker, Crystal Bowersox, Goodbyehome, The Future Laureates and more. Saturday's show was a record for SubT and CAU - a near soldout crowd thanks to hard work of the bands promoting this particular show. Also on the lineup in support of The Future Laureates' big occasion was Tree and friend Cobalt and The Hired Guns. SouthSide highly suggests rockin' the ears to the hip sound of "new" country/rock by the band - Tree. Lead by a dynamic female vocalist on guitar, this reviewer enjoyed the way this lively group rocked and rolled the packed main floor with upbeat tempos, rhythmic music and vibrant bursts of energetic momentum. Their style of country-folk mix brought a taste of hot summertime fun to SubT on a rainy night which also had this crowd demanding one more song when Tree's set was finished.
Then, SouthSide's friend, Cobalt and The Hired Guns continued with the night's rockin' theme of fun during their performance of alternative/pop/rock featuring an array of instruments in the band set up. The lively rhythms off the cello (at times), horn section and digital programming added those moments of boisterious music to pop the band's core alternative sound alive and kicking. However tonight, Cobalt added a female vocalist to the mix to counter as well as complement Tom on main vocals during certain songs featured off their upcoming new album. SouthSide, though couldn't physically hear her sometimes since she was overshadowed by the music, liked how her dynamic voice had the right range to be paired with Tom's heartfelt falsetto style during one particular song featuring a ballad-love song. The touching sentiments in between pockets of energy even while at the bridge where the music was intense to match the song's mood and tone could be felt besides being heard. Yet watch out, blogspot readers, when Cobalt and The Hired Guns truly get into the party mood while performing Of Summer. There's a wave of electro-energy and momentum flowing across the stage and into the crowd as they kicked up the vibrant bursts of music amidst an eclectic mix of alternative/punk rock sound. Yet what really surprised this reviewer was the band's switch out of their comfort zone into trying to be a straight rock band. And yes, Cobalt can actually be and have an ordinary rock band and sound when premiering a new new song as a test on the audience. Sans the horns and cello ...even without the digital programming, this band proved they can still rock the stage like a hardcore guitar rock band which also opens the vocals more. You can feel the emotional spite and fire especially Tom sang "...you never called at all..." - it was powerful but dynamic tone that gave SouthSide some shivers. SouthSide suggests rockin' the ears to More Than You Know and Like You Like Me Like Me as well as seeing them perform live again at Metro during their CD release show on June 16. This show will also feature friends How Far To Austin, Midwest Hype and Band Called Catch ...it's going to be hot 18+ show, blogspot readers. For more information, visit http://www.cobaltandthehiredguns.com.
After introducing Ellis Clark (producer of many CAU Dog Records artists' albums including TFL's Fortress Sessions) to the crowd packing the main floor, Michael Teach then introduced the honored guests of the night - The Future Laureates, blogspot readers. Even before hitting one note, the band first honored their own moms and other moms as well as thanking everyone for out to the show. Then, finally - they got down to the business rockin' out their headlining show with a BANG of music that featured an Irish whiskey song (Moonshine) and guests musicians like Christina on violin and Joe Redman on guitar. SouthSide thoroughly enjoyed the vibrant bursts of TFL's momentous sound (and there were plenty, blogspot readers) that kept everyone whether they were crowding around the balcony or on the main floor deep within the band's alternative/pop sound. And not only does this band excite musically but also vocally as proven in the opener Galahad's Song which ended in a round robin-like of harmonizing vocals seperately then together. Even the crowd has their favorite TFL band member to which they started chanting "James" during certain songs like Escape From the Shadows (featuring his bass solo). SouthSide doesn't know where to begin to say about the band, its music and/or the show because there were SO many fantastic moments that happened ...and she's amazed that she was able to jot notes and rock out with them at the same time. To fair, she did pick a few highlights that she feels were special in her opinion. For example, when performing Carry Me Away and Kingston Blues, TFL wonderfully demonstrated their bluesy side of their music via a ukelele inside a downtempo groove and intense falsetto vocals. Both songs not only had them dancing a tiny jig here and there but also had many in the crowd joining in the fun alongwith them, blogspot readers. TFL boasts an infectious rhythmic beat and upbeat tempos that will instantly grab you especially when adding some pseudo ska into the rhythms (Kingston Blues). And then having the crowd doing reggae moves (how low can you go under the limbo bar), this record release turned into a wild party! The next highlight came when the audience of voices joined with the band during their cover of Tom Petty's American Girl. Though this wasn't the only moment where you heard the crowd singing (Creative Differences), SouthSide picked this moment because of the heartfelt vocals on the lyrics while in a livelier upbeat tempo than its original counterpart. Still it was something to witness when hearing 99% of the entire venue in one voice singing this classic Petty song shaking the chandelier rafters of SubT. You had to be there, blogspot readers, to see and hear this moment. The other audience participation moment came during Crooked Third Wheel and the special hand clapping at the intro of the song ...plus more sexy dancing on stage. This reviewer will stop right here - she doesn't want to give too much away about TFL and their show. She does recommend rockin' their next live show and snagging a copy of Fortress Sessions. For more information, visit http://www.thefuturelaureates.com.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Cobalt and The Hired Guns
There's no other like your own mother ...so treat her right
Hey, blogspot readers, this busy mom's rockin' out her Saturday night with not one but TWO shows! Tonight, SouthSide's hitting the streets going to two hot spots within Chicago's vibrant local scene where she celebrated a record release and then danced with the fashionable vampires til sunrise. And what an exciting (as well as busy) night it was during this latest On The Town adventure. First, this reviewer rocked Wicker Park's other hippest venue (that was once a Capone spot complete with hidden access tunnels), SubT (or Subterranean) while attending CAUDog's show featuring the release of The Future Laureates' Fortress Sessions CD. This amazing venue boasts a "crow's nest" view of what's happend on the main floor especially if reviewing the night's lineup performing on stage or if you want to get away from the crowd below. That's where you can usually find SouthSide, blogspot readers, up in the balcony and tonight, she was alongside with her longtime friend, Michael Teach of Chicago Acoustic Underground (http://www.chicagoacousticunderground.net).
CAU is every music fan's source for original indie music from across the United States and around the world. Michael and his hardworking staffers connects fans to the artists and vice versa through podcasts as well as music downloads, CDs and sponsored shows like tonight's. CAU's shows has showcased some of the best from singer/songwriters to full bands rockin' the local stages around Chicago like Brian Walker, Crystal Bowersox, Goodbyehome, The Future Laureates and more. Saturday's show was a record for SubT and CAU - a near soldout crowd thanks to hard work of the bands promoting this particular show. Also on the lineup in support of The Future Laureates' big occasion was Tree and friend Cobalt and The Hired Guns. SouthSide highly suggests rockin' the ears to the hip sound of "new" country/rock by the band - Tree. Lead by a dynamic female vocalist on guitar, this reviewer enjoyed the way this lively group rocked and rolled the packed main floor with upbeat tempos, rhythmic music and vibrant bursts of energetic momentum. Their style of country-folk mix brought a taste of hot summertime fun to SubT on a rainy night which also had this crowd demanding one more song when Tree's set was finished.
Then, SouthSide's friend, Cobalt and The Hired Guns continued with the night's rockin' theme of fun during their performance of alternative/pop/rock featuring an array of instruments in the band set up. The lively rhythms off the cello (at times), horn section and digital programming added those moments of boisterious music to pop the band's core alternative sound alive and kicking. However tonight, Cobalt added a female vocalist to the mix to counter as well as complement Tom on main vocals during certain songs featured off their upcoming new album. SouthSide, though couldn't physically hear her sometimes since she was overshadowed by the music, liked how her dynamic voice had the right range to be paired with Tom's heartfelt falsetto style during one particular song featuring a ballad-love song. The touching sentiments in between pockets of energy even while at the bridge where the music was intense to match the song's mood and tone could be felt besides being heard. Yet watch out, blogspot readers, when Cobalt and The Hired Guns truly get into the party mood while performing Of Summer. There's a wave of electro-energy and momentum flowing across the stage and into the crowd as they kicked up the vibrant bursts of music amidst an eclectic mix of alternative/punk rock sound. Yet what really surprised this reviewer was the band's switch out of their comfort zone into trying to be a straight rock band. And yes, Cobalt can actually be and have an ordinary rock band and sound when premiering a new new song as a test on the audience. Sans the horns and cello ...even without the digital programming, this band proved they can still rock the stage like a hardcore guitar rock band which also opens the vocals more. You can feel the emotional spite and fire especially Tom sang "...you never called at all..." - it was powerful but dynamic tone that gave SouthSide some shivers. SouthSide suggests rockin' the ears to More Than You Know and Like You Like Me Like Me as well as seeing them perform live again at Metro during their CD release show on June 16. This show will also feature friends How Far To Austin, Midwest Hype and Band Called Catch ...it's going to be hot 18+ show, blogspot readers. For more information, visit http://www.cobaltandthehiredguns.com.
After introducing Ellis Clark (producer of many CAU Dog Records artists' albums including TFL's Fortress Sessions) to the crowd packing the main floor, Michael Teach then introduced the honored guests of the night - The Future Laureates, blogspot readers. Even before hitting one note, the band first honored their own moms and other moms as well as thanking everyone for out to the show. Then, finally - they got down to the business rockin' out their headlining show with a BANG of music that featured an Irish whiskey song (Moonshine) and guests musicians like Christina on violin and Joe Redman on guitar. SouthSide thoroughly enjoyed the vibrant bursts of TFL's momentous sound (and there were plenty, blogspot readers) that kept everyone whether they were crowding around the balcony or on the main floor deep within the band's alternative/pop sound. And not only does this band excite musically but also vocally as proven in the opener Galahad's Song which ended in a round robin-like of harmonizing vocals seperately then together. Even the crowd has their favorite TFL band member to which they started chanting "James" during certain songs like Escape From the Shadows (featuring his bass solo). SouthSide doesn't know where to begin to say about the band, its music and/or the show because there were SO many fantastic moments that happened ...and she's amazed that she was able to jot notes and rock out with them at the same time. To fair, she did pick a few highlights that she feels were special in her opinion. For example, when performing Carry Me Away and Kingston Blues, TFL wonderfully demonstrated their bluesy side of their music via a ukelele inside a downtempo groove and intense falsetto vocals. Both songs not only had them dancing a tiny jig here and there but also had many in the crowd joining in the fun alongwith them, blogspot readers. TFL boasts an infectious rhythmic beat and upbeat tempos that will instantly grab you especially when adding some pseudo ska into the rhythms (Kingston Blues). And then having the crowd doing reggae moves (how low can you go under the limbo bar), this record release turned into a wild party! The next highlight came when the audience of voices joined with the band during their cover of Tom Petty's American Girl. Though this wasn't the only moment where you heard the crowd singing (Creative Differences), SouthSide picked this moment because of the heartfelt vocals on the lyrics while in a livelier upbeat tempo than its original counterpart. Still it was something to witness when hearing 99% of the entire venue in one voice singing this classic Petty song shaking the chandelier rafters of SubT. You had to be there, blogspot readers, to see and hear this moment. The other audience participation moment came during Crooked Third Wheel and the special hand clapping at the intro of the song ...plus more sexy dancing on stage. This reviewer will stop right here - she doesn't want to give too much away about TFL and their show. She does recommend rockin' their next live show and snagging a copy of Fortress Sessions. For more information, visit http://www.thefuturelaureates.com.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Tuesday, May 15, 2012
11 May12
Hey, blogspot readers, it's a rockin' Friday night party for SouthSide! She's lost somewhere inside crowd of Wicker's Park hip rock venue to celebrate with her friend, Jon Drake & The Shakes during their "unofficial" official release of their new album, Dear Ulysses (coming out May 29). This show, presented by Grape Juice Records, also featured other rockin' performances within the Americana/folk/alternative rock genre by Rachele Eve and Frontier Rucus with a special appearance by Glad Fanny. Upon arriving, this reviewer was able to enjoy the final half of Froniter Rucus (http://www.frontierruckus.com) which rocked the stage with a lively Country/Western as well as a modern Americana/folk twist off their new album Eternity of Dimming featuring the song Black Holes. This band incorporated a wide range of organic sounds and rhythms (i.e. trumpet, mandolin, etc) to wonderfully blend their core music into vibrant bursts of energetic momentum amidst the heartfelt falsetto vocals by front man Matthew(who's also songwriter / guitarist on harmonica and pedal steel). Frontier's songs do tend to get lyrically intense and dramatic but the band matches that intensity with the jamboree-like music for everyone to kick up their heels and dance. Hopefully, this band returns again for a full review of their next Chicago show.
Now, blogspot readers, it was time to shake, rattle and roll the local scene's only mini organic Americana/folk orchestra. Usually, SouthSide gets to enjoy rockin' out with her friend Jon Drake & The Shakes during their annual outdoor performance at the Taste of Chicago. However, it was a treat for her to see them rockin' inside a venue in front of a packed house of family, friends and fans attending their "unofficial" official release of Dear Ulysses. What a rockin' party it was inside the Double Door tonight. Never had she seen this band shakin' and rollin' song after song that they were ready to take this party to a whole new level (if had the chance) all night long. What SouthSide enjoyed about this extra long set was how this band kept the crowd wrapped inside their vibrant energy and momentum from the moment they stepped on stage until the very last. There wasn't a moment of dead lull between songs - Jon and band had this crowd wanting more of that rockin' Shakes sound. Passionately performing songs off their previous releases and new album, this release show featured just more than lively danceable tunes like Rattles and Snakes and Gustav and dark haunting ballads (i.e. Mary and Margie) but also at times spotlighted Jon's intense vocal performance amidist the Americana/folk rock music. Yet with Jon and The Shakes, expect a little something added to the core sound - it's infused with other genres to please the ear of any music type. For exmaple, during one particular song, this band rocked the stage with a lively country jamboree-like sound continuously bursting with fun and energy while a bit later, they surrounding the crowd with a hauntingly dark yet moody Blues ballad to draw out the emotions inside the lyrics after rockin' the crowd with a melodic tone to spotlight Jon's heartfelt vocal style. Yes, even being melodramatic tends to be a good things while rockin' with The Shakes, blogspot readers, since it wonderfully allows their music to encompass you deep within the rhythmic vibe and Jon's dynamic vocals. And like an orchestra, this band places it's bursts of music energy and lulls at the right moment to generate that excitable crowd reaction each time especially when each member is within that moment of intense passion while performing. In SouthSide's honest opinion, this show had to be one of Jon Drake and The Shakes' finest moment since reviewing them nearly two years ago. She highly recommends getting to know her friend as you shake and roll along with them. For more information, visit them at http://www.jondrakeandtheshakes.bandcamp.com.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Now, blogspot readers, it was time to shake, rattle and roll the local scene's only mini organic Americana/folk orchestra. Usually, SouthSide gets to enjoy rockin' out with her friend Jon Drake & The Shakes during their annual outdoor performance at the Taste of Chicago. However, it was a treat for her to see them rockin' inside a venue in front of a packed house of family, friends and fans attending their "unofficial" official release of Dear Ulysses. What a rockin' party it was inside the Double Door tonight. Never had she seen this band shakin' and rollin' song after song that they were ready to take this party to a whole new level (if had the chance) all night long. What SouthSide enjoyed about this extra long set was how this band kept the crowd wrapped inside their vibrant energy and momentum from the moment they stepped on stage until the very last. There wasn't a moment of dead lull between songs - Jon and band had this crowd wanting more of that rockin' Shakes sound. Passionately performing songs off their previous releases and new album, this release show featured just more than lively danceable tunes like Rattles and Snakes and Gustav and dark haunting ballads (i.e. Mary and Margie) but also at times spotlighted Jon's intense vocal performance amidist the Americana/folk rock music. Yet with Jon and The Shakes, expect a little something added to the core sound - it's infused with other genres to please the ear of any music type. For exmaple, during one particular song, this band rocked the stage with a lively country jamboree-like sound continuously bursting with fun and energy while a bit later, they surrounding the crowd with a hauntingly dark yet moody Blues ballad to draw out the emotions inside the lyrics after rockin' the crowd with a melodic tone to spotlight Jon's heartfelt vocal style. Yes, even being melodramatic tends to be a good things while rockin' with The Shakes, blogspot readers, since it wonderfully allows their music to encompass you deep within the rhythmic vibe and Jon's dynamic vocals. And like an orchestra, this band places it's bursts of music energy and lulls at the right moment to generate that excitable crowd reaction each time especially when each member is within that moment of intense passion while performing. In SouthSide's honest opinion, this show had to be one of Jon Drake and The Shakes' finest moment since reviewing them nearly two years ago. She highly recommends getting to know her friend as you shake and roll along with them. For more information, visit them at http://www.jondrakeandtheshakes.bandcamp.com.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
Friday, May 11, 2012
07 May 12 - Music Conference Networking Reception
Hey, blogspot readers, it's all about making those important connections and creating long-lasting friendships while networking with others.
That was the central theme for those who attended tonight's Music Conference Networking Reception held at Wicker Park's hip rock venue, Double Door. Sponsored by Yellow Phone and Double Door, this free event hosted by David Silbough, Phil Kosch, Scott Zid, Nate Arling and Doug Johnson was the prelude to the Yellow Phone Music Conference happening in downtown Milwaukee, WI during the weekend of Sept 6 - 9, 2012. This four-day conference will feature a gathering of talented artists and music professionals engaging in panel discussions as well as mentor sessions with experienced leaders of the music industry. It's Yellow Phone's goal to bring together career-oriented artists and postive, forward-thinking leaders within today's music business within the best qualities of a large industry conference yet downsizing them into a concentrated experience. And that's what this event allowed many indie/local artists and bands represented to do ...mingle and network with others artists/bands, music management and even SouthSide for a few hours. Musicians like friends Damon Ranger (of Blackbox), Ryan Powers and Lisa (of Dot Dot Dot) as well as White Pine Wolverines Band and music fans like Rick were among many to meet other likeminded individuals to share their love for music and the thriving scene happening around Chicago. Perhaps, blogspot readers, we might see future collaborations between artists and/or bands that were represented tonight. For more information about the Yellow Phone Music Conference, visit http://www.ypmc.com.
And speaking of music, this event also featured rare acoustic performances by singer/songwriters Garrett Burns, Mars Argo, Aly Jados and K. Serra featuring DJ sets by the female duo - Lewis & Clark who keep attendees in a dancing party mood between acts and throughout the event. Though missing first two acts of the night, SouthSide did arrive to hear her friend Aly Jados rock the stage with a powerfully dynamic performance of intense female vocals.
Her heartfelt vocal tone truly touched the heart and soul, blogspot readers, especially during her opening song, City of Angels, where she vividly set the stage for an ear-popping sound of acoustic guitar rhythms and voice wonderfully matched together. Even while in a downtempo rhythm, Aly made the audience feel each heartfelt emotion within a fiery spirit sung off the lyrics to Secret Song but on the flipside, she kicked the soulful vocal tone up a notch or two to really hit the audience with some raw powress over the mic. With the acoustic tempo slightly matching her voice, you could still feel that fire dynamically popping the words to life especially when she said "...you make me feel...". Yes, this reviewer was definitely feeling what she was feeling. Performing other originals such as Helpless and It Is What It Is (both featuring more of Aly's raw yet soulfully dynamic voice), the true highlight of the night was her rendition of Alanis Morissette's You Oughta Know ...and all this reviewer can say after hearing her sing this cover - Damn, girl. Aly must have dredged up years of past relationships gone horribly bad to really knock the audience off their feet with such venomous vocal spite and angst ever to rock the mic. Between watching her facial expression and hearing her sing, you totally felt her frustration vividly expressed throughout each single word, blogspot readers. It was that intense. Aly will be performing again at Hard Rock Cafe on Monday May 14 as part of a special singer/songwriter night. Visit her at http://www.alyjados.com for more music and information.
Before calling it night, SouthSide was able to check out a part of K. Serra's (http://www.kserramusic.com) performance to which she performed a haunting yet melodic version of Jefferson Airplane's Somebody To Love. This reviewer enjoyed the organic essence feature through her percussion drumming amidst a soothing floetry of electronica music and her powerful vocals thus creating one intense spirit and energy from this rockin' combination. Hopefully SouthSide is able to review this artist for an upcoming On The Town review.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
That was the central theme for those who attended tonight's Music Conference Networking Reception held at Wicker Park's hip rock venue, Double Door. Sponsored by Yellow Phone and Double Door, this free event hosted by David Silbough, Phil Kosch, Scott Zid, Nate Arling and Doug Johnson was the prelude to the Yellow Phone Music Conference happening in downtown Milwaukee, WI during the weekend of Sept 6 - 9, 2012. This four-day conference will feature a gathering of talented artists and music professionals engaging in panel discussions as well as mentor sessions with experienced leaders of the music industry. It's Yellow Phone's goal to bring together career-oriented artists and postive, forward-thinking leaders within today's music business within the best qualities of a large industry conference yet downsizing them into a concentrated experience. And that's what this event allowed many indie/local artists and bands represented to do ...mingle and network with others artists/bands, music management and even SouthSide for a few hours. Musicians like friends Damon Ranger (of Blackbox), Ryan Powers and Lisa (of Dot Dot Dot) as well as White Pine Wolverines Band and music fans like Rick were among many to meet other likeminded individuals to share their love for music and the thriving scene happening around Chicago. Perhaps, blogspot readers, we might see future collaborations between artists and/or bands that were represented tonight. For more information about the Yellow Phone Music Conference, visit http://www.ypmc.com.
And speaking of music, this event also featured rare acoustic performances by singer/songwriters Garrett Burns, Mars Argo, Aly Jados and K. Serra featuring DJ sets by the female duo - Lewis & Clark who keep attendees in a dancing party mood between acts and throughout the event. Though missing first two acts of the night, SouthSide did arrive to hear her friend Aly Jados rock the stage with a powerfully dynamic performance of intense female vocals.
Her heartfelt vocal tone truly touched the heart and soul, blogspot readers, especially during her opening song, City of Angels, where she vividly set the stage for an ear-popping sound of acoustic guitar rhythms and voice wonderfully matched together. Even while in a downtempo rhythm, Aly made the audience feel each heartfelt emotion within a fiery spirit sung off the lyrics to Secret Song but on the flipside, she kicked the soulful vocal tone up a notch or two to really hit the audience with some raw powress over the mic. With the acoustic tempo slightly matching her voice, you could still feel that fire dynamically popping the words to life especially when she said "...you make me feel...". Yes, this reviewer was definitely feeling what she was feeling. Performing other originals such as Helpless and It Is What It Is (both featuring more of Aly's raw yet soulfully dynamic voice), the true highlight of the night was her rendition of Alanis Morissette's You Oughta Know ...and all this reviewer can say after hearing her sing this cover - Damn, girl. Aly must have dredged up years of past relationships gone horribly bad to really knock the audience off their feet with such venomous vocal spite and angst ever to rock the mic. Between watching her facial expression and hearing her sing, you totally felt her frustration vividly expressed throughout each single word, blogspot readers. It was that intense. Aly will be performing again at Hard Rock Cafe on Monday May 14 as part of a special singer/songwriter night. Visit her at http://www.alyjados.com for more music and information.
Before calling it night, SouthSide was able to check out a part of K. Serra's (http://www.kserramusic.com) performance to which she performed a haunting yet melodic version of Jefferson Airplane's Somebody To Love. This reviewer enjoyed the organic essence feature through her percussion drumming amidst a soothing floetry of electronica music and her powerful vocals thus creating one intense spirit and energy from this rockin' combination. Hopefully SouthSide is able to review this artist for an upcoming On The Town review.
Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide
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