April 2013

No foolin' you, blogspot readers!

April is here and so is SouthSide's (and HRH's) birthday along with the showers, tax deadlines and Administrative Professional Day. Oh yeah, don't forget to hug Mother Nature during Earth Day and plant a tree on Arbor Day. In the meantime, this reviewer highly recommends attending one (or more) of these events  rockin' the local scene ...near and far.

Please remember all shows are 21+ unless duly noted.

Every Saturday starting April 6 thru April 20, Jesse Charbonier will be performing live at the legendary Coq d’Or (located inside The Drake Hotel) with Adrian Joel Ruiz on piano and Alex Feldman on Bass as this jazz singer croons some your favorites (and not so famous) classic tunes by Chet Baker, Billie Holiday, Nat King Cole, Johnny Mathis, Frank Sinatra and more ...even some blues, Latin standards and Elvis too. 

NO Cover or reservations / 9p to 1a / it's all ages as long as those under 21 sit at the tables.

April 1:

Cobra Lounge – Unholy Empire presents Everything Went Black, So Many Ways, Genus and Arbogast rockin’ the stage at this West Loop venue

Hard Rock Café – Patti Rain will be part of the Rising Star Showcase presented by Michael Riser

Empty Bottle – Detective will be performing live here along with Walking Bicycles and Art Decade

FREE 

SouthSide will be attending

April 2:

Empty Bottle – check out Ducktails, Monopoly Child Star Searchers and Pet Lions rockin’ the lineup

Schubas – there will be some magic in the air when Magicks, Different Sleep and Sunny Shadows rock the stage

18+ / $8 adv / $10 dos

Logan Theater - so ya ...thought ya might like to go to the show ...well, SouthSide will be as she attends the CIMM Fest's April Do312 Meet Up with the screening of Pink Floyd's The Wall (how cool is that!?) featuring DJ sets by Edward (from Mazes and 1900) and Elia (from Scotland Yard Gospel Choir)

April 3:

Smartbar (Metro) -  check out the new weekly club night known as MACHINA with DJ Scary Lady Sarah

10p / NO COVER

Logan Theater - Wednesday Rewind presents Liquid Sky
$3 / 10:30p

April 4:

Koval Distillery (5121 N. Ravenswood) – take part in one of two special tours and tastings benefitting Rock For Kids. Enjoy a guided tour of Chicago’s first craft distillery since Prohibition as well as learn the distilling process for Koval’s handcrafted whiskey, vodka and liqueurs brandy.

100% of ticket sales and 10% of Koval sales will benefit Rock For Kids

$20 (tickets can be purchased at the door)

Tour spots are limited – reserved online in advance:

6:30p tour – http://www.j.mp/rfk-koval1

8:15p tour – http://www.j.mp/rfk-koval2

Subterranean – it’s the AEMMP Record Show featuring Apollo House, Audiences, American Wolf and Fox the Cat

Harte Saloon (Evergreen Park, IL) – Digeometric will be performing at Harte’s every first Thursday of the month that will feature two long sets of musical bliss

FREE

Mogger’s Brewery (Terre Haute, IN) – first of Papa J Otis’ monthly shows happening every 1^st Thursday

Beat Kitchen -  Counterfeit along with Thee Arthur Lane and Roach Beach will be performing here

$8

JD Muggs (Addison, IL) – The Fuckers will be rockin’ the stage

All Ages

Cubby Bear (Wrigleyville) - it's the Joe Marcinek Band's CD release show

Rockwood Music Hall, Stage 1 (New York, NY) - check out Jamie Kent performing live here

MID - Grammy Award winning producer Mark Ronson will be doing a rare DJ set with Zebo, Gus Karas, DJ Gordo and Torio.
Free before 11:30p with rsvp at http://www.clubtix.com

April 5:

Reggie’s – check out Makeshift Prodigy sharing the stage with Comasoft, Mighty Fox, The Bright White and Ship Captain Crew.

17+ show

SouthSide and guest will be attending

Goose Island – check out JIP rockin’ the stage here

$8

Red Line Tap – Chris and Dave of Cornmeal with special guest Dog1 will be performing on stage

$5 adv / $7 dos

Subterranean – it’s Giant, Bailiff and Panther Style rockin’ the stage at this Wicker Park venue

For tickets, visit http://www.ticketweb.com

Congress Theater – Riot Fest presents Bad Religion, Against Me!, and Polar Bear Club

All Ages / 6:30p doors

Marytrs – party with the Polkaholics as they open for March Fourth Marching Band

Bottom Lounge – I:Scintilla will be sharing the stage with Go Fight in this dual CD release party featuring Echodroides and Mend

17+ / $7 adv / $10 dos

Castle (formerly known as Excalibur) – Markus Schulz will be performing live here

Double Door – it’s the Rock and Wrestling Rebellion featuring a blend of burlesque, pro wrestling, live bands comedy, street art and more ...with Brutus the Barber Beefcake, Mr. 450, Ruff Crossing, El Chivas Blanco, Rinaldo Piven, Grin and The Ringmaster, Expired Empire, Simple Simon, and DJ Todd Anthony

$20

Beat Kitchen – Bassel & the Supernaturals will be sharing the stage with Red Green, Brother Ember and The Skinny

$8

MID – it’s MAYHEM featuring Moon Boots with Zebot and Gemini Club (DJ set)

FREE with rsvp at http://www.clubtix.com

Hard Rock Café Foxwoods (Ledyard Center, CT) – Joe Taylor will be performing live with his band featuring Sergio Ortega on guitar and backing vocals, Tony Tino on bass and Chris Infusino on drums

27 Live (Evanston, IL) – Every first Friday is Evanston’s Punk Rock Night presented by Wrecking Ball Production featuring The Mizzerables, The Cathy Santonies and Comman Control

$5 / 18+ / 8p

Shooters (Logansport, IN) – check out Voice of Addiction rockin’ the stage with Bo Jackson 5, Crosstown Collision and Bela Blacncato

FREE

Antone’s (Austin, TX) – it’s Confusapalooza 2013 featuring White Ghost Shivers, Whiskey Shivers, Clyde & Clem’s Whiskey Business, Whiskey Folk Ramblers, Ghost Wolves

$10 adv

Ye Olde Town Inn – check out Waxwork, Count Rugen and An Acoustic Machine at this venue

$6

Durty Nellie's (Palatine, IL) - it's Durty Nellie's 10th anniversary and Workout Music along with Lucky Boys Confusion are rockin' the party!
FREE show - for tickets visit http://www.facebook.com/dnellies
 

April 6:

Ultra Lounge – Jack Rabbit, Hero Monster Zero, The Middle City Sound and Magatha Trystry will be performing live here

$5 adv / $7 dos

House of Blues (Chicago) – Modestep 

17+ 

Tickets on sale now at http://www.clubtix.com

Kryptonite (Rockford, IL) – The Handcuffs will be partying live her with Susie Q

The Southgate House Revival (Newport, KY) – check out Vintage Blue performing live here

Another Hole in the Wall – check out Wrath, Big Nasty Kiss, Denial Machine and Before Dishonor 

All Ages

Now That’s Class (Cleveland, OH) – check out Voice of Addiction sharing the stage with Hot Ham and Cheese, Lorain Skum and Balloon Knot

18+ / FREE

Castle - Yelp Chicago's Elemental Experience celebrating the basic elements - Earth, Wind, Fire and Water! The event will feature Gemini Club doing DJ set and array of food, drinks and more by some of Chicago's best such as Koi, Jaafer Sweets, Peckish, RA Sushi, Moskato Lite, Olive Winery, Tito's Homemade Vodka, Action Booth to name a few.
Event is FREE (RSVP on http://www.yelp.com) with a $10 suggested donation with all proceeds going to Alumni for Public Schools and Delete Blood Cancer

The Parlor Room (Northampton, MA) - it's an acoustic Jamie Kent show at 7p and then an electric show at 9p

April 7:

Grant Park (Chicago) – Irish eyes are still smiling at the Shamrock Shuffle. For more information, visit http://www.shamrockshuffle.com.

April 8:

Cobra Lounge – Unholy Empire and Cobra Lounge present Air Raid, Hammerfight, Armored Assult and Miles From Exile rockin’ the stage

$5 / 8p

Empty Bottle – DJ Scary Lady Sarah along with Implodes, Population and Acteurs will be performing here

FREE

The Whistler – CHIRP (Chicago Independent Radio Project) will be having a benefit featuring live performances by the Hemmingbirds with Brooklyn act Les Racquet. There will be raffles and prizes – all proceeds going to CHIRP

FREE

April 9:

Underground Wonder Bar – France Jean-Baptiste and her Sexy Menz return to the stage

April 10:

Murphy’s Pub (Forest Park, IL) – check out Green Jello’s “Punk Rock Puppet Show” tour 2013 for an intimate show

$10 adv / $12 dos

April 11:

Liars Club – check out Blastoff rockin’ the stage here

Red Line Tap – Fred Eaglesmith and the Treaveling Steam show with James Curley

$15 adv / $20 dos

Elbo Room - Without Return will be performing here

Liar's Club - Blastoff, Napervillain, MILFs and The Likelihood will be performing live here
$5 donation or buy the band's drinks

April 12:

Swerp Mansion – check out Loma Prieta, Sin Orden, Itto and Droughts

$5 donation / “no booze, no drugs, no jerks” allowed

Double Door – The Chicago Outfit Roller Derby presents Spaghetti Wrestling. This roller derby team is hosting the event to raise money for their upcoming season as well as collecting non-perishable donations for the Chicago Food Bank

$7 adv / $10 dos

Hard Rock Café – Common Shiner will be sharing the stage with Cobalt & the Hired Guns, A Band Called Catch and The Empty Pockets

Penny Road Pub (Barrington, IL) – Cream fans attend this Badge show featuring Rebel and Goin South

Red Line Tap – Sara Hickman with Urban Twang and Christina Trulio will be performing live

$7 adv / $19 dos

Ebenezers Coffehouse (Washington D.C.) – check out Rachel Levitin with Mike Mangione & The Union

The Shrine - Raekwon with Guilty Simpson and MC ADad performing live

Congress Theater - Alesso with Adventure Club and Don Dada will be performing live here
For tickets, visit http://www.clubtix.com

The Sinclair (Cambridge, MA) - it's an acoustic duo show featuring Jamie Kent and Marc Broussard

Chris' Northland Tavern and Grill - it's SHIMMER! Shine along with the other Chi Gazers while dancing to shoegaze and dreampop with Scary Lady Sarah and Philly Peroxide
$5 / 9p
 

April 13:

Hard Rock Café – it’s the Warner Brothers iShowcase Music Event featuring Rebelmann in the lineup

Lakeshore Lanes (Michigan City, IN) – The Last Chance Boyz, No Shelter and Dirt Eater will be performing live here

$5 / sorry 21+ show and must show I.D. to enter

Subterranean - check out Blue Eyed Jesus rockin' the stage here

Goose Island Wrigleyville - swizzlesteve.com presents Gurg featuring Wook with Funbrella, Giants In La Mancha and DJ Funktopus
$5 presale tix / $8 dos

April 14:

Empty Bottle – Writer’s House Book Fair meets here featuring Mr. Mayor and The Highballers and Warm Bones

FREE with rsvp or $5 / 2p

April 15:

Dirtroom (Double Door) – attend the Dirtroom Comedy show Jon Griffin’s “Hilarity Will Hit Your Ear Tonight” featuring Danny Kallas, Emily Lake, Danny Black, Brandon Ruiz, David Michaels, Lindsay Adams and David Franks

$5 / 8:30p

April 16:

Dirtroom (Double Door) – Kobanes, Vatican Junkies and Pearl Driver rockin’ the lineup

$7

Reggie’s – check out Butterclock, Teen Witch, Magicks, Shuteye and Moon River in this hot lineup

17+ / $10 adv / $13 dos

April 17:

Gallery Cabaret – JD 3 along with Al Brookside and Angles and Fuselage will be performing here

Tonic Room – check out Four Star Brass Band rockin’ this Lincoln Park venue

April 18:

Shakori Hills Community Arts Center (Pitsboro, North Carolina) – it’s the Spring Shakori Hills Grassroots Festival of Music & Dance which will feature more than 50 bands and performers on 2 stages, a large dance tent and an intimate cabaret tent with local crafts, food and various activities for kids. Donna the Buffalo along with Big Fat Gap, Keller Willaims and The Travelin’ McCourys, Solas, The Horse Flies, John Brown’s Body, The Beast and Big Band (featuring Yomira John) and many, many more in the lineup.

For more information, visit http://www.shakorihillsgrassroots.org.

115 Bourbon Street (Merrionette Park, IL) – get sauced with The Hot Sauce Committee

World Cafe Live downstairs (Philadelphia, PA) - it's an acoustic show featuring Jamie Kent with Marc Broussard

April 19:

Bada Brew (Crest Hill, IL) – check out Wayward, Eye Empire, A.D.D. and Emperors Elephants rockin the stage

$10 adv

Empty Botle – it’s the Windy City Soul Club

Elbo Room – celebrate Wag’s birthday with him during a special performance

April 20:

House of Blues (Chicago) – Northern Borders Tour featuring Bonobo and Shigeto

17+

Tickets on sale now at http://www.clubtix.com

Lizard’s Liquid Lounge – attend The Unknown Pleasures with Planet Claire

Drink specials / Food / never a cover – come and celebrate 5 years

April 21:

SouthSide’s birthday

April 24:

TAC’s Lounge (5114 S. Prairie) – Pastor Funkpleez and his band The Pulpit Players make their debut performance of a solid mix featuring funk soul and house music. 

No cover / early arrival is suggested

April 26 & 27:

Empty Bottle – Killing Joke with Czar will be performing two sold out shows HOWEVER there will be limited number of tickets available at the door when Empty Bottle opens – first come, first serve

April 26:

Heaven Gallery – attend a concert showcasing some of Chicago’s best musicians Brandon Acker, Eliza Bangert, Michael Chatara-Morse, Ben McGunn, Brad Conroy, Karen Kulzer and more.

$10 suggested donation at door

Double Door – Soul Summit presents Ruby Velle and the Soulphonics plus Soul Summit DJs – DJ Dave Mata, Duke Grip and Sloppy White

FREE

The MID – Ghosthouse’s “Deep V” album release party with Porn & Chicken Dance Party, Zebo, DJ LA *Jesus and Sam Padrul

Red Line Tap – check out Marizen’s acoustic show during International Pop Overthrow

27 Live (Evanston, IL) - The Handcuffs will be opening for Legs McNeil with Black Laces
$6 adv on http://www.ticketfly.com/purchase/event/239439

April 27:

Soldier Field – it’s the 2013 American Cancer Society Walk & Roll Chicago ...please help create more birthdays! There are three ways to participate – 5k walk, 10k skate or 15k bike – individual or teams

For more information, visit http://www.walkroll.org

Yosemite Lanes (Modesto, CA) – KLANK will be performing live here

Double Door – celebrate Shoeshine Boy’s 13 Anniversary featuring Workout Music, Vintage Blue, Farraday and Chris Buehrle Band

$10 adv / $12 dos

Metro – come join the other fashionable creatures of the Nocturna crowd ...be one of them, a true hipster while dancing to the best of the highly requested-driven music (current and classic) goth, industrial, shoegaze, ethereal and more til sunrise (dawn). 

$10 / 18+ / 11:30p

Also, SouthSide will be officially celebrating her birthday here.

Look for updates in a future calendar blog...

Until next time, support your local scene,

SouthSide

13 Mar 13 - Rococode

Oh, no - the Canucks (not the hockey team) are invading Chicago ...again, blogspot readers! This time it's Rococode (from Vancouver, British Columbia) on their US rockin' the stage at Double Door along with other bands More Gorgeous and The New Diet featuring a very special late performance by Zombies In the Basement. Besides reviewing Rococode's performance, SouthSide was able to exclusively interview Andy and Laura of Rococode to discuss with them about the band's debut album, Guns, Sex and Glory, the music and if they could take Justin Bieber back to Canada. No such luck on the latter, blogspot readers...

 

It's fun interviewing two people from the same band because you get contrasting answers especially when asking them to define their band in five (5) words or less. Andy described Rococode as "...melody ...gonegothic ...twists and turns..." while Laura said "...harmony ...sonic-textures ...rock rhythms..." Meanwhile this reviewer after seeing their entire Double Door debut had this to say about them "...haunting powerpop ...aria-toned Canucks..." It was amazing to hear such of a vibrant mesh of sounds and textures amidst calming lulls and electrifying riffs flowing throughout Rococode's set, blogspot readers. At times, you were lured into that calming effect and sound before before viciously assaulted (in a nice way) by the blast of percussion and keyboards. Then there were other times when your ears were intrigued by the haunting feel and tone of this Canadian band's melodic tempo and harmonizing rhythms all at once. For Rococode's music being so dark and mysterious, blogspot readers, it does have a way of being danceable pop with a few sparks of energy tucked inside the instrumental. SouthSide enjoyed how each band member performed on stage under a spell of intense momentum not only from the instruments but also vocally whenever the lyrics called for a strong, dynamic feel on the words from Andy and/or soft chilling sensation from Laura. The contrasting lyrical style to SouthSide is what fuels Rococode's enigmatic presence and dark mysteries within their powerpop sound.

 

Each song had it's own complicated yet unique sound and style though you could still hear Rococode's core sound interwoven around the basic melody. It's main job is not only to lure the ears deeper into the band's vibe but draws you closer to the vocalists' (whether it's Andy and Laura or just Laura) words especially when highlighting Laura's softness for that "ghostly" feel, blogspot readers. To say, you might get shivers from some of Rococode's song may be an understatemnt unless you're listening to Ghost - the most haunting number but brief number performed during this set. This reviewer instantly felt the spine-tingling chills running down her back while listening to Laura's voice go into an aria mode on the lyrics that left a lasting effect of creepiness in the bones. *shivers* Believe it or not, blogspot readers, according to the band, that was the intended goal for the song. SouthSide highly suggests checking out the video for Ghost on their YouTube page as well as listen to Empire and title track, Guns, Sex and Glory. This reviewer asked Rococode the meaning behind the debut album title to which Andy replied "...those are the things that drives the world in a negative way..." sort of a tongue-n-cheek kinda thing of being retrospective. Then Laura added "...it's nice to put a contrast out there for the listeners..." since some people thought the album was hip hop or something you would seen done by 50 Cent or Jay-Z.

 

Ideally, Rococode was going for the Radiohead standard since according to Andy "...that's the bar.." set for the band but they also look to St. Vincent as an inspiration too, blogspot readers. They like bands who are making what Laura dubbed as "ballsy" pop music - it's not your average or ordinary type of sound but the type that's taking a risk and creating something new and different. You definitely can hear that with Rococode. For example, during one particular song, the band took a basic 80s pop sound flipping it to add more of an electric powerpop vibration and keyboard rhythms while in the in next the ears were give a harsh dose of fast-paced electric reality which gave off a dynamic rush of a thrill ride. That's what many fans can expect when Rococode wraps up their tour before heading back to Canada. The band disclosed to SouthSide they have new songs recorded that are going to be free for all and should have a new record out sometime next year as well as writing more new stuff. This reviewer did ask Andy and Laura what the music scene is like and they said it's "...a flourishing scene..." though being "...a small community across the country..." They do have a Canadian version of SXSW called Canadian Music Week in Toronto.

Before ending the interview, Andy and Laura told SouthSide that they were having a good time while on tour "...everyone's been really nice..." also adding that "...gas [here] is cheaper ...everything is cheaper here..." It takes about 90 Canadian dollars compared to 50 US dollars to fill up their van, blogspot readers. Though they didn't have time to see the (Cloud) Bean or ride on Lake Shore Drive, Rococode did get a chance to see Mount Rushmore. Hopefully, they do return when the weather is a bit warmer or during the summetime when Chicago is alive with neighborhood/street festivals.

For more information, visit http://www.rococode.com.


Until next time, support your local scene,
SouthSide

10 Mar 13

Allo ...allo, blogspot readers!

London's calling and has royally invaded the shores of Lake Michigan once more with another exciting all British (tribute band) rock show!

Tonight, inside the hall of the world famous Double Door, Americans relived memories while groovin' to the era that brought them the powerful vibe and sounds of psychedelic blues/rock as each band performed their greatest hits on stage. This swingin' party included such performances by Cream (Badge), Deep Purple (Deep Shades of Purple), Robin Trower (The Nick Bell Band) and Pink Floyd (In The Flesh).

The night got off to a rockin' start with fine renditions of Cream songs such as Sweet Wine, White Room and more by the fabulous members of Badge. And, SouthSide's happy to report that fans weren't disappointed, blogspot readers. This trio wonderfully recreated the sounds and feel of what was Cream's heyday when this Brit band dominated the music charts with its blues rock riffs and rhythms featured in Crossroads, Badge and SouthSide's favorite, Strange Brew. Yes, chickie birds, this reviewer was righteously groovin' on the dance floor especially during Sunshine of Your Love before Badge ended their set with an homage to Alvin Lee of Ten Years After with I'd Love to Change the World.

Then, the only Deep Purple tribute band in Chicago (perhaps in the US), rocked everyone's face off during the gritty, electrifying sound waves felt and heard throughout this set, blogspot readers. SouthSide along with other fans enjoyed the thrilling rush of Deep Shades of Purple's rendition of classic hits like Highway Star and Smoke on the Water. There was high intense energy song after song that featured epic guitar riffs and psychedelic keyboard wizardry done in the Deep Purple style as heard in the instrumentals ...and what a rock high this reviewer felt while dancing to some of her favorites -  Hush (a hit Deep Purple didn't write) and My Woman From Tokyo.

And continuing with another electrifying performance was The Nick Bell Band performing the classic epic hits of Robin Trower, blogspot readers. What a hot performance which had smokin' guitar riffs throughout the instrumentals amidst the poetic lyrics found in songs like Bridge of Sighs and Day of the Eagle ...and a cowbell. Yet, it was the deep, raspy falsetto vocals by Richard which had this reviewer swooning with electric fever especially while hearing The Fool and Me. She felt the heated rush rising from the guitar's crescendo thus allowing the ears to soak up every note as the band "made love" to every note during the instrumental of this particular song before ending it with a dazzling display of heart-pumping music to drive the audience around her wild. Many had fun reliving their glorious Robin Trower moment by shouting their favorite song for the band to perform. Even the Double Door's lighting effects did a wonderful job adding to the rock experience for this band (as well as the others before them).

The orgasmic "O" finally happened for this reviewer when the headliner In The Flesh opened with one of her many favorite Pink Floyd songs - Run Like Hell (from The Wall) as members dressed the part with the hammer patches behind their "wall". SouthSide does suggest taping down the box tops to make them not so obvious to the audience's eye that they are boxess used as bricks for the wall. Anyway, blogspot readers, she was a little hard on this particular band than the others because Pink Floyd is one of her favorite rock bands and there was a discerning eye as well as attention to every tiny detail that is Floyd during this set. She knows and lives the songs like Us and Them and Money (off Dark Side of The Moon), though not really liking the added instrumental "fluff" to the song but the cool Floyd vocalist did pop the words to life with his charismatic style and stage persona. However what made In The Flesh uniquely different was this band didn't just perform the standards (i.e. the entire The Wall or Dark Side of the Moon). They took a daring chance performed the entire amazing parts of Shine On You Crazy Diamond (despite the rough audio feedback off the electric) and Wish You Were Here. Yet the happy moment for SouthSide was when they did Floyd's poking fun at politics - Pigs (off Animals) ...she wonders how good is this band's version of Dogs...

Besides the hot rockin' Brit music, blogspot readers, SouthSide spent a few moments getting to know the woman behind the fabulous yet fashionable display of jewelry near the entrance of  Double Door. For over 25 years, Venus Lane Designs  has been adorned around the necks or wrists of such famous rockers like Jimmy Page (of The Who), Steven Tyler (of Aerosmith) ...sports celebrities like Dennis Rodman and band members of Hessler and The Last Vegas. Billed as "...spiritually alive wearable art..." as seen on her business card, this reviewer asked Venus what was her secret behind many of her jewelry designs to which she replied "...I don't draw them out..." but did say that she gets inspired by objects like feathers (even before it became fashionable these days), rocks, and other materials she finds. "...[I've] been collecting stuff since I was a little girl ...started with my grandmother who was an actress..." also adding that her pieces take on an Native American inspiration. SouthSide noted that Venus' jewelry have a professional appearance and style to them however, she learned that Venus herself through "...a lot of trial and error..." Venus would like everyone to know that her jewelry is "...one of a kind..." and that she doesn't "...make the same piece twice..." "...some [pieces] are similar ...some are very feminine and masculine..." says Venus to which she states that every piece has a person vibe. She also can make a custom piece of jewelry for you, blogspot readers, featuring a broken piece from another or an heirloom. For more information, visit http://www.venuslanedesigns.com.


Until next time, support your local scene,



SouthSide

March 2013 update

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

 

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

 

Tonight (March 8):

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

$5 adv / $8 dos

 

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

 

March 9:

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

$5 entry (with printed flyer)

 

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

18+ / 21+ to drink / $10

 

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

 

March 10:

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

FREE

 

March 14:

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

 

March 15:

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

$5 adv / $7 dos

 

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

$5

 

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

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

17+ / 21+ to drink 

 

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

 

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

$15

 

March 16:

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

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

 

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

18+

 

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

17+

 

March 17:

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

 

March 21:

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

$5 suggested donation

 

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

$10

 

March 22:

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

$10 / doors at 8:30p

 

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

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

 

March 23:

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

 

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

 

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

$10

 

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

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

 

March 25:

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

$5 adv / $7 dos

 

March 27:

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

 

March 29:

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

$10 / All Ages

 

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

$10

 

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

After party details to be announced

 

March 30:

Red Line Tap - Michael McDermott performs live with Kevin Mileski

$15

 

 

Until next time, support your local scene,

SouthSide

06 Mar 13

 

“...food and housing is a right ...not just for the rich and white...”

Power to the people, blogspot readers!

 

This evening, SouthSide’s taking a break from covering the local scene to focus more on the socio-political side of things happening around town. She alongwith hundreds of others walked the line in front of the 46 aldermanic office in the Uptown neighborhood. This grassroots public display of peaceful protesting crossed many dividing lines such as gender, race, income background, neighborhood, ages and non-profit organizations ...all united together for a common cause – to say “NO!” to Alderman James Cappleman’s war on the 99%. Those who attended this gathering aren’t against seeing this neighborhood redevelop economically but it’s the way this particular politician is doing it by eliminating social programs and aide which serve the homeless as well as the poor to working poor in the area.

And that, blogspot readers, is wrong.

“...we’re Uptown ...we won’t back down...”

Though this protest against Alderman Cappleman may have started after allowing an IN farmer to trap and use pigeons as shooting targets according to recent news reports, but it goes way deeper than that. SouthSide was given a flyer during the protest rally that demonstrates the length this politician has gone (and would go) to keep Uptown rapidly moving forward to regentrification. And to make this very clear – what’s about to be said next is public record, blogspot readers, even though he wasn’t available for comments. Alderman Cappleman opposed a senor bulding (the Ruth Shriman Senor Building located at 4040 N. Sheridan) because HE claimed it would [not only] add to crime in the neighborhood but [also] block their sunlight. Another example – HE tried to have Cornerstone Shelter shut down by claiming the building was unsafe as well as fought the proposal for affordable housing at the Wilson Yards by circulating literature and spreading fear and hate falsely claiming that the Wilson Yard was a plan to build another “Cabrini Green” (one of Chicago’s infamous CHA housing projects) in Uptown.

“...that man [Alderman Cappleman] is crazy...”

However, there were two major issues of recent date that has many who came out tonight hot under the collar ...or let’s just say, hot under the soup ladle. Recently, the Salvation Army, a Christian-based non profit organization, was targeted by Alderman Cappleman because of its service feeding the homeless (as well as low income and moderate residents) from a food truck. Captain Nancy Powers, Salvation Army Corp Officer, stated that “We’ve asked Alderman Cappleman for a follow-up meeting concerning the truck situation but we’ve yet to hear back from him. We hope that he’s sincere in his latest statements that he welcomes our services in the Uptown area.” Yet on the other hand, a spokesperson for the alderman, Chief of Staff Tressa Feher, had this to say: “We haven’t heard from Capt. Powers about furthering our meetings. The Alderman will be in his office during the protest but we’re uncertain it he’ll address the rally.” However, to put this demonstration in a different light, co-organizer and volunteer for Rogers Park Food Not Bombs, Peter Hoy, said the organization is an international movement “...that believes food is a fundamental human right...” citing that local chapters of Food Not Bombs would stand in solidarity with the people of Uptown and also promising to “...share meals in the ward to protest the Alderman’s war on the poor...” He also added, “...if they kick out the Salvation Army, we will be there to make sure the meals don’t stop.”

And it doesn’t stop there, blogspot readers, the alderman also wants to close down two of the last transitional living quarters. the Chateau and the Wilson Men’s Club, in this neighborhood. Even though promising not to, he’s in favor of supporting a development plan at the Maryville property that would give a subsidy of up to $32 million in TIF funds to a developer who, according the flyer printed by Northside Action for Justice, is proposing to build an 800 unit, high rent building. Meanwhile, this far northside community is losing hundreds of housing units like the Norman (located 1325 W. Wilson) that could be affordable to low income residents. See, blogspot readers, this fight in saying “NO” to Alderman Cappleman was merely more than just saving needed services for one select group(s) of people. They were trying to save an entire community by fighting this politician and his supporters bent on wiping them away. Yet, you don’t have to take SouthSide’s word on this ...no, you might get a better understanding if you hear it from the people she interviewed during the protest.

“...No soup for you!”

People like Lair Scott, fellow organizer and CEO of Queer Fest America, has utilized every Uptown social service including the Salvation Army. On Monday, he marked 5 years of being independent after lifing himself out of chronic homelessness. Meet, Edward who currently resides in the Wilson Men’s Club had this to say when asked how he felt about the turnout for the protest “...[I] think it was great...” while Jeremy who works at a homeless shelter said “...there’s a perception that good things aren’t happening at the shelter I work at...” adding he knows the people who sleep under the viaduct and/or in the shelter. According to him, the shelter has a lot of success helping people for example like one person he mentioned to SouthSide who signed his lease today. “...there are good things happening all of the time...” but when asked about Alderman Cappleman and what he’s doing, he stated “...he wants us to do it his way ...there’s not enough housing in the city...” Then, there was “Marie Antoinette” holding her “Let Them Eat Pigeons” sign throughout the protest ...she was, blogspot readers, quite the attraction of the day. This reviewer when asking “Marie” why this particular costume, she replied “...I saw a parallel with the lack of interest in the poor from the French Revolution...” Besides demonstrating and picketing in front of the Alderman Cappleman’s office, there was also feeding the protesters and others with hot soup and chili, blogspot readers, in which SouthSide spoke briefly with Nells from Food Not Bombs organization (from Rogers Park) for her thoughts about tonight. She answered “...think it went well ...both neighborhoods [Rogers Park and Uptown] are facing regenification...” also adding that it was an “...amazing turnout for a Wednesday night ...I’m really excited...”

After the peaceful demonstation was “officially” over, SouthSide could see seeds of networking and where to take this fight next sprouting amongst the mini gatherings large and small as people shared, discussed and planned with each other. This, blogspot readers, was socio-political activism at work and in action ...even some right in front of the Alderman Cappleman’s windows where a few jeered and taunted those sitting inside. “It’s sad that he [Alderman Cappleman] wants to target the poor and this protest will represent only the beginning of many protests to come.” says Lair Scott in a press release dated Monday. There will be another meeting in which the public is invited to attend the Northside P.O.W.E.R. on Sunday March 10 from 6:30p to 8p at Willye White Field House (located 1610 W. Howard St., in Chicago). The topic of the night will be “...It’s just Common Sense to invest in the Common Good... – 2/3 of corporations in Illinois PAY NO INCOME TAX! If they’d pay their fair share, Illinois would not have to make devastating budget cuts...”

 

 

Until next time, support your local scene,

SouthSide

 

01 Mar 13

 

Vintage Blue at sound check

Road trip!

Yep, that's right, blgospot readers, SouthSide has embarked on her first ever road trip away from Chicago's local scene for the bright college lights of Madison, WI! And boy, did this reviewer witness some things that she'll never forget. She along with a few fans, band Vintage Blue, a penguin and banana (more about those two in a minute) invaded the dairyland up north to rock out the stage inside High Noon Saloon. This venue, a stone's throw from the Wisconsin's capitol building and University of Wisconsin, offered a certain rustic charm of a Western-style saloon with dual bars on other side. There's plenty of balcony space to sit and observe the floor show below as well as video games (pinball machine too) and pool tables to keep you entertained between bands. And the main thing SouthSide enjoyed the most was High Noon's frosty cold bottles of root beer! Overall, blogspot readers, this place was quite relaxing ...friendly but be forewarned - it's definitely a college party bar too. Many of  U of W students hang out here so do expect some wild party times happening inside this bar like it did on Friday night.

 

Ifdakar rockin' the stage

Besides, Vintage Blue, tonight's lineup also featured performances by Ifdakar, Evergreen and Asparagii. Sadly, this reviewer wasn't able to stay for the entire show but she did catch part of Ifdakar's wild, tripped out set that not only was accompanied by art in motion but also a penguin and banana rockin' with the other shiny happy people to the eclectic hardcore psychedelic guitar rock, blogspot readers. What can SouthSide say? Except you have to check out this band. Never had she seen a band create instant reaction and motion to their band in a heartbeat ...these college kids (and some older adults like this grandma) were totally electrified and hyped to Ifdakar's vibrant instrumental groove especially during the epic-sounding first song. This reviewer while enjoying the weirdness happening around her (and she definitely means "weirdness") also delighted seeing a local artist creating his masterpiece ...bringing this portrait of a woman to life from the music he felt and (probably) heard from the band and it's digital-wizardry fusion. Each Ifdakar piece performed had its own unique sound, definition, rhythmic tone and more without losing a single melodic beat as it kept this crowd of bodies erratically gyrating (now insert the "weirdness" here) in front of the stage as well as near the back. Whew ...it was somewhat exhausting trying to keep up Ifdakar but they're definitely worth a listen, blogspot readers, especially if it's a live performance.  For more information about this band, visit http://www.ifdakar.com.
 

"Like to say they had beautiful sax together..." ~ Ben of Vintage Blue

 

SouthSide highly suggests checking out her new friend, Vintage Blue for the band's heartfelt yet energizing pop/alternative rock that featured harmonizing vocals and a hot horn section to jazz up the band's core sound a little. Only 1 year and half old as a band (that also opened for Sister Hazel during last year's Summer Fest), Vintage rocked the stage with plenty of toe-tappin', feel good music sound that had the audience swaying to the rhythmic beat after opening the set with a rousing organ vibe during Alone. And let's not forget the cowbell (oh, you gotta have MORE cowbell!) adding fun amidst the steady tempo within Here To Stay until the horns blasted vibrantly during Set You Free across the stage to really rev up this dancing audience to life. She was wowed by the harmonies especially from Katie who had some in the audience wanting to hear more from her whenever this vocalist popped the words to life. Now SouthSide isn't big on bands doing covers during their sets however there's always an exception to that rule ...and Vintage Blue was that exception, blogspot readers. This local band didn't simply perform these hit songs like their original composition or as heard on the radio. No, Vintage played around with the songs ...sometimes meshing together a couple of stanzas from a song or two thus turning them into an entirely different song though consisting of the same subject. For example, check out their mesh of eclectic funk/soul/blues while performing Wheatus' I'm Just A Teenage Dirtbag before moving into Fountain of Wayne's Stacy's Mom and then Huey Lewis & the News' Power of Love (which featured the lovely yet soulfully divine Kate on lead). This rockin' mesh definitely had the audience groovin' now ...including a grandma showing off her best moves! Even their closer, Unchained Medley consisted of the original song before hearing David Bowie-Freddie Mercury's Under Pressure and Vanilla Ice's Ice Ice Baby merging into it. Yet what truly made this particular song interesting was hearing the three different songs being lyrically sung individually at the same time. This reviewer recommends listening to Vintage's Speaker (a downtempo song but with enough kick to keep you dancing to the rhythms) and Chicagoan (which had some down home blues mixed by the funk and spunk within the alternative rock sound). For more information about Vintage Blue and where this band will be performing next, visit http://www.reverbnation.com/vintageblue.

 

Until next time, support your local scene,

SouthSide