Nov 2, 2015
Gang of Four ConnectsWith Fans in Chicagoby Joann D. Ball | Photos: Philamonjaro StudioU.K. post-punk upstarts Gang of Four formed in Leeds, England in 1977. Original Gang member and lead guitarist Andy Gill keeps the insurgent spirit alive with a solid line-up featuring current comrades John Gaoler Sterry on vocals, bassist Thomas McNeice, and drummer Johnny...
Oct 29, 2015
By: Heidi Peters | Additional Reporting: Sam PetersOver twenty years into a career, Old 97s are making music with integrity rootedin great songs, masterful musicianship, engaging vocals and a broad range of styles.Introduced by WXRT's Johnny Mars, the bandoccupies a space where that station serves our market well. Where 20 years ago, they may have threatened...
Oct 20, 2015
By: Philamonjaro StudioThe New Mastersounds returned to Chicago to a full house of diehard fans Saturday October 17th at Concord Music Hall.Local opening act The Heard stirred up the dance floor with their own brand ofhorns-layeredfunk to set the mood for a great night.Guitarist Eddie Roberts fondly reminisced that the band's first concert...
Oct 14, 2015
By: Heidi PetersA Bob Mould show is an anthropology lesson in Alternative Rock & Roll.He's the missing link -- the guy so many compelling artists point towhen asked: "Why?"Watching him perform on stage -- alone with a guitar -- at the cozy City Wineryislike seeing Junior Wells or Muddy Water playing and completely...
Sep 30, 2015
Words: Carmel O' Farrell | Photos: Kristine Condon Photography & Paul NatkinAfter 30 years, Farm Aid is one of longest running benefit concerts.Rockers Willie Nelson, Neil Young, and John Mellencamp have been returning to this yearly event since its inception. Not only do they serve as this iconic festival's headliners, theyve also made it their...
Sep 23, 2015
Words & Photos: Tara Gracer PhotographyOn August 29th, All-Star Vibe Entertainment produced Summer Stashat the House of Blues with local bands assembled in one of their trademark seasonal events.The Pistachio Brothers were the first of four acts -- the duo, AJ OReilly and Ian Engels, brought a soulful acoustic feel to the welcoming crowd....
Sep 16, 2015
A Photographer's Perspective On Riot FestWords & Photos: Heidi Peters PhotographyAs a music photographer, I am a fan of all performers and a critic of none.It takes a lot to get up on stage and put yourself out there. As someone who makes images for a living, I am left with trying tointerpret what...
Sep 15, 2015
Tallest Man on Earth Fills Chicagos Thalia Hallby Joann D. Ball | Photos: Philamonjaro StudioKristian Matsson is the Swedish singer-songwriter also known as The Tallest Man on Earth. For a decade, Matsson has won fans and critical acclaim for his studio efforts, and especially on the strength of his animated, energetic solo concerts.His fourth and...
Aug 31, 2015
KT Tunstall is a One-Woman Tour de ForceBy Joann D. Ball | Photos: Philamonjaro StudioKT Tunstall has much more to offer than radio hits Black Horse and the Cherry Tree and Suddenly I See from her 2004 debutEye to the Telescope. The Scottish singer-songwriter sold out three nights at City Winery Chicago on the strength of five...
Aug 24, 2015
By: Philamonjaro StudioThis was the first performance Los Van Van had done in Chicago since 1999 -- a nightlong anticipated by the crowd and suitably, the energy was through the roof.Minus the band's founder, Jaun Formell, who passed away last year, the remaining members hit the stage with a passion and engagement that immediately captivated...