Round Robin
Today in Transmission we give you the low down on Dan Deacon's latest project: The Round Robin Tour which pulls its veggie bus into Chicago Friday night.
Ad: The Third Coast Festival presents the amazing BBC Radio Ballads at the Old Town School! Oct. 12, 7pm
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Call for Images: Transitions
GB is doing a photo feature for Detour on the theme of "Transitions," and we'd love to get submissions from readers. If you'd like the chance to be included, please add your photographs to our flickr group with the tag "Transitions" by noon on Saturday, October 18. More details are available in the group's discussion section.
GB Get-Together Tonight
The Wall Street mess and election craziness distracted us from promoting our own event this evening: the monthly GB Get-Together! We'll be at Clark Street Ale House from 8 to 11pm -- and yes, we'll make sure they have the debates on the TV. Come join us!
Interview with Calexico
Over in Transmission we sit down with Calexico's Joey Burns and talk about world music, and the band's free concert tonight at Millennium Park.
Girls Got Game
In Tailgate, our sports section, Ken Green interviews one of the producers of Girl/Gamer, a documentary examining the culture of women in video- and role-playing games.
Hideout Block Party Rundown
Planning on hitting up the 12th Annual Hideout Block Party this weekend? Still on the fence? Over in Transmission, we've got our picks for a good time this weekend as you rock out and send off summer with a bang.
Turning Trash into Cash
This week is recycling week at GB, with two features exploring what is typically perceived as the underside of the economy. In A/C, we take a look at Scrappers, a documentary film featuring the lives of three local scrap metal collectors. Over in Detour, we visit with Barry "Can Man" Woodson, leader of a street crew of recyclers in Wrigleyville. After reading the articles, you may want to check out the Scrappers fundraiser on Friday.
When You Get to the Bottom...
The Bottom Lounge is back, and the subject of a feature review in Transmission.
This Will Go Down On Your...
In Transmission, learn about Ukrainian Park's Permanent Records.
The Night Bookmobile
As Alice notes in the Book Club blog, The Guardian is serializing a new illustrated book by Audrey Niffenegger.
An Ex-cellent Collaboration
This week's Transmission feature is an interview with Andy Moor, guitarist for The Ex, on the Dutch punk band's collaboration with a legendary Ethiopian saxophonist. The Ex are in town for shows on Sunday and Monday; bone up on the new stuff.
"Master of Markets"
Ron Slattery, expert scavenger and past GB columnist, is the subject of this week's front page feature in the Reader.
Garden Party
Quick reminder: We'd love to see you at our GB Get-Together Friday. We'll be hanging in the beer garden at Moody's Pub in Edgewater; details here.
Transmission Feature: Lollapalooza Throwdown
Tired of fighting over overlapping sets at the 3-day Grant Park music extravaganza known as Lollapalooza? Well, over in Transmission, we're taking on the fight for you.
Transmission Feature: Atavistic 6-Pack
Take a moment over in Transmission to learn a little somfin' somfin' about six new releases from Chicago "out-there" label Atavistic Records. You just might expand your musical horizons, and that ain't a bad thing.
Trash to Fashion
GB's own Lauri Apple is interviewed in a piece about found and recycled clothing for Chicago Public Radio's "Chicago Matters: Growing Forward" series.
Transmission Feature: Previewing Pitchfork
Know what you're in for this weekend before you head down to Union Park and the Pitchfork Music Festival by reading about our favorites over in Transmission.
Transmission Contest: Pitchfork Tickets!
We're running a contest for a pair of three-day passes to the Pitchfork Music Festival in Transmission -- get over there and enter to win!
Transmission Feature: Bands You Missed
We trip down memory lane this week in Transmission, reminiscing about three Chicago bands that have up and faded away, despite their greatness. Click over and read all about First Coat, Breaking Circus and Tom Spacey.
Transmission Feature: Shape Shoppe
Working hard to produce exciting new music on the near-south side, Chicago's Shape Shoppe has become the favorite label of local bands as well as national ones. Read about their latest releases and their work to create a new performance venue in Transmission.
Free Wine at Tonight's GB Get-Together
Join us tonight for a very special two-part episode of our monthly GB Get-Together! We'll be at Mike Genovese's studio in the pedway beneath the Cultural Center from 5 to 7pm, then heading to Phaiz Gallery from 8 to 11pm for an art exhibit and free wine! RSVP for the latter here!
Transmission Feature: What's a Walter Meego?
Short answer: Two guys from the suburbs making great dance music, to much critical acclaim. Long answer: You'll have to read about them over in Transmission (and keep an eye out for some free goods).
The Art of Getting Together
It's time for our monthly GB Get-Together, and we've got a big evening planned for this Friday! Join us at artist Mike Genovese's studio in the pedway below the Chicago Cultural Center from 5 to 7pm, then follow us to Phaiz Gallery at 8pm for free wine and an exhibition of pop song-inspired art. The only catch: you'll have to RSVP to get in. Details in Slowdown.
Summer Reading Starts Now
The Gapers Block Book Club is reading Free Burning by Bayo Ojikutu for July. This dark novel tells the story of Tommie Simms, who loses his job at a downtown insurance firm after 9/11 and turns to selling drugs to make ends meet. Free Burning chronicles his swift descent and profiles a neighborhood ravaged by poverty, gangs and drugs, where everyone is a hustler. Read the book, and then join on on Monday, July 14 at The Book Cellar beginning at 7:30pm for our discussion. New members are always welcome.
Transmission Feature: Air Guitar Champs
The Chicago regional tournament portion of the 2008 Cuervo Air Guitar Championships gets down tonight at the Metro. Over in Transmission, we take a minute to give you the skinny on why so many consider air guitar a true competitive sport.
Advertising on the Cheap
Got an event coming up? Consider advertising it on Gapers Block! Our textads are a super deal -- just $35 gets you a week at the top of every page on the site. Learn more here.
Transmission Feature: The Collective Family
Faced with single voices shouting into the wind, young Chicago musicians are turning to a group approach to getting their music heard in the vast indie market. Read over in Transmission about burgeoning musicians' cooperative, The Collective Family.
GB's Fifth Anniversary
Don't forget, the party is this Friday! And we've got late word about a special guest performer that will make the techies in the crowd go wild. Here's a not-so-subtle hint.
Book Club: Naked
This month the GB Book Club takes a turn for the witty with the much acclaimed Naked by David Sedaris. Get to know the author as a nervous young boy, a disaffected youth, and an even more nervous adult in his collection of personal essays that are part memoir and part true comedy. You can read the introduction on the Book Club page now. We'll meet on Monday, June 9, at the Book Cellar to discuss the book -- new members are always welcome.
Stakes is High
Join Schadenfreude in celebrating their 10th year anniversary in Chicago with a series of shows at Chicago neighborhood dive bars. This week's show is at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, at 9pm tomorrow night. Special guests include Claire Zulkey (Funny Ha-Ha), Steve Delahoyde (filmmaker) and Tim Smithe (one of the Walter E. Smithe brothers), plus the the second annual "Alternative Media Slam," where members of Chicago's alternative media -- including Gapers Block -- rip on each other for respect and special prizes. Music all night provided by The Hood Internet and JC Brooks & the Uptown Sound. Tickets are $10; 21+.
Transmission Feature: Bin Diving so You Don't Have To
South-Side label Numero Group has been unearthing half a dozen albums per year that you weren't even aware were lost. Over in Transmission, we sit down with the founders and find out the ins and outs of the quest for long-lost music.
DJ Throwdown Tonight
Looking for some action tonight? Head to the Burlington where our very own DJ Lapple Pietunes (aka Lauri Apple) goes head to head with Chicagoist's Tankboy in a DJ battle. Free stuff from both Chicagoist and Gapers Block. The fun starts at 9pm and goes late into the night, with giveaways and more.
Transmission Feature: Looptopia's Return
It's all about second chances for Chicago's free all-night party, Looptopia, which returns to downtown Chicago Friday night. Can the Loop-illuminating festival charm the city with its musical lineup? Over in Transmission, we take a look at the slate.
Gapers Block Book Club May Selection
The GB Book Club is now reading The Grass Dancer by Susan Power for our May meeting. Find out more about the novel by checking out the introduction to the book on our blog. Then read The Grass Dancer and join us on Monday, May 19 at The Book Cellar for our discussion.
Transmission Feature: Fake Fictions
That noise you just heard didn't come from the other side of the world — it's the buzz pop musings of the Chicago band Fake Fictions, and their new album Krakatoa featured this week in Transmission.
Help Wanted
Do you like to rock? We're looking to add to our ranks in Transmission.
GB Book Club Turns 3
Congratulations to our very own GB Book Club, celebrating three years with tonight's meeting. Stop by if you can!
Monuments and Murals
Swing by A/C to check out this week's double interviews with muralist Augustina Droze and Carrie Hanson, choreographer of Monument, which is currently running at Ruth Page Center for the Arts.
Transmission Feature: Head of Femur
Chicago's Head of Femur has been on a roller coaster of a career ride. They've been praised by critics, asked to tour with superstars, and then had their label fold, leaving them in the dust. But now they've got a brand-new album, and they're once again garnering loads of lauds. Read the whole story in Transmission.
Transmission: What Are You Doing Monday?
Psst! We've got some free tickets for you over at Transmission.
Transmission Feature: Get Me Scotland Yard
If you've ever seen flyers promoting a show by the Scotland Yard Gospel Choir, your first thoughts were probably way off base. The band is neither related to the famous British investigative unit, nor are they a robe-wearing religious singing troupe. What they are, in fact, are rising stars in the Chicago indie music scene, and they're about to make Schubas their home for the month of April.
New Sections, New Staff
If you've been exploring the new design, you may have spotted a new blog: Tailgate, our freshly minted sports blog. We're looking for writers, so if you're into sports (or know someone who is), get in touch. Conversely, if you're into arts & culture, we're looking for a few bright folks for A/C, too.
Not Really a Joke
If you haven't noticed, or the site looks a bit screwy (which is not the intention, mind you), we redesigned. You'll want to refresh your browser, clear your cache and remove any sticky remainders of the last redesign so you can see this one all fresh. Undoubtedly, there will be small kinks and details here and there. We're working on them. For now, enjoy.
This Week's A/C Feature: Sara Schnadt
If you haven't already, head over to A/C and check out this week's feature, which is an interview with performance and installation artist Sara Schnadt.
Transmission Feature: En Espanol
This week's Transmission Feature takes you to the sides of your radio dial that you probably don't venture too often: Chicago's Latino music scene.
Gapers Block, Twitterized
Are you on Twitter? If so, start following us. It's mostly a feed of Merge right now, but we throw some bits from other sections in there too, and you never know when something special might pop up.
Transmission's SXSW Tour Diaries
In case you were hankering for some inside takes on the famous (or infamous) SXSW Music Festival going on this week in Austin, TX, click on over to Transmission where we'll be sharing tour diaries from a few Chicago music types who've trucked down their records and amps and love of last calls to the Lone Star State. The first installment from The Hood Internet is up now.
Transmission Feature: School of Language
This week in Transmission, we sit down for an intimate chat with David Brewis of School of Language. His new album Sea From Shore has hit the shelves, and he'll be hitting the Empty Bottle tomorrow night.
Book Club Meeting Tonight
Come one, come all, to The Book Cellar tonight for the March meeting of the Gapers Block Book Club. We will be talking about Fire Sale by Sara Paretsky. The discussion begins at 7:30pm, and new members are always welcome.
Transmission Feature: The Acorn
Since when does indie rock get inspired by the native music of Honduras? When it's played by The Acorn, that's when. Read about them over in Transmission before you check out their show at Schubas Saturday.
Introducing A/C
Gapers Block is proud to announce the launch of our latest section, A/C, covering arts and culture in depth. Don't miss the premier feature, a look inside the studio of artist Erik Newman.
Boardgames on the Brain
Apparently it's in the air: Chicagoist is holding its first-ever Commenter Trivial Pursuit Throwdown tonight at Sheffield's -- and we'd already announced that the GB Get-Together on Friday would be a boardgame night. Beer and trivia, always a good combo.
Transmission Feature: Venue Reviews #2
Over in Transmission this week, we're raising a critical eye to two Chicago music venues that have been bringing bands to town for nearly 20 years, The Empty Bottle and The Beat Kitchen. Read on.
Transmission Feature: Who Needs One?
Serving up tickets for Chicago music lovers while still resting in the shadow of a couple of ticket broker behemoths is a hard time, sure, but it's proving rewarding for a couple of online show tracking sites. This week in Transmission, we take a look at Oh My Rockness and Songkick — two young upstarts who are making it easier for you to get to the show.
Book Club Reading Fire Sale
The Gapers Block Book Club is reading Fire Sale by Sara Paretsky for our March meeting. Fire Sale is the twelfth novel in Paretsky's bestselling V.I. Warshawski mystery series, but also a great introduction to both the series and the character. For more information about the book, read the introduction on the Book Club blog. Then join us on Monday, March 10, at 7:30pm at The Book Cellar for our discussion.
Book Club Author Event
Have you been reading The Enchanters Vs. Sprawlburg Springs along with us this month? If not, what are you waiting for? The February meeting of the Gapers Block Book Club is coming up this Monday, Feb. 11 at The Book Cellar, where we will be joined by Enchanters author Brian Costello. This promises to be a good time, so put your snow boots on and join us on Monday. The discussion begins at 7:30pm, and new members are always welcome.
Me? Advertise on GB?
That's right, dear readers. You can pimp your parties, sell your condos, or hock your hand-mades with a Gapers Block text ad. Look up to the top of the page and you'll see what we mean. They're just $35 for seven days and get pretty darn good results. Check out ads section out for more info.
Redesigned Blogs
Hey, we just launched a redesign of our topical blogs, Book Club, Drive-Thru and Transmission. Take a look!
Transmission Feature: Jazz by the Numbers
This week in Transmission, we take a look at three stellar releases from Chicago jazz label, Delmark. We've got small ensembles with big performances, big ensembles with even bigger performances, and sweet licks burned onto CD and DVD. So hot it'll melt your snowpants!
Local Sites in the News
Chicago Magazine's February issue features "171 Best Chicago Websites," a nice round-up for your reading pleasure. It's still not wasn't online, though, so Time Out took the initiative and created a linklist for you. Then Chicago Metroblogging created an OPML file of the list -- along with all the ones mentioned in Time Out's recent blog feature package -- that you can dump into your favorite feed reader. UPDATE: The Chicago Mag feature went online late today.
Transmission Feature: Music Venues #1
This week in Transmission we want to get you out of the house (yes, we know how cold it is) and into a nice, warm music venue. Read our first set of Chicago music venue reviews just one click over. This week: Red Line Tap and Schubas.
From "Chicago Tonight" to WLUP Tomorrow
Gapers Block contributor and FoundClothing head findatrix Lauri Apple will appear tomorrow, Jan. 24, on Jonathon Brandmeier's 97.9 FM morning show between 7 a.m. and 8 a.m. Apple will discuss her website, which was recently featured on WTTW's nightly news magazine.
GB Book Club February Book
For our February meeting, the Gapers Block Book Club is reading The Enchanters Vs. Sprawlburg Springs, the debut novel by Brian Costello. Enchanters charts the life and death of a rebel band that shakes up its Florida suburb over one frantic summer, changing everyone's lives forever. Read the introduction to The Enchanters Vs. Sprawlburg Springs on the Book Club blog, and join us on Monday, February 11 at The Book Cellar to talk about the book.
The 1930s Never Tasted this Good
This week's Drive-Thru feature opens the culinary time capsule that is the Chicago Daily News cookbook for your reading pleasure. Published in 1930, the book offers many surprising (as in surprisingly edible) recipes and other advice. And finally, a good recipe for Mock Possum for those times that you don't have a real possum to cook.
Transmission Feature: Flameshovel
This week over in Transmission, we're talking to Jesse Woghin and James Kenler of Chicago's Flameshovel Records. Come on over and see.
2007 Chicago Book in Review
This week the GB Book Club has its annual round-up of Chicago books published in the past year, including fiction by local authors and nonfiction books about our city. From mysteries to graphic novels, and from water tanks to horror movie TV shows, the list reveals another strong year for local talent.
New Year, New Book Club
As the Gapers Block Book Club heads into its fourth year, we have a full list of books to read in 2008, starting with our January selection, Never a City So Real by Alex Kotlowitz. Read the introduction to Never a City So Real on the Book Club blog now, then read the book and join us on Monday, January 14 at The Book Cellar at 7:30pm to talk about the book.
The Year in Review
Our own David Schalliol joined Steve Rhodes from the Beachwood Reporter and Margaret Lyons from Chicagoist on Outside the Loop Radio's 2007 "year in review" episode. Have a listen!
Worth More Than 1,000 To Us!
Congrats to GB staffers Lauri Apple and David Schalliol, whose photos were picked as part of The Reader's 1,000 Words Photo Issue.
Transmission Feature: It Sounded Good to Us
Next door in Transmission, we take a trip down memory lane, laying out the best music we heard in Chicago over the last year.
Transmission Feature: Some Sound Opinions
Today in Transmission, we have a dandy feature on the world's only rock n' roll talk show — Sound Opinions — which (lucky for you and me) is produced right here in Chicago. Not only have Greg Kot and Jim DeRogatis conquered the printed word and the radio waves, but now they're breaking into movies! Well, kind of.
Transmission Feature: Thrill Jockey's 15!
Today in Transmission we help local label Thrill Jockey celebrate its 15 years. Of course, they're celebrating with music coming at you from every which way.
Food for a Good Cause
GB's Drive-Thru is participating in this year's Menu for Hope campaign to raise money for the UN World Food Fund. Check out our prize here, and the rest of the prizes at Chez Pim!
One Cookie to Rule Them All
In Drive-Thru, the tale of the seven-layer cookie.
Transmission Feature: Arkestra to Orchestra
Chicago jazz labels Atavistic and Delmark Records once again deliver some fine tunes to the table (and not just to the turntable). With two new reissues of albums by Sun Ra & His Astro-Infinity Arkestra from Atavistic and fine local contemporary jazz from Kahil El'Zabar's Infinity Orchestra from Delmark, your ears are sure to be burning hot even when it's cold outside. Check out what they're all about in Transmission.
Text Ad Deal
Gapers Block's text ad rates are increasing in 2008 -- to $35 for a week, up from $25. But if you book by Dec. 31, we'll give you this year's rates, no matter when the ad runs. Learn more here.
GB Podcast
In case you missed it over in Airbags, Gapers Block has launched a podcast! This first edition is a little rough; please check it out and give us some feedback.
Transmission Feature: Record Store Love
Today Transmission brings you volume seven of our ongoing series on local record stores in Chicago. Click on over and read about a North Side and a South Side shop you've just got to check out.
Photo Swap on December 6
The second Gapers Block/Calumet Photographic Photo Swap is a little more than a week away, so print up five 4"x6" photographs to exchange with other photographers. Of course, there'll be plenty of free food and drinks to accompany the swapping. Details in Slowdown.
Transmission Feature: You Weren't There
For your post-turkey internet surfing pleasure, we have a brand new feature all ready for you over in Transmission. Read about Chicago's historic punk scene, and the documentary taking a deep look at it that will premiere on Saturday at the Portage Theater.
Transmission Feature: Grace-ful Tribute
This week in Transmission, we reminisce about a simpler time when an album by a young singer/songwriter by the name of Jeff Buckley made everything seem a little sweeter. Chicago's Uncommon Ground is the site of this weekend's special 10th Anniversary tribute show to this sadly departed artist, along with the Metro who'll offer a rare second-chance venue for your nostalgia. Read on.
Transmission Contest: Going on a Mission
Who's free Friday night? (For one lucky reader, Mission of Burma, that's who.)
Transmission Feature: Rebis Records
This week in Transmission, we have a profile of another cool Chicago label you should check out: Rebis Records. Read all about this label, and their catalogue of acts, including Number None, Jazzfinger, and My Cat Is An Alien.
Candy Remix
Wondering what to do with all that leftover Halloween candy? We've got some ideas for you in Drive-Thru.
Transmission Contest: Pale Gents
Hey, what are you doing Monday? Peek over at Transmission and see.
The 2008 GB Book Club Reading List
We received your suggestions and counted the votes, and now we are ready to unveil the selections for the 2008 Gapers Block Book Club. Just for starters, next year the book club will be having a fire sale, visiting Sprawlburg Springs, getting naked with a contemporary humorist and going off to see the Wizard. Check out the full list at the GB Book Club blog.
Transmission Feature: What an Umbrella Fest!
Tired of being relegated to a few scattered stages around town, one group of talented Chicago jazz heroes took it upon themselves to create Umbrella Music and then the Umbrella Music Festival of Jazz and Improvisation was born. Read about it's second year on the calendar, over in Transmission.
Transmission Feature: Made in China
Over in Transmission, we've got a tale of how one Chicago artist is working hard to bring in some musical imports from China that are definitely good, and good for you.
Get-Together with Us
Members of the GB staff will be hanging out at the Green Eye Lounge tonight after 9pm for our monthly Get-Together. Show up in a Halloween costume and we'll buy you a drink.
Transmission Contest: 4 Bands 4 Free
Over in Transmission, we're running a little contest. Wanna see?
Root for the Home Team
Our very own Naz Hamid is playing Layer Tennis today; go root for him in the forums!
Listen Closely
This week's Transmission feature covers some local music blogs you may not have heard of.
Makin' Sandwiches
Over in Drive-Thru, we're talking about sandwiches. Come on over for a bite.
Fuel Fixed
After some delay, the comments in Fuel are finally fixed. No more forced moderation! And speaking of Fuel, Roderick posted a link to a hilarious sticker on a CTA sign.
Leaving the City
Over in Transmission, Craig talks with Rachel Ries about her new album and the possibility of leaving the city she loves.
Live-blogging "Top Chef"
Hey, if you're watching the finale of Bravo's "Top Chef" tonight, tune in to Drive-Thru too, where Shylo will be live-blogging with plenty of snarky commentary.
Transmission Feature: Rococo Records
Today in Transmission we take a nice, long look at Chicago's independent Rococo Records. They've brought you a rainbow of colors in vinyl from the likes of Les Savy Fav, Velcro Lewis and His 100-Proof Band and KK Rampage. They've also got a thing for penguins, but we won't judge.
Transmission Feature: OFFICE
At Gapers Block: Transmission we're not afraid to embrace music that has nothing to do with shoe-gazing. Read all about Chicago's own indie-pop phenomenon OFFICE, and get ready to have some songs stuck in your head all day long.
A Note of Business
Our text ad service is just shy of sold out into October -- $25 for a week's attention at the top of our pages is a good deal. Click on "more" for an even better deal for our last remaining September slot.
Transmission Feature: Record Store Favs #6
Before you start only buying your music at Starbucks, don't forget the noble neighborhood record store is ready and willing to help meet your music needs. This week, in our sixth installment, we bring you an inside look at another one of our favorite Chicago record stores.
Transmission Feature: Rock the Block Party
Heading to the Hideout Block Party this weekend? Still on the fence? Click over to Gapers Block: Transmission to get your party preview on with our guide to the bands hitting Wabansia Ave. Friday and Saturday. (Planning on taking some photos? Load your best into our Transmission Flickr Pool when the weekend's done. Details.)
Labor Day Get-Together
Kick off the long weekend right: join Gapers Block staffers tonight at the Green Eye Lounge, below the Western Blue Line stop, from 9pm on for our monthly GB Get-Together. Details here.
Transmission Feature: Ritualistic Review
Today in Transmission we've got a review of the just-released CD/DVD/book capturing the work of Greg Jacobson's Ritualistic School of Errors. It is an experimental time warp back a decade when Jacobson's performances around Chicago were just the kernel of legend. Top 40, this ain't, but it just might blow your mind. (Or at least give you the willies.)
Rearview Submission Change
A quick notice to Rearview contributors and future contributors: Due to the high volume and tracking of submissions, we've streamlined the submissions to only one method — via Flickr. We are no longer accepting submissions via email. Please see the guidelines on our Submissions page. Thanks.
Transmission Ticket Giveaway
If you peek over at Transmission (where we love music and a good deal), you can read all about this Saturday's Queer Fest Midwest, and get the skinny on how you can win a pair of tickets to a full day's worth of awesome musical acts at Pulaski Park Field House.
Hacking the Menu
Over in Drive-Thru, we're wondering: what menu hacks have you come across?
Transmission Feature: Common's Seventh is #1
Our Transmission feature this week reviews local son Common's latest album, Finding Forever, which, in its short time out of the gate, has landed the artist with a No. 1 spot on the Billboard charts. Read all about it, then come out and tell us what you think at the 5 Star Bar tonight for Transmission Thursdays.
Some Thoughts on a Music Festival
Didn't make it outside this weekend for Lollapalooza? Read some musings on the weekend over in Transmission. (Got photos? Load up to five of them in the Transmission flickr pool.)
Scenes from a Movie Theater
Our former film critic Gordon McAlpin and his wonderful Multiplex comic got some attention from Boxoffice Magazine.
Feeling Safe
If you're not one to read Fuel, you might want to make an exception -- the current thread about what people do to feel safe at night is interesting and pertinent.
Transmission Feature: Lollapalooza 2007
Sunblock? Check. Water? Check. Ironic T-shirt? Check. Transmission Lollapalooza preview? Right over here. We've got some very hot choices for how to best rock your three days in Grant park this weekend. [Or if you still want to hug the a/c a little longer, head out to the 5 Star Bar tonight for Transmission Thursdays hosted by the very quotable Nilay.]
Transmission Feature: Why We Love Chicago Music
Over at Transmission, we've got the imaginary cake smeared all over our faces because we just turned one year old! To celebrate, this week we decided to let you know just why we love the music that Chicago has to offer. Read our staffers' "Top 3 Chicago Music Loves" and then head out and raise a glass with us tonight at the 5 Star Bar, starting around 9:30pm.
Transmission Feature: WLUW
This week over in Transmission, we take an insider's look at the work behind the scenes at community radio station WLUW, which has made the news this week due to its current shaky relationship with Loyola University. Have a read, get involved, and have your say.
Pitchfork Rewind
We're a little tired, a little sunburned, but we've really got some things to say (good and bad) about this past weekend's Pitchfork Music Festival over at Transmission. Bonus: Pictures galore!
Transmission Feature: Pitchfork Picks
If you're an indie music fan in Chicago, chances are you're already well aware that the 3rd Annual Pitchfork Music Festival kicks off Friday night. A click away in Transmission (where we love to share) we've got our picks for great sets to catch and maybe a little of what to expect (or not) from your favorite artists this weekend. [And if you want to make it a 4-day weekend, start it out tonight at Transmission Thursdays at the 5-Star Bar at 9pm. It's good times!]
Photo Swap on July 21
The Gapers Block/Calumet Photographic Photo Swap is just over a week away. Show up with five 4"x6" photographs, hang out, have some food and drinks, and then go home with five photos from other people. Details in Slowdown.
Last Chance for Pitchfork
We're closing entries in our contest for three pairs of three-day passes to the sold-out Pitchfork Music Festival at noon, so get in there now! UPDATE: We have our winners! Congratulations to Elizabeth Monkus, Matt Avery and Bob Atkinson!
Tastes of All Kinds
Over in Drive-Thru, we've got some companion coverage geared toward the Taste of Chicago: Christine Blumer provides tent-to-tent recommendations on the drinks of Taste to go with Tribune reporter Monica Eng's ratings of all the food choices. (No really, she tried them all; it cost $1100.) And David Hammond offers up an alternative Taste of his own -- a guide to eating cuts not usually found on American plates.
Transmission Feature: Flosstradamus
Nothing's going to fix the fact you're probably back at work today, nursing yourself back to some semblance of consciousness, but we might just take the edge off that hurt with our feature over at Transmission. Check out our interview with sensational local electronica duo Flosstradamus.
Pitchfork Ticket Contest!
We've got three pairs of three-day passes to the Pitchfork Music Festival July 13-15, courtesy of Boost Mobile and Schubas, and we're giving them all away! To be entered in the drawing, send an email including your name, address and phone number to contests@gapersblock.com by July 9! Good luck!
Transmission Feature: Nihilist Records
On this beautiful Thursday, go ahead and click on over to Transmission for our feature this week on Chicago's Nihilist Records. They're really churning out records that really make you think (visually and sonically).
Transmission Feature: Lesser-Known Labels
See our wee Chicago music blog, Transmission, today for our brand new feature. This week, we sit down with two Chicago music labels you should really get to know better: Waterbug and Fundamental Records. Over the years, they've brought us folk singers Anais Mitchell and Rachel Ries along with the Butthole Surfers and Henry Rollins among many many others. (Oh, and if you're looking for a bit of a good time tonight, try our Transmission Thursdays at the Five Star bar, starting at 9pm.)
Transmission Feature: Favorites #5
Hey hey, Thursday's here again, and we've got our fifth installment of our series on local record stores over in Transmission. Read about our staff's experiences in Borderline Music as well as the Record Dugout and start your day off right. (You can round out the night with Transmission as well, tonight at the Five Star Bar. Details.)
Today's Secret Word Is...
Gapers Block! So you go get Conky, and I'll show you the geographic distribution of the use of the term.
Four Stars at the Five Star
It's Transmission Thursday again -- stop by Five Star, 1424 W. Chicago, after 9pm tonight for drink specials and DJ Brad Owen. Make sure to say hi to Nilay; he's got a sticker for you.
Transmission Feature: Blues Fest 2007
Already planning on hitting the Chicago Blues Festival this weekend? On the fence about whether or not to leave the couch at all? Either way, the next step you should take is to click on over to our feature in Transmission this week which gives you some handy-dandy pointers on festival going and blues music appreciating.
Transmission Feature: Speaker Art
This week in the ole Transmission blog we've taken a sharp look and listen to an exhibit at the Hyde Park Art Center that melds art and music in a most unusual way — a handmade speaker you can enjoy from the inside out.
We're Four
We're pretty excited about our fourth anniversary party tomorrow night at the Hideout; you should come! For a little taste of the evening's fun, check out our musical guests the Heaven Seventies and Occidental Brothers Dance Band International on MySpace.
Transmission Feature: Lampo Turns 10
Click over and see in Transmission today we interview Andrew Fenchel, central organizer of Lampo. Just what is Lampo, you ask? Well, it's a little bit musical experimentation and a little bit of auditory magic, and they're about to have their 100th show.
Gin and Openings
Over in Drive-Thru, we've got a looong list of openings that have just happened or will in the next month or so. And Tim Lacey recommends opening up a bottle of gin.
Alt.Media Slam Jam!
At Schadenfreude's Rent Party tonight, a rare site: The Reader, Time Out, Chicagoist and Gapers Block duking it out in a three-round slam tournament. Just because we're all friends doesn't mean we can't bring it! Details in Slowdown.
Transmission Feature: CIP Records
Today's brand-new feature on Transmission gives you a rare look at one of Chicago's lesser-known music labels: CIP Records. Check out our interview with founder (and musician) Blake Edwards, and keep an eye out for your chance to win some free CDs today, courtesy of CIP. [Bonus Transmission: Starting tonight, come out and check out our brand new Thursday night Transmission Event at the Five Star. Details.]
Two Weeks Away
Gapers Block is four years old. Isn't that crazy? We're celebrating at the Hideout on Friday, May 25, with bands, giveaways and more — you should come. Details in Slowdown. (Oh, and check this out.)
Transmission Feature: The Narrator
Check out what we have to say about Chicago band, The Narrator, in this week's feature in Transmission (for those of you who like to rock). They've got a new album out, and we even get a moment to talk to the frontman, who's also half of the hard-working local label Flameshovel.
Transmission Feature: Internet Radio's Silencing
This week in Transmission, we delve into the hot topic of internet radio and the proposed hike in royalty fees that may end many small-scale broadcasts around the nation. Read all about the issue here, and if you've got an internet radio show and a story to tell about how you'll be affected by the fee hike, let us know at transmission (at) gapersblock (dot) com.
Sports in Five Heats Up
If you haven't read Sports in Five in awhile, now is a good time -- not only does Chicago have two teams in the playoffs, but we've just added coverage of the Windy City Rollers to the mix. (Sky in Five coming soon, and if you're interested in covering the Force, we'd like to hear from you.)
Transmission Feature: Some Sea and Cake
Today in Transmission, check out our interview with Chicago's Sam Prekop, frontman of the fabulous Sea and Cake as he dishes about the band and their new album, Everybody. [Also, won't you make some stickers or buttons for us?]
Bikes, Pillows, And Black Rocks
This Friday packs an unusual wallop of good fun: a monthly urban pillowfight (warning: myspace) is planned; Chicago Critical Mass heats up with its April ride, and then end it all with a beer and some friends at the Gapersblock get-together at Black Rock.
Transmission Feature, and a Bonus
Today in Transmission we warm you up with not two, not three, but four reviews of Chicago blues. It's not what you think, however. You may just have to read more to find out (hint hint). Also, today we launch a new semi-regular Transmission blog feature, Bands You Missed detailing the life (and death) of a local band. Check it.
Transmission Feature: Low and Loney, Dear
You could stay inside all day tomorrow and avoid spilling salt, black cats, and walking under ladders. Or you could head out to the Metro and check out Low and Loney, Dear. In the Transmission feature this week, we've given you a whole earful of reasons why these two groups' new albums are worth hearing, and why their live show will be worth the risk of venturing out on Friday the 13th.
You Got Your Indie Rock on My Sticker!....
...You got your button in my hip hop! We've announced details for our first ever Gapers Block: Transmission button and sticker design contest! The nitty gritty details are over here.
Transmission Feature: New Jazz
Today, brace yourself against the wind and get ready for some noteworthy new albums from some big names, new names, and old names in jazz just a click away in Transmission. We've got reviews of new releases from Atavistic, Concord Records, and one self-release by the band themselves. Check them out, and brighten up your day, one note at a time.
Getting You Ready for the Big Weekend
Still haven't figured out what to do for Passover or Easter? Christine Blumer has you covered with this week's Drive-Thru feature.
GB Around Town
Join Gapers Block editor Andrew Huff (me) and contributor Daniel Tucker (also of AREA) as well as people from Optional Events, the New World Resource Center and Polvo, tonight for a talk about event calendars and listservs at A+D Gallery tonight at 6pm; more info in Slowdown. Also, for those with drinkin' on their mind, we'd love to see you at the Black Rock tomorrow night for our monthly GB Get-Together. We'll be in the back room from 9pm on; see you there!
Transmission Feature: Arbouretum
Don't check the spelling, check the rock in our Thursday feature over at Transmission: Baltimore's Arbouretum. (Then check them out at the Empty Bottle tonight!)
Transmission Feature: 5 Reviews for You
Today we've got a fistful of new music by some of the best Chicago (adopted or native) artists around. Click on over to our favorite lil' music page, Transmission, and head on out to your favorite local music store to get in on all the fun between your ears.
Catch Up on Your SXSW Stories
In case you haven't been keeping up, we've now got a handy dandy one-stop link to all of the exclusive, drama-filled SXSW 2007 Tour Diaries from Chicago buzz bands Office and Catfish Haven over at Transmission. Scroll down the Transmission page just past Tape Findings, or just click here to get the dish from Austin, TX.
Reading A Chicago Tavern
This month the Gapers Block Book Club is reading A Chicago Tavern: A Goat, a Curse, and the American Dream by Rick Kogan. Find out more at the book club blog.
Transmission: A Feature and A Diary
Today at Transmission (where we love to rock), we've got some fresh beats for you. Click over and read the first of many SXSW tour diary entries from Chicago buzzworthy band Office who've just arrived in Austin, Texas for some serious rockin' (keep your eye on the blog for more entries as the week goes on). Also, it's Thursday, so you know we've got a fresh feature for you. This week, it's an insightful interview with local spinner DJ Major Taylor. Click, dance, click!
GB Book Club Meeting Tonight
Just a reminder that the Gapers Block Book Club is meeting tonight at The Book Cellar at 7:30pm to discuss The Hummingbird's Daughter by Luis Alberto Urrea. Hope to see some of you there! Check out the book club blog to find out what else we're reading this year.
Transmission Feature: Record Stores #4
Hello, sunshine! How's it going? Want to check out some record stores that may not be on your beaten path? Head on over to Transmission (where we love music) to read about George's Music Room and Permanent Records, two of our latest reviewed Chicagoland record stores.
Last Chance to Win!
Hey! We're closing our reader survey tonight, so if you haven't told us a little about yourself, please take a minute to do so. You could win a $50 gift certificate to Threadless, who's having another $10 sale right now. (Or it could be for somewhere else if t-shirts aren't your thing.) It's anonymous except for your email, and if you're not interested in winning, even that's optional. UPDATE: Survey closed! Thanks for participating!
Help Us Get to Know You
(This is mainly for the benefit of our RSS readers.) Gapers Block is currently doing a demographic survey of our readership. Please help us out by spending a couple minutes filling it out. Thanks!
Quick, Book a Flight
Are you headed to SXSW? Or are you a big enough fan of the Metro and Chicago music to fly to Austin for a great concert? Then we've got a contest over in Transmission that's just for you.
What We're Reading
A Nobel Prize winner, a presidential hopeful, one of Chicago's most celebrated journalists, a graphic novelist and a late science-fiction writer whose works have been adapted for several major Hollywood films. What do all these people have in common? They are all authors of our upcoming books in the Gapers Block Book Club. Can you guess who they are? Visit the book club blog to see our new 2007 booklist.
Transmission Contest: See and Hear
We're doing a little DVD giveaway over in Transmission. Wanna win?
Transmission Feature: Chicago Classics
Today's Thursday feature in Transmission (our music-obsessed side) takes a gander at two CD/DVD combo releases from Chicago blues and jazz label Delmark. Legend Jimmy Burns gets the fire stoked hot at B.L.U.E.S. while the Ethnic Heritage Ensemble grooves out in their loft with some rather interesting production details. Keep a sharp eye out today in Transmission and you might just have some new music to hear (and watch) for free.
Reading Now: The Hummingbird's Daughter
This month the Gapers Block Book Club is reading The Hummingbird's Daughter by Luis Alberto Urrea. It is the fictionalized biography of Teresita, a healer who lived in late 19th century Mexico who many people declared a saint. She was also Urrea's real-life great-aunt. Read more about the book at the book club blog, then join us next month to talk about it at The Book Cellar.
Transmission Feature: Bobby Conn
Today in Transmission, besides the best Chicago music news and events coverage, we've got a review of Chicago's own wild entertainer Bobby Conn's latest album King for a Day. Make sure you keep an eye over there today for your chance to get a little somfin' somfin' from your buddies here at Gapers Block.
Drive-Thru Now Open
We're pleased to announce the launch of Gapers Block's newest section, Drive-Thru, devoted to the city's vibrant food scene. We'll be covering everything from restaurants and bars to businesses like Kraft and McDonald's to recipes to where to find some random ingredient. Oh, and foodporn, lots of foodporn. Be sure to check out this week's Detour feature, too, by one of the Drive-Thru contributors.
If that weren't enough, we've also redesigned the Gapers Block Book Club page, which has been quietly morphing into a blog on the Chicago literary scene.
Transmission Feature: Love for Vinyl
A week of sub-zero temps got you stir crazy yet? Check out this week's Transmission feature on two more of our favorite local record stores for some inspiration to get out from under the covers and get outside.
Tune Your TiVo to 11
Tonight's episode of "Chicago Tonight" will feature Chicagoist's Rachelle Bowden, CTA Tattler's Kevin O'Neil and Gapers Block's own, uh, me talking with Phil Ponce about news blogs. I can't promise it'll be riveting television, but tune in between 7 and 8pm tonight anyway.
Psst
Free stuff to be had over in Transmission.
Transmission Feature: Eternals and Skybox
Start your February off with a dose of Transmission! Today's feature's got not one, but two Chicago bands you should check out as soon as possible, The Eternals and Skybox. (And if you keep a sharp eye out today, we might just be able to hook you up.)
GB and You, Tonight, Black Rock, Be There!
In case you missed it, emblazoned across the top there, we're having our monthly get together this evening at the Black Rock (Addison and Damen) from 9PM onwards. We'll be likely in the back area enjoying a pint or two along with some fried mac n' cheese. Hope to see ya there!
Site Updates & New Features
Pardon our dust: we're making some small changes and rolling out some new features this week. First off, we've added an easier way for you to get to our blogs, Transmission and Book Club (and soon Drive Thru, our food blog!) You may need to refresh your browser to get it to show up correctly.
Second, we're proud to announce our new job board, part of the Chicago Job Board Network with MidwestBusiness.com, the Illinois IT Association and Chicagoist. Listings are free for the next 30 days, so be sure to try it out!
Help Found
A quick note to those who've contacted us wanting to join the GB staff: We're working our way through the many, many submissions, and will be getting in touch with everyone very soon. (If you think you've got what it takes to contribute but have been hesitating to apply, you've still got a little time! Details here.)
Transmission Feature: The Unheard Music
Your favorite place for Chicago music, Gapers Block: Transmission, gives you the lowdown on the best of Chicago's Atavistic music label's Unheard Music Series today. Tune it in!
Transmission Contest: Free plus plus
Who wants to groove out for free on Friday? Check Transmission for your chance.
Your Bloggy News Fix
Chicago Magazine did a profile of several of the city's newsblog type things, including GB, Chicagoist, Metroblogging, The Beachwood Reporter and CTA Tattler. Fun to see your favorite editors in pixel form!
Now Hiring
Yep, Gapers Block is looking for a few new staff members; details here. Also, you might want to check out Transmission, our music blog, which just got a major facelift.
Transmission Feature: So and So's
Transmission (our lil' local music blog) has all the details on the Indie Indy band Margot and the Nuclear So and So's who take the stage at Schubas tonight as a part of the Tomorrow Never Knows Festival.
Slots in 2007
It's a brand new year and you've got a brand new (or existing) service, product or something to shout about. We've got the space for you to be seen. Slots are open for our Text Ads.
Annual Bloggies Plea
It's Bloggies nomination time again -- take a moment or two and nominate your favorite blogs! (May we suggest Gapers Block as a fine nominee for best topical blog and best group blog?)
Transmission Feature: A Look Back Over Our Shoulders
Over at our sweet lil' Chicago music blog, Transmission, we've got our best musical memories from 2006 laid out for you. Enjoy the nostalgia as we look forward to another great year in Chicago music, just around the corner.
Away in a Manger
Posting will be light(er) here on Merge for the next few days, as most of the staff is scattered to the winds, visiting family and friends. Hope you have a very happy holiday!
Transmission Contest: Who's a VIP?
The short answer is: you. The long answer is: whoever follows the steps over at Transmission.
Transmission Feature: Chicago Roots
It's not hard to think that Chicago's musical past is still very much actively influencing bands today, but the Chicago History Museum has made it much easier to explore that history in a new exhibit, "Chicago Roots Music." Check out the Transmission feature today to learn more about how everything from the pulpit to the street corner has influenced our local sound.
Transmission Contest: Utah Carol redux
pssst! Look over at Transmission. (In fact, you may want to keep checking all week long.)
Transmission Feature: Give This
The crunch is on for holiday gift giving, and what better to give to your Chicago music lover than Chicago music that they'll love? Check out the Transmission staff's picks for musical gifts for nearly every situation. Got a baby mama, a dub lover, a live music rocker or a Chicago noob on your list? We've got you covered.
Scrum Over Scrabble
Hey, just a reminder that GB staffers will be getting together at the Black Rock this Friday for the holiday edition of our monthly Get-Together. Now that we know that the bar exists solely to support a rugby team, we'll be putting together a quick scrimmage in the back room. Join us!
Transmission Feature: Chicago mp3 blogs
It's way too cold to leave the comfort of your computer today, so click over to Transmission to read about our favorite Chicago mp3 blogs. There's a plea for dancing, a tasty mountain, a love of jam (bands), cake, polka, sunsets, cover songs and links to lots of music you'll want to hear before everyone else does.
Local Product, Small Business, Xmas Season?
If you have any of the above, perhaps you might want to advertise here on GB on our new-ish Text Ads. We've got spots open for December, so why not get the word out about your goods or services, just in time for the holiday season?
Transmission Contest: For a Lucky Baker's Dozen
Check out our local music blog Transmission for your chance at a free pack of autographed CDs, (plus more!) from our featured band, Utah Carol!
Transmission Feature: Utah Carol
A "Utah Carol" is: A: The nickname for a gal from one of the western states. B: A song about a cowboy who dies in a stampede. C: A snappy singer-songwriter duo that you're not listening to (yet). D: All of the above. Get the answer now in Transmission's Thursday feature.
A Few Open Spots
Need high visibility, a great audience, intelligent readers and the kind of people you like to flock to your show/product/service? Well, we have just a few spots open in the upcoming week on our new Text Ads system. Come get one!
Transmission Feature: 5 for Review
Today, get a quintuple dose of music news you can use at Transmission. Two writers tackle five of the best new jazz and blues releases from two solid Chicago music labels. What longtime, now lost, South Side bar was the home to one of the best blues recordings? What prolific local jazz saxophonist is still churning out winners at an amazing rate? Check it out at your stop for Chicago music, Transmission.
Claim Your Spot
We're full up this week but in the next two weeks (and beyond), we have spots open in our new Text Ads calendar. Text ads? Yep, those, right up top there, on every page on the site.
Transmission Feature: Joe Pernice
Today on Transmission, and tonight at Schubas, check out Joe Pernice and his band, the Pernice Brothers. Plus, time to get something for nothing, just check Transmission for details.
New On GB
There's a new feature in Slowdown: We've teamed up with local startup Planypus to allow you to quickly and easily make plans with friends to go to any event on our calendar. It's sort of a mix of Upcoming and Evite; we hope you like it. Also, we've launched text ads -- see the top of the page? -- as an affordable way to advertise concerts, plays, shops, etc. Learn more here.
Transmission: Found Tapes
Lovers of cassettes, divers of dumpsters, lend us your ears! Starting today, and running every few weeks on Mondays, the Transmission blog will feature tapes found in and around Chicago by RJ Porter. Check out the inaugural Transmission blog's Found Tapes feature right now. (Got a cool tape to share? email us at transmission {at} gapersblock {dot} com.)
Transmission Feature: Record Stores 2
Which Chicago record stores do we love? Where can you buy records at 2a.m.? What store installed a drive-up window? More importantly, which one thinks they have the best looking employees? Read this week's feature in Transmission to find out.
Transmission Feature: Xiu Xiu
Read all about Jamie Stewart of Xiu Xiu's YouTube confessions, the group's "nothing is off-limits" approach to art, and how Weezer influenced their experimental rock in today's Transmission feature.
Transmission Feature: The Changes
Over at Transmission, our Thursday feature profiles young up-and-coming Chicago band The Changes. Learn about how they got not one, but two indie labels to represent them, their love of Color Me Badd and about their comparisons to The Beatles.
Transmission Feature: Lily Allen
Don't know the difference between what's Chav and what's Grime? Get schooled about it in this week's Transmission feature which is hot, now!
Transmission Feature: Bloodshot at 10
This week's Transmission feature takes a critical look at Chicago record label Bloodshot's 10th Anniversary DVD, due out on Tuesday. Check out our exclusive clip of one of the DVD's featured performances!
Transmission Contest: Branches and the Beat
Over at Transmision, we've got a lil' contest going. Who wants some free tickets and a CD?
Transmission Feature: Record Store Favorites
The Thursday feature in Transmission is just the beginning of our new monthly series of Chicago record store reviews. Check out our staff picks for some of the best local places to buy music. This week: Gramaphone Records and Laurie's Planet of Sound.
Tales of an Axman
One of the most popular figures from Fuel now has his own column in which to tell his sad story: Tales of Blagg the Axman makes its debut in Airbags today, where it will appear every other Saturday. He's asked that interested parties send him questions from which to draw inspiration -- his email's at the end of the column.
Transmission Contest: Bound Stems
Wanna hear our featured artist tonight for free? Someone's getting lucky. Details in Transmission.
Transmisssion Feature: Bound Stems
Gapers Block: Transmission has your local music fix. This week we interviewed Chicago's Bound Stems and talked all about how this great city has influenced their music on their very first full-length album, out now.
Transmission Feature: Smog Veil Records
Click over to the Gapers Block: Transmission page for our Thursday feature on Chicago's Smog Veil Records. Read about Ohio's punk roots transplanted, their green dream and a man named THOR.
At Transmission: What a Deal
Wanna see a great show at a cheap price tonight? Head on over to Transmission for the skinny.
Transmission Feature: Time to Hideout
Already got your tickets to the Hideout Block Party this weekend? Still wavering? If you need a lil' push, or just an idea of how to spend your time, read up on some of our highlights for the weekend's entertainment over at Transmission.
Transmission Feature: Talking Girl Talk
Hey, it's Thursday, which means a