September 2002
Nightlife -
Fauzia Arain
Chicago has arguably the best live music venue selection and quality in the country. Because the two go hand-in-hand, we also have one of the most thriving and diverse local music scenes. If you're ever in need of a quick fix, there's always something appropriate going on. This month we highlight some crowd favorites that play fairly regularly at some of the best venues around town. You won't find Ticketmaster prices or rock star attitude at these shows, but you will find yourself…
Andrew Bird…
Bandoleros…
Liquid Soul…
Underwater People…
Mike and Joe…
Maggie Speaks…
Mighty Blue Kings...
Chicago's Hottest Live Music Venues:
live & large!
There's something outstandingly charming about this multi-instrumentalist who has lent his ample talents to
many like-minded musicians, including the retro-swingy Squirrel Nut Zippers. He not only has his own band,
Andrew Bird's Bowl of Fire, but he seems to embody the passionate musician ideal in that he tends to show
up with his violin (he also sings and writes, mind you) and join in on an in-progress jam. His love for
music is infectious and the southern-tinged sound he emits is so warm that you hate to see him stop.
Fear not, though, as you're sure to find him performing elsewhere very soon.
[Abbey Pub; Sept. 14]
Whether you fancy yourself a Latin lover or you just enjoy throwing in a night of salsa dancing to spice up the mix every once in a while, the Bandoleros will serve up your poison. Ceaselessly playing gigs at an upscale club like Pasha or a their weekly spot at the unpretentious neighborhood bar, Déjà Vu, you had best come ready to dance your stilettos off, because you may not be able to help yourself. And, bring a partner that's not afraid to cut it up and have fun with it.
[Déjà Vu; Thursdays]
They've been around for almost ten years, and they continue to be a sure shot in live entertainment. Incubated in Chicago's underground, this brand of acid jazz is fresh and decidedly urban. Blending the improvisational styling of hip-hop and classic jazz, this eight-member collective of stand-alone musicians melds into one percolating body of funk. If you're lucky, you may catch a show where former member Simone (the daughter of Nina Simone) makes a guest appearance.
[Double Door; Sept. 1]
Formed in '92, the band has developed quite a loyal following in town. They love a good street festival and are regulars at clubs like Joe's and the Cubby Bear. Although they're often labeled as a cover band, Underwater People has three original CD's that have each sold more than 10,000 copies. The band's cover songs have few musical limits with songs from the Beatles to U2 to Dave Matthews. You'll also hear bits of reggae, country, zydeco, gospel, and bluegrass, ensuring an upbeat atmosphere and good times for all. For more information on show dates, the band's email list, and how to book the band, check out underwaterpeople.com. If you like Underwater People, you'll definitely like the sounds of ….
The traveling band, "Mike and Joe" have been a favorite on the college circuit around Illinois since 1995. The duo has been described as a combo of the sweetest sounds of Pearl Jam and Dave Matthews. A year and a half after they put the band together, the guys released their second album, a CD recorded live and released in conjunction with Dick Clark's label and Anheuser Busch. Mike and Joe plays more than 175 shows a year and is one of the most watched cover bands in the entire Midwest. The guys regularly play for packed houses filled with excited, enthusiastic, and very committed fans.
Visit mikeandjoe.com
[Joe's; Sept. 1]
When Maggie Speaks, people listen. One of Chicago's most renowned cover bands, these kids are for those who love to flashback to yesteryear and jam to their favorite hits from every generation…Although their modern day renditions of the grunge classics are also easy on the ears. Some of hits in constant rotation are: "I Want You Back," by the Jackson Five, "When I Come Around" by Green Day, "My Own Worst Enemy" by Lit, "Jessie's Girl" by Rick Springfield, "Me & Julio" by Simon & Garfunkel, "Let's Go Crazy" by Prince, "All Right Now" by Free, "Let's Get It On" by Marvin Gaye and "Cecelia" by Paul Simon, among others by Barenaked Ladies, Blink 182, Dave Matthews and U2.
Visit maggiespeaks.com.
[McGee's; Sept. 19, Joe's; Sept. 21]
Chicago mainstays and a big draw since their residency at the Green Mill years ago, this band has aged remarkably well. Developing their sound through the rise and fall of the swing resurrection, these guys stayed afloat where other similar "big band" outfits retired with their zoot suits. Having traded in their jump 'n' jive side for a smoother, more refined sound, they still work a mean,
jazz-infused beat in your head. [House of Blues; Sept. 6]
Lakeview Links: 3206 N. Wilton
Joe's Bar: 940 W. Weed
Cubby Bear: 1059 West Addison
McGee's Tavern: 950 W. Webster
Double Door: 1572 N. Milwaukee
House of Blues: 329 N. Dearborn
