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.
Merge
Category
Music/Clubs
Fossett's Plane, Belogings Found
After a hiker discovered money and identification of missing Chicago-based adventurer Steve Fossett while hiking in the mountains of eastern California this week, the wreckage of his plane has been found as well.
Sooouulll Traiiinn!
Roctober's Jake Austen tells the story of "Soul Train" and its roots in Chicago in this week's Reader.
Chicago's Top 50 Chart
Time Out Chicago compiles the top 50 albums in Chicago's history. And yes, Chicago (the band) is represented.
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.
A 'Smashing' Idea
The Tribune's Greg Kot reports that the Smashing Pumpkins will perform their first concert in the city proper since 2000 with a four-night series of shows at the Chicago Theater and the Auditorium Theater.
Hideout Roundup
Missed out on the Hideout Block Party over the weekend? No worries! Get the scoop on what happened here...and here...and see some gore-iffic zombie pics here.
Don't Stop Believin'
Eddie Vedder, lifelong Cubs fan, sings "Someday We'll Go All the Way." Download it here. (Thanks, Chris!)
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.
R. Kelly Has a Few Teenaged Friends
...but none of them are "illegal." (Whew.)
R. Kelly Speaks
BET airs "R. Kelly Speaks," his first televised interview since the ending of his trial for, well, you know. Tuesday, September 16 at 10pm ET/9pm CT. [via]
Learn More about Jazz at the Institute
If you want to learn a bit more about jazz before the festival this weekend, you could check out the Jazz Institute of Chicago website. In addition to a fairly awesome list of links about jazz, they also have podcasts so you can go at your own pace.
When You Get to the Bottom...
The Bottom Lounge is back, and the subject of a feature review in Transmission.
I Believe I Can Fly... Away with Your Money
R. Kelly may have beaten child pornography charges earlier this year, but new legal trouble have surfaced for the "Pied Piper of R&B." South African authorities wants to question him in connection to a concert ticket scam. "Mr. Kelly has no knowledge of this woman, has never received any money from her, and has not been contacted by any law enforcement authorities regarding the matter. He will, of course, cooperate fully with any legitimate investigation of this matter, since he has nothing to hide."
This Will Go Down On Your...
In Transmission, learn about Ukrainian Park's Permanent Records.
Any Major Dude Will Tell You to Have Common Sense
We've all thought about sliding down a stair railing, but haven't actually done it because it's dangerous and foolish. Some guy at the Steely Dan show at the Chicago Theater last night thought otherwise.
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.
Bad or Good Timing?
Chicago rapper Yung Berg was arrested on Sunday in New York. His debut record is to be released today. I bet he's hoping the publicity will carry him.
Lollapalooza Here To Stay?
Now that the Lollapalooza hangover is subsiding, The Business Sheet says the reason the music fest remains in Chicago (as opposed to becoming a traveling rock circus again) boils down to money, despite what Perry Ferrell says.
Wet Turtle
Grab a plastic tarp and head to the Pritzker Pavilion in Millennium Park for lunch today, and you'll be treated to a free concert by Tortoise. Details in Slowdown.
Chewing Up the Charts
Singer Chris Brown's hit single "Forever" is also a paid ad placement for Wrigley's Doublemint gum; Wrigley has two more song-commercials in the works.
Lollapa...You Know
You may have noticed that we didn't put Lollapalooza on the calendar. That's because we figured you heard.
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.
(Un)Happiness
Jazz scholar and disk jockey Dick Buckley will broadcast his last show on Sunday, July 27. Thanks for all those years of great jazz, Mr. Buckley.
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.
Free Chicagoland Music
Kick-ass free-form radio station WFMU is working on the Free Music Archive, a collection of royalty-free legal music downloads for podcasters and fans alike. The site is still in beta mode, but WFMU has helpfully provided a big collection of Chicago-area artists that are already available for download.
Shirt Wars
Not everybody likes the new "New Chicago" t-shirt at Fake Shore Drive (121 comments so far). Today, Naledge speaks up on the whole "fiasco."
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!
Lolla & FroYo
Need tickets to Lollapalooza? Head to Starfruit (warning: noisy flash site) on Division and get yourself a $30 gift card. You'll be entered to win two free passes to the show.
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.
Blues Clues?
As noted, the Canadian Press seems to think that the blues are dying in Chicago, save for a few tourist traps. But a Tribune article refutes that with a peek at the vibrant South Side scene.
The Sky is Crying
Ouch -- hard to see in print, but it's true: the Blues is fading, even here in Chicago.
Pumpkins Skip Chicago (For Now)
Chicago fans of the Smashing Pumpkins will have to truck out to a casino in Hammond if they want to see the current incarnation of the band performing live.
Beatle Cupcakes
Yesterday some guy named Ringo Starr spent his birthday handing out cupcakes at the Hard Rock Hotel to spread "peace and love."
M.O.P. @ the Metro
Loud. Angry. M.O.P. comes to Chicago as part of the Live @ the Metro series. RSVP here. Ante up.
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.
Remember that One Punk Band...?
There's a good chance you'll find them in the Chicago Punk Database -- and if not, you should add'em.
Does Your Dog Have Fleas?
Calling all 'ukulele players! The 'Ukulele Club of Oak Park is planning to get together a record-breaking number of 'uke players onstage at the next Festival for Beatles Fans, and they're holding some practice sessions to get everyone up to speed on a few Beatles tunes. The first practice session is this Thursday in Oak Park; details in Slowdown.
Better than Bubba Sparxxx
There's more than one Chicago act on this list of the 25 worst rapper names from Cracked.com.
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).
Exile in Lizville
Winnetka's Favorite Daughter Liz Phair returned to the Vic last night to play her 1993 album Exile in Guyville in its entirety...to the labored sigh of local critics.
Flash Interview
Whether you're headed to the show tonight or not, tune into Vocalo.org at noon today to catch a live interview with hip hop pioneer Grandmaster Flash.
Punishing Fanatics
R. Kelly may be free, but a fans and other hangers on have gotten into some legal trouble.
Figaro Fries
Because one fat lady is never enough, the Lyric Opera has announced plans to open a restaurant and bar.
25 or 6 to Forgotten
A "lost" album by hometown heroes Chicago is finally released this week. The album reportedly goes back to the sound they had in their early days with hits like "25 or 6 to 4" or "Beginnings" and not the elevator music-era of "If You Leave Me Now."
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.
Memories on a Memorex
Casette from my Ex is a site that collects stories related to mix tapes from old relationships -- and also the option of listening to said tapes. Chicagoans Damon Locks, Jamie Hayes and Julie Shapiro have contributed so far.
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.
Four Strings, No Waiting
Any 'ukulele players out there? Sure there are! You'll be pleased to know that the Windy City Uke Fest, a three-day festival devoted to the classic Hawaiian instrument, is happening this August. Among the many activities planned: workshops, vendor booths, daytime performances and evening concerts on all nights. Details in Slowdown.
Rockin' at Reggie's
If you're looking for something to do tonight (other than come to our anniversary party), you could do a lot worse than heading to Reggies Rock Club for Mudhoney, one of the founding members of the grunge movement. Chicago Journal profiles Reggies owner Robby Glick.
A Man Walks Into A Comedy Club ...
... and they've been coming in ever since, as Zanies celebrates its 30th anniversary of supplying Chicago's standup comedy needs. You can get in free for one of two birthday celebration shows tonight -- which show depends on your age.
In Your 'Hood
The Hood Internet loves Chicago -- so much so that they've just released an entire album of mashup remixes featuring local artists. Download it for free.
Clear Your Samples!
Late jazzman Joe Farrell's daughter is suing Universal Music for the use of her dad's music without attribution on a number of hip-hop cuts, including Kanye's "Gone" and Common's "Chi City." We know you own Late Registration and Be: go listen for yourselves. She is seeking no more performances or copies of said albums sold with the offending sample be released.
This is Planet Earth
If you were a fan of the Planet Earth New Wave dance parties at Neo, then you'll definitely want to attend tomorrow night's kickoff party at its new location, Subterranean in Wicker Park. Full details on Planet Earth in Slowdown.
Video Game Inclusion = Bank
Chicago band Greenskeepers is royally reaping the benefits of inclusion in GTA IV and its advertisements.
Return to Guyville
Idolator reports that Liz Phair will be performing her 1993 album Exile in Guyville at a yet-to-be-announced Chicago location. The album itself will be reissued next month in a special 15th anniversary CD/DVD package which will include video of Liz Phair interviewing a bunch of guys, from Ira Glass to John Cusack.
Rapping at Warp Speed
Chicago can once again lay claim to being the hometown of the fastest rapper in the world, as confirmed by the Guiness Book of World Records. The title was previously held by Twista.
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.
Folk & Roots Schedule Posted
The Old Town School of Folk Music has posted the schedule for their 11th annual Folk & Roots Festival on a new Flash-based site. Notable performers on the main stage this year include Jon Langford with the Burlington Welsh Male Chorus, and the French band Les Primitifs du Futur (a band co-founded by one Robert Crumb).
Promoters' License Pulled, But Not Dead
As previously noted, presumably in response to overwhelming criticism of the proposed promoters' license ordinance, City Council will not hold a vote on it today. Of course that means there's more time to influence the process.
Event Promoter Ordinance Set Aside, For Now
Breaking news from the Chicago Music Commission: "Chairman Schulter (47th Ward) has decided not to report the event promoter ordinance out his City Council Licensing and Consumer Protection Committee. In other words, it will not be on the City Council agenda tomorrow and there will not be a vote on the bill as previously scheduled." Further thoughts on the proposal (and why it's been tabled) on Time Out's blog.
Dance, Summer, Dance
Summerdance, one of the most fun, free aspects of any Chicago summer, released its schedule this week. From June 12 to August 24, you and yours can hit up these free dance lessons and community dance party in Grant Park. This year, you can shake it to the sounds of 43 bands playing everything from swing, salsa and soukous to cajun, balkan and klezmer, all on one huge, recycled plastic dance floor.
Fight the "Event Promoter" Ordinance
Get activated at SaveChicagoCulture.org. (Previously.)
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.
Don't Stop the Music
Speaking of legislation, City Council is once again trying to push through a "promoters' ordinance" that could severely limit live music in Chicago. Contact your alderman and get this stopped! UPDATE: The ordinance has made it out of committee, and is now headed to the full Council for a vote next week. Which means it's even more important that you voice your concern to your alderman. Jim DeRogatis has the full text of the proposed ordinance up on his blog, along with a statement from the Chicago Music Commission.
Chicago Music's Starting Line-up
New City names the 45 Chicago performers who are keeping the city on the front burner of the national music scene.
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.
Red Bull or Just Bull?
The makers of Red Bull have won a six-figure settlement in a lawsuit against the local nightclub Wet for passing off a generic energy drink as their more famous product in their cocktails. The nightclub's website is strangely unavailable.
Our Kind of Guy
Chicago blues icon Buddy Guy gets the tribute treatment when he's honored during the Great Performers of Illinois Festival July 20 at Millennium Park. Grammy winner Jimmie Vaughn will headline the free (yes, FREE) concert as part of the three-day music festival.
Pitchfork on the Prowl
The final version of the Pitchfork Festival's lineup was released to the unwashed masses yesterday; the July 18-20 event will feature Spoon, Spiritualized, Dinosaur Jr, Public Enemy (playing It Takes a Nation of Millions to Hold Us Back in its entirety), and Hold Steady. In related news, Business Week estimated that the Pitchfork site annually yields an estimated $5 million in ad revenue. Good year for the roses!
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.
Re: Your Brains
Get on the phone, code monkeys: Jonathan Coulton is coming to the Lakeshore Theater May 3! Tickets are $20; call 773-472-3492 or hit the online box office.
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.
His View from There
WFMT critic and interviewer Andrew Patner has a blog covering the arts, classical music, and occasional forays into local politics--all in his inimitable Patnervian style.
Flight of the Conchords Coming to Chicago
New Zealand's former fourth most popular guitar-based digi-bongo acapella-rap-funk-comedy folk duo Flight of the Conchords is coming to the Chicago Theater on Wednesday, May 14; tickets go on sale this Friday.
Take That, MTV
Pitchfork.TV is up and running, currently featuring a live recording of "Bangers and Mash" by Radiohead. Check it now, before the music videos are replaced by crappy reality programming.
Oldies But Goodies
The Lollapalooza 2008 lineup will be released this Monday, but the leaked list has been on Jim DeRogatis' blog for a few days (which has apparently brought Perry Farrell much irritation). While the offerings are varied, it's familiar territory: the festival seems to have culled its lineup from past Lollas and past Pitchfork/Intonation Festivals. Nine Inch Nails, Radiohead, Wilco, Rage Against the Machine, and Kanye West are among the headliners, with Girl Talk, Go! Team, Cat Power, Gnarls Barkley, and Broken Social Scene bringing up the rear. Tickets are on sale now.
Your Weekend Just Got Cooler, Less Expensive
The Chicago Cultural Center will be showing the premiere of Movin' On Up, a documentary about Chicago native and music icon Curtis Mayfield Friday and Saturday night at 7pm. Never before seen footage, past performances are featured in the film and on Friday, a post-movie Q&A with director David Peck and surviving Impressions members Fred Cash and Sam Gooden follows the screening. The event is free.
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.
Classic(al) Confrontation
Osvaldo Golijov, composer-in-residence at the Chicago Symphony Orchestra, brushes off the controversy about his unconventional works. "I love it when music brings people to fistfights," he tells The Guardian.
Heavy Metal Parking Lot Coffee Table Book
Throw out the horns for Crystal Lake's Stephen D. Jensen for his limited edition book of rock photography, Music Photography--Volume One. If it contained nothing more than his portrait of GWAR's Beefcake the Mighty, it would still be totally awesome.
Zooey Gets Even More Famous
Zooey Deschanel graced Northwestern with her presence for a few years, then moved on to bigger and better things, like Almost Famous and Elf. Now, she's got a record.
More Pitchfork Additions
Dinosaur Jr, Mission of Burma, Jarvis Cocker (of Pulp) and Ghostface and Raekwon (from Wu-Tang Clan) have joined the lineup of the July 18-20 Pitchfork Music Festival.
Bird Songs in the NYT
The New York Times has launched a new blog, Measure for Measure, featuring Darrell Brown, Rosanne Cash, Suzanne Vega and our own Andrew Bird, who gets pride of first post. (Thanks, Sarah!)
BUSTing Out
BUST Magazine, that 15 year old feminist glossy, has just featured The Cool Kids in their "Men We Love" issue. Hi, BUST? We're Chicago. We already know.
Hothouse in the Viaduct
The Hothouse announced today that all of its April shows will be performed at the Viaduct Theater, after being evicted from its space on Balbo last year. It's yet another odd chapter in the historically volatile music venue. Read the press release on A/C.
Record Chirp
The WLUW Record Fair is now the Chicago Independent Radio Project (CHIRP) Record Fair, and it's just a couple weeks away. Get your turntables ready.
Ravinia Lineup Announced
Check out the Ravinia Festival website for the 2008 season lineup. Scheduled acts include Feist and...The Backstreet Boys? Yep. Tickets go on sale April 17.
I Am Hip Hop
There's an indie documentary being made about Chicago's hip hop scene, and a whole bunch of raw footage can be seen on YouTube.
Giving Kanye a Hand
A digital tribute to Kanye West and Daft Punk's "Stronger."
The Kids Are Alright
The Sun-Times' Jim DeRogatis profiles the city's newest upstart rock clubs, Reggie's and the (soon-to-reopen) Bottom Lounge, whom he says are giving the local music scene a much-needed kick in the pants.
Upside-Down 'Cake'
Local jazz-infuenced art rockers The Sea and Cake discuss their upcoming inaugural series of concerts in the Land Down Under (um, Australia).
If You're Feeling Sinister
Local ragtime/blues/country musical outfit the Northside Southpaws bill themselves as the only all-left-handed, all-resophonic mandolin/guitar duo in the world. Actually, isn't there a group of lefty banjoists in... Well, how about... Nah, I got nothing.
Industrial-Strength Anthem for Hawks
Who knew? Industrial music godfather Al Jourgensen (Ministry) is a big Blackhawks fan. So big that he has written a new anthem for the team, "Keys To The City", that will debut on March 5. Jourgensen said he hopes the song "inspires some awesome fights on the ice."
Saying "Rawr" One More Time
A documentary on the inimitable Chicago-based artist and rocker Wesley Wills debuts tomorrow (Friday) at the Noise Pop Festival in San Francisco. The late Willis was known for his headbutts and requests for fans to "say rawr."
The Adornments, Airiel, Kid Sister...
Jim DeRogatis has a list of Chicago's next big musical acts -- start brushing up so you can pan them when they "sell out."
Wilco & Andrew Bird
If you missed Andrew Bird performing with Wilco at the Riv on the 20th, you can find a quality recording here, and gape at the crowd here.
Hot Dog Musical
Found on Songza: The Theme from Hot Doug's by bee.
Chicago Mag Gets Cool
The Cool Kids get some love from Chicago magazine, comparing them to the Beastie Boys and LL Cool J.
Really? Another R. Kelly Sex Scandal?
More allegations of inappropriate behavior are surfacing about R. Kelly. This time it's with a woman he'd known since she was "a little girl."
All This Classical Stuff
If you're looking for a consolidated classical music calendar, check out the resources at Chicago Classical Music. In addition to an easy-to-use calendar for events, they have a blog and a decent blogroll of many art organizations around Chicago. (Aside: Make time to see any pieces performed by Osvaldo Golijov; the performance of his piece Ainadamar tonight was fantastic.)
Common Joins JLA
Chicago's own Common has been chosen to play Green Lantern in the coming Justice League of America film.
Goin' Down to Austin
Over in Transmission, we've listed all the Chicago bands performing at SXSW in March, along with all the ones within reasonable driving distance. Plus a couple unofficial shows and persistent rumors. Get on it.
Cleaning Up Congress
As Logan Square gentrifies, the owners of the Congress Theater hope to renovate it to match the neighborhood -- but keep it available and affordable to local organizations.
Tonight: The Third Coast
In '06 and early '07, we featured excerpts from The Third Coast, a book about life by the Great Lakes by Ted McClelland. It's finally published, and we're celebrating tonight at the Hideout from 6 to 8:30pm. Ted will read excerpts from the book, and Marquette, MI, musician Sycamore Smith (featured in the book and in Detour) will perform. It's free!
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!
Chicago Faces The Music
So why isn't Chicago as big a draw for the world's music fans as Austin or Nashville? An article in the Reader offers some explanations. But the city is making one attempt at promoting homegrown talent: it's going to feature Chicago-only music on the loudspeakers at O'Hare and Midway. No Smashing Pumpkins or Fall Out Boy, though. They suspect that loud rock will rattle the nerves of already-frazzled passengers.
DeRo on Zulkey
Claire Zulkey (who got the profile treatment in Time Out this week) interviews Sun-Times music critic Jim DeRogatis about "Sound Opinions," music crit and the Chicago hip hop scene, among other things.
Kid Sister on Car Share
Chicago rapper Kid Sister tips her hat to I-Go on the Canadian MuchMusic blog. [via]
Best Lunchbreak Ever
Rob Bochnik, guitarist and vocalist of Irish band The Frames will be performing songs from his first solo record Blowing Out the Cobwebs from 12:15-1pm today at the Goodman as part of their Playtime series. Leave your lunch in the breakroom fridge: mini corned beef sandwiches and bangers will be provided by Emerald Loop Bar and Grill for the event. If you loved last year's great movie Once, which starred Bochnik's bandmate Glen Hansard, this is an event to see. Tickets are $10 and may be purchased online or at the Goodman.
Busking Underground
The Chi-Town Daily News looks into the lives of musicians in the CTA subway.
Further Changes for the Sun-Times
Following recent job cuts, the Sun-Times moved to a slightly smaller format yesterday.
Ivy League Meets MTV
Local hip-hop artists The Ivy League will be rockin' your television during a commercial break on MTV's new year's extravaganza ... if you have Comcast. Check out other NYE music news in Transmission.
OFFICE Everywhere
Chicago Public Radio recently announced it will host OFFICE in January at The Biograph. Also: MTV tells us why the band received a package from a porn star.
Dr. Atomic
Tonight at 7:30PM, the much-anticipated opera Dr. Atomic opens at Lyric Opera of Chicago. Earlier this week at a panel discussion, Nobelist Norman Ramsey, who worked at Los Alamos on the first A-Bomb, told us that we should be more worried than ever (about the bomb, not the opera).
Classical Comps
Chicago Classical Music recently revamped their site and is promoting it with a contest for free tickets and other swag. Log in as a registered user before the 19th to be eligible to win.
Chicago and the Bomb
Speaking of doomsday scenarios, the Lyric Opera's upcoming run of Doctor Atomic gave the Tribune reason to explore the opera, its Chicago connections and the life of Robert Oppenheimer.
Do Not Look Mr. Cox in the Eye
John C. Reilly will take the stage at the Cubby Bear tonight - in character as Dewey Cox - to promote his upcoming film Walk Hard: The Dewey Cox Story. Fingers crossed that Chris Gaines joins him for a number or two. [via]
Chi Classical Site Relaunched
Chicagoclassicalmusic.org, a blog and calendar produced by a consortium of regional classical organizations, relaunched this week and is offering free stuff.
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.
Drambui Rock
MyOpenBar is hosting a Drambui party at the Hideout tonight from 7 to 10pm. Andrew Andrew, the Trachtenburg Family Slideshow Players and Gabriel Kahane play, all for free. RSVP here.
Quiet in the OFFICE
OFFICE will be doing a special acoustic set tonight at Schubas: most of it will be frontman Scott Masson playing stripped-down versions of new material. The full band will be on for a few songs, too, as well as some special guests. Show starts at 9:30pm; $5 gets you in.
Old Town School's Old-Timey Songs
Now on sale: Volume 4 of the Old Town School of Folk Music's songbook series CDs, on which they have the school's instructors recording classic folk songs with some musician friends (including on this volume Andrew Bird, Tom Paxton, John Prine, and the Sons of the Never Wrong). CD available at the school's music store or online at iTunes with bonus tracks.
Kind of Free Music!
Wilco, those ramblin' Chicago sweethearts, have released a European tour edition of "Sky Blue Sky". The new album features a bonus disc of three new tracks and two live recordings. The songs are FREE!...provided you already own "Sky Blue Sky". Album owners can download the bonus tracks here. Non-owners will just have to suck it up. Or buy a copy. Whichever.
Rock the Survey
The Metro is doing a survey right now; fill it out and you have a chance at two free tickets a month for all of 2008!
Know Thy Blues Town
The city's Office of Tourism has produced a virtual tour detailing the history of Chicago Blues. The tour is narrated by that consummate blues man Buddy Guy and available at downloadchicagotours.com.
For the Love of Money
She's recorded with Bob Mould, cites Jimi Hendrix as an influence and kicks out the jams on a cello. Helen Money (aka Alison Chesley) brings her classical/rock mash-up to The Old Town School of Folk Music this Friday, Nov. 16, 7 p.m. when she opens for Tuvan throat singers Huun Huur Tu, in one of the most eclectic double bills of the year.
Kanye West's Mother Dies
Donda West, mother of musician Kanye West and former chair of the Chicago State University English Department, died Saturday night in Los Angeles at the age of 58. The cause of death is unknown at this time, and her death was apparently sudden.
Magnetized
The Magnetic Fields are playing six shows at the Old Town School of Folk Music in March, and tickets are on sale now -- buy them at the school, by calling 773-728-6000 or online at TIX.com.
Meet Emmanuelle Haïm
Emmanuelle Haïm, the Lyric Opera's first female conductor, will conduct Julius Caesar [pdf] starting on November 2. Listen to a podcast interview with her [mp3] for additional information.
Get Ahead of Femur
Head of Femur celebrates the release of its new EP, Leader and the Falcon, at the Hideout, 1354 W. Wabansia, tonight at 10pm. Here's a little taste (mp3). You could maybe head there after a drink with us.
Kickin' It Old School
Fans of Chicago House music should be excited to see this trove of mix sets from WBMX in the '80s.
Videogame Music Goes Big-Time
Videogame music has come a long way since Super Mario Brothers. Next March, the US debut of Distant Worlds: music from Final Fantasy will be at the Allstate Arena, performed by the Chicagoland Pops Orchestra. Tickets will range from $35 to $150!
Listen Closely
This week's Transmission feature covers some local music blogs you may not have heard of.
Undead Undead Undead
Post-Rock Orlok: As part of Macy's Day of Music, Tortoise will provide the score to F. W. Murnau's classic silent horror film Nosferatu, Saturday night at Symphony Center. You can see the entire film, with a more traditional soundtrack, here.
TicketWolfster
Want tickets to tonight's Patrick Wolf show? Slip over to Transmission for a quick contest. [Update: We have a winner!]
Leaving the City
Over in Transmission, Craig talks with Rachel Ries about her new album and the possibility of leaving the city she loves.
The Fat Lady Sang
The '07-'08 season at the Lyric Opera will be conductor and artistic director Bruno Bartoletti's last, after 51 years with the company. Despite this and other distractions, the Lyric's La Traviata opened last weekend to very good reviews.
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.
Complain in Song
The Complaints Choir of Chicago is getting ready to rehearse for their performance this fall, and they need your help: "Detractors, muckrakers, grouches and all citizens of Chicago: this is your chance to unite and voice your concerns and complaints in a hilarious choir conducted by Jeremy Jacobsen." Send your complaint and contact info to: complaintschoir@yahoo.com.
Backstage at the Opera
The Lyric Opera has launched "Backstage at Lyric," a podcast that "features in-depth interviews with the singers, conductors, and creative minds behind the productions of the 2007/08 season."
Time for Me to Float
Champaign's own REO Speedwagon plans to play while sailing down the mighty Chicago River on the Star of Chicago. Ride the storm out, guys!
World Music Fest: Sept 14 - 20
Chicago's Festival Season isn't Over Yet! World Music Fest runs from Sept 14th - 20th and features an eclectic and diverse cast of artists performing around the city. Keep an eye on Slowdown for some recommendations.
50 Years of Music, 1 Night Only
Greg Kot tips us off to a major folk music event happening at the end of the year: The Old Town School of Folk Music is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a huge concert featuring Jeff Tweedy, Bela Fleck, Roger McGuinn, Jon Langford, Sally Timms, and a whole bunch of other artists that are connected somehow to the school. Tickets will be on sale on Saturday the 15th (or Monday the 10th, if you're an Old Town School member). For full details see the Old Town School Website.
Who's Reppin' Us?
Jim DeRogatis asks, who speaks for the local music scene? The answer, in part, is the Chicago Music Commission, which just released an economic impact survey of the city's music industry.
Jazzing in Up
We probably don't have to tell you that the Chicago Jazz Festival is under way; here's a schedule and guide if you need one.
Jazz Showcase Returns
Jazz Showcase, the late lamented venue, will rise again at Dearborn Station this winter. (Meanwhile, the old Jazz Showcase space on Grand is La Madia, an upscale pizza and wine place.
Once Upon a Time
Once upon a time, a band named Fugazi regularly toured the country, providing great joy to children everywhere. Yet it has been five years since That Wonderful Band toured, and many of those children have grown up. Those Children of Yesterday may now buy a new pressing of Fugazi shows, such as that from Peoria in 1995.
Word Jazz Online
Movie trailer watchers and late night WBEZ listeners familiar with Ken Nordine may want to check out his website Word Jazz, which includes a blog with unusual poems starting with "Maybe the moment" and a podcast of his late night stylings.
Will Curtis Make Graduation?
Both 50 Cent and Chicago's Kanye West have new albums that are scheduled to be released on the same day. In a recent interview, 50 Cent is quoted as saying "If Kanye West sells more records than 50 Cent on September 11... I won't put out anymore solo albums." //Edit: Hm. Guess not.
A/V XPLO
Spanning four venues and over 100 artists and musicians, A/V XPLO is a four day event running this Wednesday and through Saturday. Offering up a mixture of music, art, film and photography, there's a lot to keep the senses occupied. More info on the bands and artists in Slowdown, and at avxplo.com.
Lollapalooza Shenanigans
Apparently everything was going swimmingly for Pearl Jam at an AT&T site that carried their Lollapalooza set until Vedder sang "George Bush, leave this world alone" and "George Bush, find yourself another home." AT&T swears it's a mistake, but Pearl Jam's now asking for other examples of artist political censorship from the company.
Wang Dang Sweet Ma Nuge
Noted drug-free, bowhunting, conservative minstrel Ted "The Nuge" Nugent recently dedicated a memorial to his mom, Marion Nugent, in front of Palatine's Durty Nellie's. The slightly grey-haired among us might remember when Ms. Nugent wrote the Ma Nugent's Mail column for IE.
Home-Cooked Jazz and Evening Star Gazing Kick Off
The Jazz Institute of Chicago has put together a half-dozen free jazz concerts, beginning tonight at 6:30 PM in Millennium Park's Pritzker Pavilion, and closing on 27 August with a performance by the acclaimed Chicago Jazz Philharmonic. You can't go wrong with any of these concerts, which--aside from featuring local jazz greats like Dee Alexander and Von Freeman--also open with performances by Chicago's NEXT jazz generation: the likes of the South Shore Youth Jazz Ensemble, Gallery 37 After School Matters Jazz Band, and the Jazz Links Ensemble. Individual concerts are listed in Slowdown; click here for a complete schedule. AND THERE'S MORE: If you mosey over toward the BP Bridge starting around 7:30, volunteers from Adler Planetarium will share their telescopes so you can get a good look at the moon and nearby planets.
God Speaks
Eric Clapton spoke with Greg Kot about his lifetime fascination with South Side blues and meeting and playing with the greats back in his Yardbird days. Muddy Waters was cool. Sonny Boy Williamson II, eh, a trifle mean.
A-One and A-Two
The Old Town School of Folk Music wants to set the Guinness World Record for largest music lesson as part of its 50th anniversary. All they need is you and your guitar. And by "you" I mean everyone. Register online or by phone at 773-728-6000, then show up with your ax at the Welles Park Gazebo on Tuesday, August 7, around 6-ish to get all tuned up. The lesson starts at 7:30, and it's totally free.
Wilco to Play Millennium Park
You've seen this in Transmission already, but in case you missed it, Wilco will be playing Millennium Park on September 12th. It'll cost you $45 to get a seat and $10 to get on the lawn. More details in Slowdown.
Ask a Music Scene Micro Celebrity
It's getting a little crazy, but Chicago music legend Steve Albini is answering a wide variety of questions in the Two Plus Two forums.
Printers' Ball: More than Books
Not that we need more than books, but literary and non-literary types will get into The Printers' Ball tonight. In addition to an assortment of print materials and people, some swell performers and other activities will be going down. Personally, I'm hoping for a performance of "Waiting Room" (mp3). Details in Slowdown.
Hey Ladies!
With the thousands of rock kids jammed into every nook of Millennium Park for the Decemberists/GPO show last night I thought for sure following Shylo's lead would park me in craigslist missed connections heaven. Actually it's pretty sparse, but this guy totally stole my idea and cast a wide net.
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!
Apparently People Don't Like the Police
Seems like it's a buyer's market for tickets to see the Police perform at Wrigley Field next week.
Phone Reader
The Reader now offers its restaurant, film, music and event listings in a mobile version for your phone. Could come in handy the next time you're planning with friends who "dunno, whadda you wanna do?"
Save this Venue!
The Trib reports that HotHouse, the South Loop venue for innovative jazz and world music, is due out of its Balbo St. digs by the end of July because of funding shortfalls, management disputes, etc. You can donate to HotHouse here, or volunteer here.
Striking in the Conference Room
Jack Flash, singer-guitarist for the local band Bang! Bang!, has been wearing thrift-store ties cut into lightning bolts for some time -- and now you can too. Bang Bang Ties are professionally tailored (not by Flash) and are available online and at Strange Cargo. [via]
Ze Frank Replacement
People who miss The Show with Ze Frank should check out the Wheezy Waiter, a video blog by Craig, the lead singer of Driftless Pony Club. It's not exactly the same, but hopefully it'll help with your jones. [via]
Punk Planet Closing Up
Punk Planet is ceasing publication. The 13-year-old independent magazine has fallen victim to the same distributor bankruptcy issues (though a different distributor) as McSweeney's, and find themselves with no option but to close down. PunkPlanet.com and the book publishing unit will continue on, but PP #80 will be the last.
Cutting Out the Middle Man
Jim DeRogatis examines the stranglehold TicketMaster maintains over tickets for concerts, theater, sports and other events, and points out that LiveNation, TM's biggest customer, recently began selling tickets for all local venues (all the way out to Alpine Valley) at the House of Blues box office, without a service fee. The Metro and Schubas have long offered the same option. (DeRo runs down the fees, and also reminds us that the war on TicketMaster started here in '94.)
Air Guitar is Real
If you're still on the fence about going to tonight's Chicago Regional of the U.S. Air Guitar Championships, perhaps this preview from the Tribune will sway you. Details in Slowdown.
Hideout Block Party: -Metro, +Bird
The Hideout Block Party is no longer being curated by the Metro; they've moved their big 25th anniversary shindig to an as-of-yet unnamed elsewhere. (No hard feelings between the venues, apparently, just a change of plans.) But the show will go on; so far Andrew Bird is the only confirmed performer. (Speaking of Mr. Bird, he'll be on Conan O'Brien tonight.)
Whitey Strikes Back
On Wednesday, Q101 became the first radio station to play the new White Stripes album. Two hours later, a very displeased Jack White called the station.
Wow. Seriously? Wow.
R. Kelly crazy. Here's why! In the spring/summer issue of Hip-Hop Soul magazine, he says: "I'm the Ali of today. I'm the Marvin Gaye of today. I'm the Bob Marley of today. I'm the Martin Luther King." Where's Dave Chappelle when you need biting, R. Kelly-based mockery?
Everyday is Like Sunday
If you're interested in every last detail of Tuesday's Morrissey concert, check out the Morrissey Solo message board. Documented are the set list, crowd reactions, number of times people rushed the stage, merchandise quality, and, well, every last detail.
30 Seconds of New Smashing Pumpkins
Here's a clip of "Tarantula"-- new song by Smashing Pumpkins, as recorded off of Q101.
Feeling the Blues
Carey Bell, harp player with Muddy Waters and Willie Dixon, has passed away at age 70. Bell learned from the likes of Little Walter, Sonny Boy Williamson II, and Big Walter Horton, and played on the Delmark and Alligator record labels. Play on, Mr. Bell.
This Week In Nerdery
The Sun-Times TechVenue column reminds you that even if the world's Web 2.0, there's plenty of pure nerdery still to be had. To whit: This week's AIIT (?) meeting "The Face-Off Between The MFP's and the Scanners" is as exciting as a monster truck competition for... scanners. Scenic Itasca is hosting the 2007 Digital Signage Summit where the "who's who of digital media" meets to learn how to "align various pieces of digital signage solutions". (Some of us haven't even gotten over the blast that was the 2006 Summit. Itasca rocks!) And then there's these technology guys who meet and dress in chipmunk outfits...
A Date Which Will Live in Infamy
What happens when a group of bushy-haired rockin' dudes from Nottingham, England watch too many gangster flicks and decide to write a song about Al Capone? You get Paper Lace's "The Night Chicago Died," a geographically and historically confused account of gangland Chicago performed by guys who never set foot in the city. When the real Mayor Daley received a copy of the song from the group, he declared the band "Nuts." Yes, indeed!
Petrillo Music Madness
The lineup for the Taste of Chicago musical performances has been announced. We'll all see each other at the Kenny Rogers show, I'm sure.
Mmmm, Free PB&J
...and we're not talking Skippy. It seems like everyone's suddenly into the IKEA-tastic pop trio Peter Bjorn and John (and I'm no exception; the whistling bit from "Young Folks" is totally my current ringtone). If you don't have tickets to one of their two sold-out shows at the Empty Bottle May 8, or to Lollapalooza, where they'll be on the bill as well, the Apple Store on Michigan Ave. has announced a free in-store by the soft-rock Swedesters that afternoon.
Decemberists for Free
Attention, chimbley sweeps and barrow boys: The Decemberists are giving a free concert in Grant Park on July July July-y-y-y 18. Hear their wistful tales of woe and revenge backed up by the Grant Park Orchestra as part of the Metro's 25th Anniversary happenings.
Lollapalooza Lineup Confirmed!
The Lollapalooza lineup as reported by the Onion A/V Club earlier today is confirmed in print in an inside-back-cover ad in "tomorrow's" issue of Time Out Chicago. If you didn't buy your advance tickets, now is the time.
Beyond the Concert Hall
The Chicago Symphony Orchestra is taking great strides to expand its audience and influence, notably including a retooled nationally syndicated radio program and a performance and educational video series.
Chicago History Roundup
From the establishment of the Hull House Theater to the World's Columbian Exposition, the Sun Times lists their take on "The 50 Greatest Chicago Moments."
Records'n'Stuff
The WLUW Record Fair & Other Delights is next weekend, and there are still a couple booths available should you want to unload some of your music -- or posters, crafts, clothes, whatever. Get on it now!
Really Old School Beats
It's not every day that we get to report on a concert consisting of the oldest song in recorded history (Tribune link, includes video of the performance).
Il Ritorno d'Uliss in Patria
The final installment of the Chicago Opera Theater's Claudio Monteverdi series, The Return of Ulysses, is earning strong reviews, including accolades for Rafael Viñoly's minimal set design. There are three performances remaining, so get hoppin'.
Yacht Rock 2.0
Some dude at The New York Sun just said that the Chicago music scene is the "capital of the budding New Mellow." Whatever that means.
That's Mest Up
Anthony Lovato, former lead singer of the suburban punk ensemble Mest, is being held in an LA jail on $1 million bond for allegedly stabbing a guy to death in a parking garage.
DeRo and Kot at SXSW
If you're looking for more SXSW news (besides what you're finding on Transmission here), "Sound Opinions" aired its SXSW wrap-up show this weekend. Check out the episode, which features some Chicago bands and a drunk-ish sounding Greg Kot waxing super-poetic about music.
Blue Bag Blues
The kind folks at the Wicker Park Food Co-Op have penned a tune that fairly sums up just about everyone's frustrations with the city's recycling program: The Blue Bag Blues. (Warning: it's an mp3 download.)
Moz Mopes in Midwest
Put in your order for gladiola now. Morrissey's playing a slew of dates across the Midwest this May, mostly in smaller theatres. This extended tour augments his November appearance at the Aragon -- which was totally amazing.
Sweet Sour Home Chicago
Over at the Beachwood Reporter, Don Jacobson has been collecting and evaluating songs that namedrop the city that works. Unsurprisingly, few of the tunes are happy-go-lucky toe-tappers. Subjects include blood, drugs, ghettos, guns, and elevator repair.
A Noteworthy Community
The Chicago Classical Music community covers multitudinous classical music happenings, musicians, composers, and directors in Chicago and elsewhere. No one can accuse them of having too many notes.
But Will They Play "Roxanne"?
The Police will not be here to create disorder, the Police will be here to preserve disorder. Better start looking for a parking space now.
Attack of the Red Eyed Monsters
If you're planning on attending concerts at the Ravinia Festival this summer, you may want to check the schedule [pdf] extra early this year. Why, you ask? Cicadas.
Metro Celebrates 25 Years at the Hideout
Regard this as your early invite: The Metro has announced it will celebrate its 25th anniversary at the annual Hideout Block Party, September 7-9. Bring your dancing shoes, and check the venues' websites for more information.
Serial Fingerpicker
John Hasbrouck is a local guitarist who just can't stop joining bands. There's his "jugless" jug band Hardscrabble, local band Cracklin Moth, his mandolin accompaniment to songwriter James Curley, the countrified stylings of the Lawrence Peters Outfit, and others. Hurry up and see the fleet-fingered Hasbrouck before he drops dead of exhaustion.
The P is for Pearl Jam
Lollapearljamalooza?! It sounds as if Chicago's own Lollapaooza will feature Pearl Jam (fronted by Evanstonian Eddie Vedder) as the headliner. If you'd been reading Transmission, you'd already know this.
Leroy Jenkins, R.I.P.
Innovative, Chicago-born free jazz violinist Leroy Jenkins has just passed away. Mr. Jenkins is not to be confused with bizarre Internet meme figure/WoW figure of scorn Leeeeeeroy Jenkins (explanatory video here).
Oscars with Musical Accompaniment
Speaking of the Oscars, here's one of the more novel tie-ins I've heard of: The Delafields will be playing at Simon's Tavern, 5210 N. Clark st. -- but only during the commercials and "boring parts," allowing you to catch the awards and a concert.They'll also have an Oscar pool, with prizes like a massage and tax consultation -- from members of the band! How's that for service?
Swap Music With Rockstars
Got a kick-ass Stephin Merritt CD mix that you're dying to share with the Chicago music community? Head on over to Radio Free Chicago's latest Bandwidth concert Thursday night at Subterranean, and participate in a CD mix swap with some of the bands from previous Bandwidth shows, as well as RFC staffers. Details on Bandwidth at Slowdown.
Sports Bar, Gay Bar
Crew, "Chicago's premier gay sports bar + grill" has been voted the city's best sports bar, flat-out, by readers of AOL City Guide.
Experience Everything But Taste
As if you need another reason to head into the tropical climes of the Lincoln Park Conservatory, you have until the end of the month to check out Shawn Decker's "Chorus," playing in the oh-so-warm Fern Room.
Oh, Crap: No Dave Matthews Concert at Wrigley
GB reported in December that the Dave Matthews Band was slated for a pair of concerts at Wrigley Field on the Fourth of July weekend. Well, today the Sun-Times reports that Matthews will not be at the concerts, since his wife is due to have a baby in early July. Even though there's no act scheduled, Alderman Tom Tunney is still planning to authorize the concerts, so don't worry: there WILL be music at Wrigley Field this Fourth of July.
Local Band in NYT
The New York Times writes about Chicago musician Ted Atkatz, who left a tenured post at the CSO to devote his time to local rock band NYCO.