We'll always cover the old favorites, but it's also worth keeping a lookout for artists that may be on their first few swings through Chicago. This new feature, 8-UP, showcases eight acts on the way up -- catch 'em before they're big.
Check them out in this Spotify Playlist and check out when they'll be in town below.
Marcus King is dropping guitar knowledge in a way that evokes our present most revered axe-slinger, Derek Trucks. Blues based but willing and able to blend and jump genres at will. He will preform with his band at SPACE on 6/19.
Heron Oblivion couldn't ask for better support for their Chicago gig. Our favorites Chris Forsyth & The Solar Motel band open their 6/3 show at Beat Kitchen. Fans of soaring, psychedelic guitar solos should find plenty to love in both acts.
The Lil Smokies capture that loose, Telluride inspired newgrass vibe through some impeccable songs and playing. They play 4/21 at Beat Kitchen.
Knoxville band William Wild (actually a pseudonym for singer-songwriter Garrett Sale) brings a gritty, dusty Americana to Schuba's on May 4.
Xenia Rubinos brings vocally ambitious soul, funk and jazz hybrid to Constellation on 5/19.
Boulevards has clearly learned musical lessons from the school of Prince and Rick James. The 80s-flavored funk will appear May 6 at Hideout.
Oklahoma born singer songwriter Parker Millsap shows remarkable depth and acknowledgement of his music roots, at only 22 years old. He'll be at Lincoln Hall on 5/20.
Speaking of Telluride, Trout Steak Revival won the festival's band competition in 2014, just like all-time-faves Greensky Bluegrass. I think there should be some definitely crossover fandom, especially if you're into Greensky's songwriting. Check them out at Beat Kitchen on 5/19.
The Marcus King Band
