Dec 16, 2019
By: Michael LepekIn a rare solo performance at the intimate Hyde Park listening room, The Promontory, James "Blood" Ulmer enchanted the audience with a 90 minute set of captivating music.Born in North Carolina as Willie James Ulmer, his career began in the 1960s, playing soul-infused jazz with progressive jazz legends such as Art Blakey, Larry...
Nov 1, 2019
Words & Photos: Ryan MannixStop me if you've heard this one: the Jauntee is a Boulder by-way-of-the-East-coast jam band. Yes, they are one of dozens. But the buzz surrounding this group suggests they have something more to offer. I saw it first hand at Martyrs on a weekday during...
Oct 24, 2019
By: Howard GreenblattSurrounded by beautiful massive trees dressed in draping Spanish moss, the 16th Annual Voice of the Wetlands Festival was held in Houma Louisiana on October 11-13.Organized by Tab Benoit, the Voice of the Wetlands Festival seeks to call attention to the disappearing swamp habitats in Southern Louisiana. Benoit says that the issue...
Oct 2, 2019
By: Howard GreenblattGov't Mule stopped into an old Chicago haunt in the midst of a fall tour which showed great love for the Midwest.The Riv has a perfect rock room vibe for the blues-based grind of Warren Haynes and company.The vibes flowed through the night's setlist, including an encore that paid tribute to...
Sep 5, 2019
Words: Ryan Mannix | Photos: Billy AndresAs Chicago music fans, we arent blessed with the greatest outdoor venues. Although the Lakefront Green seems to be a great new addition, that won't stop me from making the short trip to Indianapolis when Umphreys is in town.I think of it as something like a "second"...
Jun 18, 2019
By: Howard GreenblattThe City of Chicago Department of Cultural Affairs and Special Events hosted the 36th annual Chicago Blues Festival in Millennium Park. The weather was mostly beautiful, the crowds were enthusiastic and the music was hot.Across multiple stages and three packed days, there was so much action, we couldn't contain it all ...
Jun 18, 2019
By: Howard GreenblattIf you're starting here, you came in the middle of the story. Check out Part One here.Born in 1935, Mary Lane knew (and sang with) greats like Howlin Wolf, Otis Rush and Elmore James, but her greatest success may be yet to come with the recent release of her hot...
Apr 5, 2019
Words: Alex Wood | Video: the1stMikeC | Photo: @andrewbirdmusicAndrew Birds Chicago roots ensure that his shows in the city are always more than simply another performance. The songwriter is notorious for choosing some of the citys best venues, from 4th Presbyterian Church to Chicago Theatre to the Hideout, and delivering an unparalleled live experience regardless....
Dec 21, 2018
Words: Ryan Mannix | Photos: Billy AndresCan a band have contradictory influences?Let's say a band has got a DIY, carefree punk side... the last thing you'd also expect to hear complementing it is the mellow 70s pop of Paul McCartney or Steely Dan. Well, that's what's up with Post Animal, who spent an enjoyable evening...
Dec 11, 2018
By: Michael LepekNestled between towering buildings of New Orleans and in the shadow of historic Gallier Hall is a grassy acre of green space known as LaFayette Square. The park serves as a lunchtime spot for the bustling downtown crowd as well as a gathering place during the spring and summer. Folks come to...