Thursday, May 31, 2012

Thirty days have September ...April, June and November, blogspot readers. And already, we've reached the halfway point of the year! Are you having a rockin' fun time so far? Well, the summer months look to be a VERY busy one this 2012 with new as well as returning favorite fests and bands hitting the Chicago scene. SouthSide highly recommends checking out the long list of noteworthy and happening events occuring around Chicago and far during the month of June.

Jun 1
@ Martyrs': celebrate a birthday with friend Jet W. Lee and Swearwords as they kick off the month with a show at this Northcenter venue.

@ Elbo Room: All good things (and people) must come to an end ...and sadly, it's SouthSide's wild and crazy "Jack of All Trades" friend, Brian Bender as he says "Goodbye" to Elbo Room. So come out and share your BEST Brian Bender moment (and she's sure there are many he may or may not remember like that time after his birthday blow-out bash when he was in the women's restroom and...) Yes, this reviewer has PLENTY of secrets to spill about Brian. *wink*

@ Sundance Saloon (Waukegan, IL): Diamond Cuts Productions and Rockin' 4 Vets will host a 2-day event in sponsorship of "Wounded Warrior Project". Friday's lineup will feature performances by Goin' South, friend Steel Chops and Lights Out Chicago (UFO tribute band) while Saturday's lineup will feature performances by friend Thunder Drive, One Night Stand, Molo Rules (Ronnie James Dio tribute band) and many more. Admission is $15 for single day / $25 for both days / half off admission for all active military personnel (must show id)
18+ show / 21+ to drink

@ The Laughing Chameleon (Glenview, IL): Friend Steel Chops will also be rockin' this venue with extra special unplugged show both Friday and Saturday nights.

@ Empty Bottle (as of Do Division fest): The lineup at this venue will feature Black Belles, BBU and more. Hosted by Peter O'Connell.
$5

@ Old Town School of Music: It's Open House night featuring a special performance by local troubadour Matt Campbell at 10:15p in Maurer Hall.

Jun 2

@ Metro: Come out and celebrate Nocturna's 24th Annivesary! This 18 and older dark alternative dance party (held once a month or so) will be partying til dawn with good friend DJ Scary Lady Sarah spinning the best in etheral, shoegaze, new wave, post-punk and more. Glitter Cuts will be on hand to snap your fashionable look as well SouthSide has heard there will be giveaways.
$10 / 18+

@ Schuba's Tavern: School of Rock Chicago will be performing a special ALL AGES show in tribute to Neil Young. This show will benefit The Bridge School (located in California) featuring a silent auction and raffle of items donated by local businesses. 100% of all proceeds (i.e. admission, raffle and auction) will go to The Bridge School. There will be a Sunday Jun 3 performance too.
$10 / ALL AGES

@ Reggie's: Come to the Pig Roast on the rooftop! It's an "All You Can Eat" trainwreck roast on the venue's rooftop deck. 21+ / $10 / 5p
Then stay for the show too! Friends Black Actress and Control will be opening for Electric Frankenstein with Depravos de la Mour.
$12 adv / $15 dos

@ Wrigley Field (Sheffield & Addison): Join Abe Froman, the Sausage King of Chicago with many others at Sausage Fest 2012! No matter how you say "sausage" - bangers, weiners, etc, attend this food fest and listen to rockin' music by Company of Thieves, Treaty of Paris, Lovehammers and more.
noon to 10p both Saturday and Sunday.

Jun 3
@ Empty Bottle (as part of Do Division fest): The lineup on this day will feature Teenage Girl Fantasy, Pinebender, The Antlers and more. Hosted by Peter O'Connell.
$5

@ Leavitt Stage (as part of Do Division fest): Mutts will be rockin' the stage at 5p / ALL AGES

@ Reggie's: Al and Black Cats will be performing as well as friend Modern Day Rippers, Tracer Bullet and The Brothers Gross.
$7

@ Forest Park Summerfest: friend Blue Moon Swamp (tribute to John Fogerty and CCR) will be rockin' the crowd there.

@ Double Door: friends Board of Governors and The Plastic Boots will be rockin' the stage along with Fly Over State, The Deeper and King By Friday.
$7

@ Red Line Tap: friend WhiteWolfSonicPrincess will be returning there for another rockin' show.

Jun 9 - 10: Spacestock Music and Fest! Located in the land of Funk (actually Martinton, IL) this two-day event will feature 2 stages and over 30 musical acts of super spacy sounds, interstellar and mega posi vibrations by bands such as Indigo Sun, Art of ILL Fusion, friends Fifth World, Digeometric, Old Shoe and Sexfist and many, many more. Plus live art demonstrations by Manny Cortes, Alison Greer and Yael Orellana to name a few.
Please note the following about this fest. blogspot readers:

* Parking fee is $5 but carpooling is strongly advised and encouraged due to limited parking space.

Jun 18 -20
It's Crosstown Classic part duex! Cubs will be visiting the White Sox at the Cell (aka new Comiskey) however SouthSide's team in black will be looking for another sweep this innercity rivalry.
Go White Sox!

Jun 21
@ The Dam Bar & Grill: Celebrate Paragon's 100th rock show with the band as they share the stage with Dropped Once as part of Swedish Days.
All Ages / $5

Jun 23 - 24
Randolph Street Market a monthly 2-day event featuring over 8 acres of indoor and outdoor shopping! From food and music to vintage finds and antiques ...this is the place shop for those one of things to decorate your home, blogspot readers.
For more information, visit http://www.randolphstreetmarket.com.

Jun 23
@ Double Door: Retar Crew will be violating the stage at this FREE show.
Warning: this band has been deemed unsuitable for kids and most adults ...you have been warned.

@ Elbo Room: Our Name Is Jonas along with Go Mary will be rockin' the stage.
$10

@ Beat Kitchen: friend Pasafire will be rockin' the stage at this 17+ show.

Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Hey, blogspot readers, after an unseasonably warm day, it was time to relax and enjoy a night of cool Jazz. Tonight's On The Town adventure had SouthSide taking a well deserved break from her typical rock scene ...dressing up (a little) for her debut appearance at Mayne Stage. Located in the heart of the Rogers Park neighborhood (and a short walk from CTA's Morse Red Line station), this venue offered one unique concertgoing experience for this reviewer. She noted it had, no matter where seated in the balcony or main floor, an excellent 180 degreed wrap-around view of the stage which gave a sense of being spacious as well as intimate in size. Another plus about Mayne was the sound quality. The audience again no matter where they were seated had a clear crisp audio projection of tonight's performance. And hear that? Pure silence inside the venue too. It was like being inside a recording studio, blogspot readers, with miminal distractions and/or lobby noise to ruin one moment of the incredibly intense music experience during Chris Greene Quartet's performance. If you haven't attended a show or concert at Mayne Stage, she highly recommends visiting it especially when the legendary Jazz-fusion band Spyro Gyra makes an appearance there on June 7. For more information and tickets, check out Mayne Stage's website - http://www.manynestage.com.

Now back to SouthSide's "...incredibly intense music experience during Chris Greene Quartet's performance...", blogspot readers. And what an experience it was for this reviewer. Oh she could say it was uplifting ...awe-inspiring ...soulfully expressive yet those mere descriptions would hardly capture the entire concert from start to finish. You simply had to be there to not only hear but also witness the extraordinary floetry of sound and music felt while attending Chris Greene's "A Group Effort" album release concert. Yes, it was THAT incredible, blogspot readers. No, she wasn't bribed to write such glowing remarks in this review. This Jazz artist and each member of his band had a way of affecting the audience via music whether it was a lively, upbeat rhythmic tempo or a somber yet reverently played tune within a gospel-like tempo. This Quartet took the audience (SouthSide included) on a journey filled with emotional depth and soul-reaching sound during the near two hour performance. You could say it was almost like experiencing "The Twilight Zone" of a profound Jazz performacne in which SouthSide highly suggests taking such a journey yourself. And you don't have to be a Jazz aficionado to apprecciate it either. Just relax ...and let go allowing Chris Greene and his Quartet members take you away...

Performing this concert, according to Chris, as a "...regular old gig...", this Jazz quartet featured a setlist of tunes off the new album, "A Group Effort" as wll as previous ones and a few favorites like Charles Mingus and Madonna. Yes, blogspot readers, you read correctly. SouthSide did mention Madonna ...more about her and Hank Williams Jr later in the review. The setlist alone was an interesting repertoire mix of compositions written by Chris Greene (saxophone), Damian Espinosa (piano/keyboards), and Marc Piane (double bass) with Steve Corley adding his own personal touch to each Jazz piece on drums. In SouthSide's best opinion, she felt the songs performed were a fair representation of the composer's persoanlity besides offering a tiny sliver into their thoughts and/or emotions at the time of composing. For example, the opener - Good Riddance (by Chris Greene), this reviewer got the distinct impression of being told to "hit the road, Jack" from the bit of intensity laced within the rhythmic Jazz groove and sound. She thoroughly enjoyed the energetically loud "in your face" moments heard throughout but it was only to briefly add some spice amongst the relaxing lull of calmness ...creaing an atmosphere full of bursting, ear-pleasing music to which enthused tonight's audience espeically during the piano wizardry by Damian at the bridge.

Meanwhile, STAT (by Marc Piane) from the new album took that same energy and face-paced momentum and switched it for a smoother, laidback Jazz groove featuring a high alto saxophone melody flowing throughout the band's rhythmic beat. Still retaining a certain amount of intensity, used only for spontaneous bursts of life, SouthSide liked the calming poetry writeen in the music that allowed the ears to enjoy each and every instrumental note. Beginning a few bars without Chris' saxophone, the downtempo sound had cascading waves of crescendos and falls from each band member before Chris added a touch of hot spice to truly heat as well as mellow things out. This reviewer also liked how this piece wasn't necessarily rushed even though timed perfectly to feel like an all-night Jazz jam session of beautiful music, blogspot readers, that gradually ended with a calming yet steady rhythm. Then there was Three And Six (by Damian Espinosa) which offered yet another contrasting Chris Greene Quartet moment when deeper into this concert. This gospel-like tune opened with a somber bass 3-chord stance working both melody and rhythm amazingly at the same time until the rest of the band joined in underneath a slower downtempo beat. No offense to Chris Greene but this particular piece really spoke to SouthSide because of its reverent display of emotions within a non-hurried musical atmosphere surrounding her. Though having bouts of sadness, this lovely instrumental piece also had its moment of fiery spirited momentum off Chris' saxophone ...definitely had the audience feeling a wide range of emotions here and there that were wonderfully conveyed from each instrument. Very melodic with its Jazz spunk SouthSide highly suggests listening to this song. After taking a long look at the notes taken during this concert, SouthSide can safely conclude the other songs performed had or slmost had the same profound spiritual effect on the ears, mind and soul, blogspot readers.

She recommends grooving your body and feet to Chris Greene's composition - Bride of Mr. Congeniality to which the Quartet stepped up the rhythm and music up two notches higher to have you rockin' to the swift paced floetry of a funky Jazz sound. Hot intensifying saxophone melodies floating everywhere before the band took center stage during the bridge to calm things down a bit with a featured drum solo by Steve (he totally had some in the audience fired up during the crescendoing buildup). Though a little disappointed that there was no excitable POW after Steve's percussion crescendo to sock it to the audience, SouthSide still enjoyed the livelier side to this Quartet's performance. Also check out You'll Thank Me Later (also a Chris Greene composition), blogspot readers, for its cool classic Jazz sound amidst the waves of rises and falls laced throughout the melodic rhythms. Now, back to Madonna and what this pop artist had to do with Chris Greene Quartet's performance. It's quite unique to hear how different genres of music translated into other genres during a performance like for example Led Zeppelin's Kashmir or Stairway to Heaven done symphonically. Well, Chris and band wonderfully took Madonna's classic 80s hit song Boderline that launched her into the music scene and flipped it into a rockin' jazz number, blogspot readers. Or how about a little Hank Williams Jr (You Win Again) out of the country genre and into a more a jazz tune that you can still move your feet to. Yet the highlight of the covers during this concert was the performance of a Charles Mingus classic - Nostalgia In Times Square. This 1959 Jazz classic was brought back to life with all of its smoky club atmosphere and lively upbeat tempo by Chris Greene Quartet which had this reviewer wonderfully excited note after each note. These talented musician "owned" this jazz cover by giving the music explosively bursts of energetic life and momentum that felt intense yet so cool especially taking the final bars to a quiet lull before adding one last burst of excitement to end with a swinger feel.

What a night for music ...what an experience she will never forget.

SouthSide highly recommends attending Chris Greene Quartet's next performance, blogspot readers. Be prepared to have one intense Jazz experience like never before. For more information, visit http://www.chrisgreenejazz.com.

Friday, May 25, 2012

Hey, blogspot readers, let's play a guessing game. This Hollywood actress has created memorable roles both on screen and television as well as on stage but also is an accomplished dancer and jazz vocalist. Need another hint? You might remember her performance in the movie Jumping the Broom as Aunt Geneva especially during the scene where she's singing a funny rendition of Marvin Gaye's Sexual Healing. Or you probablly have seen her on television as Big Dee Dee Thorne (on Half and Half) or Sandra Lucas, Miranda Lucas Payne's (Keisha Knight Pulliam's character) mother (from Tyler Perry's House of Payne). No googling the answer. Perhaps you attended the Pasadena Symphony's annual Pops program in which she was a featured guest soloist or saw her stage in her Tony nominated role in Fosse or in London's West End production of Chicago featuring legendary great Chita Rivera.

Give up?

The person SouthSide is speaking of is Valarie Pettiford. And this reviewer felt SO honored to interview this lovely woman recently via telephone.

Valarie Pettiford began her career at the tender age of 14 after landing her first movie role ...actually three different roles in the film adaptation of The Wiz where she was a munchkin, one of the Emerald City dancers and part of the ensemble during the Brand New Day scenes. Then, she went on to appear in other films such as The Cotton Club, Glitter (portraying Mariah Carey's mother), Stomp The Yard, Like Mike and Tyler Perry's Why Did I Get Married Too. Her television credits are quite extenstive too, blogspot readers. She originated the role of Shelia Price Gannon on ABC's One Life To Live and appeared in another daytime drama Another World as Courtney Walker. She also made appearances in other drama series like X-Files (as an FBI agent), CSI and CSI Miami, The District, Criminal Minds and Bones. Ms Pettiford also has a recurring guest star role on the HBO series, Treme as the character Victorine Fornerat-Williams. And soon will be appearing in the new ABC Family's series - Bunheads portraying the artistic yet sensible Violet.

Ms. Pettiford's stage credits include her Broadway performance in Fosse that earned her nominations for a Tony, Grammy, Outer Critics Circle and Dora Mayor Moore awards. Besides Chicago, she also performed in the 1987 anniversary of West Side Story tour (as Anita), Dancin', Sophisticated Ladies (understudy to Judith Jamison) and Big Deal in which she was principal dancer, actress, singer and dance captain as well as starred in the Broadway hit, Grind and was part of the national tour of Showboat. This performance earned her recognition for a Vancouver Sun Reader’s Choice Award and an NAACP Image Award, blogspot readers. In the meanwhile, this busy actress is now promoting her new movie - Battlefield America (scheduled for release on June 1) and a follow-up album to her debut Hear My Soul titled Velvet Sky, a unique collection of original lullabies written for new parents to bond with their newborn babies, scheduled for a September release. Though her time was limited on Monday, Ms Pettiford was able spend some time with SouthSide for a friendly discussion giving her an exclusive peek into her new projects ...plus some thoughtful insight about Hollywood and more.

Describing herself as "...a person with a big heart...", SouthSide wanted to know more about her character "Ms Williams" in her upcoming movie Battlefield America, blogspot readers. Don't let the movie title alone scare you into thinking it's another Us versus Aliens bent on destorying the world coming to a multi-plex near you this summer. Nope ...no transforming aliens - this is a dance competition by the same people who did You Got Served. This movie is about a young businessman who hires a dance instructor to turn a group of misfits into a hip-hop dance crew for an underground competition. Looking at credits, Ms Pettiford is simply listed as Ms Williams to which the actress described her as a "...concerned mother..." and this reviewer asked her if she enjoyed playing those types of roles. She loves playing "mom" because it gave her a chance to work with wonderful people like Mariah Carey (in Glitter) and the cast of Half and Half. SouthSide then asked her if she chooses her roles based on her life experiences. She said as an actor, she has a choice to whether accept or decline a role but personally for her "...it's all about being challenged..." Ms. Pettiford portrays the characters as people she knows but unlike the tough, drinking Big Dee Dee Thorne (from Half and Half) or Aunt Geneva (from Jumping The Broom) - she's not like them in real life, blogspot readers. She also picks her roles because according to her they're fun to play and the other people involved in the project make it fun.

Plus she had nothing but praise for the hardworking kids involved in the movie Battlefield America. According to Ms Pettiford, the kids (and their parents) were professional, well-behaved and a reflection of their parents even while doing take after take on set. Though SouthSide was somewhat disappointed that she's not dancing in this movie or in a scene with Lynn Whitfield, Ms Pettiford said the whole experience was wonderful and felt so honored to work with her (Lynn Whitfield) on this project. Also she stated that Lynn Whitfield is one of the nicest people on earth ...never has a bad thing to say about anybody. Plus working with Marques Houston (in which you might know him as Roger from Sister, Sister), Ms Pettiford described him as a young man with a beautiful spirit ...an example of what a man should be. Also he served as a "big brother" mentor to the kids during filming, blogspot readers. Then SouthSide wanted to know if her rousing rendition of Marvin Gaye's Sexual Healing was scripted or ad lib for that particular part within Jumping The Broom. Alas, this reviewer was hoping it was ad lib but it wasn't. According to Ms Pettiford, that scene was thought up by the director and writers.

Speaking of Hollywood, SouthSide wondered with more African-American (as well as other minority) film production making a relevant presence in recent years do we as a race still have a long way to go before cracking through the "glass" ceiling. Ms Pettiford thought the question was a good one and did replied "...yes, we [in African-American race] have a long ways to go..." However, we are making strides and breaking ground with more African-American women taking lead roles in television series than males like Kerry Washington in ABC's Scandal and Loretta Devine in Lifetime's The Client List. Yet is it possible to win an Academy Award without being nominated for portraying the "bad" guy / anti-hero or the "help"? In her lifetime, she hopes so and believes some roles in a romantic-comedy should be recognized by the Academy to which she also stated that's across the board for all racial lines and genders. "...Thank goodness for the Golden Globes..." which does recognizes outstanding performances in a comedic roles for actor and actress. Still, she would like to see the Academy awarding someone for being a "good" guy for once. SouthSide and Ms Pettiford did discuss briefly about "blaxploitation" films, how it generated that sense of how cool it was to live in Harlem when actuality, it wasn't what the movies depicted in reality and how some of today's has that same effect on kids.

Now, don't ask Ms Pettiford who's her favorite in any subject - from jazz vocalist to actor/actress because that would be like asking SouthSide who's her favorite band/artist, blogspot readers. She loves SO many people especially those she has the pleasure to work with as an actress and dancer that she felt she might not mention someone's name in the list. Yet she did mention a few names to SouthSide like Della Reese, Betty Davis, Viola Davis (of The Help) ...believe this reviewer - the list go have gone on and on. With Jazz being her "love" when it comes to music, she does enjoy the classics like Nancy Wilson to Ella Fitzgerald and Doris Day as well as the upcoming modern stuff and all other genres. When singing classics like Nancy Wilson, she hopes people feel what she's feeling when adding her own personal spin to a song (for example The Very Thought of You or Call Me)...also hoping it will inspire a "jazz dialogue" with others about how the music touches their soul. Here's where SouthSide got the extreme chance of stumping her interviewee when asking if there was one artist (living or past) she could collaborate on her next album whom would it be. One name did come to Ms Pettiford's mind - Prince. Her first love, believe it or not, blogspot readers, is Rock and says if having an opportunity, she would like to work with Prince because she feels her vocal style and tone is right for his music. Now that would be a very interesting album to review indeed - Ms Pettiford does rock with original songs written by Prince.

This led to SouthSide asking about her new album Velvet Sky and why a collection of lullabies after her debut jazz album - Hear My Soul. That, according to Ms Pettiford, was the brainchild of her ex-husband who came up with the idea of doing original lullabies. Soon, he started recruited writers Ron Abel, Chuck Steffan, Jamie Wooten and Michael Orland who came up with 13 songs and Tony Radar to produce the project. Ms Pettiford said the lullabies are designed to help new parents bond and build connections through music and play with their babies. The album features a fun song to help putting baby to sleep to some game play with their little ones. Yet there's one song near and dear to her heart titled - My Miracle and it's for parents who have been trying unsuccessfully to have a baby and then successfully having one. For her, it was emotionally heartfelt to sing this particular song. Blogspot readers should be on the lookout for this new album of lullabies in September ...a perfect gift for expecting or already parents of young toddlers.

Alas, time did fly by super fast when engaged in a lively chat with Ms Pettiford, blogspot readers, and it was time for SouthSide to wrap up another On The Town exclusive interview. In parting, this reviewer discussed about being in the "business" i.e. music and acting to which she stated "...I'm in the business because I love it..."

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

If you have kids in the age range of 2 to 5 years old, then you'll get the reference to a song that's now stuck inside SouthSide's head. On Saturday afternoon, she and her young daughter ventured deep into the heart of NATO protest "war zone" to cover a free kid's show at Record Breakers. This extra special in-store event featured the reggae/ska/soul band The Aggrolites (CA) performing their Yo Gabba Gabba hit, Banana (as well as others) before rockin' out an older crowd below.

The Aggrolites, taking time out to hang out with their much younger fanbase, rocked out Record Breakers in a mini semi-acoustic set just for the kiddies upstairs performing the Banana song (a Roy Ellis cover) within a rockin' reggae/ska/soul sound and music for everyone to enjoy. After munching on hot dogs and soda, the kids along with many of their parents sang this Yo Gabba Gabba tune while dancing to the island tempo beat. This reviewer liked this band's lively acoustic reggae sound and style featuring guitars (acoustic, banjo and bass) and a simple tom drum for that rhythmic beat even while in downtempo groove during this 30 minute performance. Though not performing from a ready-made set list for the kids, The Aggrolites did take requests to which they did other songs like Complicated Girl and Jimmy Jack for the adults in the audience as well as more kid songs - Work To Do (about climbing trees and being safe ...it's also cool counting song for the kids to learn about subtraction) and Free Time (which was featured in a film called Band Slam). The mini store performance concluded, blogspot readers, with a whimsical nursery rhymed song before having to say "goodbye" to their little fans.

SouthSide's friend Elle Quintana (who put this show as well as many others for Reggie's) is planning more shows like this one featuring other local artists/bands performing mini sets for the kids scheduled for near future.

Tonight at Reggie's Music Joint, it's a special pre-NATO rock show featuring the J-Pop/punk superheroes - Red, Yellow, Green, Pink and Silver of Peelander Z! They came to rescue Chicago fans from Mad Tiger and So Many Mike while rocking them with high engery of a fun punk/J-Pop/anime music combination. Yet with Peelander Z, it's more than just an ordinary rock show where you the audience simply watch them perform on stage. No, blogspot readers, you are part of the fun and action too. But before rockin' on planet Peelander Z, the crowd was treated to an epic performance of electronica/instrumental rock by Arc Impulse (http://www.arc-impulse.com). This local band powered their way with an exciting hour that featured renditions of video game themed songs from Zelda (2 and 3 included) Mario Cart as well as their own originals like Rainbow (a fantastical journey comprised of three songs rolled into one long epic masterpiece with some bars of Somewhere Over the Rainbow at the bridge). The electronic orchestra explosively filled the Music Joint with memorable gamer music, bursts of intense energy and momentum to the delight of the crowd especially when ending their show with a Rocky themed epic song.

They came from a distant planet in an uncharted galaxy far, far, far away called Peelander where everyone speaks Japanese, eats sushi and drinks saki, blogspot readers. And every so often, the colorful cast of anime-nated/punk musicians make perilous journey to Earth to whisk their Chicago (and elsewhere they roam) fans into the nether regions of the universe to experience a journey of music and fun. Peelander Z rocked out Reggie's Music Joint by incorporating the energy and sound of J-Pop with the intensity of punk rock and the action packed dazzle and fun of anime done live rolled into one hour of a performance. Yet, when you're having so much fun rockin' to songs So Many Mike, Mad Tiger and Lucha Libre (yes, it seems these "aliens" enjoy Mexican wrestling) like SouthSide was, it truly didn't feel such an amount of time had passed. Don't think just because the venue was a bit smaller that this band skimped on fun and excitement either. Peelander Z, though downscaling the rowdiness and action a little, still brought to their enthused fans everything that Peelander Z is known for. Whether it was participating in a group limbo line (how low can a group of adults go?) to jumping rope with Peelander band members and a Mad Squid ...or how about Mad Squid bowling and then baseball - there was something happening throughout this show. Believe SouthSide, all that and more happened inside this Southside venue, blogspot readers. There were moments of Red Z standing on the shoulders of a group of fans and then body surfing while playing his bass ...lucky fans rockin' stage on Peelander instruments and/or banging pans along with the band which truly intensified the crazy fun all around. Performing songs off their latest album, Space Vacation, Peelander Red, Yellow, Green, Pink and Silver also delighted their fanbase with favorites such as E-I-E-I-O, Learn Japanese and Ninja High Schooool (a retro rock-n-roll tune) as well as some new ones - Get Glasses, Space Vacation and Star Bowling. Still it wouldn't be a Peelander Z show without any mention of their favorite food to eat (besides sushi) like Taco Taco Tacos, Ice Cream! and S.T.E.A.K.(yes, there's a song about eating a medium-rare steak, blogspot readers!). Sadly, our journey had to come to an end but not before performing a goofy rendition of Cyndi Lauper's Girls Just Want Have Fun to Boys Just Want Have Fun. SouthSide highly recommends rockin' to the anime-punk style while doing some human bowling with SouthSide's friend Peelander Z. Visit this J-Pop/punk band at http://www.peelander-z.com.

Friday, May 18, 2012

Hey, blogspot readers, it's the bewitching hour and SouthSide's night has just begun! After rockin' part of with The Future Laureates at SubT in Wicker Park, it was now time to dance til dawn in the Wrigleyville/Lakeview area at Metro with the other fashionable vampires.

In its 23rd year, this monthly event hosted by friends William Faith and DJ Scary Lady Sarah (also of The Bellwether Syndicate) spun featured requests (by the Facebook Nocturna group members) from industrial, dubstep and emo to techno, metal and more. This local club scene is nothing like the club scene along River North area - no one's dressing impress another just yourself. Whether it may be a pirate to ALex DeLarge (a Clockwork Orange reference) or post-industrial or something you create yourself. It's nice watching the reactions from those hanging out at the bars on Clark Street while walking towards Metro on Saturday/Sunday morning. Dressing "weird" in black does tend to keep a few from bothering you, blogspot readers.

SouthSide knows they don't understand that everyday is Halloween. While at Nocturna, this reviewer did her usual people watching before hitting the dance floor - she loved the array of fashions strutting or dancing around Metro. This monthly "meetin" attracts people of all ages as well as racial backgrounds and beliefs ...it's more like a "safe haven" where no judges on how you're dressing or dancing. And if you want to show off your best industrial or metal dance moves, Nocturna is the event to do it especially at this local venue. Plenty of dance floor to show your fancy footwork while rockin' to tunes like a remix of The Smiths' How Soon Is Now, New Order's Blue Monday or SouthSide's request Cyanotic's Alt_Machines.

Tonight's event had friend VVasher VVoman passing out some of her vegan chocolat s'mores - yummy and of course, Sarah's cauldron of sweets to keep dancers recharged with sugar between dance breaks. Yet besides the music, Nocturna also features local artisans from Lunasol Arts (http://www.lunasolarts.com and also on Facebook) displaying their fine handcrafted Goth jewelry, neck pieces and more for sale. Lots of pretty things to accessorize your Dark Shadows like this year, blogspot readers.

SouthSide highly suggests spending a Saturday night with the local "vampires" of Nocturna at the next monthly meeting to dance until dawn.

"If you don't stick around for The Future Laureates, I'll wrestle you..."Cobalt and The Hired Guns

There's no other like your own mother ...so treat her right

Hey, blogspot readers, this busy mom's rockin' out her Saturday night with not one but TWO shows! Tonight, SouthSide's hitting the streets going to two hot spots within Chicago's vibrant local scene where she celebrated a record release and then danced with the fashionable vampires til sunrise. And what an exciting (as well as busy) night it was during this latest On The Town adventure. First, this reviewer rocked Wicker Park's other hippest venue (that was once a Capone spot complete with hidden access tunnels), SubT (or Subterranean) while attending CAUDog's show featuring the release of The Future Laureates' Fortress Sessions CD. This amazing venue boasts a "crow's nest" view of what's happend on the main floor especially if reviewing the night's lineup performing on stage or if you want to get away from the crowd below. That's where you can usually find SouthSide, blogspot readers, up in the balcony and tonight, she was alongside with her longtime friend, Michael Teach of Chicago Acoustic Underground (http://www.chicagoacousticunderground.net).

CAU is every music fan's source for original indie music from across the United States and around the world. Michael and his hardworking staffers connects fans to the artists and vice versa through podcasts as well as music downloads, CDs and sponsored shows like tonight's. CAU's shows has showcased some of the best from singer/songwriters to full bands rockin' the local stages around Chicago like Brian Walker, Crystal Bowersox, Goodbyehome, The Future Laureates and more. Saturday's show was a record for SubT and CAU - a near soldout crowd thanks to hard work of the bands promoting this particular show. Also on the lineup in support of The Future Laureates' big occasion was Tree and friend Cobalt and The Hired Guns. SouthSide highly suggests rockin' the ears to the hip sound of "new" country/rock by the band - Tree. Lead by a dynamic female vocalist on guitar, this reviewer enjoyed the way this lively group rocked and rolled the packed main floor with upbeat tempos, rhythmic music and vibrant bursts of energetic momentum. Their style of country-folk mix brought a taste of hot summertime fun to SubT on a rainy night which also had this crowd demanding one more song when Tree's set was finished.

Then, SouthSide's friend, Cobalt and The Hired Guns continued with the night's rockin' theme of fun during their performance of alternative/pop/rock featuring an array of instruments in the band set up. The lively rhythms off the cello (at times), horn section and digital programming added those moments of boisterious music to pop the band's core alternative sound alive and kicking. However tonight, Cobalt added a female vocalist to the mix to counter as well as complement Tom on main vocals during certain songs featured off their upcoming new album. SouthSide, though couldn't physically hear her sometimes since she was overshadowed by the music, liked how her dynamic voice had the right range to be paired with Tom's heartfelt falsetto style during one particular song featuring a ballad-love song. The touching sentiments in between pockets of energy even while at the bridge where the music was intense to match the song's mood and tone could be felt besides being heard. Yet watch out, blogspot readers, when Cobalt and The Hired Guns truly get into the party mood while performing Of Summer. There's a wave of electro-energy and momentum flowing across the stage and into the crowd as they kicked up the vibrant bursts of music amidst an eclectic mix of alternative/punk rock sound. Yet what really surprised this reviewer was the band's switch out of their comfort zone into trying to be a straight rock band. And yes, Cobalt can actually be and have an ordinary rock band and sound when premiering a new new song as a test on the audience. Sans the horns and cello ...even without the digital programming, this band proved they can still rock the stage like a hardcore guitar rock band which also opens the vocals more. You can feel the emotional spite and fire especially Tom sang "...you never called at all..." - it was powerful but dynamic tone that gave SouthSide some shivers. SouthSide suggests rockin' the ears to More Than You Know and Like You Like Me Like Me as well as seeing them perform live again at Metro during their CD release show on June 16. This show will also feature friends How Far To Austin, Midwest Hype and Band Called Catch ...it's going to be hot 18+ show, blogspot readers. For more information, visit http://www.cobaltandthehiredguns.com.

After introducing Ellis Clark (producer of many CAU Dog Records artists' albums including TFL's Fortress Sessions) to the crowd packing the main floor, Michael Teach then introduced the honored guests of the night - The Future Laureates, blogspot readers. Even before hitting one note, the band first honored their own moms and other moms as well as thanking everyone for out to the show. Then, finally - they got down to the business rockin' out their headlining show with a BANG of music that featured an Irish whiskey song (Moonshine) and guests musicians like Christina on violin and Joe Redman on guitar. SouthSide thoroughly enjoyed the vibrant bursts of TFL's momentous sound (and there were plenty, blogspot readers) that kept everyone whether they were crowding around the balcony or on the main floor deep within the band's alternative/pop sound. And not only does this band excite musically but also vocally as proven in the opener Galahad's Song which ended in a round robin-like of harmonizing vocals seperately then together. Even the crowd has their favorite TFL band member to which they started chanting "James" during certain songs like Escape From the Shadows (featuring his bass solo). SouthSide doesn't know where to begin to say about the band, its music and/or the show because there were SO many fantastic moments that happened ...and she's amazed that she was able to jot notes and rock out with them at the same time. To fair, she did pick a few highlights that she feels were special in her opinion. For example, when performing Carry Me Away and Kingston Blues, TFL wonderfully demonstrated their bluesy side of their music via a ukelele inside a downtempo groove and intense falsetto vocals. Both songs not only had them dancing a tiny jig here and there but also had many in the crowd joining in the fun alongwith them, blogspot readers. TFL boasts an infectious rhythmic beat and upbeat tempos that will instantly grab you especially when adding some pseudo ska into the rhythms (Kingston Blues). And then having the crowd doing reggae moves (how low can you go under the limbo bar), this record release turned into a wild party! The next highlight came when the audience of voices joined with the band during their cover of Tom Petty's American Girl. Though this wasn't the only moment where you heard the crowd singing (Creative Differences), SouthSide picked this moment because of the heartfelt vocals on the lyrics while in a livelier upbeat tempo than its original counterpart. Still it was something to witness when hearing 99% of the entire venue in one voice singing this classic Petty song shaking the chandelier rafters of SubT. You had to be there, blogspot readers, to see and hear this moment. The other audience participation moment came during Crooked Third Wheel and the special hand clapping at the intro of the song ...plus more sexy dancing on stage. This reviewer will stop right here - she doesn't want to give too much away about TFL and their show. She does recommend rockin' their next live show and snagging a copy of Fortress Sessions. For more information, visit http://www.thefuturelaureates.com.

Tuesday, May 15, 2012

Hey, blogspot readers, it's a rockin' Friday night party for SouthSide! She's lost somewhere inside crowd of Wicker's Park hip rock venue to celebrate with her friend, Jon Drake & The Shakes during their "unofficial" official release of their new album, Dear Ulysses (coming out May 29). This show, presented by Grape Juice Records, also featured other rockin' performances within the Americana/folk/alternative rock genre by Rachele Eve and Frontier Rucus with a special appearance by Glad Fanny. Upon arriving, this reviewer was able to enjoy the final half of Froniter Rucus (http://www.frontierruckus.com) which rocked the stage with a lively Country/Western as well as a modern Americana/folk twist off their new album Eternity of Dimming featuring the song Black Holes. This band incorporated a wide range of organic sounds and rhythms (i.e. trumpet, mandolin, etc) to wonderfully blend their core music into vibrant bursts of energetic momentum amidst the heartfelt falsetto vocals by front man Matthew(who's also songwriter / guitarist on harmonica and pedal steel). Frontier's songs do tend to get lyrically intense and dramatic but the band matches that intensity with the jamboree-like music for everyone to kick up their heels and dance. Hopefully, this band returns again for a full review of their next Chicago show.

Now, blogspot readers, it was time to shake, rattle and roll the local scene's only mini organic Americana/folk orchestra. Usually, SouthSide gets to enjoy rockin' out with her friend Jon Drake & The Shakes during their annual outdoor performance at the Taste of Chicago. However, it was a treat for her to see them rockin' inside a venue in front of a packed house of family, friends and fans attending their "unofficial" official release of Dear Ulysses. What a rockin' party it was inside the Double Door tonight. Never had she seen this band shakin' and rollin' song after song that they were ready to take this party to a whole new level (if had the chance) all night long. What SouthSide enjoyed about this extra long set was how this band kept the crowd wrapped inside their vibrant energy and momentum from the moment they stepped on stage until the very last. There wasn't a moment of dead lull between songs - Jon and band had this crowd wanting more of that rockin' Shakes sound. Passionately performing songs off their previous releases and new album, this release show featured just more than lively danceable tunes like Rattles and Snakes and Gustav and dark haunting ballads (i.e. Mary and Margie) but also at times spotlighted Jon's intense vocal performance amidist the Americana/folk rock music. Yet with Jon and The Shakes, expect a little something added to the core sound - it's infused with other genres to please the ear of any music type. For exmaple, during one particular song, this band rocked the stage with a lively country jamboree-like sound continuously bursting with fun and energy while a bit later, they surrounding the crowd with a hauntingly dark yet moody Blues ballad to draw out the emotions inside the lyrics after rockin' the crowd with a melodic tone to spotlight Jon's heartfelt vocal style. Yes, even being melodramatic tends to be a good things while rockin' with The Shakes, blogspot readers, since it wonderfully allows their music to encompass you deep within the rhythmic vibe and Jon's dynamic vocals. And like an orchestra, this band places it's bursts of music energy and lulls at the right moment to generate that excitable crowd reaction each time especially when each member is within that moment of intense passion while performing. In SouthSide's honest opinion, this show had to be one of Jon Drake and The Shakes' finest moment since reviewing them nearly two years ago. She highly recommends getting to know her friend as you shake and roll along with them. For more information, visit them at http://www.jondrakeandtheshakes.bandcamp.com.

Friday, May 11, 2012

Hey, blogspot readers, it's all about making those important connections and creating long-lasting friendships while networking with others.

That was the central theme for those who attended tonight's Music Conference Networking Reception held at Wicker Park's hip rock venue, Double Door. Sponsored by Yellow Phone and Double Door, this free event hosted by David Silbough, Phil Kosch, Scott Zid, Nate Arling and Doug Johnson was the prelude to the Yellow Phone Music Conference happening in downtown Milwaukee, WI during the weekend of Sept 6 - 9, 2012. This four-day conference will feature a gathering of talented artists and music professionals engaging in panel discussions as well as mentor sessions with experienced leaders of the music industry. It's Yellow Phone's goal to bring together career-oriented artists and postive, forward-thinking leaders within today's music business within the best qualities of a large industry conference yet downsizing them into a concentrated experience. And that's what this event allowed many indie/local artists and bands represented to do ...mingle and network with others artists/bands, music management and even SouthSide for a few hours. Musicians like friends Damon Ranger (of Blackbox), Ryan Powers and Lisa (of Dot Dot Dot) as well as White Pine Wolverines Band and music fans like Rick were among many to meet other likeminded individuals to share their love for music and the thriving scene happening around Chicago. Perhaps, blogspot readers, we might see future collaborations between artists and/or bands that were represented tonight. For more information about the Yellow Phone Music Conference, visit http://www.ypmc.com.

And speaking of music, this event also featured rare acoustic performances by singer/songwriters Garrett Burns, Mars Argo, Aly Jados and K. Serra featuring DJ sets by the female duo - Lewis & Clark who keep attendees in a dancing party mood between acts and throughout the event. Though missing first two acts of the night, SouthSide did arrive to hear her friend Aly Jados rock the stage with a powerfully dynamic performance of intense female vocals.

Her heartfelt vocal tone truly touched the heart and soul, blogspot readers, especially during her opening song, City of Angels, where she vividly set the stage for an ear-popping sound of acoustic guitar rhythms and voice wonderfully matched together. Even while in a downtempo rhythm, Aly made the audience feel each heartfelt emotion within a fiery spirit sung off the lyrics to Secret Song but on the flipside, she kicked the soulful vocal tone up a notch or two to really hit the audience with some raw powress over the mic. With the acoustic tempo slightly matching her voice, you could still feel that fire dynamically popping the words to life especially when she said "...you make me feel...". Yes, this reviewer was definitely feeling what she was feeling. Performing other originals such as Helpless and It Is What It Is (both featuring more of Aly's raw yet soulfully dynamic voice), the true highlight of the night was her rendition of Alanis Morissette's You Oughta Know ...and all this reviewer can say after hearing her sing this cover - Damn, girl. Aly must have dredged up years of past relationships gone horribly bad to really knock the audience off their feet with such venomous vocal spite and angst ever to rock the mic. Between watching her facial expression and hearing her sing, you totally felt her frustration vividly expressed throughout each single word, blogspot readers. It was that intense. Aly will be performing again at Hard Rock Cafe on Monday May 14 as part of a special singer/songwriter night. Visit her at http://www.alyjados.com for more music and information.

Before calling it night, SouthSide was able to check out a part of K. Serra's (http://www.kserramusic.com) performance to which she performed a haunting yet melodic version of Jefferson Airplane's Somebody To Love. This reviewer enjoyed the organic essence feature through her percussion drumming amidst a soothing floetry of electronica music and her powerful vocals thus creating one intense spirit and energy from this rockin' combination. Hopefully SouthSide is able to review this artist for an upcoming On The Town review.

Hey, blogspot readers, nursing a "day after Cinco de Derby" hangover during this stormy Sunday On The Town adventure. This local party gal had the strength to rock another night inside Wicker Park's hip venue, Double Door to see her new friend Wildlife Control (NY-CA) performing on stage. She highly suggests checking out this local band who went on before Wildlife known as Brownie Mountain (http://www.browniemountain.bandcamp.com) for the eclectic mesh of punk/experimental within their instrumental rock sound. This lively quartet of musicians rocked the stage with such vibrant energy and momentum to match while coupled inside intense guitar riffs and percussion rhythms. This combination popped the ears with plenty of rockin' music foung in epic-like pieces cleverly titled Tip of the Iceberg (a song about touching tits) and Country Pop Hits #1. What this reviewer enjoyed the most about Brownie Mountain was their whimsical yet catchy song titles like Well Butter My Butt And Call Me A Biscuit or Jorge Wants To Go Hardcore But His Mom Won't Let Him which had her wondering what the thought process was behind some of them. In the end, SouthSide still enjoyed the wild and crazy guitar intensity as heard in Brownie's closing song that featured a climatic finish almost sounding like an experimental version to Issac Hayes' ending to Shaft.

This brotherly duo, though living on opposite ends of the US coast, rocked the Double Door stage with a taste of summer within a contemporary/alternative pop sound to lift up everyone's soggy Sunday evening. SouthSide highly suggests checking out her friend Wildlife Control for this duo's burst of that vibrant summertime feel and sound paired with dynamically heartfelt vocals and contemporary piano rhythms. This reviewer enjoyed the refreshing vibe wafting throughout the venue as well as energetic momentum that sounded like a four-piece band rather than two musicians on stage especially during the opening song. Rockin' the stage with songs off Wildlife's current album - Spin, this band energized the Sunday night audience with a strong display of falsettos amidst an upbeat tempo as heard in Analog or Digital, Disguise and the title track, Spin. Blogspot readers will like how the piano rhythms added a certain amount of intensity to the duo's music besides a melodic flow of contemporary pop sound especially when wonderfully paired with a retro rock-n-roll guitar riff (as heard in Analog or Digital). In this particular song, SouthSide liked the energy felt and heard throughout the rhythmic tempo which had some in the audience dancing to the excitable beat. Even when taking that same energy and tempo down a bit, Wildlife continued maintaining that melodic piano rhythm before gradually upping the tempo again for another round of danceable beat. And, ladies, if lucky, you might be chosen to join them on stage for a quick spin around the floor. SouthSide also suggests checking out Wildlife's heartfelt single, People Change that rocked out their Chicago appearance with a bang, blogspot readers. For more information about Wildlife Control, visit them at http://www.wildlifectrl.com.

Thursday, May 10, 2012

Feliz Cinco de Derby Day, blogspot readers! It's a calendar rarity to be sipping on delicious mint juleps while listening to the local mariachi band playing on the same day for this rockin' Saturday night adventure. Tonight, SouthSide's celebrating I'll Have Another's derby win (she bet on the wrong horse) and the Mexican holiday at Lakeview's hip locale for national and indie acts, Elbo Room with her krazy guitar rock band friend, Kazy. And believe this reviewer, this local band will rock you krazy Kazy-style!

Kazy rocked the Elbo Room stage with a hardcore mesh of fierce guitar rock, lyrical hip hop verse (at times) with some screamo and more that features an electric violin used as the fourth guitar. They will get and keep you deeply immersed inside the intense Kazy rock madness from the first vibration of the electric chord until the very last has died. Don't expect, blogspot readers, for the band's sound to miss a beat in between. This type of "new" rock music and its blend of other genres is what currently thriving within Chicago's local scene and Kazy like Earthen Grave (another local band featuring violinist Rachel Barton Pine) has certainly tapped into this music market.

After opening with a rockin' bang of a song, Hooks, SouthSide was instantly hooked onto Kazy's wild style of maddening guitar riffs, furious tempos (sometimes coupled with a "soft" or somber intro - don't be fooled by that), thunderous percussion rhythms and extreme vocals that can scream emotional anguish as well as spin fast lyrical verse (done by front man Rich). This awesome combination, blogspot readers, created one powerful intensifying rock experience for the audience tonight where they literally felt the energy and sound wafting throughout the basement lounge not just hearing it. There were moments during Kazy's set when you saw how intense their krazy maddness inside the music could get from the way each band member tore up the stage which left no inch of it untouched especially when performing songs like LFL and Blown.

SouthSide highly suggests rockin' the ears to the following (in no particular order) like Choke for its combination of a "soft" lull before being smacked with the extreme intensity of music and vocals at the same time. Front man Rich made the ears bleed from his emotional anguish and pain while the band matched his vocal style note for note. Gamers should recognize this song title since it's featured in the popular video games Scarface and Zombie Strippers. Also she suggests feeling the pulsating heat of the hardcore guitar sound as well as heartfelt angst off the lyrics during Goodbye. Though the vocals were overshadowed by the loudness of the guitars, this reviewer still felt his vocal emotions via the intense sound wafting around the stage. And if you really want to see some intense moments while Kazy performs, blogspot readers, check out their live performance of the new song Violate. WOW - that's all SouthSide can say when hearing this song. She enjoyed the extreme lyrical hip hop vibe within the vocals which were matched with Rich's intense screamo at the chorus as well as the build up towards the bridge where Kazy hits you from all sides with their guitar rock. Yes, this latest song did more than violate the ears - it brutally assualted them within the extreme rock fusion to the delight of their audience before howling at the Super Moon with closer Wolf.

SouthSide highly suggests rockin' your maddening love for krazy guitar rock with her friend Kazy at their next show. For more information, visit Kazy at http://www.kazymusic.com.

Tuesday, May 8, 2012

"...I would like to dedicate this set to MCA (Adam Yauch of The Beastie Boys)..."

Hey, blogspot readers, the music world was deeply saddened by the sudden passing of newly (Rock-N-Roll) Hall of Fame inductee Adam "MCA" Yauch which put a tiny damper on this year's Cinco de Mayo-Derby festivities. However, SouthSide wholeheartedly believed Adam wouldn't approve of tears and sad eyes ruining the fight for our right to party while attending a celebratory moment at The Hideout Inn. Placed in an obsecure locale within the heart of an industrial park of Chicago, this legendary music venue (once home to Wilco shows) was definitely in the party mood despite the news of the day as fans crowded inside to celebrate The Damn Choir's sophomoric release of You're My Secret Called Fire. Assisting this local band with their fun and celebration was friend Paper Thick Walls and Kingsley Flood (http://www.kingsleyflood.com) from Boston, MA.

Though missing most of Kingsley's performance, SouthSide arrived at The Hideout Inn in time to catch the final few minutes of their rockin' set, blogspot readers. Yet it was enought to get this reviewer swept into the party mood due to this band's vibrantly explosive mix of gypsy-Americana / pop alternative sound with some hot Brit rhythmic groove (off the keyboard). SouthSide liked the hip sound wafting throughout the packed venue in the back as the upbeat swing had many dancing to the beat especially during the closing song - I Don't Wanna Go Home. Currently on tour, this reviewer highly suggests checking out Kingsley Flood ...hopefully they'll return to Chicago soon for another show (or two).

The last time SouthSide had a chance to rock this band, it was last year at the same venue for their CD release show. Tonight, one year later, she once again enjoyed hearing a few selections by Paper Thick Walls off their A Thousand Novels CD in which continued with the central theme of groovy-licious vibe and music. SouthSide's friend rocked the stage with another solid outting by featuring heartfelt vocal combination from the duo Eric (also on guitar) and Kate (on piano/trumpet) as well as melodic Americana/folk sound. Besides like the somber-like opening to kick off the set, this reviewer enjoyed the gradual crescendo rise to up the tempo and sound til exploding the ears to a boisterious music and vivid emotions within the vocals. At times the music alone, blogspot readers, was amazingly intense as well as haunting amidst the imagery flowing from the lyrics. Paper Thick Walls wonderfully combined such elements of sound and vocals to create a floetry of explosively vibrant set of music paired well to dynamically expressive voices popping the words to life during each song. The intensity definitely fueled this lively group's energetic momentum at the right moments for dramatic emphasis in which the music matched note for note. SouthSide suggests listening to the following songs (in no particular order) - Desolate Place (for its dream-like imagery set inside a haunting combination of storytelling-ballad style), Overgrown (featuring a rockin' violin rhythms to give an upbeat Americana/folk sound and tempo) and White Flags (a fun tune about telling your boss to "take this job and shove it" where you can vividly feel Eric's angst and frustration besides hearing it). Plus she suggests checking out Potrait, Orange Tree, Masters of the Sea and the title track A Thousand Novels off the album. For more information about Paper Thick Walls, visit http://www.paperthickwalls.com.

Amidst a thunderous boom of sound which instantly grabbed everyone's attention, The Damn Choir made their grand entrance to kick off their celebratory occasion with an intense rockin' bang, blogspot readers. This band wasted no time impressing this reviewer with a strong showing of heartfelt vocals amidst their Americana/folk sound but that was the prelude to what she heard next. POW! This band explosively shook the venue (and the ears) with a thunderous boomer of intense music especially during their opening song before ending with a calming lull. The Damn Choir playfully teased the crowded room with such antics - thinking one minute it's merely a soft toned song or sound to the tempo yet on the other hand, the band pulled something completely different throwing you off a little. Even the instrumental bridges were filled with intense momentum in which you saw each member (including the Jack in the banana suit on percussions) passionately performed while on stage. SouthSide enjoyed the tiny surprises that occurred throughout their performance not knowing where Gordion and others were taking her. The intensity wasn't just contained to their Americana/folk side, blogspot readers. It was also demonstrated within their pop side that featured a pseudo religious theme laced inside the lyrics while switching between a reverently rhythmic tempo and excitable melody before wowing the crowd with a huge finish (as heard in Creatures of Heaven). Or feel that steady percussion march during another particular song which had SouthSide trying her best to keep up with the sudden riff/chord changes. There was vividness not only in the music but also in the vocals (by Gordon and Katy) to make the lyrical words pop to life with flowing imagery especially while singing Ghost Spit and Road Noah. However SouthSide suggests checking out The Damn Choir's new song where Gordon truly displayed the heartfelt emotions in his falsetto vocals before really wowing the crowd with their rendition of The Cure's Just Like Heaven. It was so emotionally heartfelt that SouthSide was able to forget about Rob Smith's emo-like voice for a moment to enjoy how this band flipped this classic 80s song into something less dark and more upbeat within an Americana/folk sound but keeping some emo darkness to the tone. SouthSide highly suggests blogspot readers getting to know her new friend, The Damn Choir at their next show. For more information about this band, visit http://www.thedamnchoir.com.

Friday, May 4, 2012

Hey, blogspot readers, it's to rock! Now that winter is finally over, bands near and far will be dusting off their traveling wheels to hit a venue (or two) near you. SouthSide has the scoop of when and where some of her friends are touring and/or rockin' a music fest.

SouthSide's good friend Papadosio is currently roaming the roam during the month of May as well as during the summer part of their Awake Inside tour part 2 (also see Rootwire info below). After rockin' Covington, KY last night, they are headed to Floyd, VA where they will be performing at Madison Theater tonight then it's off to Richmond where they will be celebrating Cinco de Mayo at The National. Other May dates include May 19 in High Bridge Hills, WI where they be performing at Trillium Connect Festival and May 31 in Ozark, AR at Wakarusa. For more tour dates and event ticket information, visit the band's Facebook site at http://www.facebook.com/papadosio.

Also roaming the roam this month, SouthSide's CA friend Warner Drive! Starting off in Atascadero, CA rockin' Camozzi’s, the guys are headed to Citrus Heights, CA where they will at Shakers Pub tonight and in Portland, OR at Tiger Bar tomorrow. Other dates and places include, May 6 in Seattle, WA at The Central, May 7 in Boise, ID at Liquid and May 9 in Ogden, UT at The Basement. Chicago fans can catch Warner Drive rockin' the Elbo Room on Mother Day's night (May 13th) at Elbo Room. LA fans should attend their welcome home show scheduled for June 1 at The Roxy Theater. For more information about their schedule, visit the band's Facebook site at http://www.facebook.com/warnerdriveofficial.

Local friend Voice of Addiction are hitting the road too rockin' the east coast, blogspot readers. They will be in Detriot (tonight) and Howell (tomorrow), MI performing an ALL-AGES show at both places as well as performing a few FREE shows in Ohio ...even a FREE show in New York City before returning to Chicago for their Wrecking Ball Fest NATO Smash-up show. For more tour, venue, and ticket information, visit the band's site at http://www.VoiceOfAddiction.com.

Steven Mullan is rockin' the road with FREE shows starting tomorrow night in Plymouth, MI at Plymouth Coffee Bean (all-ages show) with a full band featuring SugarSpell and Angela Puzzuoli performing too. Other dates and places include May 12 at Claddagh Irish Pub in Toledo, OH (all-ages show) and May 18 at AJ's Doolittles in Lambertville, MI (all-ages show). Visit his site, http://www.stevenmullan.com/shows for more information and tour dates.

Rockin' The Abbey Pub (located on Grace and Elston), is the Stranger Danger Music Fest 2012 on June 23 and 24. TWO solid days of music and passes ($30) are on sale until May 7! Then, on May 8th - single day tix ($25) will go on sale. The lineup will feature friend Strange Arrangement doing 2 sets on opening night along with other friends Ultraviolet Hippopotamus, Old Shoe, Fresh Hops, Spare Parts, Mos Scoscious as well as DrFameus (Allen of Disco Biscuits), My Boy Elroy (of Digital Tape Machine), Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey's, Sexfist and many more. Day two will feature friends Fifth World and Shapes & Colors along with Bonzo Terks, Wook, Freek Johnson, Young General and more. For more information, visit http://www.strangement.com.

Hey, check out this fest happening on the weekend of August 16 - 19, 2012 in Logan, OH - Rootwire Festival. What is Rootwire? It's simply an environment designed from the ground up designed to inspire and enlighten but created entirely by those in attendance. It is an attempt to re-instill the values of the original psychedelic movement as well as to transform society. Also, to banish the pitfalls of today's modern music festivals which are funded by corporations solely for profit. Besides featuring live music on three (3) stages, Rootwire 2k12 will also feature Visual, and Performance Art of the Nations Greatest Visionary Masters. Plus - Massive Circus Tent, Visionary Art Gallery, Art installations, Guided Meditations, Yoga, and Ceremonies, Forums and Live Speakers, Film viewings, Woodland Lighting, Wooded camping, Workshops and Lessons, and much much more. And so far, the organizers have released the lineup for round which will feature SouthSide's good friend Papadosio performing 3 hot sets, blogspot readers. The other acts in the lineup look solid too - Ott, Random Rab, Dopapod, Phutureprimitive, Rising Appalachia, Chris Dyer, Govinda, Bird of Prey, Geoglyphiks, pH Factor ...just to give you a sample who will be there. To learn more about the lineup thus far and ticket information, check out http://www.rootwirefestival.com.

And lastly, SouthSide highly recommends blogspot readers reserving the last Saturday in August - August 25 for I AM Fest. This local one-day fest (now in it's 4 year) will be held at Chicago's legendary House of Blues. More information about the lineup and more will posted here as it comes to SouthSide's desk.

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Hey, blogspot readers, it's a rockin' Friday night to close out SouthSide's April calendar. Tonight, she's at the hip Northcenter area checking out the action and music inside Martyrs' where friend Derek Nelson and The Musicians were performing.

And what a rockin' hoedown-like performance did this Americana/folk rock band did in front of a near sell-out crowd. Derek Nelson and his band gave their fans (as well as new fans) something to get happy throughout the the set featuring hot electric violin rhtyhms and guitar riffs (including a lap steel guitar), eclectic upbeat tempos and a dynamic vocal combination that melted the mic. After opening with American, this local group of musicians began the task of keeping everyone within that groovy music feeling under such lively rhythms and beats to get your body swaying to the Americana/folk sound. There was no avoiding it either, blogspot readers. The energy felt (especially during songs This Time) kept many enjoying the uplifting vibe yet while performing Storm, SouthSide literally felt the sensation of a coming thunderstorm from the way the music and sound personified it. She could feel the static electricity heating up as the music crescendo to the point when it suddenly (and unexpectedly) meshes and clashes together like a hard summer rainstorm ...complete with tornado winds and more.

During another particular song, the crowd was rocked to the organic vibe of country/folk featuring a mandolin inside the fun tempo to which Derek Nelson and the band began a mini jamboree on stage. SouthSide highly suggests checking out the soulful yet gospel-like vibe of Darlin that truly had folks around this reviewer dancing up a storm. To her it was the highlight of their performance due to the band's ability to pop out of their "normal" mold exciting the crowd with vibrant energy musicially and vocally with a fiery spirit to bring the lyrics to life. Still there were a couple of moments within Derek's show where you could see as well as hear the heartfelt emotions pouring from the lyrics, blogspot readers. In one particular song Sayanora, the vocals within this ballad tone allowed Derek and his dynamic falsetto shine amidst a slight upbeat tempo but it was during Jesus when he really showed off his vocal style. Though a little darker than the others, one could hear the emotional heartache and angst vividly expressed in his voice while sensing the tenderest of all his feelings. SouthSide enjoyed how his female vocalist counterpart besides matching his vocal style also complimented his dynamic energy and soulful sound as heard in songs Come and Wait and closing song Ghosts (where Derek and the band rocked out Martyrs').

If you missed this hot performance, not to worry, blogspot readers. Derek Nelson and The Musicians will be rocking the stage again at The Hideout on May 11 for Machinegun Mojo's farewell show. For more information, visit http://www.dereknelsonmusic.com.

Tuesday, May 1, 2012

Hey, blogspot readers, May promises to be one rockin' month of fun and excitement as the summer fest and events season gradually approaches around town as well as in other places. SouthSide highly suggests checking out this month-long happenings. Please note most shows/events are 21+ unless noted.

May 2 @ The Southern - MS Walk Foundation event
Come out and support the "Lean On Me" team at this charity event as they prepare to walk at this year's MS Walk on Sunday, May 6. Enjoy 20% off drinks all night and try the complimentary appetitizers from 7 to 8p
$5 suggested donation - all proceeds goes to "Lean On Me" MS Walk fundraising goal

@ Bobby McGee's (located in Chicago Ridge, IL)
Cheer on SouthSide's friend Bambi Raptor as they chomp on the competition in the Road to Inkfest finals.
Good luck, Roger and the guys!

May 3 @ Beat Kitchen
Friend Bad Bad Meow will be clawing and rockin' the stage along with Harrow, Cousin Dud and Joe Messing & The Wisemen (headlining)
$8

May 4 @ The End (located in Nashville, TN)
Friend The Great Barrier Reefs will be rockin' the stage featuring other performances by Deep Machine and Fat Box

@ The Hideout
Friend That Damn Choir will be having their record release show featuring other friend, Paper Thick Walls opening

@ Martyrs'
Friend Bassel & The Supernaturals along with 56 Hope Road will be rockin' the stage there

@ Camp Fire Lake (located in Charleston, IL)
It's the Gathering of the Tribes - Music & Arts Fest! This two-day fest (during EIU graduation activities) will feature bands like friend Digeometric, Indigo Son and Spread (on May 4) and Smash, J Boozer and Pleasant Drive (on May 5) ...and many more acts.

May 5 @ Daley Plaza
Besides it being Cinco de Mayo, join General Patton and many others marching around noon - carrying signs, making noise and more during this peaceful march on World Marjuana Day. There will be performances by Jah Illumanti, Congo, THC (Taking Hits Constantly) as well as the General himself plus speakers.

May 6 @ River Rock House (located in St. Charles, IL)
Fundraising concert event for Autism presented by Team Awesometism. This family-friendly day-long concert will feature local bands like Lincoln Don't Lie, Spyderbone, Rock Boxx, Yourz Truly, Betty Might Band and more. All proceeds of this event will support the team in their Walk for Autism Speaks goal!
$10 suggested donation / $5 for raffle tix

May 7 @ Double Door
It's the Music Conference Networking Reception presented by Double Door and Yellow Phone Music ...hosted by David Silbough, Phil Kosch, Scott Zid, Nate Arling and Doug Johnson. Come out and network with other artists/musicians as well as those in the (music) business at this special FREE event. Music performances by Mars Argo, Aly Jados, Garrett Burns with a DJ set by Lewis & Clark

May 8 @ THE NYU SKIRBALL CENTER
It's the last Intelligence Squared Debate of the season - BAN COLLEGE FOOTBALL. This should be a VERY hot topic, blogspot readers, which will feature MALCOLM GLADWELL (The New Yorker Staff Writer), TIM GREEN (Former NFL Defensive End and Football Broadcaster), BUZZ BISSINGER (Pulitzer Prize-Winning Journalist &
Author, Friday Night Lights) and JASON WHITLOCK (FOXSports.com National Columnist) taking sides for and against the motion while exploring the following issues - Are football programs’ millions in profits exploitation? Or are they still a celebration of amateur sport? Does football’s inherent danger and violence have any place in institutions of higher learning? Or does it provide young men with educational opportunities they would not otherwise have? Pick a side and join in the debate!

May 10 @ WZRD Chicago (88.3 FM)
Check out the one and only America's Got Talent contestant and world famous throat wabbler (and SouthSide's friend) Sid Yiddish on Thursday Night Live at 9:30p

@ Cubby Bear
Hey, funkateers, join others living in One Nation Under A Groove while rockin' to Flashlight and We Got The Funk with George Clinton and Parliament Funkadelic. Should be ONE hot funky time!

@ The Varsity Theater (located in Baton Rouge, LA)
Rock out at Meriwether's "Save Our Souls" EP release show featuring Side A's The Flame release along with the American Tragedy, The Hitchhiker and Jason Martin
$10 adv / $12 dos

@ Tilted Kilt Elgin and The Highlands Music Lounge
Check out friends Paragon and Persistence of Memory rockin' the stage with Dropped Once

@Tiger O'Stylies (located in Berwyn)
Friends Skinwalker and Spyderbone rocks the stage along with Ormaco and Wake Up Call

@ The Hideout
It's sad to say "good bye" to a dear friend but after nearly 4 years, blogspot readers, Machinegun Mojo is temporarily suspending the mojo to take an indefinite hiatus from the music scene. Helping them with the happy send off party is friend Derek Nelson & The Musicians and Saint Anyway.

May 12 @ Replica Chicago
Attend the MEGA grand opening of Replica Chicago's actual storefront location at 4425 N. Milwaukee in Chicago and check out the shirts, hoodies, buttons and more in stock!
Support local art and artists!

@ The Observatory (located 3036 N. Lincoln on the 4th flr)
It's Spy's Speakeasy at the most secretive bar no one knows about (until now) featuring some of Chicago's finest up and coming musical acts.

@ Lily's
Friend Nate Z will be performing solo on electric guitar which will include songs off his upcoming album including Lake To The Moon (SouthSide highly recommends checking out the You Tube video which features this reviewer in it)

May 13 @ The Exit
Celebrate Mother's Day night with Mom at this legendary biker/punk/metal bar with Taran and Hugo of Skinwalker now that they have a DJ gig! Who knows what they will spin on that night.

@ Elbo Room
Patti Rain will be rockin the stage on the eve of Chicago's hosting the NATO Summit Conference

May 19 @ Record Breakers (upstairs at Reggie's)
The Aggrolites will be performing a special FREE kids show which will feature their Yo Gabba Gabba song - Banana (as well as a few others). FREE refreshments of hot dogs and soda will be served.

May 29 @ Double Door
Check out this $1 show featuring friend Chaperone, Torch Singers, Elusive Parallelograms and Rabbit Children

Also - snag a copy of Portland's (OR) Cafeteria Dance Fever's Danceology ...check out the song Swimming Pool

May 30 @ Double Door
Rock with the awesomest Hippo of the music scene - that would be Ultra Violet Hippopotamus, blogspot readers, featuring The Blackbox Revelation and Fresh Hops in the lineup
$8 adv / $10 dos

May 31 @ 2nd Cousins Bar & Grill (located in Loves Park, IL)
Rock with friend Trip Effect at this early (5:30p) show

Hey, blogspot readers and band/artists/musicians, this information was given to SouthSide if you're wondering about the booking policies at Elbo Room.

Read very carefully...and have a good show!

Booking at Elbo Room…

[COCKTAIL LOUNGE BOOKING]
If you are an ACOUSTIC SOLO ACT, ACOUSTIC DUO, ACOUSTIC BAND with no
drumset (aux percussion is fine)… please contact KAYLA as she
handles all the bookings for this genre and our cocktail lounge. You
get 100% of what you draw at the door with no production taken out:
KAYLA@elboroomLIVE.com

[LOCAL MUSIC SHOWCASE BOOKING]
NEW ACTS/BANDS are asked to come to the IN-HOUSE AUDITION NIGHT @
ELBO ROOM every Wednesday. ALL GENRES ARE WELCOMED! SOLO ACTS TO FULL
BANDS, SINGER SONGWRITER TO REGGAE TO HIP HOP TO BLUES TO ROCK and
more. We just ask that your material is ORIGINAL! We supply a full
backline, stage, lights, sound. You are asked to play 3 songs for a
FREE SHOW/NO COVER. If you are able to bring 20 people to see you, we
will give you an opening slot on a weekend. If you bring 30 or more
people, you will get your own weekend showcase. For more information
or to sign up for a DATE, please contact Matthew Alfano:
Aflano@elboroomlive.com

[I AM FEST BOOKING]
If you are interested in playing the festival that ELBO ROOM
produces: I AM FEST (www.IAMFEST.com [4]). This will be SAT AUG 25TH
AT HOUSE OF BLUES IN CHICAGO, please e-mail both Steph and Kayla for
more information: STEPH@elboroomLIVE.com [5] | ayla@elboroomlive.com

[MAIN ROOM BOOKING]
VIA BRIAN@ELBOROOMLIVE.COM | Here is the new format we are
doing for the main room:

SUNDAYS MAIN ROOM: ORIGINAL [NO HIP HOP/R&B/METAL]

MONDAYS MAIN ROOM: CLOSED | ROOM RENTAL $600

TUESDAYS MAIN ROOM: CLOSED | ROOM RENTAL $600

WEDNESDAYS MAIN ROOM: LOCAL MUSIC SHOWCASE | ALFANO@ELBOROOMLIVE.COM

THURSDAYS MAIN ROOM: [NO HIP HOP/R">VENUE (DOWNSTAIRS LIVE ROOM)

We got some open dates (some being last minute cancellations) that we
are trying to fill up. Review the dates and let me know which ones
you would be interested in. First come first served so please give a
couple dates you are interested in to avoid going back and forth (2-5
choices would be great). If you know of any other bands or artists
that would be a good fit as well, please feel free to forward them
this e-mail:

Here are the open dates, slot position and expected draw we have
available at this time....

If you do not see a date listed above or looking for JULY and beyond,
we are not booking it at this time and you can check back in 2-3 weeks
to see if something opens up. If you have a Chicago 21+ draw of 50 or
more and have references from other clubs (ie: Phil @ Double Door,
Emily @ Hard Rock, Brendon @ Reggies, Matt @ Schubas/Lincoln Hall,
Bruce @ Empty Bottle, etc) please e-mail us the date you played there,
your draw and who you booked the show with. We will follow up with
them and work with you on a weekend showcase date.

*************************************

[IMPORTANT]
UNDER AGED BAND MEMBERS: This is a 21+ show and everybody must have a
VALID ID to gain entry. If a member of your band is under 21, ELBO
ROOM needs to know via E-MAIL to BRIAN BENDER | Brian@elboroomLIVE.com
[9] These band members must be PERFORMING ON
STAGE in order to be in the club. UNDER AGED BAND MEMBERS are not
allowed in the club before or after their set with NO EXCEPTIONS. It
is important that when you book a show with an UNDER AGED BAND MEMBER
to notify BRIAN BENDER so you can play the beginning of the night. ALL
BAND MEMBERS will check in with the door guy before doors open and
UNDER AGED BAND MEMBERS will get marked and asked to leave the club
before their set. FANS, GROUPIES, MERCH CHICKS, CHILDREN, RECORDING /
VIDEO / PHOTOGRAPHY PEOPLE, ETC. cannot be in the club if they are
under the age of 21. NO EXCEPTIONS.

DRAW: Bands performing in the VENUE are asked to draw a minimum of 10
people to ensure production is covered and the band is able to make
money for their performance. It does no good for the club and no good
for the band if there is nobody in the venue. This is not a rehearsal
space; it is a live music venue. 1st time bands start on a weekday,
then move to a Thursday and then a weekend show based on their draw.
Artists performing in the COCKTAIL LOUNGE are asked to try their best
to draw. There is no production cost for this stage so the artist will
get 100% of what they pull at the door.

Followers

About Me

Who is SouthSide?
Well, she's Chicago's only partyin' local scene queen who covers (mostly) everything that's rockin' a venue, fest, art show and more for over a decade. And was at one time photographed as one of Chicago's Very Own (WGN-TV's ad campaign).
She enjoys hanging out with bands from around town as well as nationally and internationally ...plus has interviewed many famous rock icons like Don Brewer, Rudy Sarzo, V Is For Villains, Nate Z, Valerie Pettiford, Emilio Castillo and more.
She has met and reviewed bands like The Parlotones (from South Africa), Lenhen (from Austria), Chateau Marmont (from France), 30 Seconds to Mars, Tower of Power, Lucid Ground, Grand Funk Railroad, The Polkaholics and many, many more.
She hopes you enjoy reading about her adventures in this blog as much as she has experienced them.