Best known as Anderson .Paak’s backing band, the Free Nationals are masters of fusion, with the ability to blend various strains of pop music past and present into mellifluous tracks that dependably set a chill mood. On their 2019 self-titled debut (released by OBE/Empire), they refashion modern funk, boogie, and yacht rock into a backdrop […]
Tag: Chop Shop
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Part of a complete bloody breakfast on the gig poster of the week
This week’s featured gig poster is a collaboration between local artists Kaitlyn Beiriger and Frank Okay.
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Ian’s Party starts the year off right with three days of local bands
Since debuting in 2008, Ian’s Party has evolved from its humble suburban punk origins into an annual Wicker Park-based mini fest showcasing underground Chicago artists (though there are always a few acts from the greater midwest thrown in for good measure). Over the years it’s grown in ambition and in its commitment to inclusivity and […]
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After 20 years in the game, the Lawrence Arms are a full-on Chicago punk institution
The Lawrence Arms were born out of the same suburban punk network that gave us Slapstick, Alkaline Trio, and Rise Against, and for the past two decades they’ve been working to become the quintessential Chicago band. The trio’s aesthetic is so specific and well-worn that it can come across as self-parody: three white dudes, including […]
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’Tis the season for antisocial noise rock
Local noise-rock bands Den and Salvation drop new albums this week, Epworth United Methodist hosts an experimental music festival, and more.
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Bodymilk Tapes invites a crowd of queer and trans musicians to Noise Prom II
Bodymilk Tapes invites a crowd of queer and trans musicians to Noise Prom II, the Chicago Humanities Festival hosts a discussion of Jim DeRogatis’s new R. Kelly book, and more.
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Tara Terra front woman Emily Blue drops a newly expanded solo synth-pop EP
Tara Terra front woman Emily Blue drops a newly expanded solo synth-pop EP, singer-songwriter Marian Runk celebrates a vivid, folky debut album, and more.
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Xtal Fsck play a noise show that you can put your face in
Xtal Fsck play a noise show that you can put your face in, Babes Only teams up with Chicago Votes for a smooth preelection party, and more.
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Guitarist and soul singer Isaiah Sharkey warms Chicago up for his next album
Guitarist and soul singer Isaiah Sharkey warms Chicago up for his next album, the Humboldt Park Orchestra celebrates five years with a tribute to women in salsa, and more.
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Honoring the vanishing musical culture of Wicker Park
In some ways, Dorian’s is just one more boutiquey bar and restaurant. But its record store and music bookings connect it to Wicker Park’s 1990s arts community.
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The Looney Toons have seen better days on the gig posters of the week
This week’s featured gig posters were designed by Milwaukee-based artist (and former Chicagoan) Francisco Ramirez.
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Stories from Chicago’s favorite rock ’n’ roll clusterfuck
Underground rock festival Ian’s Party is run mostly by volunteers, which helps it feel like a community instead of a branding exercise.
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Jump into an ocean of mezcal during Mexico in a Bottle
More than 100 agave spirits will be poured on Sunday, October 15.
Posted inBlogs
There’s a supercool hot rod on the gig poster of the week
This week’s featured gig poster was designed by local artist (and Sueves member) Joe Schorgl.
Posted inBlogs
White Mystery share the first track from their latest reason to look forward to spring
This weekend Chicago garage rockers White Mystery debut the title track of their eighth annual 4/20 release—and play the Burger Revolution at 1st Ward.