Chi-Town Notes

January Album Of The Month

2012-02-01T10:49:00.000-06:00

In the future, we will try to trickle album reviews out slowly - but given the busy next few weeks and lack of time to post, we are going to deliver the best January had to offer in one big post. We will check back in with you at some point in February with album reviews (good lord, the new Andrew Bird is amazing!) and concerts worth checking out, but in the meantime we give you this list of

And..... We're back!

2012-01-27T08:31:00.000-06:00

Slowly, but surely, Chi-Town Notes is crawling back to life. No podcast (for now), but we'll be back to offering up great concert recommendations along with concert and album reviews shortly. Cheers!

Upcoming Shows - Week Ending May 16th

2010-05-10T16:50:00.008-05:00

Friday, May 14th - Subterranean - 9:30pm - $10Headliner: Hurricane BellsOpeners: King Sparrow, Verona RedAnother show that somehow nearly snuck by us, Hurricane Bells is the folk-rock side-project from Longwave frontman Steve Schiltz. Schiltz wrote, played, recorded, and mixed the album entirely himself with his MacBook and an Mbox. His original plan was to release the album himself, but when a

Frightened Rabbit and Maps & Atlases - May 8th 2010

2010-05-10T14:28:00.003-05:00

Chicago's Maps & Atlases used their opening set in front of Frightened Rabbit at Metro Saturday to win over the sold-out crowd, and succeeded in gaining a boatload of new fans before the June release of their debut album, Perch Patchwork. Though they are often described as 'math rock', the awkward label does not quite do them justice. Take the shifting world-music rhythms of Paul Simon, throw in

Canasta - May 8th 2010

2010-05-09T19:57:00.002-05:00

Chicago’s own, Canasta celebrated the release of their sophomore album, The Fakeout, The Tease And The Breather, with two shows at Schubas on Saturday night. With a horn section joining the sextet on stage for several of the songs, the last song of the set sums up the experience of the early show; the sexy, soulful groove of “Reading The Map Upside Down”. At the end of the funk-laced number,

Single Of The Week - Maps & Atlases "Solid Ground"

2010-05-07T06:27:00.003-05:00

Check out this reason not to be late for Frightened Rabbits’ tour. This new indie pop quartet is the latest find from Barsuk Records. Look for their upcoming debut, Perch Patchwork, out June 29th.You can get the single of the week by subscribing to the podcast on iTunes or Zune, or using the feed in any podcast provider.

Kings Of Leon Announce Opening Bands For Summer

2010-05-05T12:35:00.004-05:00

Nashville-based Kings Of Leon have announced the opening lineup for their summer trek through the US. While Built To Spill and The Stills are nice for Chicago on July 24th, it is hard not to look a little further down the list and be mouth-foamingly jealous of the cities that get The Black Keys and The Whigs as opening acts. w/ The Whigs6/5 Atlantic City, NJ Borgata Event Center 6/6 Saratoga,

Phantogram Extends Tour

2010-05-05T12:24:00.003-05:00

NY electro-pop duo, Phantogram continues to ride a well-deserved wave of success, adding a handful of west coast tour dates with, UK buzz-band, The XX to their list of things to do. The June dates come after the end of their run opening for The Antlers and a stretch of May headlining dates stretching from Oregon to New York. Keep an eye on the site for any Chicago dates, but in the meantime,

Menomena And Lil Wayne Meet In Ramona Falls' "Russia"

2010-05-05T12:01:00.004-05:00

We have been fans of, Brent Knopf's (Menomena) dreamy side project, Ramona Falls since last year's gorgeous debut first graced our ears. Seeing them last summer in Chicago almost led us to wish for a new Ramona Falls before a new Menomena. While there are a handful of new west coast tour dates announced for the band (below), we figured we had heard the last of the project until possibly next year

Watch Owl City Live Sunday, May 9th

2010-05-05T11:51:00.002-05:00

With it growing ever more difficult to get tickets to see, indie pop sensation, Owl City, the Adam Young-led band is letting you catch the experience from the comfort of your computer this weekend. The band's sold-out show this Sunday at London's O2 Shepherd's Bush Empire is being broadcast around the world through a live stream on OwlCityMusic.com and Facebook.com/OwlCity. The band is even

Kate Nash - May 3, 2010

2010-05-04T12:38:00.002-05:00

UK-based singer-songwriter, Kate Nash might be lacking a bit of confidence on her recently released sophomore album, My Best Friend Is You, but she had no such issues on stage at Lincoln Hall on Monday night. Joined on stage by a four piece band to flush out the sounds, she jumped right in to the new material with the soaring "Paris" and commanding the crowd to dance before launching into, lead

Upcoming Shows - Week ending May 9th

2010-05-03T13:33:00.006-05:00

Monday, May 3rd - Lincoln Hall – 7pm – SOLD OUTHeadliner: Kate NashOpener: SupercuteUK-based singer-songwriter is touring in support of her recently released sophomore album, My Best Friend Is You. While it is not as instantly striking as her debut, there is plenty here to warrant the sold out crowd and keep her near the top of the list of UK pop stars worth your attention. Thursday, May 6th –

Podcast 14 - Play It, Don't Spray It

2010-05-02T23:09:00.002-05:00

After a week away, the guys discuss upcoming shows from Canasta, Kate Nash, Frightened Rabbit, and review recent shows from Phantogram and The Whigs.You can get to the podcast by subscribing to it through iTunes or Zune, or using the feed in any other podcast provider. Or, you can simply listen with the widget on the right of the page.

Single Of The Week - Charlie Faye and Calexico "Broken Heart Maker"

2010-04-29T20:25:00.002-05:00

Our second single of the week this week is from, Austin-based singer-songwriter, Charlie Faye. Faye is currently touring around the country as part of her 'Travels With Charley' experiment, taking up residency in a different city for a month at a time. This track, with Calexico, is from her time spent in Tucson earlier this year. If the rest sound this good, the end result should be

Indie Music Watch

2010-04-29T12:38:00.003-05:00

Want to know what we think of the latest from John Butler Trio, Kate Nash, The Mynabird, fun., The Bird & The Bee, and Cloud Cult? Well then click here.Spoiler alert - we like them.

Ours' Jimmy Gnecco To Release Solo Debut, Tour Dates

2010-04-29T12:20:00.003-05:00

Ours frontman, Jimmy Gnecco is set to release his solo debut, The Heart, on July 20th on Bright Antenna Records. Gnecco is prepping for the release with a string of May and June tour dates with California singer-songwriter Greg Laswell. You can get a listen yourself at Empty Bottle on May 15th.The Heart Track List:Rest Your SoulLight on the GraveMysteryThe HeartBring You HomeThese Are My

Brandi Carlile Announces Summer Tour - No Chicago Dates

2010-04-29T11:48:00.003-05:00

One of the most amazing voices in music, Brandi Carlile has announced her summer tour dates in support of last fall's Give Up The Ghost. Sadly, there is no Chicago to be found, but there are two tempting Indianapolis dates listed below. We thought about skipping this story, but then we would not have the chance to whine about how much it sucks. June 3 Atlantic City, NJ House of BluesJune 4

The Mynabirds Hit The Road

2010-04-29T11:32:00.004-05:00

Former Georgie James member, Laura Burhenn's new project, The Mynabirds is set to take their dusty country-fried soul on the road this summer. The new album, What We Lose In The Fire We Gain In The Flood, just hit store shelves this week (and should already be in heavy rotation on your iPod), sounding like the best classic pop album you never heard. Luckily, they will be here in Chicago for the

The Whigs - April 23, 2010

2010-04-27T20:38:00.005-05:00

The Whigs dipped into local waters for opening acts. Old Fake took the stage first, with a hard-charging sound that perfectly balanced punk and blues that made them an ideal opener for the Athens trio. The trio's sound had a lot in common with The Whigs, if you stripped away the southern influences. Keep an eye for them on upcoming shows in the area, and get there early because they are

Single Of The Week - Pearly Gate Music "Big Escape"

2010-04-27T13:37:00.005-05:00

Since the flu seems have derailed the podcast for this week, we will probably double-up on Single Of The Week this week instead - and return with Podcast 14 next Monday. First up is a ragged, lo-fi folk toe-tapper from Pearly Gate Music. Their self-titled debut, full of carefully constructed gems that seem to fall in line with the recent resurgence in timeless pop, releases May 18th on Barsuk

Portugal. The Man Announce West Coast Dates, About To Record

2010-04-27T13:04:00.003-05:00

Alaska's Portugal. The Man has announced a handful of June tour dates with two Portland Bands, The Builders & The Butchers and Morning Teleportation, to lend support. Though there is nothing on the surface here for Chicago fans, they brought Port O'Brien and up-and-coming The Dig last time through, so their ability to pick solid openers should at least send you seeking music from the bands. More

Findlay Brown Tours With Shelby Lynne, Adds Solo Dates

2010-04-27T12:42:00.004-05:00

UK soul singer, Findlay Brown has kicked off his Spring tour dates in support of Shelby Lynne. On the heels of his recently released Love Will Find You, sounding as if pulled out of a time capsule from the late sixties, Brown has announced a couple of solo dates at the end of the tour. If he wants to tour here beyond that, we think The Mynabirds would be an excellent fit for tourmates. Those

Phantogram - April 22, 2010

2010-04-23T15:23:00.002-05:00

here is a reason we like to see a band twice before we like to crown them must-see. In the case of, electro-pop duo, Phantogram, seeing them a second time is essential to find out just how fresh the experience is each time out. With a video-screen display to give the set a more dynamic visual appearance, and a duo made up of a dj and a guitarist, you wonder just how unique the set can really be

Single Of The Week - The Mynabirds "Numbers Don't Lie"

2010-04-21T15:15:00.001-05:00

Full of smoky, jazz-laced pop that sounds as if just unearthed from a fifty year-old time capsule, The Mynabirds' debut, What We Lose In The Fire We Gain In The Flood, is one of the best debut albums we have come across this year. Full of sultry, cooing vocals and classic soul-dripping pop songs, it is the kind of album you just leave on from start to finish and back again. Enjoy this early

We Are Wolves At Subterranean Thursday, April 22nd

2010-04-21T13:17:00.003-05:00

Like Antti Niemi, sometimes we let a quality chance slip by us. In all the Blackhawk playoff and Chicago baseball excitement, we failed to notice that, Montreal-based electro-punk trio, We Are Wolves are headlining at Subterranean tomorrow night. Their unique, heart-pounding rock is definitely worthy of your attention, so we beg your forgiveness. For the record, we still think we are doing better

Canasta's Latest Streaming In Full

2010-04-21T12:42:00.005-05:00

Chicago's orchestral pop geniuses, Canasta are nearly ready to finally release their sophomore album, The Fakeout, The Tease And The Breather. The album, releasing May 18th, is the first on new label RWIM Chicago. To celebrate, the band has announced two album-release shows at Schubas on May 8th - where your $14 nets you entrance and a copy of the new album. The band also has the album streaming

Sia's New Album Out June 22

2010-04-21T12:28:00.003-05:00

Australian singer-songwriter extordinare, Sia is set to release her latest album, We Are Born, on June 22nd. The first single, "Clap Your Hands" is not even out for another month (May 25th), but you can get an early listen to six tracks off the new album at her site. There are a handful of US tour dates in the near future, including one in Chicago on Sunday night at The Vic. Track Listing1. The

Mates Of State Announce Crushes Tour

2010-04-21T11:54:00.006-05:00

On the heels of the album announcement, Mates Of State have announced The Summer Crushes Tour. In addition to their unique take on a covers album, the duo are bringing a refreshingly different set of opening acts on tour with them. The duo's own Jason Hammel will serve as the tour's resident DJ, and the openers will include party-rock band Free Energy and a couple of stand-up comedians. In

Stream Minus The Bear's New Album Now

2010-04-21T11:35:00.004-05:00

Those who cannot wait to hear Minus The Bear's Dangerbird Records debut, OMNI, can stream the album now at KCRW's site. Anyone holding off on the temptation can always head over to the band's site to pre-order the album (due out May 4th) and give a listen to "OMNI Says The Game". There are a boatload of tour dates for the band, but you will have to wait till Lollapalooza to catch them in

Rogue Wave - Saturday, April 17th

2010-04-20T15:40:00.001-05:00

Things have not been easy for Oakland's Rogue Wave over the last couple of years, but you would not have known it from their energetic performance at the first of two sold-out shows at, new Chicago hot-spot, Lincoln Hall. Zach Rogue may have spent a good portion of last year paralyzed and in pain from to slipped discs, but the brighter outlook found on the latest album came through just as well

Upcoming Shows - Week ending April 25th

2010-04-20T12:53:00.010-05:00

Thursday, April 22nd - Lincoln Hall - 9pm - $13Headliner: The AntlersOpener: PhantogramWe begged you to catch, electro-pop duo, Phantogram when they played Schubas a few months ago, warning you that it would be a rare chance to catch the rising stars at a smallish venue. Now they are at the larger Lincoln Hall opening for, fellow buzz-band, The Antlers. It will not be long before venues this

Podcast 13 - Is This Thing On?

2010-04-19T07:37:00.003-05:00

This week, we discuss the recent Rogue Wave show at Lincoln Hall, drool over upcoming albums from AM Taxi, The Mynabirds, and The Dig. We also recommend a handful of great upcoming shows - including The Whigs this You can get the podcast by subscribing by iTunes or Zune, or by using the podcast feed in any podcast provider, or just listen to it using the streaming widget on the right side of the

Upcoming Shows - Week ending April 18th

2010-04-13T11:39:00.004-05:00

Thursday, April 15th – Lincoln Hall – 9pm - $14Headliner: Cloud CultOpener: Roma di LunaWe have ourselves an early copy of Cloud Cult's upcoming EP, Running With The Wolves. Every so often you run across a show you know you will regret missing for years to come. This is that kind of show. The EP is comprised of only one track from their upcoming new album, but just that little taste is so

Podcast 12 - Gutter

2010-04-12T06:19:00.003-05:00

This week the guys examine the Lollapalooza lineup, review As Tall As Lions w/ Bad Veins and Kinch. They also recommend some excellent upcoming shows, including Adam Green, Rogue Wave, and Bad Lieutenant just this week. You can grab our podcast by subscribing in iTunes or Zune, or using our feed in any podcast provider.

Menomena Plant 'Mines' July 27th

2010-04-09T12:41:00.003-05:00

Site favorite, Barsuk Records announced a July 27th release date for Menomena's latest album, Mines. The album follows 2007's excellent Friend And Foe from the band, and a 2008 release from, bassist, Danny Seim's side project Lackthereof and last year's gem from, guitarist, Brent Knopf-led Ramona Falls. Without a track listing, all we really know is that it will be equal parts strange and awesome

Mates Of State To Reveal Their 'Crushes' This Summer

2010-04-09T12:24:00.003-05:00

Husband and wife electronic duo, Mates Of State have announced plans to release Crushes this summer. The album marks the first time the pair has recorded and produced an album themselves. Though the album is a covers album, the band's intention was to "play that song as if we had written it". We would expect nothing less from the inventive, unique duo, who put together a refreshingly varied list

6th Shred For Your Life Set To Melt Faces On April 17th

2010-04-09T12:02:00.003-05:00

The sixth-annual Shred For Your Life guitar competition is set to take place at Webster Hall on Saturday, April 17th. Webster Hall marks the biggest venue for the competition, which has steadily increased its size each year. The competition pits guitarists, ranging in age from 13 - 54, against each other in the hopes of impressing the judges for a trophy including a three-foot guitar pick by

Single Of The Week - The Morning Pages "Telephone"

2010-04-08T08:08:00.002-05:00

Brooklyn might not scream 'roots-rock', but then again, Lady GaGa's dace-pop hit "Telephone" doesn't exactly seem ripe for a country-fried retelling. Yet, that is exactly what this up-and-coming band does with it, and damn if it is not infectious. Keep an eye out for their debut, Rising Rain, in May.You can get the single of the week by subscribing to our podcast, either in iTunes, Zune, or in

As Tall As Lions and Bad Veins - February 6, 2010

2010-04-07T13:28:00.003-05:00

It is becoming too rare a feat to find tours with openers and are worthy of your attention. The one-two punch of this spring's As Tall As Lions tour is such a line-up.Cincinnati's Bad Veins warmed the crowd with a powerhouse half-hour set. The two-man-and-a-reel-to-reel band kicked off their set with the sparse rat-a-tat beat marching in the hazy, horn-laced "Found". The reel-to-reel,

Lollapalooza Announces Lineup

2010-04-06T11:39:00.005-05:00

Vana White has turned over all the letter tiles over at Lollapalooza's site, revealing the full list of bands for this year's festival. The weekend-long event, August 6th - 8th, will again be held in Grant Park, and features a fantastic, diverse line-up that offers something for everyone.Head over to the official site for the full list, but the headliners are Soundgarden, Green Day, Lady GaGa,

Upcoming Shows - Week ending April 11th

2010-04-05T12:25:00.011-05:00

Baseball is here, and so is the spring surge of concerts! It is a very busy week!Monday, April 5th - Schubas – 8pm - FREEHeadliner: KerrettaOpeners: An Aesthetic Anesthetic, Shooter Grey Suede, The Young Jesus BandThings do not get much better than a free show, with a new up-and-coming import band headlining. Add three local bands to a line-up top-lined by, sensational New Zealand instrumental

Podcast 11 - North Side vs. South Side

2010-04-04T19:06:00.003-05:00

This week, the guys discuss The Gaslight Anthem's upcoming album, talk about Them Crooked Vultures coming to town, and recommend shows like Kerretta, As Tall As Lions and Bad Veins, Motion City Soundtrack, and an opening suburban show for, killer indie pop band, Kinch. You can subscribe to the podcast on iTunes or Zune, or by using our feed in any podcast provider.

Band Of Horses List 'Infinite Arms'

2010-04-02T13:10:00.003-05:00

Alt-country rockers, Band Of Horses has revealed the tracklisting for their upcoming third album, Infinite Arms. The album is out May 18th on Brown/Fat Possum/Columbia Records, but you can get an early listen at the band's site by watching the video for "Compliments".1) Factory2) Compliments3) Laredo4) Blue Beard5) On My Way Back Home6) Infinite Arms7) Dilly8) Evening Kitchen9) Older10) For

The Black Keys Announce Tour Dates

2010-04-02T12:29:00.002-05:00

Ohio's The Black Keys are gearing up for a spring/summer tour in support of the May 18th release of Brothers. Every ticket you purchase on the band's site includes a copy of the album, and gives you early access to download two new songs, "Next Girl" and the Danger Mouse produced "Tighten Up". There are no Chicago dates yet, which could indicate a Lollapalooza appearance in August - check the

Tokyo Police Club Set Release Date For 'Champ'

2010-04-02T12:15:00.003-05:00

Ontario's punk heroes, Tokyo Police Club are set to release their sophomore album, Champ, on June 8th. Those looking for an early listen should head over to the band's site to check out "Breakneck Speed" - which confirms the growing list of excellent music coming out this June. The band has a handful of tour dates confirmed, but sadly nothing for Chicago yet. We will certainly let you know if

Ray LaMontagne & David Gray Announce Co-Headlining Tour

2010-04-02T12:01:00.004-05:00

Two of the biggest singer-songwriters going have teamed up for a huge summer tour, where they will share the stage as co-headliners. The pair will hit, massive downtown venue, Millenium Park on August 25th . Gray is touring behind last year's Draw The Line, which has both "Fugitive" and "Stella The Artist" getting airplay on XRT. LaMongtagne, who is currently working on his fourth album to be

AM To Tour With Charlotte Gainsbourg

2010-04-02T11:39:00.003-05:00

LA-based AM will lend support for Charlotte Gainsbourg's first North American tour this spring, supporting her Beck-produced third album, IRM. Fans would be wise to get to shows early to catch AM's brand of psychedelic-tinged indie-pop displayed so wonderfully on his latest, Future Sons & Daughters. You can get your ears on his soulful grooves on April 21st at Park West. April11- Vancouver, B.C.

Indie Music Watch

2010-04-01T12:54:00.004-05:00

If you have ever wondered why we do not really review albums here, it is because we're dedicated to uncovering great LIVE music... and because we review the albums elsewhere. If you want to know what we think of the latest from Alkaline Trio, Portugal. The Man, Rogue Wave, The Right Now, One eskim0, or We Were Promised Jetpacks, you can see it here...

Lollapalooza Gets Wordy

2010-04-01T12:31:00.003-05:00

This year, Lollapalooza organizers are having a bit of fun revealing the full artist line-up. Rather than the typical big announcement on April 6th, which will come, they are releasing the artist names one letter at a time - a la Wheel Of Fortune. Get in on the madness here, and you might want to grab those tickets soon; since the 3-day $190 discount tickets are only available while they last.

Phantogram Adds Tour Dates

2010-04-01T12:09:00.004-05:00

NY electro-pop duo, Phantogram is set to return to Chicago as they lend support to, fellow buzz-worthy New Yorkers', The Antlers. We warned you back in February that the Josh Carter and Sarah Barthel project was not long for the smaller stages of places like Schubas, so jump on this opportunity to see them at Lincoln Hall while it lasts. You have been warned - be at Lincoln Hall early for

Single Of The Week - Kerretta "Sleepers"

2010-04-01T09:34:00.003-05:00

This week, we bring you a little New Zealand instrumental hard rock action from newcomers Kerretta. The trio's debut album, Vilayer, is out now, and you can check them out free on Monday (4/5) at Double Door for the low, low price of FREE. One listen to this chugging, metal-kissed bit of goodness and you will be hard-pressed to not show up Monday night. And, yes, the rest of their debut is really

Broken Bells Announce Tour Dates

2010-03-31T13:14:00.004-05:00

The latest collaboration for producer extraordinaire Danger Mouse, Broken Bells will take their show on the road this spring. The James Mercer and Brian Burton (aka Danger Mouse) duo are coming off a top-ten debut for their self-titled first album, which has been getting rave reviews across the board. You will get your chance to catch the two on May 31st at The Vic. Be sure to get there early,

Podcast 10 - Bless This Mess

2010-03-29T23:03:00.004-05:00

This week, the guys gush over the recent sets from Manchester Orchestra and The Features at Metro, and give recommend a ton of upcoming shows to hit - including Passion Pit, David Bazan, Kerretta, Bad Veins, and As Tall As Lions.

Upcoming Shows - Week ending April 4th

2010-03-29T13:39:00.007-05:00

This week, there are just two shows worth hitting. Given all we have coming up to recommend, you should appreciate the lull – but do not miss these two!Friday, April 2nd - Congress Theater - 8pm - SOLD OUTHeadliner: Passion PitOpeners: Mayer Hawthorne & The Country, Bear HandsThe dance-happy, exuberant sounds of indie pop darlings Passion Pit lands in Chicago this Friday. The rapid rise from

Single Of The Week - Rene Lopez "Wednesday"

2010-03-25T12:49:00.002-05:00

You can get your hands on the sunny pop treat that is Rene Lopez's People Are Just People in full on May 4th. Until then, we recommend getting an earful of the lovestruck "Wednesday" as our Single Of The Week. If you enjoyed our The Right Now recommendation (and why wouldn't you?), this is right up your alley. You can get the song by subscribing to our feed on iTunes or by copying and pasting the

AM Taxi Release New Single

2010-03-25T12:14:00.003-05:00

If you have been paying attention to the site the last few months, you already know how excited we are for the June release of AM Taxi's debut album, We Don't Stand A Chance. We used lead single, "The Mistake", as last week's single of the week, and this week we are directing you to head over to iTunes to pick up the newly released, piano-laced anthem "Fed Up". If you're the skeptical sort, you

Them Crooked Vultures Land In Chicago May 18th

2010-03-25T11:55:00.004-05:00

Renowned supergroup, Them Crooked Vultures announced a few additional tour dates today, with Chicago getting in on the Josh Homme/Dave Grohl/John Paul Jones action on May 18th at The Aragon Ballroom. The band will also honor Record Store Day by releasing the 10" single of "Mind Eraser, No Chaser" and the previously unreleased "Hwy 1" on one side, and an interview called "Vulture Speak" on the

Manchester Orchestra and The Features - March 23, 2010

2010-03-24T12:40:00.005-05:00

It takes one hell of a confident, or just brave, band to have the likes of The Features open for you. The Tennessee quartet has the kind of raucous, fiery sound that fits in perfectly with Manchester Orchestra's passionate brand of anthemic rock. The band opened the set just like their brilliant sophomore album, with the brief organ-grinder oddity "Whatever Gets You By" before erupting into the

The Gaslight Anthem Reveal Artwork, First Single

2010-03-23T13:59:00.003-05:00

The Gaslight Anthem have revealed the above artwork for their third album, American Slang. The new album is set to release on June 15th, on Side One Dummy Records. The album is produced by Ted Hutt, who also handled production on the band's fantastic sophomore set, The 59 Sound. The label has released the tracklist below, but those a bit too anxious to wait can get an early listen to the first

Upcoming Shows - Week ending March 28th

2010-03-22T12:48:00.009-05:00

This week plays out as a nicely stretched out list of awesome, beginning with a FREE show tonight at Empty Bottle with, up-and-coming indie pop stars, Pet Lions!Monday, March 22nd – Empty Bottle – 9:30pm - FREEHeadliner: Pet LionsOpeners: This Is Versailles, Radar EyesPet Lions + Empty Bottle + free show = Awesomeness! We have been harping on how great Pet Lions are for a while now. Between

Podcast 9 Up!

2010-03-22T07:57:00.003-05:00

This week, we talk about Lilith and Lollapalooza festivals, and discuss the latest amazing show from Company Of Thieves. We also give our rundown of the next month's worth of shows to hit. You can get to the podcast either by subscribing on iTunes or using our feed. Enjoy!

Company Of Thieves - March 18, 2010

2010-03-19T13:16:00.005-05:00

Those long wait times between sets are always frustrating as a fan, especially when you can see the instruments all ready to go, like wrapped presents under the Christmas tree, with the band just waiting it out until the posted start time. It is refreshing to see a band so excited to jump on stage and play that they rip into the set list ten minutes early. Such was the case with Chicago's Company

Single Of The Week - AM Taxi - The Mistake

2010-03-18T06:26:00.004-05:00

This week, enjoy the debut single from AM Taxi's debut, We Don't Stand A Chance. One listen and you'll understand why we were so excited about them back when we saw them at Lincoln Hall in February. To get the song, subscribe to our podcast in iTunes, or using our podcast feed.

Lilith Fair Announces Chicago Line-up, Location

2010-03-17T12:36:00.003-05:00

This summer's re-vitalization of Sarah McLachlan's Lilith Fair will officially hit Chicago on Saturday, July 17th, at First Midwest Bank Ampitheatre. Similar to the set-up of the original festival, each of the dates will feature eleven artists. The only holdovers from each city will be the opening set from the local Our Stage winning artist and the closing set from, festival-founder, Sarah

St. Patrick's Day Playlist

2010-03-17T09:55:00.002-05:00

A quick and dirty list of ten tracks from some of our favorite Irish artists to put you in the mood for green beer. Bell X1 - How Your Heart Is WiredDamien Rice - Woman Like A Man Fionn Regan - Hunters MapThe Frames - Sad SongsGlen Hansard & Marketa Iglova - Falling SlowlyLa Rocca - Sketches (20 Something Life)Lisa Hannigan - I Don't Know Stand - Love Will Never Creep InU2 - New Year's DayVan

Upcoming Shows - Week ending March 21st

2010-03-15T08:29:00.007-05:00

Our recommendations are a bit all over the map this week, but sometimes a little variety is a good thing. We promise you cannot go wrong with any of these four shows. Monday, March 15th – Abbey Pub – 9pm - $10Headliner: StandIs there a better way to kick off St. Patrick's Day week than seeing a great Irish rock band at an Irish pub? These guys have somehow slipped by us until the recent

Podcast 8 - ShiteTown Notes

2010-03-15T06:34:00.004-05:00

This week the guys talk about this summer’s Ravinia lineup, including Cat Empire, discuss the sudden surge in Dangerbird bands, and examine Amanda Palmer’s Evelyn Evelyn. They also review last week’s great We Were Promised Jetpacks show, with The Lonely Forest and Bear Hands. Powered by Podbean.com

We Were Promised Jetpacks - March 11, 2010

2010-03-12T13:45:00.003-06:00

Shows like Thursday's We Were Promised Jetpacks appearance at Lincoln Hall are why we do what we do here, and was another in a great streak of reasons we always recommend showing up to shows early. Brooklyn's Bear Hands opened the night with a solid set of indie rock that reminded us a bit of a psychedelic-tinged Vampire Weekend at parts. The passionate, aching vocals and heavy, distinct

Cloud Cult Ready New Album, Play A Few Shows

2010-03-12T12:09:00.004-06:00

With a new album on the horizon, Cloud Cult is playing a few shows near their new hometown of Madison, Wisconsin. Luckily for us, that means a Chicago date at (cool-show hoggers) Lincoln Hall. Head out to the April 15th date for a chance to hear some of the new material, and possibly even win a painting at the after-show auction. The band travels with two artists, who are on-stage during the

Owl City Flies In For New Headlining Tour

2010-03-12T11:57:00.003-06:00

For those who think MySpace is an irrelevant dinosaur at this point, we point you to the skyrocketing career of Owl City. The whirlwind jump from basement recordings to battle insomnia to Myspace fame to multi platinum recording artist has been a fast one for synthpop singer-songwriter Adam Young. The former Coca-Cola worker has gone from sleepless nights to selling out tours at large venues,

Kate Nash Announces North American Tour Dates

2010-03-12T11:45:00.004-06:00

Poppy UK singer-songwriter, Kate Nash has released a handful of North American tour dates in support of her soon-to-be-released sophomore album, My Best Friend Is You, produced by, former Suede guitarist, Bernard Butler. You can get your hands on the album starting April 20th, then catch her live a little over a week later at Lincoln Hall on May 3rd.April 26 - Toronto, ONT - Mod TheatreApril 28 -

Single Of The Week - Phantogram "When I'm Small"

2010-03-11T07:30:00.003-06:00

If you subscribe to our podcast feed, you will get a little gift next time you open your podcast provider. This week's song is from electro-rock duo Phantogram, who we loved live a few weeks back. The track, "When I'm Small", is from their fantastic debut album, Eyelid Movies. If this grabs you, and we have a hard time imagining it won't, be sure to pick up the whole album. You will not be

Evelyn Evelyn Set To Release Debut, Tour The World

2010-03-10T12:15:00.005-06:00

'Discovered' by Amanda Palmer (The Dresden Dolls) and Jason Webley, Evelyn Evelyn are the world's first conjoined singer-songwriter duo. Produced, and, ok, performed, by Palmer and Webley, Evelyn Evelyn's debut album is a thing of wonder, imagination, and beauty in the vein of Tim Burton films. The album serves as a genre-jumping rock opera that you are unlikely to get out of your head for months

Upcoming Shows - Week Ending March 14th

2010-03-09T16:46:00.015-06:00

Got plans this weekend? You might want to rethink them… Thursday, March 11th – Lincoln Hall – 9pm - $12Headliner: We Were Promised JetpacksOpeners: The Lonely Forest, Bear HandThe latest Scotland sensation, We Were Promised Jetpacks returns to Chicago for a show at the wonderful Lincoln Hall. With a sound full of ragged, restless riffs and some amazingly gut-wrenching lyrics, they have a buzz

Miniature Tigers Ready New Album, Tour Dates

2010-03-08T12:52:00.005-06:00

There seems to be something in the desert air in Arizona the last several years that has led to a boatload of exciting indie rock bands, like Reuben's Accomplice, Kinch, and Dear & The Headlights. Miniature Tigers, another in the long string of great Arizona rockers, are set to release their sophomore set, Fortress, sometime this summer. In anticipation, the band is ready to jump on tour in

Minus The Bear Announce Omni Release Date

2010-03-08T12:45:00.003-06:00

Seattle indie quartet, Minus The Bear have announced a May 4th release date for their fourth album, titled Omni. It will mark the band's first on, indie darling, Dangerbird Records (Silversun Pickups, Sea Wolf). Tour dates, kicking off April 21st, are due shortly, but you can catch them all over SXSW from March 18th - 20th.Track listMy TimeSummer AngelSecret CountryHold Me DownExcusesThe

Podcast 7 - Gone Skanking

2010-03-07T19:19:00.003-06:00

This week the guys talk about the re-formed Sublime, discuss new albums from The Black Keys and Kate Nash, and dish out a bunch of shows worth checking out. Oh, and we go skanking... Subscribe on iTunes, or listen to the stream below. Thanks! Powered by Podbean.com

Sublime Reunites Under New Name, Kind Of

2010-03-06T17:48:00.004-06:00

After a 14-year hiatus, some say break-up, which started with the overdose death of founder, lead singer and guitarist Bradley Nowell, the Long Beach ska/punk band Sublime is back, sort of.Now dubbed Sublime with Rome, this incarnation of the trio includes founding members, drummer Bud Gaugh and bassist Eric Wilson, and its new singer and guitarist Rome Ramirez.The 21-

The Black Keys Announce New Album

2010-03-03T12:25:00.002-06:00

Gritty blues duo, The Black Keys have announced a May 18th release date for Brothers, their sixth LP. The album follows a year of side projects for the band's two members, with Dan Auerbach releasing a solo album, Keep It Hid, and Patrick Carney releasing Drummer's debut LP; a band made up entirely of drummers from other bands. The duo also collaborated with rappers like Mos Def and Q-Tip on

As Tall As Lions Announce New Headlining Tour Dates

2010-03-03T12:15:00.003-06:00

New York-based indie darlings, As Tall As Lions are set to embark on their first headlining tour since releasing 2009's You Can't Take It With You. Lucky for us, the tour kicks off in Chicago, with an April 6th stop at Bottom Lounge. Tickets go on sale this Friday, March 5th, with special pre-orders available to fan club members at their site; which comes with the added bonus of reduced service

New Kate Nash Incoming

2010-03-02T12:45:00.002-06:00

While the likes of Duffy and, to a further extent, Amy Winehouse tried to test our patience with UK female singer-songwriters, Kate Nash's 2008 debut, Made Of Bricks, was a breath of fresh air from our friends across the pond. Fans will not have much longer to wait for her yet-untitled follow-up, since Nash has announced an April 20th US release date. No tour dates have been announced yet, but

Upcoming Shows - Week ending March 7th

2010-03-02T12:36:00.007-06:00

Another week, another batch of quality shows to check out. At least this week, there is just one night with a choice to make.Tuesday, March 2nd – Schubas – 8pm - $10Headliner: The new York Songwriting Circle: Chicago ShowcaseThe Sandhill Crane, Ty Maxon, and Ryan Suzuka might not ring a bell yet, but either did Company Of Thieves when they won this competition with "Oscar Wilde" in 2007. If you

Podcast 6 Up... FINALLY!

2010-03-01T17:59:00.005-06:00

After a little break, we are proud to announce that Podcast 6 is finally up and ready for your listening pleasure. You can download and subscribe on iTunes, use our feed on Podbean, or just click and listen to the stream below. This week, the guys give their thoughts on the Lady GaGa at Lollapalooza rumors, review Editors, Phantogram, Portugal. The Man, and Pet Lions shows, and then recommend a

Portugal. The Man - February 27th, 2010

2010-03-01T13:31:00.003-06:00

Opening bands are supposed to warm up the crowd in anticipation of the main act, but too often it feels like sonic appetizers were picked by a blindfolded ape throwing darts at a wall. It is rare that a three-band lineup flows as well as The Dig, Port O'Brien, and Portugal. The Man did on Friday night at Lincoln Hall.Unheralded, though not for long, New York quartet, The Dig was first up with a

Canasta Announces Album Release Shows At Schubas

2010-02-26T12:51:00.004-06:00

Yet another reason it is a great time to be an indie music fan living in Chicago, Canasta is just about ready to release their sophomore album, The Fakeout, The Tease And The Breather. To celebrate, the band has announced a pair of shows on Saturday, May 8th at Schubas. The first is an 18+ affair at 7pm, with Fat Cat Records' Gregory And The Hawk lending support. The second is a 21+ show

Thom Yorke Names Latest Band, Tour Dates

2010-02-25T12:37:00.004-06:00

In anticipation of the band's Coachella appearance, Thom Yorke's latest project announced a handful of April dates leading to the festival. Luckily, we get two chances to check out the band at Aragon Ballroom on April 10th and 11th. Previously billed as ????, Yorke announced the band as Atoms For Peace. The new side-project for Yorke will also feature Flea, Mauro Refosco, Joey Waronker, and,

Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers Announce Album, Tour

2010-02-25T12:25:00.004-06:00

Setting aside the obvious puns, Tom Petty And The Heartbreakers have announced announced a new album in Spring, Mojo, and a tour to support it this Summer. No release date has yet been announced for the band's first album in eight years, but fans can get an early listen to "Good Enough" at his newly revamped site. The tour will feature a revolving door of impressive opening acts, like My Morning

Upcoming Shows - Week ending February 28th

2010-02-23T11:57:00.007-06:00

Talk about a busy weekend! You would almost have to try to have a bad time this over this coming weekend. When it rains, it pours – and from Friday through Sunday, it is a torrential storm of rock in Chicago!Friday, February 26th - Lincoln Hall - 10pm – SOLD OUTHeadliner: Portugal. The ManOpeners: Port O'Brien, The DigIf you have been listening to the podcast, you know how excited we have been

Phantogram - February 17th, 2010

2010-02-18T14:37:00.004-06:00

As evidenced by the night's opening act, Junk Culture, electronic music can be a serious bore in a live setting. While it is easy to see how Junk Culture ended up on the same bill as Phantogram, the two acts showed the two extremes of the genre Wednesday night. To be fair, Junk Culture was without a drummer, who recently got married, that may have flushed out the songs a bit. As delivered, it was

AM Taxi Announce Spring Tour Plans

2010-02-18T12:06:00.004-06:00

In preparation of their stint on on this summer's Warped Tour, AM Taxi will be hitting the road for a string of dates in support of Spill Canvas. The May 22nd date at Metro makes us happy to be wrong about the band possibly not being through till Warped Tour, after next Friday's show at Cubby Bear. Our non-Chicago readers would be wise to jump immediately on the dates with Company Of Thieves;

Single Of The Week 1

2010-02-17T17:31:00.002-06:00

As we mentioned at the end of this week's podcast, we're going to start offering a free single in the same RSS feed as the podcast - so if you're subscribing (and we hope you are), your podcast feed should get it to you the next time you open it. If not, you can get it here.The song this week is an early listen to Rogue Wave's new Permalight album, not out until March 2nd. We're giving you a

Sasquatch! Music Festival 2010 Lineup

2010-02-17T12:30:00.004-06:00

The 2010 version of Sasquatch! Music Festival has announced most of the lineup for the Memorial Day weekend outing. The festival takes place May 29th - 31st at The Gorge in Quincy, Washington. Tickets go on sale this Saturday, February 20th, for the price of $70 per day, or a discount three-day pass price of $170. There is not much here in the way of Chicago news, but it is worth watching the

Sevendust Announce New Album, Tour Dates - But No Chicago

2010-02-17T11:39:00.004-06:00

Sevendust have announced a release date of April 20th for their eighth studio album, Cold Day Memory. The album finds the band reformed with its original lineup, after a three album absence for original guitarist Clint Lowery. The band also announced a string of tour dates with Drowning Pool, starting tomorrow night in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. We will list them out below, but you will notice the

Say Anything Announce Tour Dates With Angels & Airwaves

2010-02-17T11:30:00.003-06:00

Los Angeles quartet, Say Anything will lend support for, Blink 182 offshoot, Angels & Airwaves recently announced US tour this spring, after hitting two west-coast festivals. The tour comes on the heels of last November's self-titled album from the band. The bands will roar through Chicago on April 24th at Aragon. 3/26 Anaheim, CA Hoodwink Festival3/27 Anaheim, CA Bamboozle FestivalON TOUR WITH

Editors - February 15th, 2010

2010-02-16T13:02:00.003-06:00

When you hear a drunken fan obnoxiously shout out for their favorite song, you have to wonder whether they realize that there is typically a preplanned set list duct-taped at each band members' feet. A well thought-out set list can propel a make a decent live band sound even better, and a poorly constructed one can derail an otherwise fantastic band. Sadly, the latter was the case for UK's

Upcoming Shows - Week Ending February 21st

2010-02-15T18:29:00.007-06:00

We've got a few shows to recommend this week, with a decision to make on Friday.Wednesday February 17th - Schubas - Headliner: Phantogram - Opener: Junk Culture - 9pm - $8 in advance, $10 at the doorWe have been loving Phantogram since we first heard their fantastic EP, and the debut LP, Eyelid Movies, only added to how great we think this NY electro-pop duo is. Trust us, they will not be playing

Podcast 5 Up!

2010-02-14T09:14:00.003-06:00

This week, the guys talk new albums from Josh Ritter and Portugal. The Man, and get ready for a busy string of shows in the next month - including John Butler Trio, Editors, Phantogram, Port OBrien, Pet Lions, and many more!We've 'upgraded' to an mp3 file, to make it a bit easier for everyone to listen. Look for the new Song Of The Week 'podcast' later this week!

Motion City Soundtrack Announce Spring Headlining Tour

2010-02-10T12:00:00.003-06:00

On the heels of their major label debut, My Dinosaur Life, debuting at #15 on the Billboard album charts, Motion City Soundtrack have released a new string of headlining tour dates for this Spring. They are just about finished with their current run of west-coast dates, and will leave shortly for tours of Japan, Australia, and the UK before returning stateside for the string of dates below. They

Josh Ritter Announces New Album, Tour Dates

2010-02-10T11:37:00.003-06:00

Incredibly gifted singer-songwriter, Josh Ritter might just be the best Idaho export since the potato. He is finally ready to unveil his sixth studio album, So Runs The World Away, in the states on May 4th; a week after it lands in Ireland, where he is as popular as he should be here. You can grab yourself an mp3 of "Change Of Time" at his site, to tie you over until the album releases, but we

Upcoming Shows - Week Ending February 14th

2010-02-09T09:01:00.007-06:00

We're going to cheat a little this week - since there's just one show that we recommend through this Sunday, with two next Monday that you need to catch. Sunday, February 14th - Metro - Rock N' Raise Benefit for Darfur - 4pm - $10In the charity's own words: "We are students who envision peace. We are activists, musicians, artists. We are global-minded, locally active. We want a peaceful and