Wire Archives - Chicago Reader

Another chance for a Bandcamp binge to help musicians

by Leor Galil July 1, 2020August 18, 2021

Even as Illinois reopens, artists and labels remain cut off from major sources of income—so Bandcamp is again waiving its cut of sales.

Music

Nearly 50 years after they formed, Wire are still doing it right

by Luca Cimarusti June 19, 2020August 18, 2021

Before I first press play on an “aging punks still at it” record, I try to prepare myself for the worst. Whether the band in question have retained only one original member in a completely retooled lineup (like present-day Gang of Four), or replaced their figurehead (like the Misfits did in the 90s), or awkwardly […]

Music

Pioneering postpunks Wire continue to chart new ground on Mind Hive

by Monica Kendrick February 22, 2020August 18, 2021

In 1987, British punk and postpunk pioneers Wire pulled an unforgettable power move: After a few years’ hiatus, the band reconvened and announced a comeback tour. However, they were only interested in their new electronic material and refused to perform any of their beloved early songs. So they booked a Wire tribute band, the Ex-Lion […]

Music

Thirty years is a long time to live with a Thrill Kill Kult

by J.R. Nelson and Leor Galil April 25, 2018August 18, 2021

Thirty years for My Life With the Thrill Kill Kult, ten years for White Mystery, six years for the All Smiles hip-hop showcase, and more

Music

Chicago rapper the Boy Illinois headlines his first show since dropping the triumphant Windy EP

by J.R. Nelson and Leor Galil January 29, 2018August 18, 2021

Chicago rapper the Boy Illinois headlines his first show since dropping the triumphant Windy EP, three current and former Chicagoans set a piece of Finnegans Wake to music, and more.

Music

Forty years on, Wire continue to hone their postpunk attack to an elegant point

by Peter Margasak September 8, 2017August 18, 2021

It’s mind-boggling to me that Wire released their revolutionary debut, Pink Flag, four decades ago—and that there was a time when each new album from the band felt like it had the potential to change the postpunk landscape. That’s long since ceased to be the case, and sometimes I take for granted that Colin Newman […]