Radio One Chicago

Welcome to Ashley to Reunite for One-Off Show

2012-02-25T18:04:00.004-06:00

Chicago post-punk group Welcome to Ashley will be reuniting for a one-off show at Township (formerly Pancho's), 2200 N California, on Friday, March 16.

WTA was building steam after the release of 2010's Beyond the Pale when drummer Sherrlia Bailey had to leave the band to take care of a family matter. The remaining members (Coley Kennedy, Pete Javier and Jeremy Barrett) soldiered on with The Buddies, an Irish punk side project.

Several weeks ago, The Buddies drummer, Kim Collins, was diagnosed with breast cancer (there is an online fundraiser here), and Welcome to Ashley decided to step in for the Township gig, which was originally offered to The Buddies.

WTA will be joined by Pistols at Dawn and Fly Over State at Township, and the group will be interviewed on WLUW on Thursday, March 15, at 7PM.

For more info and tickets to the Township show, click here.

Terrible Spaceship: Zontar the Thing from Venus!

2012-02-24T16:29:00.004-06:00

Chicago-based sci-fi super group Terrible Spaceship are landing at Martyrs' on March 9 to debut the new multimedia project Zontar the Thing from Venus!

"Zontar" reaches deep into the depths of 1960’s movie schlock and pulls a cinematic orchestral dance party out of it.

Drawing heavily from public domain scientific documentaries and animations from the era, the performance video also includes clips from the ridiculous and wonderful film itself.

Terrible Spaceship features members of Bumpus, Dance Floor Plans and Any Kind.

Purchase tickets here; Zontar commands it!

Sunday

2012-02-16T20:50:00.002-06:00

Sunnyside Up And The Teflons Are Cooking Up A Post-Brunch Bash At Fitzgerald's On February 19th

Bill Fitzgerald heard the call of these two visionary musicians, and he has opened up his club in Berwyn, IL every year for the past four years for this two-band bash, and the response has been wonderful. Crowds have been a mixture of string-band enthusiasts who come to cheer on the tasty licks and tight harmonies, dancers who like to cut a few squares at the end when Barb calls a dance, and families looking for some fresh fun that does not challenge young ear-drums.

Sunday, Feb. 19 from 1-4PM CST at Fitzgerald's, 6615 Roosevelt Rd. in Berwyn, IL. The event is all-ages, $12 for adults and $2 for kids.

Guitarist...

2012-02-13T10:06:00.000-06:00

Briar Rabbit Celebrates Black History Month With The Great Routine

2012-02-09T12:44:00.002-06:00

Briar Rabbit (AKA Phillip-Michael Scales) has recorded a suite of songs entitled The Great Routine and is marking February's observation of Black History Month by making a track available for free download once a week.

The Great Routine follows an ambitious and controversial theme through four tracks plus an instrumental reading of "Swanee River": black-face minstrel shows (popular entertainment in the late 1800s/early 1900s) and their cultural legacy.

Today (and for the next week) Briar Rabbit has the title track from The Great Routine available for download at his official Website, and new tracks drop on Feb. 16 and Feb. 23. On Saturday, March 3, Briar Rabbit will be performing at 4th Annual Windy City Winter Ball.

The Damn Choir to Play Chicago Mixtape Anniversary Show This Saturday

2012-02-08T17:06:00.002-06:00

The Damn Choir will be joining The Shams Band, Architecture and Elephant Gun at Subterranean this Saturday, Feb. 11. This hot evening of music will raise funds for Chicago Mixtape, and WLUW is proud to be a sponsor of the show! CMT is now one-year old and it is time to celebrate! For tickets and more info, click here.

Dance Floor Plans to Open for Juno What?! @ Martyrs'

2012-02-08T16:17:00.002-06:00

Local funk/soul outfit Dance Floor Plans, led by James Johnston, will be opening for Denver-based electro-funk band Juno What?! at Martyrs' this Friday, Feb. 10.

Johnston is a familiar face to Chicago music fans, having led the popular group Bumpus, and is currently playing guitar with indie pop sensations Clip Art. DFP is a fine addition to his stellar resume.

For show tickets and more info, click here.

NONAGON

2012-02-05T19:41:00.001-06:00

RECORD RELEASE SHOW

with two great bands who are good friends of ours:

NONAGON

RADIANT REPUBLIC

(brilliant, layered volume from Chicago)

WEREWORM

(minimalistic instrumentalists from Milwaukee that somehow make you smarter as you listen)

QUENCHERS SALOON

(dear to our hearts, ears, and livers)

2401 N. Western Ave., Chicago

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 1Oth

9pm doors. Music at 10 or so.

$5 donation

Chicago's Voodoo Kings @ LiveWire Lounge, 2/11!

2012-02-03T13:18:00.002-06:00

Local Americana outfit Voodoo Kings are scheduled to kick off a solid bill of punk-leaning surf rock, country rock and rockabilly at Polish rocker bar LiveWire Lounge on Saturday, Feb. 11.

VK will open for fellow Chicago bands Royal Son of a Guns and The Alder Kings. Nashville hillbilly punks Jason and the Punchnecks headline.

Voodoo Kings hit the stage at 9PM and this should be a late and rowdy night of music! There is a $5 suggested donation at the door.

Sunnyside Up to Headline After-Brunch Bash @ Fitzgerald's on February 19th!

2012-01-27T17:20:00.004-06:00

For the fifth consecutive year, local bluegrass/country swing outfits Sunnyside Up and The Teflons will be providing the musical entertainment for the After-Brunch Bash at Fitzgerald's in Berwyn.

The family-friendly event, which will also feature a barn dance, is open to all ages with kid's tickets (ages 12 & under) priced at $2. Adult tickets are still a reasonable $12 for an afternoon of down-home entertainment. For tickets and more info, click here.

Midwest Hype to Support Badfish @ HOB Chicago

2012-01-24T15:22:00.002-06:00

Midwest Hype is following up their sold-out record release show at Schuba's Tavern by supporting wildly popular Sublime tribute band Badfish at House of Blues Chicago on Saturday, Feb. 4. Scotty Don't and Full Service round out the bill. For tickets and more info click here.

Midwest Hype will be Radio One Chicago's in-studio guests on Thursday, Feb. 2 at 7PM CST.

Jane Thatcher Back in Chicago for EP/Video Release @ Hideout, 1/26

2012-01-18T16:32:00.002-06:00

Singer-songwriter Jane Thatcher was making a name for herself on the Chicago folk/acoustic scene last year before she relocated to Salt Lake City to take care of a family matter. On Thursday, Jan. 26, she will return to the windy city to perform at The Hideout with Machine Gun Mojo and Liza Day.

Thatcher and her band, The Pretty Pleases, will be celebrating the release of a live EP and debuting a video directed by Roberto Serrini. For tickets and more info, check out this link.

Briar Rabbit and The Sometimes Family to Join Clip Art Residency @ Schuba's!

2012-01-18T15:20:00.002-06:00

Two weeks in, the Clip Art January/Practice Space residency at Schuba's Tavern has been drawing respectable crowds and getting lots of press.

Next Monday, Jan. 23, Clip Art will be joined by Briar Rabbit (pictured) and The Sometimes Family, a charming indie pop outfit that includes Clip Art's bassist, Steve Schuster.

For tickets and more info, click here.

The Luck of Eden Hall Drops Butterfly Revolutions, Vol. 2

2012-01-12T13:18:00.003-06:00

A companion piece to last year's acclaimed Butterfly Revolutions, Vol. 1, BRV2 once again proves that The Luck of Eden Hall is one of the most underrated psych outfits in Chicago.

TLOEH has been knocking around the windy city on and off since the late 80s. At one time, they were headlining Metro and sharing stages with Material Issue, Green and other local luminaries. In the 90s, they could count Jim Derogatis and Billy Corgan as fans. Last year's BRV1 has received universal acclaim and radio airplay (including WLUW) all over the world.

Butterfly Revolutions Vol. 2 picks up nicely where Vol. 1 left off (quite literally with that album's final track, "Queen Anne's Lace"). BRV2 has all of that song's beautiful, spaced-out moodiness.

BRV2 opens with "Metropolis," a psychedelic ode to Fritz Lang's silent film masterpiece of the same name. By track four, the wonderful "North Hampton Woods," The Luck of Eden Hall is channeling the best elements of The Dandy Warhols, circa Come Down. The midpoint of the album, "Henrietta Lacks a Smile," is absolutely stunning; a melancholy, piano-driven charmer. "Revolutions," the shortest track on the record, recalls Love and Syd Barrett-era Pink Floyd. The ultra cool "We Are Not Self Control" benefits from dream time vocals and warm, fuzzy guitar. Album closer "A Drop in the Ocean," is epic space rock in the vein of Spiritualized.

The Luck of Eden Hall will be appearing on the Razor & Die show on WLUW tomorrow (Jan. 13) at 5PM CST. The official record release for Butterfly Revolutions, Vol. 2 will take place at Abbey Pub on Friday, Jan. 20. Tickets and more info here.

Local Bands to Light Up Chicago Bluegrass & Blues Festival, 1/28

2012-01-11T15:29:00.004-06:00

Now in its fourth year, the Chicago Bluegrass & Blues Festival is an established entity in the windy city, bringing national acts to the Congress Theater and other local venues for a celebration of American roots music.

On Saturday, Jan. 28, the Congress will host headliners The Drive-By Truckers and Dawes, along with support courtesy of some of the best folk, alt-country and blues rock bands in Chicago.

Joining DBT and Dawes on the main stage will be folk troubadour Joe Pug, psych/blues outfit Bailiff and slick country rockers Van Ghost.

Side stage and balcony performers include the raucous Shams Band, soul-rock rebels Great Divide (pictured), Go Long Mule and the wonderful Paper Thick Walls.

For complete line-up, set times, tickets and more info, click here.

Clip Art Kicks Off Schuba's Residency Next Monday, 1/9!

2012-01-04T18:40:00.002-06:00

Photo by Brad Meese

As previously reported, Chicago's Clip Art has a weekly residency at Schuba's Tavern this month. The "Practice Space" residency kicks off next Monday, Jan. 9, at 8PM and continues every Monday until the end of January. The first night includes support by folk-pop band Any Kind and the gloriously goofy Algebro. The show is ages 18+ and only $6!

Clip Art will be a special guest on WLUW's Radio One tomorrow night between 8-8:30 PM.

.everlene.: Well hello!!

2011-12-31T15:10:00.000-06:00

.everlene.: Well hello!!: Hi! Welcome to our new website/blog! It's pretty rough right now, but we'll be working pretty hard on it so it will look a lot better soo...

Light Foils

2011-12-29T19:51:00.001-06:00

Mutts-Pray for Rain CD Review

2011-12-26T14:50:00.002-06:00

Chicago's Mutts released their full-length debut, Pray for Rain, late in 2011, but the album still managed to get the attention of college radio and select blogs before the holidays. We are happy to weigh in on this amazing, if divisive, collection of songs as the year races to a close.

Pray for Rain opens with "Fool," and it is clear from the noisy intro and band leader Mike Maimone's Tom Waits-style growl that we are in for one hell of a ride. "Not Ready" and "D.O.B." continue the pattern: cigarette-stained vocals, barroom piano and heavy drums and bass rule the day.

"Save Us" slows things down a bit; a taste of honey in the whiskey-soaked proceedings. "Throwback" tosses in some fuzzed-out organ; "Truth" flirts with glam rock and power pop; "Done it Again" reminds listeners that Maimone also pounds the keys for fellow Chicagoans Bailiff; "Real Bright" has a Beatles Jones; "Jessy" has a weakness for blues, funk and soul; "Show of the Century" is 44 seconds of circus nightmare teasing for call-to-arms closer "Putting on a Show."

Pray for Rain, like the Mutts stage show, is not for everyone. The album is too thick and greasy for most pop fans. That said, if you like music with some grit and noise, the album flails and lurches with enough gonzo abandon to make one punch-drunk after listening.

Mutts play The Empty Bottle on Monday, Jan. 23.

Top 10 of '11

2011-12-24T18:55:00.000-06:00

What's your top 10 of '11?

I'll be posting mine soon!!

Common Shiner Two Point "Oh" @ Double Door, Jan. 11

2011-12-22T16:57:00.002-06:00

Chicago (by way of Grand Rapids) indie pop group Common Shiner will be previewing songs from their upcoming album, Before They Sold Out, Part Two, at Double Door on Wednesday, Jan. 11 at 9PM.

The band is dubbing the evening "Two Point Oh" and promises full-band versions of some older acoustic tunes and additional material that they have never performed live.

Common Shiner will share the Double Door bill with Little Big Fat, Bobcat Williams, Michael Lux and the Bad Sons and Simpleton & City Folk. The entire evening of music will only set concertgoers back $1 and the show is 21+. Tickets are available here.

Wine From the Moon Presents @ The Hideout, Jan. 6

2011-12-21T13:59:00.002-06:00

Wine From the Moon rings in the new year with a strong bill at The Hideout on Friday, Jan. 6!

The Chicago-based management company will host three top bands: Nature Show, Kory Quinn & the Comrades and Jonas Friddle and the Majority for the super reasonable price of $8.

Nature Show will be using the headlining gig as a release for their new CD, which features the stellar single "Escape Attempt." Direct support comes courtesy of Kory Quinn & the Comrades, who do protest music in the tradition of Pete Seeger, Phil Ochs and early Dylan. Openers Jonas Friddle and the Majority are similarly rootsy, if not as overtly political.

Purchase tickets here for this 9PM/21+ show.

Midwest Hype Celebrates Dayglow EP @ Schuba's, Jan. 5

2011-12-20T18:05:00.003-06:00

After playing a rock solid set at this year's North Coast Music Festival, stakes are high for locals Midwest Hype.

The seven-piece rock/rap/reggae crew is putting the finishing touches on their new Dayglow EP, and will celebrate its anticipated release with a show at Schuba's Tavern on Thursday, Jan. 5. Advance ticket sales are going briskly, so buy tickets now before the show sells out. Tickets are $10, but for an additional five spot you can get a copy of Dayglow on CD. Kindred spirits Otis open the show.

Clip Art Announces January 2012 Residency @ Schuba's Tavern!

2011-12-16T13:32:00.003-06:00

Starting on Monday, Jan. 9 2012, Clip Art will headline a weekly residency at Schuba's Tavern. Clip Art is led by Andy Rosenstein, who also plays keyboards in JC Brooks & the Uptown Sound.

Each week of the Monday night residency will feature unique Clip Art sets, special guests and some top local bands as support. Check out the schedule below and tune in to Radio One on WLUW for a Clip Art in-studio, Thursday Jan. 5 at 8:30 PM CST.

All shows are 8PM/$6/18+

1/9: Algebro + Any Kind
1/16: Dick Prall + Paper Thick Walls
1/23: Briar Rabbit + The Sometimes Family
1/30: Baby Teeth + Jennifer Hall

The Luck of Eden Hall-Metropolis

2011-12-13T17:05:00.002-06:00

Chicago psych group (and Radio One favorite) The Luck of Eden Hall are giving us a sneak peek of their upcoming Butterfly Revolutions Vol. 2 with this video for the first single, "Metropolis."

The video uses footage from Fritz Lang's 1927 silent film Metropolis to startling effect. Dig the expressionist images and haunting musical score, courtesy of TLOFH!

The Damn Choir @ The Burlington This Friday!

2011-12-12T15:28:00.003-06:00

The Damn Choir will be direct support for Briar Rabbit at The Burlington this Friday, Dec. 16. The Grand Rapids-based group Crane Wives round out the bill.

The Burlington, which opened its doors in 2007, began as a bar/lounge but has been booking live bands as of late. This show will be 21+ with a suggested donation. Doors open at 8PM.

The Damn Choir will be releasing their sophomore album, You're My Secret Called Fire, in spring 2012.

The Buddies to Play Free Show @ Empty Bottle, 12/22!

2011-12-05T17:46:00.002-06:00

Chicago/Nashville "stupor-group" The Buddies (ex-Welcome to Ashley/Pale Blue Dot) will bring their hard-drinking live show to Empty Bottle on Thursday, Dec. 22!

The band has a new CD called F*ck the Buddies, which recalls the heyday of pub rock (Elvis Costello, Ian Dury, Nick Lowe, et al) with healthy doses of rockabilly, Irish punk, southern rock, Stones boogie and Replacements swagger.

The show is FREE with RSVP (rsvp@emptybottle.com) and will feature support by local roots rockers The Dirty Pigeons.

Mutts to Celebrate Record Release @ Sub-T This Thursday!

2011-11-28T14:31:00.002-06:00

Local gonzo rock trio Mutts will celebrate the release of their upcoming CD Pray For Rain with a show at Subterranean this Thursday, Dec. 1.

Mutts will headline with support by the atmospheric Hemmingbirds, rock/prog/glam outfit Glittermouse and St. Louis indie pop group Sleepy Kitty.

The show will be 21+ and $7 with doors at 8PM. Click here for tickets!

Henhouse Prowlers to Present Bluegrass Pitch-In @ Mayne Stage Tonight!

2011-11-25T13:34:00.002-06:00

Chicago pickers Henhouse Prowlers are celebrating Black Friday by teaming with Mayne Stage and the Greater Chicago Food Depository tonight for the Bluegrass Pitch-In!

Chicago Farmer will warm up the crowd for the headlining Prowlers and reps from GCFD will be on-hand to take donations (canned goods and non-perishable items) and share information about how concertgoers can help end hunger in Cook County.

This is an all-ages show with doors scheduled at 6:30 PM; tickets are $18.

100% Silk Tour Chicago w/ LA Vampires, Magic Touch and More!

2011-11-14T14:35:00.002-06:00

The Minimal Beat and L.A.-based label 100% Silk are hosting a dance party at Q4 Loft, 1000 N Milwaukee Ave, on Saturday, Nov. 19.

Catch live sets by L.A. Vampires, Ital, Magic Touch, Octo Octa and Innergaze (10PM-2AM); DJs from Silk and Minimal Beat spin until 4AM.

Doors open at 9PM and this is a 21+ event.

I Lost Control to Play Free Show @ Double Door, 11/16

2011-11-11T17:27:00.002-06:00

Chicago gloom rockers I Lost Control will be headlining a free show at Double Door next Wednesday, Nov. 16.

L.A.'s Burial at Sea will be direct support and the night is sponsored by Budweiser (so it would be safe to assume that cheap suds will be on hand). This is a 21+ show and doors open at 8PM.

Final Flamenco Collaborations for 2011!

2011-11-03T16:48:00.003-05:00

Las Guitarras De Espana are presenting their final 2011 installment of the bi-monthly "Flamenco Collaborations" series at Mayne Stage this Saturday, Nov. 5 at 7:30 PM. The night will feature performances by Iranian guitarist Mehran, Syrian cellist Kinan Abou-afach and Flamenco dancer Wendy Clinard. For tickets and more info, click here.

Akasha is opening for The Toasters @ Subterranean on Nov. 3!

2011-10-27T14:33:00.003-05:00

Local Reggae stars Akasha will be direct support for NYC Ska legends The Toasters at Subterranean on Thursday, Nov. 3! For tickets and more info, click here.

MP Shows and Wine From the Moon team for Halloween!

2011-10-21T12:41:00.002-05:00

MP Shows and Wine From the Moon have joined forces to present an eclectic program at Ultra Lounge just in time for Halloween!

On Saturday, Oct. 29, the booking agency and management company are sponsoring a Halloween show with indie pop group Briar Rabbit, folk rock outfit Paper Thick Walls, noisy Canadians Sandman Viper Command and rootsy locals Jonas Friddle & the Majority.

Tickets and more info here for this 21+/$8/9 PM show!

Matt Ryd and Xoe Wise @ Martyrs' 10/26!

2011-10-17T16:05:00.002-05:00

Chicago-based singer-songwriters Matt Ryd and Xoe Wise just wrapped up a national tour together and will be playing Martyrs’ on Wednesday, Oct. 26.

Matt Ryd is best known for his song “Healed,” which was featured on the much-loved TV series Scrubs. Xoe Wise is performing behind the critically acclaimed album Echo, and she has shared the stage in the past with John Legend, Colbie Caillat, Lisa Loeb, Greg Laswell and Andrew Belle. Matt and Xoe will be interviewed on-air at Radio One Chicago this Thursday, Oct. 20, at 7PM. For more info on the Martyrs' gig, click here.

the Paver - this Saturday

2011-10-06T15:29:00.003-05:00

This Saturday, the Paver will play a show at Treasure Town which is located at 2106 S. Kedzie. Show starts at 8pm.

They should have their latest release in hand!

Chicago CMJ Sendoff @ Ultra Lounge, Oct. 15

2011-10-06T15:18:00.002-05:00

Our good friends at MP Shows and Wine From the Moon are teaming with a slew of other local music business organizations to send Paper Thick Walls, The Damn Choir, Kellen & Me and Radiation City to NYC for CMJ's annual fest. This party is going down at Ultra Lounge on Saturday, Oct. 15. Buy your tickets right here.

Flamenco Fusion Coming to Martyrs' Next Thursday!

2011-10-04T18:24:00.002-05:00

El Payo, Las Guitarras De Espana and Mehran are joining forces for a night of "Flamenco Rock N' Rumba" at Martyrs' on Thursday, Oct. 13 at 8PM.

El Payo is a popular Rumba/Nuevo Flamenco-Fusion group based in Chicago. Their distinct sound is infused with elements of rock, salsa, ska, reggae and, of course, some Flamenco.

Las Guitarras de España has been featured on Radio One several times. Their newest album, Tantas Cosas, has been getting some major attention in the Windy City and beyond.

Mehran is an Iranian born Flamenco guitarist. His quintet plays Flamenco influenced by jazz and Middle Eastern music. His recent CD Angels of Persepolis has been praised by Vintage Guitar Magazine and by Barry Cleveland, editor of Guitar Player Magazine.

For tickets and more info click here.

The Luck of Eden Hall @ Red Line Tap this Friday!

2011-09-26T14:50:00.002-05:00

Veteran Chicago psych-pop band The Luck of Eden Hall has been keeping busy as of late with a new album, video and a slew of songs (originals and covers) on various UK compilations.

Chicago heads can catch The Luck of Eden Hall at Red Line Tap this Friday, Sept. 30. This is a $5/21+ show with support from The Ewing Theory, Maza Blaska and Solemn Meant Walks. For more info, click here.

Wine From the Moon Presents @ Subterranean, 9-27

2011-09-23T12:12:00.003-05:00

Our good friends at Wine From the Moon are keeping busy with showcases at venues all over Chicago. The next one brings local synth-rockers Bring Your Ray Gun, Montreal orch/folk band Bent by Elephants, rural goths Paper Plant and eccentric piano popper Kelsey Wild to Subterranean for a night of new music on Tuesday, Sept. 27. More info and tickets are here, and WFTM is offering a free mixtape with a track from each band.

Classic Moments in Jubilee Showcase

2011-09-22T22:55:00.010-05:00

Produced and hosted by Sid Ordower, Jubilee Showcase was broadcast on WLS Channel 7 in Chicago from 1963 to 1984. The Emmy-winning series was celebrated for bringing television audiences some of the best roots gospel music of the time, from The Staples Singers (featuring a very young Mavis Staples) to The Mighty Clouds of Joy to the "acknowledged inventor of gospel music," Thomas Dorsey.

Classic Moments in Jubilee Showcase collects some of the best moments of the series on a single DVD, split into two illuminating sections.

First, there is the "Learn About" documentary section with background information on Sid Ordower, a civil rights activist and gospel ambassador, and new interviews with Mavis Staples, Sid's son (and DVD producer) Steven Ordower, Jessy Dixon and others regarding the history of Jubilee Showcase and the artists that performed on the show.

Secondly, the "Shows" section collects four original episodes with strong performances by The Staples Singers (the bluesy "Wish I Had Answers"), The Soul Stirrers (the near rock 'n roll "Resting Easy"), Andre Crouch & the Disciples (the soulful, piano-driven "Just Like He Said He Would") and Jessy Dixon (the traditional church number "Wait on Jesus").

Classic Moments in Jubilee Showcase is a "must own" for gospel music fans, Chicago music/television enthusiasts and lovers of the true roots of soul. For more info, check out the official Jubilee Showcase Website right here.

Akasha Presents: Simmer Down Sundays @ Double Door!

2011-09-20T12:51:00.002-05:00

It's on again this Sunday, 9/25, at Double Door: Reggae heavy weights Akasha present "Simmer Down Sundays" with guests Nic the Graduate, Illuminati Congo, Rad Brian of Impala Sound, King Tony of The Drastics, Selector Kate and movies courtesy of Odd Obsession!

9PM/21+/FREE (more info here)

Music and Movement @ Mayne Stage This Saturday!

2011-09-19T15:16:00.002-05:00

Mayne Stage, a theater in Rogers Park known for its eclectic bookings, is one of the venues hosting acts on behalf of the World Music Festival, which ends its official run this Thursday, Sept. 22.

Building on the momentum of a week of international bookings, Mayne Stage continues in the spirit of ethnic diversity by presenting, along with Chicago's Las Guitarras De Espana, "Music and Movement," a program of song and dance on Saturday, Sept. 24 at 7:30 PM.

The evening will include performances by Ensemble of Ragas, African dancer Idy Ciss and Flamenco rock/fusion group Las Guitarrists De Espana. Tickets and additional info are here.

Paper Thick Walls Unpeel Sweet "Orange Tree" Video!

2011-09-09T15:19:00.003-05:00

Orange Tree from Paper Thick Walls on Vimeo.

Ghosts haunt, campfires burn and a nervous owl stands guard in the new Paper Thick Walls video, directed by Kevin Pickman and Stefani Tormanen. Catch the band at the Lakeview East Festival of the Arts this Sunday and at Cactus Club in Milwaukee next Thursday, Sept. 15!

The Damn Choir to Drop New Video @ Hideout Tomorrow Night!

2011-09-07T14:30:00.002-05:00

Chicago's The Damn Choir will celebrate the release of a stunning new video for the song "Virginia" with a show at Hideout Inn tomorrow night.

The clip, directed by Pat Brown from Oasis Lounge Media, is an artful nod to film noir and surrealism that contrasts scenes of the band performing on a Chicago rooftop with shots that employ time-lapse photography and some dazzling visual effects.

The video works perfectly with the song (from the upcoming album You're My Secret Called Fire), a dark bit of urban country rock, but you will have to head out to The Hideout to get a sneak peek. Tickets and more info are here.

I Lost Control to Celebrate Release of New Album @ Abbey Pub, 9/9

2011-09-01T14:58:00.004-05:00

Chicago gloom rockers I Lost Control have had their share of ups and downs lately. Two of the band's original members left (rhythm section Grant Davidson (ex-The Perfect Disaster) and Jennifer Wyatt) and the group, given its name and sound, have been dogged with Joy Division comparisons. On the up side, ILC soldiers on with replacement musicians (JB Hopkins (ex-Surf) and Tina Sunny) and has a new album called Cones & Arrows to celebrate.

While Cones & Arrows does, at times, sound a bit too close to Joy Division, the EP brings to mind all corners of the late-70s/early 80s post-punk explosion. "Confliction" oozes nervous, new wave energy, recalling Pere Ubu and Iggy Pop. "Bloodline" nods toward The Cars at their darkest and most detached. "TWB" wears U.K. influences like Echo and the Bunnymen and Siouxsie and the Banshees quite proudly.

I Lost Control will be interviewed on WLUW's Radio One tonight at 8PM (CST) and the record release show will be at the newly re-vamped Abbey Pub on Friday, Sept. 9. You can purchase advance tickets here.

Simmer Down This Sunday at Double Door!

2011-08-26T15:23:00.004-05:00

Akasha Presents: Simmer Down Sunday at Double Door! Featuring Nic The Graduate of Illuminati Congo & Rad Brian of Impala Sound/Odd Obsessions spinning Reggae classics and a live set by Akasha! Sun, August 28, 2011; Doors: 9:00 pm / Show: 9:00 pm; 21+ and FREE!

Wine From the Moon Gearing Up for Local Showcases

2011-08-16T11:35:00.002-05:00

Chicago-based artist management company Wine From the Moon is gearing up for some serious showcases at top local venues Uncommon Ground, Beat Kitchen and Empty Bottle.

Tonight, WFTM presents its ongoing residency with anchor band Paper Thick Walls at Uncommon Ground (3800 N Clark), the celebrated coffeehouse/bar/restaurant best known for introducing Chicago audiences to the late, great Jeff Buckley.

Then, on Monday, August 22, Wine From the Moon sponsors a bill at Beat Kitchen featuring The Embraceables, Fatty Acids, Bluom and Another.

Finally on Tuesday, August 30, WFTM teams with WLUW for "College Spaceout" at Empty Bottle. The FREE (with RSVP) show features sets by The Island of Misfit Toys, The Please and Thank Yous, Delmar and the Dedications and Mapmaker.

Wine From the Moon founder Ryan Sweeney will be interviewed on WLUW this Thursday, August 18 from 11AM-noon.

North Coast Music Festival Spotlight: Van Ghost

2011-08-11T11:31:00.002-05:00

Chicago's Americana darlings Van Ghost are celebrating their slot at North Coast and upcoming album, the Justin Niebank-produced The Domino Effect, in style!

The group has partnered with Grooveshark for a "Pick the Single" contest, which is currently underway. You can click here to enter, and the potential prizes include all-access passes to the North Coast Music Festival, Van Ghost T-shirts and Grooveshark subscriptions.

Van Ghost is scheduled to hit one of the main stages at North Coast on Sunday, Sept. 4. Check the official NCMF Website for set time and updates.

North Coast Music Festival Spotlight: Great Divide

2011-08-10T18:49:00.003-05:00

With the second annual North Coast Music Festival just a few weeks away, Radio One Chicago will be running regular spotlights on the local bands scheduled to perform. First up is a post on local roots rockers Great Divide.

Originally hailing from Ann Arbor, Michigan, Great Divide now calls the windy city home. The band serves up a soulful mix of electric blues, New Orleans funk and the type of skillful jamming that will keep old school Grateful Dead/Allman Brothers fans grooving. Great Divide released the album Reservoir last year, and wowed audiences at the third installment of the Chicago Bluegrass and Blues Fest at Double Door.

Catch the band at North Coast (at Union Park) on Sunday, Sept. 4 at 1:30 PM as they kick off the final day of the fest, main stage style!

Hard Boiled Records

2011-08-06T13:48:00.002-05:00

I found this information posted by Chicago rock band, Panther Style:

Hard Boiled Records is closing its doors and moving to Austin, TX.

They are open from 12-6pm.

They are located at:

2010 W. Rosco

*They are currently closed due to a power outage, so call ahead if you're going to show up.
773 755-2619

Producer With Local Roots Unveils "Mountains and Cities"

2011-07-30T18:22:00.002-05:00

Some Chicago music fans might know Stephen George as the drummer for Ministry during the band's early, synth-pop days. Others might know him for his long association with controversial R&B singer R. Kelly. What many don't know is that George is now based in upstate NY and runs Gimme That Sound Productions, a studio and record label.

George has recently worked behind the boards on a number of notable releases, including the new album by The Cars and a recent single by Chicago's Rabble Rabble, which he also released via Gimme That Sound.

Enter My Pet Dragon, the Brooklyn-based alternative group led by Todd Michaelsen and his wife, Reena Shah. George has had an association with the group for the last few years, releasing two singles, "Lover in Hiding" and "Flow," both of which appear on the new Mountains and Cities (to be released on Tuesday, August 2nd).

The anthemic "Lover in Hiding" and the ethereal "Flow" are strong cuts on the new album, which also includes the soulful "Moonshine" and the newest single "Majestic Lovers," which recalls U2 at their most radio-friendly.

George, who was in town recently, has been urging My Pet Dragon to tour beyond their east coast home base. Here's hoping that they make it to the windy city while Mountains and Cities is still fresh.

Milwaukee Avenue Arts Fest

2011-07-28T15:25:00.003-05:00

Beginning this Friday at 4pm, Logan Square will be hosting the Milwaukee Avenue Arts Festival. The fest runs from July 29th through the 31st. The festival will be held all along Milwaukee Avenue, from Belden to Kedzie, in the Logan Square area.

Revolution Brewery will have craft beers, and there will also be food trucks.

There will also be a ton of family events as well.

Please click on the logo for more information.

JC Brooks & the Uptown Sound @ Space in Evanston this Saturday!

2011-07-27T13:54:00.003-05:00

Having just inked a record deal with Bloodshot Records, Chicago's hottest soul/post-punk outfit, JC Brooks & the Uptown Sound, will be bringing their acclaimed live show to Evanston's SPACE for an intimate gig this Saturday, July 30. They will be supported by Northern Soul icon Lou Pride.

JCBUS has been ubiquitous on the summer festival circuit, having played Ravinia, Solid Sound and Taste of Randolph in the last few months. The SPACE show offers a unique opportunity to catch the band at a small "space" with superior sound. For tickets and more info, click here.

The Damn Choir w/ Good Evening @ Lincoln Hall Tomorrow Night

2011-07-26T18:34:00.002-05:00

Tomorrow night, 7/27, Lincoln Hall will be hosting two local bands managed by Chicago's Wine From the Moon. The Damn Choir is a large ensemble led by the charismatic Gordon Robertson. TDC has a ramshackle charm on par with Bright Eyes and The Waterboys, and features former members of two Bloodshot Records bands, Scotland Yard Gospel Choir and Catfish Haven.

Good Evening shares the bill--their newest release, In Public, has drawn comparisons to Belle & Sebastian and Iron & Wine--and Atlanta's Little Tybee headlines. For tickets, times and more info, click here.

Umbra and the Volcan Siege Drop New Album and Video

2011-07-26T13:55:00.002-05:00

Chicago's Umbra and the Volcan Siege have been quietly cultivating a weird hybrid of psych, blues, country, surf and prog rock for the last few years. The group is built around a collective of musicians, including Jim Licka, Curtis Evans and Darren Shepherd (Belmondos), who create art and perform music at the underground venue The Volcan Gallery.

Umbra and the Volcan Siege have been more visible as of late, with club shows around the Midwest, a new album on limited edition vinyl and a short, video documentary, which can be viewed here.

The album, which also streams at the group's BandCamp site, opens with the grungy, cosmic "Dumb Numb" and features twisted country rock ("Rains and Pours"), psychedelic surf music ("Surfy") and a closing number ("Do do do do") that showcases Umbra and the Volcan Siege's trademark use of mellotron.

Brad Cole Electric to headline Double Door, 7/28

2011-07-22T17:49:00.002-05:00

Local singer-songwriter Brad Cole brings his plugged-in outfit, Brad Cole Electric, to Double Door next Thursday, July 28 for a special $5 Bud Light "Here We Go" set.

Fellow Chicago songstress Jane Thatcher is also performing--in this case a "farewell" show to the windy city--and NYC's Hands Off My Sister, featuring the sultry Erin Seymour, round out the bill. For more info and to purchase tickets, click here.

Las Guitarras De España Celebrate Flamenco Dance @ Mayne Stage

2011-07-19T11:51:00.003-05:00

The next show in the ongoing "Flamenco Collaborations" series at Mayne Stage (Saturday, July 23, 2011) is "Flamenco Student Performances" and will feature guest artist Chiara Mangiameli with a headlining set by Las Guitarras de España (vocalist Patricia Ortega, guitarist Carlo Basile, Flamenco dancer Wendy Clinard and a full band). Tickets are available here.

Subsequent dates in the series (September 24 and November 5) will feature Indian, African and Middle Eastern music and dance. Las Guitarras de España will be performing, as either a large or small ensemble, at each show in the Flamenco Collaborations Series.

Chicago Mixtape

2011-07-14T23:35:00.001-05:00

If you are going to be at the Pitchfork Fest this weekend, please make sure to stop by the Chicago Mixtape booth (in the Chirp Record Fair area)!

By casually mentioning the following CODEWORD you will receive a Chicago Mixtape sticker for $0.

>>> CODEWORD: "Hello" <<<

Luck of Eden Hall

2011-07-14T20:30:00.005-05:00

Luck of Eden Hall was in the studio talking about how they produced a song using old phasing techniques with a Fostex cassette tape.

They also filled us in to how they were discovered by Fruits de Mer Records in regards to how they were added to their releases.

In regards to their 10 year hiatus, L.E.H. talks about going from psychedelic pop to their current sound. They speak of the interference of grunge and how it caused them to go from a soft/loud pop band to a much louder sound. Now they are back to pop, psychedelic, loud/quiet....

Check them out with Umbra and the Vulcan Siege on July 20th at Beat Kitchen.

Peter Kernel-Anthem of Hearts

2011-07-14T15:55:00.002-05:00

In March, we reported on Chicago noise rockers Big'n releasing an EP on the French label AfricanTape. As a follow-up of sorts, AfricanTape's US publicist reports that Swiss/Canadian art punk trio Peter Kernel has released a new single entitled "Anthem of Hearts" on the imprint.

The song and accompanying video demonstrate that Peter Kernel is a band well worth keeping tabs on. "Anthem of Hearts" is catchy and tough; tribal drums, bratty vocals that sweeten during the bridge and some excellent guitar work that recalls Sonic Youth. The video, filmed by the band and Simon Brazzola, is a slow motion romp on a rolling hillside.

Briar Rabbit Raising Funds for Veggie Oil Van

2011-07-12T14:02:00.004-05:00

Chicago indie pop act Briar Rabbit (A.K.A multi-instrumentalist Phillip-Michael Scales) is happy to announce its signing to Midwest management company Wine From the Moon (home to Paper Thick Walls, The Damn Choir and singer-songwriter Jane Thatcher) and a recently-launched Kickstarter campaign to raise money for a “grease van,” a touring vehicle that runs on vegetable oil.

Raised in a suburb of Detroit, Scales began playing music at a young age and was self-releasing records and fronting bands by the time he was in high school. He went on to study music at the Berklee College of Music in Boston.

He recorded his debut, Briar Rabbit & the Company You Keep, with friends and former band mates in Boston and at Chicago’s CarterCo Recording. The album draws influence from folk, blues and rock and spotlights Scales’ dynamic voice and sharp lyrics. “Company” has received rave reviews in The RedEye and on top Chicago blogs Windy City Rock and Reviewsic.

The “grease van” (or “veggie oil bus”) campaign is well underway with more than “70” individual backers. This project will only be funded if at least $5,500 is pledged by Thursday Jul 21, 11:16am EDT.

Akasha to Celebrate the "Cool Ruler" at The Hideout!

2011-06-30T14:19:00.003-05:00

Chicago crew Akasha bring their smooth, organic take take on reggae and ska to The Hideout on Friday, July 22. They will be joined by rhythm and roots upstarts JT & the Clouds and top soul/funk spinner DJRC for a night that promises to be super fresh.

Akasha will be celebrating the drop of their new mixtape, a tribute to the late, great Gregory Isaacs, which can be heard here.

For more info on the show and to purchase tickets, check out The Hideout's official Website.

Chicago Blues: A Living History @ Buddy Guy's Legends This Friday!

2011-06-29T13:38:00.003-05:00

The firecracker group behind 2009's Grammy-nominated Chicago Blues: A Living History is back with Chicago Blues: A Living History; the (R)evolution Continues (Raisin' Music) and will celebrate the release with a show at Buddy Guy's Legends this Friday, July 1, at 9 PM.

Chicago Blues: A Living History; the (R)evolution Continues picks up where the first volume left of, covering the early years of rock n' roll with fantastic takes on Chuck Berry's "Reelin' and Rockin'" and "Rocket 88," a song made famous by Ike Turner.

The deluxe, 2-CD set features 23 tracks, a 34 page booklet with comprehensive liner notes and amazing photography and, most importantly, top notch performances by Billy Boy Arnold, John Primer, Billy Branch, Lurrie Bell and Carlos Johnson. Very special guests include the legendary Buddy Guy, James Cotton, Magic Slim, Ronnie Baker Brooks, Zora Young and Mike Avery.

Expect the core players and some surprises at Legends this Friday. Tickets are available here.

Paper Thick Walls Riding the Wave of High Profile Shows!

2011-06-28T17:31:00.002-05:00

After a sold out record release show at The Hideout and a well-received performance at the North by Northeast festival in Toronto, Paper Thick Walls is off to Milwaukee for Summerfest this weekend. Before they leave town, they will play on an early bill at Beat Kitchen with emo outfit The Second, local power pop group The Bright White and Chicago rockers Old Irving. Tickets for the all ages show this Saturday, July 2nd, can be purchased here.

Chicago's Voodoo Kings Bring Classic Rock n' Roll to Montrose Room!

2011-06-23T15:56:00.003-05:00

Long-running Chicago rockers The Voodoo Kings will be playing two sets of the good stuff at The Montrose Room @ The Intercontinental O'Hare, 5300 N River Rd, on Friday July 15. The first set is at 9 PM.

The song "Animal" from VDK's American Lights has been picked up by the company Song And Film for licensing opportunities. "When I See Her," from the same album, was featured in the motion picture Deal starring Burt Reynolds and produced by Seven Arts Pictures / MGM.

Time Out Chicago calls Montrose Room one of Chicago's "Top 5" suburban bars!

Hard tickets for free admission to the show will be available at the venue and at Avenue N Guitars.

New Single From Buffalo's Son of the Sun!

2011-06-17T13:46:00.003-05:00

Currently on tour out east, Buffalo psych rockers Son of the Sun have released a new single, "My Best Mistake," in advance of their upcoming LP, Almost Not There, on I Blame Yoko Records.

"My Best Mistake" is propelled by some seriously cosmic guitar work that recalls The Church, while the vocals are clean and up-front--much more in a straight-ahead, rock n' roll vein. Almost Not There drops nationally on Tuesday, July 26.

Upcoming Tour Dates :

Jun 18: Great Scott, Allston, MA

Jun 25: Nietzsche's, Buffalo, NY
(Record Release Show)

Jul 22: Molson Canal Concert Series, Lockport, NY

Jul 23: Happy Dog, Cleveland, OH

The Luck of Eden Hall-Butterfly Revolutions CD Review

2011-06-15T13:47:00.002-05:00

Long-running Chicago psych group The Luck of Eden Hall returns with Butterfly Revolutions Vol. 1, a follow-up to 2009's acclaimed When The Clock Starts To Wake Up, We Go To Sleep.

The album opens with a dose of trippy power pop entitled "Chrysalide," Gregory Curvey's lead vocal a dead ringer for Guided by Voices main man Robert Pollard.

After a strong introduction, the standout cuts are plentiful: "Medicine Queen" sounds like it was magically transported directly from 1967; "Velvet and Corduroy" is similarly enamored with the vintage stuff, but will appeal to fans of contemporary psych outfits like The Brian Jonestown Massacre; "Shampoo" manages to be both bubbly and grungy; "Silly Girl" is serious dream pop; album closer "Queen Anne's Lace" has some beautiful bass work, shimmering acoustic guitar, prog rock percussion and an almost orchestral weight that never overburdens the delicate arrangement.

The Luck of Eden Hall celebrates the release of Butterfly Revolutions Vol. 1 with a show at Beat Kitchen on Wednesday, July 20.

New Limited Edition Single by The Loneliest Monk!

2011-06-13T16:24:00.003-05:00

Chicago avant pop duo The Loneliest Monk is releasing their single "Hiding Places" on 7" red vinyl via Kilo Records. The record release show is Friday, July 8th at Reggie’s Rock Club and features special guests Stephen Paul Smoker and Flying Cars (Brooklyn, NY). All advanced ticket purchases include the 7" Vinyl plus a bonus photo booklet from IshootRockstars.

REGGIES ROCK CLUB | JUL 8TH
The Loneliest Monk
Stephen Paul Smoker
Flying Cars
8pm | 18+ | $10 adv / $12 day of

Paper Thick Walls Announce High-Profile Festival Gigs!

2011-06-07T13:04:00.004-05:00

Hot on the heels of releasing their much buzzed about debut, A Thousand Novels, Chicago's Paper Thick Walls announce two hot festival shows for the summer.

On Thursday, June 16 the band will be taking part in Toronto's prestigious North by Northeast Festival and Conference. This year's week-long celebration includes headliners Swervedriver, Devo and Fucked Up, and PTW will be sharing a bill with Ketch Harbour Wolves and Young Doctors in Love at The Painted Lady (218 Ossington, M6J 2Z9).

Then, on Sunday, July 3 they will be performing at Milwaukee's annual Summerfest. Festival-goers can catch Paper Thick Walls at the Cascio Interstate Music Groove Stage at 3PM!

The Bright White to Showcase at This Year's MOBfest!

2011-06-06T16:47:00.005-05:00

Emerging Chicago indie rockers The Bright White are one of a handful of bands set to take part in this year's MOBfest.

Now in its 15th year, MOB (short for "Music Over Business") is taking over The Hard Rock Hotel from June 23-June 25.

The Bright White is scheduled to perform at 9 PM on Friday, June 24, alongside hard rockers Heart-Set Self-Destruct and progressive rockers Amrita (more acts TBA).

The Bright White will be debuting some new material, both onstage and via a giveaway sampler of the tracks "13 Years" and "Long Live Young Love."

Tickets for The Bright White at MOBfest are available here.
from June 23-June 25.

Win a Pair of Tickets to See Santah @ Beat Kichen Via DO312!

2011-05-31T17:44:00.002-05:00

Chicago's premiere concert listings site DO312 offers up a chance to win a pair of tickets to see the local buzz band Santah at Beat Kitchen on Saturday, June 18!

All you need to do is go to the site and click "I Like it" (easy registration for Facebook users) and be entered to win. Santah will be celebrating the release of its new White Noise Bed with support from Pet Lions and The Names That Spell.

Good Luck!

Las Guitarras de España-Tantas Cosas CD Review

2011-05-04T14:23:00.005-05:00

Chicago's Las Guitarras de España celebrate the release of their fifth album, Tantas Cosas, with a show at Mayne Stage in Rogers Park on Saturday, June 4.

Radio One was fortunate enough to preview the full album, which spotlights the amazing vocals of Patricia Ortega. You don't have to speak Spanish or be familiar with Flamenco music to enjoy Tantas Cosas--the album has heavy doses of Latin pop, rock n' roll and various "World music" genres, from African to Arabic.

The album opens with the title track and the vocals, guitar and rhythmic hand claps are explicitly Flamenco and much superior to what you might hear on the Travel Channel. The following track, "Cejilla," marks a dramatic shift--the drumming, electric guitar and vocals are very rock n' roll, referencing the 60's most specifically.

Other highlights and unexpected twists include "No Me Queda Mas," a faithful cover of the 1994 Selena hit, "Capricho Árabe," a classical guitar piece that spotlights band leader Carlo Basile's accomplished playing, and "Reverie," which has a decidedly Middle Eastern feel.

"Tantas Cosas," which translates to "many things" is an appropriate title for this album--Las Guitarras de España access so many cultures and moods in just twelve songs.

Akasha to Open For Ky-Mani Marley & Sister Nancy at the Shrine

2011-05-03T15:45:00.005-05:00

Dancehall legend Sister Nancy will be at The Shrine on Friday, May 6th and has enlisted local reggae up-and-comers Akasha to share the stage! Sister Nancy has been described as "a dominating female voice for over two decades", and is best known for her reggae anthem, "Bam Bam" (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXnT3LFTc-s).

As of just this weekend, Bob Marley's second-youngest son Ky-Mani has been added to the bill! Ky-Mani Marley has recorded numerous albums, starred in two movies, and has collaborated with musicians in the R&B, dancehall and hip-hop genres.

Akasha has been making waves in Chicago with their authentic yet accessible reggae jams. With deep grooves and rich vocal harmonies, Akasha takes a rootsy and traditional approach to their sound. Make sure to get to the Shrine early and catch these guys!

Official Shrine event page:
http://www.theshrinechicago.com/main.php

The show is 21+, begins at 9PM and costs $10. Featured DJs include Papa G and Zebo.

Tickets:
https://www.ticketdriver.com/shrine/buy/tickets/event/17455

Radio One Chicago!

2011-05-01T21:01:00.005-05:00

Hey, Guys as you may have noticed this is now the new home for Radio One Chicago! ROC airs on WLUW 88.7 Thursday Nights from 6PM-10PM! Why the change you say? Well Hostage Radio is now a production company and instead of deleting the page totally we wanted to keep the blog part of it alive and have decided to hand over the reins to our good friends ROC! The guys at ROC have some really cool new things in the works that they will be doing for this blog and we really hope you tune in and visit this site regularly! Thanks and Rock On...

Rabble Rabble to Release New 7" on Gimme That Sound!

2011-04-28T15:39:00.000-05:00

Chicago psych/garage punks Rabble Rabble are getting ready to release a hot new 7" single via Gimme That Sound Productions!

Two songs, recorded with producer/label head Stephen George during the band's east coast tour last year, will be available on vinyl and digitally on Monday, May 23rd--the same day the band headlines a free show at Empty Bottle!

We had a chance to preview the tracks and really dig what we hear! A-side "Why Not" recalls the heyday of Northwestern grunge and is pitched somewhere between the punk abandon of Mudhoney and the psychedelic blues of Screaming Trees. B-side "Long Hook" is more in the garage rock vein with bratty vocals and 60's spy guitar that evolve into a blistering acid freak-out!

Rabble Rabble is:

Ralph Darski (Guitar, Bass, Vocal),
Todd McCafrey (Guitar, Bass, Vocal),
Kaylee Preston (Drums)
Matt Ciarleglio (Bass, Guitar, Vocal)

Red Light Driver-Celeste Celeste EP Review

2011-04-21T17:04:00.000-05:00

Indianapolis psych rockers Red Light Driver have just released a new EP entitled Celeste Celeste. The band, known for its visually arresting live shows, has a couple of previous releases available (most notably 2009's acclaimed ...And Now We Can Be Ourselves) and this collection adds to an impressive body of work.

Celeste Celeste kicks into high gear immediately--the title track's guitar pulses a warning and the song morphs into a jangly slice of psychedelia that sounds like it was recorded for some long lost Paisley Underground tribute.

"The Away Anthem" follows the noisy interlude "Enchanting" with more jangle--I'm guessing that RLD grew up on 80's college radio--although the vocal interplay recalls Sonic Youth circa Daydream Nation and maybe even Husker Du.

Another "interlude" follows (this one more melodic) and then the penultimate track, "Diamond Rough," comes on with real swagger, drawing inspiration from garage, punk and 60 years of rock n' roll attitude. Celeste Celeste closes with "Canterbury Tea," the longest and, perhaps, most lysergic thing on the EP--a potent, trippy brew that leaves the listener dizzy and craving for more.

JC Brooks & the Uptown Sound to Star in Passing Strange!

2011-04-08T18:30:00.000-05:00

JC Brooks & the Uptown Sound will be starring in the Tony Award-winning musical "Passing Strange" at the Chicago Center for the Performing Arts, 777 N. Green St.

The show (book and lyrics by Stew and music by Stew and Heidi Rodewald) is described as "a daring new musical that takes audiences on a journey across boundaries of place, identity and theatrical convention."

Passing Strange stars Brooks as the musical protagonist and features members of The Uptown Sound as his backing band.

Previews are April 21-23 and the show runs from April 25 to May 29. Preview tickets are $5-$20 and regular run tickets range from $15-$35.

Click here for more information and tickets.

The Bright White @ Beat Kitchen Next Wednesday, 4/13!

2011-04-07T16:56:00.000-05:00

After well-received shows at Schuba's Tavern and NYC's Mercury Lounge, Chicago's The Bright White has another high-profile show on the books.

The band will be sharing a bill with Australia's popular Skybombers and local gypsy punk outfit La Scala at Beat Kitchen next Wednesday. The Bright White will be playing behind the new EP Until Then.

Tickets are available here for the 8 PM/21+ show.

Gypsy Trail Concert This Saturday, March 26, @ Mayne Stage

2011-03-22T13:49:00.000-05:00

Las Guitarras de Espana, Chicago's celebrated Flamenco/World Music outfit, kicks off a series of shows this Saturday at Mayne Stage, 1328 W Morse Ave, in Rogers Park. The show starts at 7:30 PM.

The Gypsy Trail Concert, which will feature support from Ensemble of Ragas (pictured) and Gypsy Rhythm Project, introduces the "Flamenco Collaborations Series," a regular music and dance showcase that will take place at Mayne Stage throughout the year.

Las Guitarras de Espana features guitarist Carlo Basile, Patricia Ortega on lead vocals and acclaimed Flamenco dancer Wendy Clinard. The band will release their fifth album, Tantas Cosas, at the second show in the Mayne Stage series, scheduled for Saturday, June 4th.

Tickets for March 26 are available here.

Paper Thick Walls-A Thousand Novels

2011-03-18T17:45:00.000-05:00

Paper Thick Walls is a new indie folk/pop band out of Chicago. Their debut CD, A Thousand Novels, will be released on May 3, 2011.

A Thousand Novels opens strong with "Old Weathered Wooden Dock," Kate Schell's winsome lead vocal spilling out over gentle acoustic guitar. The track builds nicely with violin and tack piano entering the mix before exploding in richness: driving percussion, a counterpoint vocal (courtesy of band co-leader Eric Michaels) and hand claps all figure in--a beautiful introduction to the album.

"Sighs of Relief" follows and it is clear that this band has the touch of something special. By the fourth track, the dusky, narcotic "Nyquil," I was totally hooked.

Other highlights include the appropriately stark "Desolate Place," the tender "Masters of the Sea" and the celestial, album-closing "Infinite."

Paper Thick Walls celebrates the release of A Thousand Novels with a show at The Hideout on Friday, May 6.

Soul Summit Presents JC Brooks & the Uptown Sound at Double Door!

2011-03-15T17:06:00.000-05:00

For all the peeps not heading down to Austin, Texas for SXSW, Soul Summit has the top dance party in town this Friday, March 18, at Double Door!

Local soul stars JC Brooks & the Uptown Sound have been blowin' up lately with spot on Wilco's Solid Sound Festival confirmed for this summer. Lucky locals can catch them in a few days for just $8 (get tickets here while they last); Soul Summit DJs Sloppy White, Duke Grip and Dave Mata will spin classic soul and the legendary Renaldo Domino will be on hand as a special guest.

Greg Gibbs-The Lights

2011-03-14T12:20:00.001-05:00

Greg Gibbs is "home-recorder/songwriter from Chicago by way of Roswell, New Mexico." His new CD, The Lights, follows two self-released albums, Raincoat (2007) and Hemoglobin (2009). Gibbs’ music has been featured on National Public Radio, Comedy Central (.com) and he was named Soundcloud’s “Artist of the Day” in February 2011.

The Lights kicks off with "Time Capsule," a long, ambient/electronic intro that gives way to a gentle, weird folk number that recalls the late, great Grandaddy. This is the first of 20 tracks--a lot to take in in one listen, although the rewards are plentiful.

"I Don't Mind" is super catchy and a bit sad, like early Elliott Smith to this reviewer's ears. "Most Guitars are Made of Trees" features (yes) gentle, acoustic guitar and makes the connection between the human player and the instrument as a one-time living thing. "Campus Raygun," the standout track on The Lights, has new wave keyboards, mile-wide hooks and an abrupt ending. The title track (aka "Gryllidaen Rights") flirts a bit with delta blues and album closer "The Nibbler" might just be Gibbs' most soulful vocal on the whole record.

The Lights will likely be an introduction to Gibbs for most listeners. He keeps a pretty low profile in Chicago, making him something of a gem to discover.

Brad Cole's Acoustic Circus at Elbo Room this Saturday, 3/12

2011-03-11T13:07:00.000-06:00

This Saturday, March 12, Brad Cole brings his monthly Acoustic Circus to the Elbo Room's upstairs lounge with a line-up heavy on acts affiliated with the legendary Old Town School of Folk Music!

This show starts at 8 PM and is 21+. Advance tickets are available here.

Big'n-Spare the Horses (AfricanTape)

2011-03-09T13:46:00.002-06:00

Way back in the 1990s, when labels like Sub Pop, Amphetamine Reptile and Touch & Go were championing noisy rock n' roll, Chicago's Big'n was roaming the Midwest, opening for like-minded bands Tar, Dazzling Killmen and Circus Lupus.

Big'n released several singles on small US labels before unveiling 1994's Cutthroat (Gasoline Boost) and its acclaimed follow-up, Discipline Through Sound (Skin Graft Records), in 1996. After that, the band re-worked AC/DC's "TNT" for a split single with Shellac and released an EP with Baltimore's Oxes in 2000. Then, all was quiet...until now.

French math rock label AfricanTape will be releasing Spare the Horses on 10" vinyl on May 2nd, and we were lucky enough to hear all four tracks, which were recorded by Greg Norman at Electrical Audio earlier this year.

Spare the Horses comes out of the gate with "Assholes and Elbows" and it is clear from the first note that this is classic Big'n. Todd Johnson's signature guitar sound and William Akins' creeped-out vocals set a sinister tone that carries on to the next track, "Long Pig." "Damn my pig eyes," Akins howls before killing with the refrain "So pink and precious, so dirty and delicious." Wow, this is some dark shit, not too far gone from what Nick Cave is doing with his band Grinderman.

"Like a Killer" takes no prisoners--maybe the heaviest thing that the band has committed to tape. Album closer "Seaworthy" lightens things up a bit, recalling Slint before Brian Wnukowski's drums really kick in and Mike Chartrand's bass takes you down to the basement for a beating.

Chicago's The Bright White to open for The Parlotones @ Schuba's!

2011-03-07T18:23:00.000-06:00

Chicago's The Bright White may only have a few months of activity under its belt, but the band is on a remarkable climb. To note, the four-piece has released an excellent EP, Until Then, played their first-ever show at Martyr's, followed it with a well-received gig at Double Door and now the band is slated to open for South African superstars The Parlotones at Schuba's Tavern this Saturday, March 12. For more details, click here. New York's Xylos share the bill.

Chicago's Rambos Release Two New Tracks!

2011-03-03T15:48:00.000-06:00

We recently featured Chicago's newest garage rock stompers, Rambos, in a couple of blog posts and had the band in-studio to spin some tracks before they opened for Hollows and Detroit Cobras at the Windy City Winter Ball. Hostage Radio readers night already be hip to the band's "USA" and now you have a chance to hear two more tracks via Bandcamp.

"Arrows" and "Terrorize" showcase Rambos in all their junk rock glory!

Paul Cebar To Headline Schuba's Mardi Gras Celebration!

2011-03-02T15:32:00.000-06:00

Schuba's Tavern is celebrating Mardi Gras 2011 on March 8th with special guest Paul Cebar! Cebar is known in the Midwest and throughout New Orleans for his longtime band The Milwaukeeans, and has been gigging under the moniker Paul Cebar Tomorrow Sound to support his latest, Tomorrow Sound Now For Yes Music People. His New Orleans credibility and musical influence make his tune "Her New Church" a perfect Fat Tuesday soundtrack!

This 21+ celebration kicks off at 6PM - it costs $10, which includes a Crawfish Boil (while supplies last). Drink specials include $3 Bud Light Drafts and $5 Hurricanes.

Akasha to headline CRC Showcase at Lincoln Hall Tonight!

2011-02-23T11:50:00.000-06:00

Chicago Reggae crew Akasha have been inspiring local fans to look past an especially harsh winter with their sunny video for "Ooh U Got Me," and will bring the heat to Lincoln Hall tonight for a headlining set at the 13th Chicago Roots Collective showcase.

Joining Akasha will be dub stars The Drastics, funk rockers Hood Smoke and the mighty Impala Sound.
Doors open at 8 PM for this 21+ event. Lincoln Hall is located at 2424 N Lincoln Ave. Tickets are still available here.

JC Brooks/Uptown Sound Opening for Dismemberment Plan This Weekend!

2011-02-16T13:17:00.002-06:00

Hot on the heels of high-profile gigs with Jeff Tweedy and Fitz and the Tantrums, Chicago soul sensations JC Brooks & the Uptown Sound will be direct direct support for The Dismemberment Plan at a SOLD OUT Metro show this Saturday, Feb. 19.

The band is currently recording a follow-up to their debut album, Beat of Our Own Drum, and has shows scheduled for St. Louis and Lafayette, IN. next week.

Chicago fans who were unable to score tickets for the Dismemberment Plan gig, should stay tuned for a special show announcement coming soon!

One-Year Anniversary for Brad Cole's Acoustic Circus This Saturday, 2/12

2011-02-08T18:46:00.001-06:00

This Saturday, Feb. 12, "Brad Cole's Acoustic Circus" celebrates its one-year anniversary in the upstairs lounge at Elbo Room, 2871 N Lincoln Ave. An eclectic mix of regional acts will be joining host/emcee/regular performer Brad Cole.

Springfield, IL singer-songwriter Bed Bedford will perform a set, as will the celebrated husband and wife duo, Doug and Telisha Williams, who have been featured on No Depression, Country Standard Time and Songs: Illinois. Closing out the night is Bloomington, Indiana's Andy D, who trades in intentionally lowbrow (an decidedly non-acoustic) electro-punk pitched somewhere between Peaches and Eastbound and Down.

2/12/11

Elbo Room

8PM/21+/$5

Windy City Winter Ball @ Double Door This Saturday, 2/5

2011-02-02T13:01:00.002-06:00

This Saturday, Grape Juice Records presents its Third Annual Windy City Winter Ball with sets from The Detroit Cobras, Hollows and Rambos at Chicago's Double Door. WLUW's DJ Billy Ocean will also be on hand to spin the Rock n' Roll!

The label encourages fans to dress in formal (and winter approrpriate) attire, as Una Mae's is contributing $25 gift certificates to award "best dressed."

Tune in to Hostage Radio on WLUW 88.7 this Saturday at 2 PM for a pre-show interview with Rambos! Complete details for the Windy City Winter Ball are here.

The Shams Band @ Lincoln Hall on Thursday, Jan. 27!

2011-01-12T15:28:00.000-06:00

Hot on the heels of opening for Edward Sharpe & the Magnetic Zeroes at the Chicago Bluegrass & Blues Festival, The Shams Band are set to headline the one-year anniversary of the Chicago Roots Collective's monthly showcases at Lincoln Hall.

The Shams, who released the terrific Champagne last year, will be joined by acclaimed locals Derek Nelson & the Musicians and Boston soul upstarts Cole DeGenova & the People's Republic for this 8PM/18+/$8 show.

Tickets are available here.

A Holiday Gift from Grape Juice Records!

2010-12-21T13:20:00.003-06:00

The fine folks at Chicago's Grape Juice Records are in the holiday spirit, offering a FREE download of tracks from some hot Midwest acts!

The second annual “Friends and Family” compilation is a showcase of music from all of the artists that Grape Juice worked with over the past year, from hosting local shows to releasing albums and booking tours.

The download is here, and a complete track listing follows:

Grape Juice Records - Friends & Family II track listing:

1. Jon Drake & the Shakes - "Margie"
2. Julie Meckler - "Deportation Blues"
3. Will Phalen - "Candycane Mountain in My Mind"
4. Rachele Eve - "Pronouncing Logic"
5. Musikanto - "To See You One More Time"
6. Rambos - "USA"
7. Curtis Evans & Our Friend Electric - "Mark of the Beast"
8. Derek Nelson & the Musicians - "Come and Wait"
9. No Ordinary Oswald - "40 Watt Womb"
10. The Minneapolis Henrys - "Where My Mind's Been"
11. The Shams Band - "In the Sun"

Umbra and the Volcan Siege @ Darkroom this Tuesday, 12/14

2010-12-13T14:29:00.000-06:00

Chicago psych/prog outfit Umbra and the Volcan Siege will be performing a set at Darkroom on Tuesday, Dec. 14.

This six-piece has been featured in UR Chicago, on Jim DeRogatis' Vocalo blog and right here on Hostage Radio. If you are a follower of the Chicago music scene, it is very likely that you have heard [band leader] Jim Licka's mellotron on a recording or at a live show.

In fall of 2008, Licka decided to bring his own songs to life by assembling a cast of his favorite Chicago musicians. Umbra and the Volcan Siege features members of Oucho Sparks, Belmondos and Curtis Evans. Their debut album, The Beginning of the End, was released in 2009 and the band is currently recording a follow-up for release in 2011.

Darkroom is located at 2210 W Chicago Ave. Woody Pines headlines, Byron Grossman opens; Umbra takes the stage at 9 PM. The show is 21+/$8 cover.

Brad Cole's Acoustic Circus @ Elbo Room this Saturday, 12/11!

2010-12-09T11:58:00.000-06:00

This Saturday, Dec. 11, "Brad Cole's Acoustic Circus" brings a fine line-up of locals and out-of-towners to the upstairs stage at Elbo Room, 2871 N Lincoln Ave.

Headliners Shovels & Rope will be coming through town after a stop in Rock Island to cut a session for Daytrotter. The husband and wife duo (Cary Ann Hearst and Michael Trent) has opened for Deer Tick and Band of Horses and has a song featured on HBO's True Blood.

Also on the bill is Detroit singer-songwriter Robin Horlock, who last played Elbo Room to kick off Mob Fest in 2009. Horlock, a big draw in his native Michigan, is also a veteran of the CMJ Music Festival and has opened for popular 90's bands Blind Melon and Sponge.

Rounding things out is the always entertaining host and performer Brad Cole, whose new album, Exile, was reviewed right here on Hostage Radio. Cole will be joined by comedian Caryn Ruby and Roberta Frazier from the Irish band Cu Roi.

Brad Cole's Acoustic Circus kicks off at 8 PM. There is a $5 cover and the showcase is ages 21+.

Las Guitarras de España @ SPACE in Evanston on Dec. 10

2010-12-02T18:03:00.001-06:00

Photo by Victor Garza

According to their Website, Las Guitarras de España (The Guitars of Spain) is a "world music" ensemble with a "Spanish guitar twist." Based in Chicago, the group "performs a fusion of Cuban son, rumba, R&B, Latin-jazz, blues and African percussion with an underlying flamenco music and dance focus."

They have released several albums on the (now defunct) Sweet Pickle Music, including Ida y Vuelta (2002), Un Respiro Por El Mundo (2004) and Cuatro Por Arriba (2007), and appeared on WGN TV and WTTW Chicago.

Las Guitarras de España will be at SPACE, 1245 Chicago Ave in Evanston, on Friday, December 10th to debut some new work from the upcoming CD Tantas Cosas. Joining Las Guitarras regulars Patty Ortega (vocals), Carlo Basile (guitar) and Wendy Clinard (flamenco dancer) will be Kinan Abou-afach (cello), Steve Gibons (violin), Colin Bunn (guitar) and Satya (vocals). The Avanti Guitar Trio will begin the program at 8PM.

Dastardly-May You Never...CD Review

2010-11-23T12:01:00.000-06:00

Chicago's Dastardly makes its full album debut with May You Never..., an alternately stirring and subdued mix of classic Americana and cutting edge indie rock.

May You Never...gets off to a glorious start with "Villains," which marries old-time folk and bluegrass to a noisy bridge reminiscent of Wilco's "Ashes of American Flags." "Exercises in Self Loathing" and "Creepy" operate at opposite ends of the spectrum, the former a gleeful gallop that contrasts nicely to the latter's mournful tone. "Crystallized" is jaunty and benefits from Sarah Morgan's strong lead vocals. "Middle Ground" is a sparkling alt-country cousin to "Morning Blue," an homage to British folk. The album ends with "Traffic," a slyly humorous song couched in sad sack introspection.

Hometown fans can help the Dastardly celebrate the release of May You Never...at Schuba's Tavern on Thursday, Dec. 9.

Conan's Jimmy Vivino coming to Chicago this weekend with The Fab Faux!

2010-11-09T15:21:00.003-06:00

So, did everyone tune into TBS for the debut of Conan last night? My favorite moment, hands down, was the musical finale with Conan, Jack White and new band leader Jimmy Vivino tearing it up on the Eddie Cochran rockabilly classic "Twenty Flight Rock."

Vivino will be in Chicago this Saturday, Nov. 13, with his other band, The Fab Faux, for a show at The Vic Theater.

The Fab Faux, which also features Will Lee from The Late Show with David Letterman, is more than a Beatles cover band. They perfectly re-create Fab Four classics, some of which were never performed live by John, Paul, George and Ringo!

This time out, they will being playing Abbey Road in its entirety, along with a handful of fan favorites.

The Fab Faux will be joined by the Creme Tangerine Strings and Hogshead Horns at 8 PM for an all-ages show. Tickets are available here.

The Volcano Diary-CD Review

2010-11-05T16:20:00.000-05:00

Seattle's The Volcano Diary have released their debut CD, which was produced by Steve Fisk, best-known for his work with top grunge bands Nirvana, Soundgarden and Screaming Trees.

When the group's publicist contacted me about reviewing the album, I was expecting something heavy and distorted, but the bio suggested otherwise: "understated, yet dynamic" was the tag line and it proved to be pretty accurate.

The CD starts out strong with the moody "Revival," band leader Alicia Dara's vocals somewhat reminiscent of Sarah McLachlan. Other standout tracks include the more upbeat and lyrically evocative "Freezer Burn," "Pacifica," where Fisk's production recalls some of the best work of Daniel Lanois, the ethereal "Burning Hands" and self-referental album closer "Volcano."

The Volcano Diary celebrates the release of their eponymous debut with a show at the excellent Seattle venue Neumos on Monday, Nov. 22.