Author: Ken Meier

Wednesday, 07 06 2005

Transmission: Greg Davis

"This is the sound of ghosts...The record annihilates the senses. Davis has made a completely engrossing book of echoes...and to see it in person must be a challenging and fresh experience." Experimental artist Greg Davis is featured in this week's Transmission, brought to you by the music lovers at Pixies Discs. And, yes, the MP3 is supposed to sound that way.

- 6.07.05 ~ Gapers

Friday, 07 01 2005

Dude, I Got the Munchies

According to this article at CNN.com, Chicago's City Council has just banned all pot-flavored candy — including Tony Van Pelt's Chronic Candy line — even though no illegal ingredients are used in these products. Other cities are apparently about to follow suit. [via TMN]

- 1.07.05 ~ Eating/Drinking

Thursday, 06 30 2005

Your Formula Life

This Saturday, July 2, local promotional collectives Meiotic and Koncept team up to present the next edition of their excellent, bi-monthly Your Formula Life series at Chicago's Tini Martini. This installment features performances from BMG of Ectomorph fame and a DJ set from Planet E recording artist Common Factor. In the shameless self-promotion department, I'll be opening up the night. More information is available in Slowdown.

- 30.06.05 ~ Music/Clubs

Wednesday, 06 29 2005

Doin' What Chicago Does Best

Maybe this is so last week, but Radar Magazine has weighed in humorously and insightfully on the recent Oprah-Hermes debacle: "But was it a true Crash moment? It’s easy to assume it was, because, let’s face it, France is a racist place. The country’s huge African and Muslim underclass is ghettoized on the periphery of Paris, safe from the eyes of tourists, and the public’s support for politicians like Jean-Marie Le Pen shows the lingering dark side of French nationalism. But most likely it wasn’t. In fact, it was probably the opposite, because it had nothing to do with the subtle strictures of race and everything to do with a different kind of smashup: celebrity entitlement colliding with traditional French arrogance." [via Agenda]

- 29.06.05 ~ In the News

Tuesday, 06 28 2005

Radio, Live Transmission

We started Transmission a couple months ago now, and it's been going great. Thanks to the fine folks at Pixies Discs and Jewelboxing, we've been able to bring you new and exclusive music from artists like The Changes, Dolorous Canter, Warmdesk, Alicia Frantz, Mass Shivers, Atomly, and Zelienople. This week, we're happy to feature Chicago's very own Kate Simko. If you wanna see your music on GB, we'll surely give it a listen — simply email us at transmission at gapersblock dot com with a link and some words about why you should be included. Rock on.

- 28.06.05 ~ Gapers

Monday, 06 27 2005

Taste of Chicago, Indeed

According to today's Sun Times, almost two dozen people were shot this weekend — and all within the space of just 12 hours. And this is in addition to a recent suicide on the Red Line and the shooting of a UIC professor in Oak Park. Yikes. This is an unofficial tally, so let's hope this isn't a prediction of a trend for what's to come over the rest of the summer.

- 27.06.05 ~ In the News

Thursday, 06 23 2005

In the Hause

From 1-5 PM this Sunday, Foundation Gallery will be holding a closing reception for its current exhibition, Die Kase Hause. Die Kase Hause is an artist collective comrpised of Jeremiah Ketner, David Phillips, Gregory Shirilla, Jeffrey Williams and Aaron Zimmerman. According to a recent release, "It is not philosophy or style that unites [them], but rather a true compulsion to make art. What was once a group of students working closely together in Columbus, Ohio now has become a loose collection of members dispersed nationwide." You can see their work on the gallery's website if you like, but the reception is open to all.

- 23.06.05 ~ Arts/Architecture

Wednesday, 06 22 2005

Don't Techno For An Answer

Techno is often synonymous with Detroit, and as such, Chicago tends to be more of a house music city. But tonight, as the excellent SummerDance festival continues, legendary techno DJ Jeff Mills takes the stage in what is sure to be an exciting and historic event. Now a Windy City resident, Mills is one of the genre's most in-demand performers, jetsetting between the continents on what seems like a never-ending tour. Come out and see one of the most inimitable talents in techno play what I assume will be a varied set of classics and personal favorites. Mike Dearborn starts things off at 6 PM in Grant Park.

- 22.06.05 ~ Music/Clubs

Tuesday, 06 21 2005

What's Next?

It's been hard to avoid the news, but for those that still don't know, Wired Magazine's NextFest is happening this weekend at Navy Pier. In addition to the many technological attractions the event is sure to offer, local arts/cultural publication Flavorpill is hosting a special lounge area at the event, featuring DJ sets from local favorites Kate Simko, Dave Siska, Ken and Karl Meier, Ken Waagner, and Brad Owen. It'll be open from 11-5 on Saturday and Sunday. Stop by and say hello, why dontcha?

- 21.06.05 ~ Music/Clubs

Monday, 05 23 2005

Up Their Sleeve

Here's an exhibition that's close to my heart: the folks at Dublab have put together a show based on the work of over 500 artists who've created album covers for records that, well, don't really exist. Entitled Up Our Sleeve, this unique show has already been to the coasts, Europe, and the Far East, and will end here at Chicago's very own Open End Gallery. Be sure to check it out soon, though — it's only around from Friday 'til Sunday. (Thanks to Cody for the tip.)

- 23.05.05 ~ Arts/Architecture

Tuesday, 05 17 2005

Transmission Putters Along

New music from local electronic musician Atomly is up as this week's Transmission feature. Have a listen and, if you like, come hear him perform this Friday night at the GB 2-year Anniversary Party, taking place at the Hideout. Should be a good time, but only if you like to have fun. If not, well, you're outta luck.

- 17.05.05 ~ Gapers

Tuesday, 05 10 2005

Tadao Ando...on Wrightwood?

Ever walked down Wrightwood (near Clark) and, like me, wondered who designed that incredible concrete home on the south side of the street? Well, maybe I'm behind the times, but it's a genuine Tadao Ando. One look at photos from in and around the residence and you'll agree, it's a complete masterpiece. Also, check this site for more images of the architect's work.

- 10.05.05 ~ Arts/Architecture

Transmission Launches

After a few months of preparation, and some communal laziness, we're proud to announce a new addition to the site! Entitled Transmission, this weekly MP3 blog is dedicated to exploring the music of up-and-coming Chicago artists. Sponsored by our good friends at Jewelboxing, this week features local favorites Zelienople. So, take a look under Slowdown, and come back every Tuesday for more free music.

- 10.05.05 ~ Gapers

Monday, 05 02 2005

Subsystence: Balance

The new issue of Subsystence — the fifth volume and first anniversary edition — is now online. It features a redesign by Anthony Vitagliano; artwork from Nick Butcher, Suzy Poling, and Nazarin Hamid; writing from Martin Cockroft, Israel Vines, and Jennifer Hawe; original music from Cepia, Sienna, and Detalles; and more. Released as part of the 2005 May 1st Reboot and CSS Reboot, the launch party for the new volume takes place Tuesday, May 3rd at Sonotheque. For more information on that, check out Slowdown.

- 2.05.05 ~ Print/Magazines

Friday, 04 29 2005

Detroit Artist Makes Chicago Debut

The buzz around town is growing to fever pitch for tonight's Going Forward in Reverse event at Sonotheque. Time Out features headliner Anthony Shakir in their latest issue, and the party's promotional team has received accolades for the lineup from both Flavorpill and UR, among others. Why not stop by the GB get-together for a bit, then head down to Chicago Ave. for what proves to a memorable performance from one of the unsung heroes of Detroit techno? More information, as always, over in Slowdown.

- 29.04.05 ~ Music/Clubs

Friday, 04 22 2005

Going Forward in Reverse

On Friday, April 29, a diverse array of Chicago promoters and electronic musicians invade Sonotheque to present an evening of abstract techno and forward-thinking house. Featuring performances from globe-trotting artists such as Detroit legend Anthony 'Shake' Shakir (in his first Chicago performance), Residual Records owner Titonton Duvante, and underground electro producer Silicon of Vmax fame, this will be a refreshingly varied dance music showcase. More information is available in Slowdown.

- 22.04.05 ~ Music/Clubs

Thursday, 04 21 2005

Iraqi Street Reporter Visits Chicago

On Saturday, April 23rd, independent street reporter Dahr Jamali visits Chicago to present thoughts on the war in Iraq, photos and video from inside Fallujah, and to give an analysis of the "mainstream media's successful efforts to whitewash the Iraq catastrophe for the Bush administration." The event is being held at Sonotheque, and starts at 6 PM. You can find more information about the talk (entitled What NPR and Fox News Get Wrong About Iraq) and about Jamali's work through his website, at Voices in the Wilderness, or over in Slowdown.

- 21.04.05 ~ Politics/Activism

Tuesday, 04 12 2005

April GB Photo Roundup

So, you missed out on the inaugural installment of the Gapers Block Book Club? Didn't make it to the art and design edition of Influence? What about the last GB get-together? Well, lucky for you and thanks to Flickr, we now have a place to put photos from those events. Got a good GB-related photo to share? Send it our way: inbox at gapersblock dot com. That is, unless I'm in it.

- 12.04.05 ~ Gapers

Sunday, 04 10 2005

Tune In, Turn On, Wake Up

Looking for something low-key to do this evening? Well, look no further. About Sounds and Subsystence bring local DJs Atomly, Ken Meier and Matt Hellige to Wicker Park's very own Subterranean for an evening of abstract electronic music. Despite the location, the night should be surprisingly devoid of jukebox rock and hipster disco. No, honestly. And best of all, it's free. More details over in Slowdown, if you feel the need.

- 10.04.05 ~ Music/Clubs

Monday, 04 04 2005

Art + Design Panel @ Sonotheque

Tuesday, April 5th, Interrupt Media Group and Subsystence present the next installment of their monthly INFLUENCE night at Sonotheque, this time with a focus on the local art and design community. Cody Hudson, Ray Noland, Chris Silva, and Juan Chavez will DJ after an informal preshow discussion about the state of the Chicago creative scene. Panelists include Jim Coudal, Brian Ulrich, Michael Coleman, Elizabeth Cline, and GB's very own Naz Hamid and Andrew Huff. More information is available in Slowdown, or on the INFLUENCE website.

- 4.04.05 ~ Arts/Architecture

Wednesday, 03 23 2005

Beyond the Machine

This Thursday, March 24, a diverse array of Chicago promoters team up to present an evening of abstract techno and forward-thinking house. Featuring live performances from globe-trotting artists such as Windsor-based producer Echoplex, German musician and label owner Andy Vaz, as well as Chicago's very own Warmdesk, this will be a refreshingly varied dance music showcase. Local favorites Josh Werner and Dave Siska open. More information is available in Slowdown, or on the Smart Bar website.

- 23.03.05 ~ Music/Clubs

Tuesday, 03 22 2005

Skyline Stakes

Chicago has ranked fourth in a listing of the world's 100 most booming skylines. I guess we should be proud of such good placement, but if it was based on looks and not on the number of floors in a high-rise, we all know we'd wipe the floor with NYC. Maybe Trump Tower Chicago will be good for something after all.

- 22.03.05 ~ Arts/Architecture

Wednesday, 03 16 2005

Influence: Art + Design Edition

On Tuesday, April 5th, Interrupt Media Group and Subsystence present the next installment of their monthly INFLUENCE night at Sonotheque, this time with a focus on the local art and design community. Cody Hudson, Ray Noland, Chris Silva, and Juan Chavez will DJ after an informal preshow discussion about the state of the Chicago creative scene. Panelists will include Jim Coudal, Brian Ulrich, Michael Coleman, Elizabeth Cline, and GB's very own Andrew Huff. More information is available in Slowdown, or on the INFLUENCE website. Hope to see some of you there!

- 16.03.05 ~ Offbeat/Misc. Events

Monday, 03 14 2005

Liz, Watched

A new blog has been making the rounds lately, appropriately entitled LizWatch: "There are far too many hours in the day and I have far too much time. This is a pathetic and bitter blog that takes the time to read and critique what is in my opinion the worst journalism in Chicago: Chicago Antisocial." Unfortunately, the Reader still doesn't offer free archives of their content online, so you'll just have to pick up last week's issue to see what all the fuss is about.

- 14.03.05 ~ Weblogs

Wednesday, 03 09 2005

Under the Radar Operators

The fine folks over at Creative Rescue have just released another issue of their homegrown web publication Blacklist, this time featuring profiles on musician Kahlil El' Zabar, DJ Heather, and printer Thomas Lucas, plus art from French designers Superdeux and NYC's SoCity, as well as interviews with Pugslee Atomz and Statik. You can read it online, or download and print a convenient PDF version. Check it!

- 9.03.05 ~ Print/Magazines

Thursday, 03 03 2005

The Resonant Image

Attention interactive media artists: Local web-based image gallery and music archive Stasisfield is calling for submissions to their new exhibition entitled The Resonant Image. In this interesting two-tiered competition, artists are asked to share experimental visual interpretations of musical scores. Selected work will displayed as both an image and, later, as an MP3. Visit the Stasisfield site for more information on how to contribute. Deadline for submissions is at the end of the month.

- 3.03.05 ~ Arts/Architecture

Tuesday, 03 01 2005

Influence @ Sonotheque

Tonight is the March installment of the monthly Influence night at Chicago's Sonotheque. Featuring selections from Ethan D'Ercole of the Watchers, Kevin Kujawa from Hi-Fi, and Mike Broers of Ghost Arcade, Influence is a relaxed night of unmixed (and often underappreciated) classics. Locals Jeremy Horst and Aaron Bennett open. More information is available in Slowdown.

- 1.03.05 ~ Music/Clubs

Sunday, 02 27 2005

Tonight in Wicker Park

Looking for something interesting to do after the Oscars? Well, artists from German record label Traum hit Subterranean tonight; expect a relaxed evening of experimental electronic sounds. Label owner Riley Reinhold headlines, with support from Ontario's Jesse Somfay, Kate Simko of Detalles, and Dave Siska of Clinically Inclined. More information is available in Slowdown, or on the Interrupt Media Group website.

- 27.02.05 ~ Music/Clubs

Friday, 02 18 2005

Surgeon Live at Logan

Although some people seem upset about the packed lineup, most Chicago electronic music fans are rallying around Saturday's DJ Surgeon show at the Logan Square Auditorium. For those of you unfamiliar with the music of Anthony Child, expect a dense mix of pseudo-industrial club tracks presented in an inimitable, forward-thinking fashion. Local DJs Gabe Palomo of Zuvuya and Frankie Vega of Blueline open the night. More info is, as always, available in Slowdown.

- 18.02.05 ~ Music/Clubs

Sunday, 02 13 2005

Cribs: Ebert Edition

"Topic he adores but won't discuss at a party: Darwinism. I really believe Darwin and his followers more or less have accounted for much of what we see when we open our eyes each day. I think that is miraculous, but my wife says I bore people with it." 28 Questions with Sun-Times film critic Roger Ebert. [via Kottke]

- 13.02.05 ~ Film

Saturday, 02 12 2005

Hot for Teacher

From yesterday's Tribune: "A Morgan Park High School teacher has been suspended after police said they found her 'half naked' in a car with a 17-year-old student." Why has this been happening so much recently? Absolutely gross.

- 12.02.05 ~ In the News

Tuesday, 02 08 2005

Modsquare Netlabel Launch

Attention electronic musicians: here is your chance to connect with local artists, chat about gear, and share demos. Join the folks from Modsquare tonight at Sonotheque for an evening of networking and IDM, featuring performances from Miles Tilmann, Justin McGrath, and Liz Revision. Bring at least 10 copies of your CDR to share, and you’ll get in for free. More information is available on the subVariant website.

- 8.02.05 ~ Music/Clubs

Monday, 02 07 2005

Chicago Drivers, Beware

We all know what people say about Chicago drivers. Well, those ever-industrious gents over at SkinnyCorp have a new meme / business venture / public service they'd like to share. I Park Like An Idiot provides bumper stickers that you are NOT supposed to put on offending vehicles. No, really. [via YH]

- 7.02.05 ~ Transportation

Sunday, 02 06 2005

Public Art Actually Not That Public

It's one of those stories that has been making the rounds: a friend tries to snap a picture of Kapoor's Cloud Gate at Millenium Park, only to be hassled by security. Well, it seems this is actually true; no photography is allowed on the grounds since the supposedly public space falls completely under copyright. How ridiculous is that? Cory Doctorow at Boing Boing refers to this as "the vilest display of human venality I've heard of all day." The Reader recently ran a related piece entitled The Bean Police [Read pages 1, 2, 3]. Obviously, a lot of people are simply ignoring the rule.

- 6.02.05 ~ Arts/Architecture

Friday, 02 04 2005

Lakeview Voted Friendliest Neighborhood

From the Chicago Tribune: "A quarrel over a fare early this morning on Chicago's North Side led to the death of a cab driver when a man allegedly beat the cabbie and then ran him over with his own taxi." Somehow, Lakeview is becoming less of a destination neighborhood for me these days. I wonder why.

- 4.02.05 ~ In the News

Begin Transmission

Are you a local musician? Do you enjoy sharing your work online? Gapers Block is launching a new section — entitled Transmission — to highlight up-and-coming Chicago talent. Every week, we'll feature an mp3 from an artist, band or label along with some background info and a link to their website. All you have to do is contact us at transmission@gapersblock.com with a link to your stuff and some words about the music. If we like what we hear, we'll post the track for a week under a CC Music Sharing License. So, go on, get in touch!

- 4.02.05 ~ Gapers

Wednesday, 02 02 2005

Trail of Tears

Jim and the folks at Coudal Partners are about to begin another one of their web contests, this time ominously titled the Trail of Tears. It seems treacherous, mysterious, and all-together intense. It also features prizes from Powell's, Pixies Discs, Veer and Rotofugi, among others. So, perhaps the ends will justify the means. Sign up for more information here — if you think you're up for it. But, don't say we didn't warn you.

- 2.02.05 ~ Offbeat/Misc. Events

Tuesday, 02 01 2005

Influence Just Got Lazier

Since April 2004, this unique Chicago monthly has given local DJs and producers an outlet for their alternative musical interests. Disallowing traditional mixing, INFLUENCE. encourages guests to span multiple artists and genres, and demonstrate the variety of styles that have inspired them artistically. Tonight features performances from some of the city's most dedicated and knowledgeable promoters, such as Erick Material and Rob Hamilton of the famed Lazy FM collective. Zachary Lubin opens. More information is available in Slowdown.

- 1.02.05 ~ Music/Clubs

Wednesday, 01 26 2005

Funny Ha-Ha II

Pulled over from Slowdown: Come hear some of Chicago's funniest writers tonight at the Hideout. The event is being hosted by Claire Zulkey and features readings from many friends of Gapers Block including Wendy McClure, Steve Delahoyde, Mark Bazer, Amy Krouse Rosenthal, Nathan Rabin and many more. Check out the Hideout website for the complete lineup. The event starts at 8pm, donations will be accepted at the door.

- 26.01.05 ~ Books/Authors

Tuesday, 01 25 2005

Still Alive

This Friday, at Chicago's Bucket Rider Gallery, the folks behind Art Prostitute magazine will be in town to celebrate the release of their fifth issue, Still Alive. Featuring work from Gary Baseman, Tiffany Bozic, Kozyndan, and Cody Hudson, this should be a nice way to start off the weekend. The party is free, but a 20-spot in support of the cause gets you a copy of the new issue. If you're lucky, Cody might even sign it for you. What more could you ask for?

- 25.01.05 ~ Print/Magazines

Monday, 01 24 2005

Floating Logos Project

Keeping in line with the Illinois Arts Fellowship coverage, one of this year's recipients, a Chicagoan named Matt Siber, is probably known best for his hilarious and thought-provoking Floating Logos Project. For the curious, other locally-based award winners include Sabrina Raaf, Matthew Steinke, Ben Vida, Brenda Cardenas, and BJ Krivanek. Lots of interesting work to sort through here.

- 24.01.05 ~ Photography

Friday, 01 21 2005

Bodyworlds

When I lived in London, the opening of this show caused quite a stir, with the press questioning whether or not skinless cadavers counted as "art." Ironically, Bodyworlds — Gunter von Hagens' "anatomical exhibition of real human bodies" — is about to hit the Museum of Science and Industry next month, and with little moral uproar or critical fanfare. I guess they're also presenting a new Omnimax film in conjunction with the exhibition, which I assume will be part and parcel of a more toned-down, family-oriented presentation. Either way, if you enjoy the show, you could always join the tour.

- 21.01.05 ~ Arts/Architecture

Wednesday, 01 19 2005

Tsunami Benefit @ Rodan

Please join Subsystence and PISTIL Magazine tonight at Rodan for an evening of good music in support of a great cause. A stellar lineup of DJs including WNUR's Dave Siska and m50 is donating their time to perform, and all the money raised at the door will be split between Oxfam and the International Red Cross. More information available in Slowdown. Hope to see you there!

- 19.01.05 ~ Music/Clubs

Friday, 01 14 2005

Tagging Chicago

Community blogs will always have their place, as hand-selected content remains preferable to lists of automatically generated links. But, 'tagging' — the process of adding keywords to posts — is allowing for the quick distillation of information, grouping thoughts together around shared subject matter. You've no doubt seen the Del.icio.us Chicago tag, and the Flickr Chicago tag, both great Windy City-related resources. But now, the folks at Technorati have added a tag system to their site, alllowing for the instant search of a particular theme on member blogs. Check out their Chicago page, and you'll notice that it not only aggregates posts with the city as their subject, but conveniently consolidates each of the above services onto one single page. Brilliant.

- 14.01.05 ~ Found on the Web

Tuesday, 01 11 2005

Segura Launches Cartype

Chicago-based designer Carlos Segura, the man behind T.26 Digital Type Foundry and custom CD house 5inch, has just completed another project entitled Cartype. Labeled as a "personal collection of images, comments, links, information and general interest related to cars and motorcycles," this is a well-executed, comprehensive resource for the vehicle aficionado. Now, if he could just make these appear in the US sooner, we'd be all set. [via Signal vs. Noise]

- 11.01.05 ~ Transportation

Wednesday, 01 05 2005

Funk the Mental...or Something

Do you like going out when it's really unpleasant and snowy outside? Well, if for some reason you do, your best bet is to head on over to Sonotheque this evening for Chris and Don's unfortunately-titled Funk the Mental monthy event. Combining a variety of abstract and danceable electronic genres, Funk the Mental is a consistently-programmed and often enjoyable night out. Tonight features WNUR DJ Dave Siska and Traum recording artist Kate Simko. All proceeds from the $5 cover will go to tsunami relief, so show some support if you can.

- 5.01.05 ~ Music/Clubs

Tuesday, 01 04 2005

Sonotheque Presents Influence

Every month since last April, local magazine Subsystence has organized a unique music event at Chicago's intimate Sonotheque. Dedicated to providing local DJs and producers with an alternative outlet for their musical interests, INFLUENCE. encourages people to play a variety of records that have inspired them artistically. Tonight, employees from of some of Chicago's most well-respected distributors, including Drag City, Southern, and Carrot Top will be on hand to share their personal favorite tracks. More details are available in Slowdown.

- 4.01.05 ~ Music/Clubs

Tuesday, 12 28 2004

Daniel Givens at Sonotheque

Looking for something interesting to do this evening? Well, look no further. Joel Kriske of experimental pop group Pulseprogramming and Suji Lee present another installment of their excellent XOJK series at Sonotheque. Playing in support of his new release on Aesthetics, tonight features local favorite Daniel Givens alongside Josh Abrams of Town & Country, Jeff Parker of Tortoise, and Nikki Mitchell of Black Earth. Should be an excellent night of music. Opening DJ sets provided by Kriske himself and Monday's at Danny's creator DJ Bob. More information available in Slowdown.

- 28.12.04 ~ Music/Clubs

Wednesday, 12 15 2004

New Urbanism in Grayslake

Fantastic architecture community site Archinect points us to this article from today's Daily Herald about anti-sprawl development in Grayslake. "Interspersed with about a dozen shops, the buildings will be grouped around an open area .... Energy-efficient and oversized by traditional condo standards, the allure is expected not only to be the space within, but that without — an open environment with trails and lakes in a protected natural habitat." Fantastic. Hopefully, this type of planning will continue to grow in popularity.

- 15.12.04 ~ Arts/Architecture

Tuesday, 12 14 2004

For Those Who Know

As we've mentioned previously, Chicago is enjoying a bit of a renaissance within its electronic music community. With consistently varied nights happening at spots like Sonotheque, Rodan, and Danny's Tavern, radio shows on WNUR and WLUW, as well as solid press coverage, more and more people seem to be supporting local promoters. But, where does one go for updated information on area happenings? Luckily, the folks at Chi-Tech, Modsquare, m50, Subsystence, Chicago Modular, and Upcoming do a good job of covering these frequently-esoteric events. Also, like we do with Slowdown, most of these sites accept submissions, so be sure to share your listings!

- 14.12.04 ~ Music/Clubs

Thursday, 12 09 2004

Blacklist: December Issue Online

Ray Noland, Darlene Jackson, and the folks at Blacklist Magazine have just released the December issue of their quality web publication. A primarily interview-based installment, Volume 4 puts HeavyWeight Production House, Wing Ko, MC Longshot, as well as DJs Miles Maeda and Josh Werner under the microscope. Art and photography from Pars, Fette, and Mireya Acierto are also on display. For the designers, Ray includes a free download of his Black Crusader typeface. The whole issue is available online, or in PDF format.

- 9.12.04 ~ Print/Magazines

Wednesday, 12 08 2004

The Real Art Chicago

Running through December 18th is an excellent show at Columbia's Center for Book & Paper Arts, featuring work from Chicagoans Jay Ryan, of Dianogah fame, as well as Archer Prewitt, of local favorites The Sea and Cake. There is a massive amount of work on display here, showcasing Prewitt's Sof'Boy creation as well as a comprehensive selection of Ryan's work as The Bird Machine. If this doesn't manage to satiate your desire for local art, head on over to Foundation Gallery for their new exhibit, Drawing to an End. A theme of time permeates this fantastic group show, highlighting work from gallery staples Jay Ryan, Nick Butcher, Dan Grzeca, Justin Fines, and Seripop.

- 8.12.04 ~ Arts/Architecture

Friday, 12 03 2004

Looking Back, Looking Forward

Local promotional outfits Interrupt Media and Covalent team up once again to present Going Forward in Reverse, an electronic music series tonight at Chicago's acclaimed Sonotheque. This installment features performances by local house favorite Diz, Gramaphone stalwart and Antennae label head Josh Werner, Crosstalk's Brian Borden, and an opening set by Audiophile of Meiotic. Doors at 9 pm, Tickets are $5 before 11pm. 21+, $2 PBR. Sonotheque is located at 1444 W. Chicago Ave.

- 3.12.04 ~ Music/Clubs

Thursday, 12 02 2004

Resfest Digital Film Festival

From the collective mind of the folks at Res Magazine, Resfest 2004 hits town this weekend. Setting up shop Friday through Sunday at the Museum of Contemporary Art, the production is self-described as a "global touring festival exploring the dynamic interplay of film, art, music, design, and technology." This year's lineup features work from Sexy Beast director Jonathan Glazer, British video artists Shynola, audio terrorists EBN, and more. Tickets are available through the Resfest website and the MCA; more information on the specific schedule has been posted in Slowdown.

- 2.12.04 ~ Film

Monday, 11 29 2004

Know Your Rights

Chicago-based web magazine Subsystence is at it again, releasing the fourth installment of their experiment in community publishing over the holiday weekend. Featuring a volume design from Rob Hamilton of LazyFM fame, Citizen showcases a variety of creative, politically- related content from music to photography, travelogues to fiction, poetry to movie reviews. GB contributors Jesica Davis and Anne Holub are among the nearly two dozen people who shared work this time around. If you're interested in getting involved, the mag has also opened submissions to their next issue.

- 29.11.04 ~ Print/Magazines

Tuesday, 11 23 2004

New Issue of Revol

Local web publication Revol has their fifth issue online, and it's well worth checking out. The November installment features work from Chris Luxton, Neil Collyer, Aaron Ruell, Mike Brodie, and Donald Dixon, and showcases the best design, photography, and illustration you've never seen. I think they'd like it if you had a look, and while you're there, why not buy a pin to wear on your new GB T-shirt?

- 23.11.04 ~ Print/Magazines

Thursday, 11 18 2004

Bpitch Returns to Chicago

Tonight, local electronic gurus Meiotic welcome back Bpitch Control labelhead and Berlin resident Ellen Allien for her debut Smart Bar performance. Unfortunately, some unpleasant Visa trouble prevented her last scheduled tour of the States, but apparently she is in town this time and ready to perform. Expect a set of varied electro, techno and abstract beats, while Chicago's very own Kate Simko (of Detalles fame) warms things up with a live show of dubby, atmospheric IDM. Personally, I'd get there early, as Simko's performance will likely be the highlight of the evening. Meiotic resident DJs Audiophile and m50 kick things off with a tag team set. More info is available here.

- 18.11.04 ~ Music/Clubs

Friday, 11 12 2004

Bolshoi Ballet Hits Chicago

Beginning this week, the famed Bolshoi Ballet and Orchestra sets up shop at the Auditorium Theatre, rotating between performances of two Marius Petipa classics, Don Quixote and Raymonda. If you like dance, or can at least appreciate a beautiful, technically-precise spectacle, this will be worth checking out. And, as the Reader suggests, it seems fortunate that the company isn't staging their modern adaptation of Romeo and Juliet, so I'll gladly take what we can get. Tickets are available now through Ticketmaster.

- 12.11.04 ~ Theatre/Dance

Wednesday, 11 10 2004

Schooling the Electoral College

John Mark Hansen, one of the nation's leading political minds, is both a Distinguished Service Professor and Dean of the Social Sciences Division at the University of Chicago. In a pre-election piece published in the Chicago Sun-Times, Hansen argues for the dissolution of the Electoral College, painting it as a thoroughly outdated and indefensible system. With Nader now asking for a recount of ballots in the state of New Hampshire, one begins to wonder what role the College actually plays in a contemporary presidential election. Are we missing something?

- 10.11.04 ~ Politics/Activism

Monday, 11 01 2004

Influence: Election Edition

Are you into music and movies? What about politics? Do you like it when these things awkwardly come together? If so, come out to Sonotheque tonight for a special pre-election installment of Influence, featuring a screening of Kubrick's classic anti-war trilogy (Dr. Strangelove, Paths of Glory, and Full Metal Jacket) accompanied by a handpicked selection of quality protest songs. No cover, 21 and up. More information available in Slowdown.

- 1.11.04 ~ Music/Clubs

Wednesday, 10 27 2004

Next Stop: Palookaville

Norman Cook, aka Fatboy Slim, will be performing at Metro this November in support of his new album, Palookaville. Apparently naming the record after a nonsensical quote from the late Marlon Brando, I imagine plenty of people forsee a parallel fate for Cook — involving an island, piles of money, and creative irrelevance. Regardless, his One Way Ticket to Palookaville tour is remarkable simply because Cook now has a band touring with him this time around, and will be playing on a stage that's been done up to look like his new video. All we need now is a Christopher Walken look-alike and synchronized dancing, and we're set!

- 27.10.04 ~ Music/Clubs

Tuesday, 10 26 2004

Rest in Peace, John

Arguably the world's most influential radio DJ, John Peel has sadly passed away while on vacation in Peru. Redefining the medium for an incredible four decades, Peel consistently championed new music from up-and-coming Chicago bands — such as Shellac, Tortoise, Braniac, and Labradford — and gave them an outlet on his now seminal Radio 1 program. Pulling from a variety of genres, both new and old, Peel's uncompromising, independent aesthetic served as an inspiration to music fans everywhere. Tributes are being compiled here; you can also submit a request for the BBC to air your favorite Peel Session.

- 26.10.04 ~ Radio/TV

It's Like Punk Rock Never Happened

Local experimental rock imprint Kranky is getting a lot of press lately, mainly because one of the label's best-known bands has decided to record their anticipated new album for the venerable Seattle-based Sub Pop instead. This seemingly amicable split hasn't slowed Kranky's release schedule, though: a slew of new releases from Greg Davis, Autistic Daughters and Chicago's very own Pan American are on shelves now, with plans for a 2-disc compilation in the works. Touring in support of his new album, Davis will also perform at the Empty Bottle on November 14th as part of a Carpark Records showcase.

- 26.10.04 ~ Music/Clubs

Friday, 10 22 2004

Chicago's Sound Experiment

Despite being located in Evanston, Northwestern University's student-run radio station, WNUR 89.3 FM, holds a unique spot in Chicago's musical history. Not only does it compete with many of the big boys in terms of physical range, but it provides an honest alternative to the drab, commercial options that populate much of the FM dial. Weekdays are a perfect showcase of WNUR's genre diversity, featuring everything from Jazz and Blues to Experimental and World Music. After 9:30 PM, a nearly 20 year old portion of programming begins, focusing on electronic, hip hop, and dance-oriented music. Be sure to tune into Clinically Inclined and Subsystence Radio, two of the city's most tenured house and techno broadcasts.

- 22.10.04 ~ Radio/TV

Friday, 10 15 2004

Architectural Artifacts

Located near the corner of Montrose and Ravenswood, a few blocks west of Graceland Cemetery, sits another of the Windy City's many architectural treasures. Established in 1987, Architectural Artifacts, Inc. collects and preserves certified antiques and other historic memorabilia from around Chicagoland, selling some of it in their shop and displaying the rest in a recently-completed museum. From stained glass to doors, furniture to religious artifacts, their collection boasts "more range, depth, and personality" than anywhere else in the area. It seems they also rent out their massive space for private events. Thanks to Del.icio.us Chicago for the link!

- 15.10.04 ~ Arts/Architecture

Monday, 10 11 2004

Pets Are Worth Saving

Did you know that spaying or neutering your pet increases its life expectancy? How about the fact that a female cat and her children can produce 420 thousand offspring in just seven years? PAWS Chicago is the largest local humane society, offering a no-kill alternative to the city's pet overpopulation problem. Operating for over seven years, PAWS supplies an incredible service to dog and cat owners throughout Chicagoland with their Little Village-based Lurie Family Spay/Neuter Clinic. Realizing that surgery is the only way to control unwanted breeding, the clinic helps pet owners afford the procedure by subsidizing it dramatically, and even making it free for low-income families.

- 11.10.04 ~ Resources

Thursday, 10 07 2004

A Call To Action

Chicago-based web magazine The Blacklist has just released their third issue, and it's well worth a look. Featuring Art Direction from local designer Ray Noland of Creative Rescue, the October installment contains interviews with DJs Lady D and Chris Quinn, artwork from Jon Nicholson, Chris Silva, and Justin Fines of Demo, and a spotlight on first-time voters. So, go on, get Blacklisted!

- 7.10.04 ~ Print/Magazines

Tuesday, 10 05 2004

Derrick Carter Shares His Influences

A headliner at this year's SummerDance festival and widely regarded as one of the best DJs in the history of the craft, Chicago's Derrick Carter is an essential part of house music history. Co-owner of the esteemed Classic imprint, Derrick has been touring non-stop for nearly two decades. Tonight presents a rare — and free — opportunity to hear him play in his hometown, especially when you consider that he'll be performing an unmixed set of genre-defying classics. Local favorite J-Dub opens, with support from WNUR's Dave Siska and Karl Meier. More details in Slowdown.

- 5.10.04 ~ Music/Clubs

Thursday, 09 30 2004

Doc Releases Fall Schedule

Doc Films, one the oldest student-run film groups in the nation, has just announced another packed Autumn lineup. Operating out of Ida Noyes Hall at the University of Chicago, Doc traditionally creates a theme for each day of the week, with more esoteric cinema showing Sunday through Thursday. This season is no exception, featuring work from Kenji Mizoguchi and Jim Jarmusch, as well as up-and-coming Nordic filmmakers. They also frequently hold special events that are worth looking out for; Errol Morris, Ang Lee, Woody Allen, Kevin Spacey, and Roger Ebert have all participated in recent screenings.

- 30.09.04 ~ Film

Tuesday, 09 28 2004

Get High and Get Down

Looking for something different to do this evening? Well, the elusive ambient/downtempo collective Atmospheric Audio Chair has reformed — this time with promotional support from Apple and Wired — and will be holding a post-work (5-8 pm) monthly session on the 33rd floor of Chicago's W Hotel Lakeshore. Led by DJs Ken Waagner and Tom Pazen, enjoy a healthy dose of relaxed music in the only local bar that rotates 360 degrees every hour. Also happening tonight is the third installment of XOJK at Sonotheque, which proudly features John Herndon of Tortoise and Lazy FM's Rob Hamilton. Both events are 21+ with no cover.

- 28.09.04 ~ Music/Clubs

Saturday, 09 25 2004

Night Moves

Recently profiled [reg. req'd] in the Friday section of yesterday's Tribune, it seems Chicago is enjoying a long-awaited renaissance within its dance music community. Tonight is a perfect example of this resurgence of interest in electronic music, with fantastic lineups at the Empty Bottle, Rodan, Zentra, Cafe Lura, Smart Bar and Sonotheque. I know where I'll be already, but what about you?

- 25.09.04 ~ Music/Clubs

Thursday, 09 23 2004

The Lowercase Tee

Are you voting against George W. Bush in November and have a kid between the ages of 4 and 8? If not, do you know a fellow parent who shares your enthusiasm for 'regime change' here at home? Well, Coudal Partners have created just the thing for you. Their new Lowercase Tee, printed to perfection by the folks at Threadless, allows kids to do a little election-year sloganeering of their own. Because it's time to fight like kids do — dirty.

- 23.09.04 ~ Politics/Activism

Tuesday, 09 21 2004

Spreading The Flavor, As It Were

Yes, yes, I know it was previously mentioned in this post, but today is the launch of Flavorpill Chicago's inaugural installment. A weekly arts and culture newsletter focusing on more marginalized and niche-oriented events, Flavorpill has already worked its magic in LA, New York, San Fran, and London, so it's nice to hear that we're next in line. Um, have a taste?

- 21.09.04 ~ Arts/Architecture

Sunday, 09 19 2004

Foundation Opens Online Store

Local art space Foundation Gallery has just released a fantastic new online backroom, featuring a variety of previously exhibited work from Bird Machine founder Jay Ryan, Snapcult, Serigraphie Populaire, Sayre Gomez, Nick Butcher, and Dan Grzeca. While you're there, be sure to check out work from their current exhibition, Will Travel: New Paintings by Russ Pope.

- 19.09.04 ~ Arts/Architecture

Friday, 09 17 2004

Big and Green Chicago

Big & Green Chicago: Towards Sustainable Architecture in the 21st Century is a recent project from the Chicago Architecture Foundation, highlighting a local commitment to developing buildings which effectively conserve natural resources. Even though the exhibit itself just closed, you can still view a portion of it, entitled Chicago Green, on the CAF website. The gallery is only partially encouraging, however, since most of these projects remain unbuilt.

- 17.09.04 ~ Arts/Architecture

Wednesday, 09 15 2004

Rosenbaum's Essential Cinema

Well-regarded by cinephiles, academics and filmmakers alike, Jonathan Rosenbaum (film critic for the Chicago Reader) recently released his latest book, Essential Cinema. Published in April through Johns Hopkins Press, it follows a similar direction to the one he traced with Movie Wars, this time pairing a selection of long-form reviews with an analysis of how Hollywood is effectively deteriorating the concept of film canons. Does Roeper even know what that word means?

- 15.09.04 ~ Film

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