Showing posts with label chicago. Show all posts

Friday, December 30, 2016

Sweet Home Chicago- Welcome Back, Umphrey's McGee 12-28-16, A review by Michael Wallentin with photos by Aaron Bradley

Sweet Home Chicago : Welcome Back Umphrey’s Mcgee

The Riviera Theatre

Chicago, Illinois

Dec. 29 2016

Set 1 : Similar Skin > Domino Theory, Nothing Too Fancy > Kimble,

Bridgeless > No Comment, Example 1, Memories of Home*, Gone for Good*,

Make It Right

Set 2 : Wappy Sprayberry, Bridgeless, Remind Me, Ringo > Cheap Sunglasses,

Miss Tinkles Overture, Linear, Upward

Encore : 40’s Theme

Jake and Brendan both on acoustics for Memories of Home, Gone for Good.

Chicago welcomed back Umphrey’s Mcgee with exuberant applause last night at the Riviera. It had been sometime since the band had graced us with a run of New Year’s Eve performances. It had been since 2011 when Umphrey’s and their crew were here last for shows of this nature related to New Years Eve. The last appearance in the Riviera Theatre dates back to February 2014. While a few members aren’t Illinois natives, the band had made quite the stomping ground out of the city itself. Each year they have been growing endlessly more popular here in the midwest, with countless tours, and an annual appearance at Summer Camp Music Festival, billed with moe. However, no matter where they go, fans here in Chicago will always consider this home for the band.

For many of us at the show, we were excited and ready to move in from the cold for a wonderful night of music. Of course, for those still outside, the scene was bustling, bringing the crowds a few blocks away from the theatre. There were the random shirt vendors, pin boards, and of course those looking to buy or sell tickets. Many of the Umphrey’s related groups on social media were swarming with folks who had not found their tickets. And the sellers outside were God’s in their own shoes. For the most part generously, and rarely seen today, they were selling the well-known hot commodity of a ticket for a fair price. I even witnessed a few miracles.

The room was packed, and it was filled with energy and excitement, anticipation, and cheers. Not a soul in that building wasn’t tuned into when exactly the band would come out onstage. Shortly after 8 pm, they finally did. And the entire room had erupted into an explosion. They had started the night of music with a well placed ‘Similar Skin’, that rolled solidly into ‘Domino Theory’ A quick one-two punch that set precedent for the rest of the night. The edgy nature was presented quickly, with effortless dueling between Jake and Brendan. Reminding us once again was Bayliss about a Cub’s World Series victory. The boys were definitely back in town.

Always a favorite amongst fans was "Nothing Too Fancy" and this started the getaway for what Umphrey’s does best. Wheeling the euphoria of what the band can do to make you dance, opening up all sorts of channels for the guitarists, and drummers alike. This also presents another talent of Umphrey’s Mcgee. Diversity. They were seeming to be full steam ahead. Soon segueing into ‘Kimble’, and fishing with it before finding way into the intro that brought ‘Bridgeless’. The boys sounded promising, and concise with Bayliss at the peak of vocals tonight.

While most would consider the set to be nothing much on paper, it was something to behold. An excellent version of ‘Example 1’ made way for what many of us were most likely not expecting. The band has taken their brakes out, while Jake and Brendan took out their acoustics. In memory of a close friend, the band plays “Memories of Home” as Brendan announces to the crowd. With ease the band erased an 896-show gap, the largest of the night, and of recent past for any song in the catalogue. They followed the pace with an amazingly bold move for three songs to bring us all back to Earth before the second set.

The band had their minds set in stone for the first, so why would we expect anything different from the second set? With very little gimmicks, and very little hindrance the band showed up with their ideas, executing them each and every time. Unlike the first set, there would only be slowing down as we hit an excellently placed ‘Remind Me’. A song that has shown itself to be quite the weapon. Picking right back up again, however with a ringing salute to what is ‘Ringo’. After tooling around deftly placing cascading rhythms throughout the tune, they popped into a fiery cover of ZZ Top’s ‘Cheap Sunglasses’

Umphrey’s came out guns blazing, and the firefight didn’t die down until the last note of the night. Although ‘Miss Tinkle’s Overture’ was probably the least anticipated song for myself, the band had given a great performance of it last night. The crowd was ecstatic, and full of life as the second set had found its own name amidst the night. As we edged our way towards the end we were given a few surprises. With an excellent, wailing version of "Linear", they had seemed to have wrapped up. With a delayed and precise entrance into "Upward", another cannon in the arsenal, we floated in and out of soundscapes with great appeal.

As the band had ended sometime around 11 pm, they exited the stage leaving us wondering what would be the icing. Well, to top off the night, Umphrey’s had brought out one of their best cherries instead. A Standalone ’40’s Theme’ was a high flying and energetic extravaganza to end the night. To say the least, Umphrey’s had brought their A-game for a welcoming first night to their three day Chicago run. I insist that if it's doable, to try and snag a ticket for one of the following two nights at the Aragon Ballroom this December 30th, and 31st accompanied by funk phenomenon, The Motet. Only a few blocks down from the Riviera, many fans won’t have to do much traveling at all. In due tradition, rock, rest, and repeat yall. Happy New Year! ..

Written by: Michael Wallentin

Photos by: Aaron Bradley

Monday, November 7, 2016

The Wood Brothers at the Vic in Chicago. A Review by Mike Wallentin

Something so Eventful - Wood Bros celebrate with Chicago at the Vic

The air was filled with excitement. In my heart, and in the city of Chicago. On my side, I was in route to the first event I've covered with the love of my life, and talented photographer Lauren Mcnalis, as a writer/photographer duo. Let alone the dawn after a Chicago Cubs World Series victory. The ability to share this together, for a shared likeness of a band such as The Wood Brothers with an electrified rate of cheer, made for a night to remember.

As a huge Cubs fan myself, and most likely for many Cubs fans in attendance for the Wood Brothers, or those from the city at least had an immediate cheery feeling at the theatre that night. Regardless, it was a positive gathering for all walks involved. There's been much reason for celebration in Chicago throughout the summer. Now after October with the Cubs, a rare Bear's victory against Minnesota, or a night on the town, let the good times roll.

For the Wood Brothers, they had their own personal celebration, because earlier in the tour they had some medical emergencies. Unfortunately, Chris Wood was held up in the hospital, and tour dates cancelled. As Cubs fans were praying for a positive outcome, fans, friends, and family prayed from the bottom of their hearts for a clean,quick, positive recovery for Wood. Luckily, Chris was able to recover, and once again take up the bass line. Giving yet another reason for Chicago to celebrate on November 3rd at the Vic Theatre.

Oliver Wood, Chris' brother, and long time musical counterpart was ready to douse gasoline on an already raging fire of excitement in Chicago. The Wood Brothers, one of the modern day masters of soulful folk-rock, are completed by the creative and wildly adventurous percussion mind of Jano Rix. Goosebumps, and gorgeous melodies make way for the make of their sound. From fast kicking blues, to a tension and release style finale to show, they are something not to miss.

Put your heartfelt boogie shoes on. A Wood Brothers crowd is a fast and easy group of people to mesh with. Amongst them, comes with fans rocking band's shirtsd such as Avett Brothers, Ben Harper, Phish, The Grateful Dead, Neil Young, Panic, and others such as the Shins, Strokes, or even Modest Mouse to name a few. That being said, a conversation is easy to come by in such a welcoming crowd of people. And the reaction of the music is all one in the same, positive.

Honest and reflective are two words to describe a room when a band is as genuine as the Wood Bros. As for Chicago, The Vic Theatre is one of the more intimate places to find this feeling. Formerly named the Victorian Theatre, owned and operated by the one and only Jay Goldberg, and Jam Production. Who have produced the now 16 year old Summer Camp Music Festival. With its capacity at 1,400 the acoustics are tremendous. Added is a delay system treating the 1,000 capacity single balcony some breathing room from the floor.

As the night began for the Wood Brothers, it was short, it was sweet, and it was beautiful. They has sang songs such as "I Got Loaded". Commemorating a Cubs hangover, and a night out, drinking whiskey, gin, and wine. The meaning to be, that we felt alright. Introducing the song Oliver mentions, "Ain't it nice to step away from the election, and put all the other bullshit in our lives aside, let's be positive". He was talking about the Cubs. Which he had done multiple times throughout the show.

As the one long set had spread greatness through the night, so does the crowd. Through classic, and stellar Woods Bros. songs alike, the responses only grew larger. Someone had shouted out "Postcards" a clear nod to the band's great song 'Postcards from Hell'. Eventually the right chords were struck and the venue began to levitate with applause. A fantastic version blossomed from the stage.

As for other notable parts of the shows, there was sections, of dancing, drum solos, and undeniable admiration for a band with such talent. Swinging back and forth with an upright bass, as if it were your ballroom dance partner, probably isn't that easy. For Chris Wood, it's one of his favorite things to do, a must see addition to an incredible stage performance. Also playing "Ain't No More Cane" a traditional song made famous by Bob Dylan, The Wood Brothers show more of what they are about.

Leaving the stage and coming back on had us all guessing for what there would be to come. Again, Oliver came to the mic, saluting us for being a beautiful crowd, a wonderful city, and a group of "lucky men and women". Shortly thereafter we were given a very special take on "Luckiest Man" a more commonly know song. It was time to remind us that if we do believe, things just might come true. I took it that way at least, as I do the Cubs victory as well. Stick to your dreams, friends! What a night November 3rd turned out to be!

Written by: Michael Wallentin

Photos by: Lauren Mcnalis

Edited by: Greg Heffelfinger

Saturday, October 29, 2016

Yonder Mountain String Band are sharing tonights show for free

Yonder Mountain String Band are sharing tonights show for free!

Y.M.S.B are giving away a Halloween treat tonight with a free Webcast of their show from Chicago. They announced earlier their Halloween costumes were going to be Hallo- WEEN. So the show should be interesting as they put their unique spin on Ween. The show will be available on Yonder's Facebook page starting at 9:45 central time.

Kevin

Friday, October 21, 2016

Bob Weir Completes the Campfire Tour last night in Chicago. Audio, Videos, Setlist and 411

Bob Weir's "Campfire Tour" came to a close in Chicago last night. He saved a sweet show for last, but the whole tour was akin to a Western adventure. Bob Weir's Tour to promote"Blue Mountain" was amazing and full of surprises. There were special guests practically each show. He was in fine form and his backing band was phenomenal all tour. Oddly enough the best show was not on his tour. King Phish happened while his tour had the night off, but that show will live forever. Thanks to Live For Live Music her is complete audio and several videos from Chicago. I love the acoustic"Corrina" and "Black Throated Wind".

Fare thee well, Mr. Weir, and thank you for a real good time. Check out the full setlist from Bill Batson, below.

Setlist: Bob Weir at the Chicago Theatre, Chicago, IL – 10/20/16

Set I: Corrina (solo), Black-Throated Wind (solo), Blue Mountain (solo), Darkest Hour, Only a River, Lay My Lily Down, Gallop On The Run, Most of the Time, Gonesville

Set II: When I Paint My Masterpiece, Friend of the Devil, Walkin’ Blues, Mama Tried, He’s Gone, Playing in the Band > Stella Blue, China Cat Sunflower > I Know You Rider

Encore: Ki-Yi Bossie (solo), Not Fade Away, Brokedown Palace

Full Audio: Bob Weir Bids “Fare Thee Well” To Campfire Tour In Chicago.”

Watch an acoustic “Black-Throated Wind” and “Only A River,” below.

Monday, October 17, 2016

A night at Durty Nellies' Getdown on Thursday the 13th was attended by our one of our own. Sounds like two bands you don't want to miss. By::Micheal Wallentin

From the towns we grew up in around the Northwest Suburbs of Illinois, we have been graced with beautiful, and talented local bands. Many of whom end up leaving the small towns to the big city of Chicago.They play our favorite venues, and move on to play some of our best festivals. For two of these acts, them being brought together makes for one hell of a night.

Chachuba, a band that has had a rotating cast since its beginning, has been storming through their first few years as a band. Gracing places such as the House of Blues Tonic Room, and festivals such as Summer Camp, and Backwoods, it seemed like I saw them everywhere by hitting shows in a number of states on tour over the last few years.

In the genre-defining fringes of jamtronica and fusion-rock, Chachuba has found more than one way of becoming the exception. They pull and push boundaries of sound and rhythm that stand out in a relatively flooded genre of music.

Held together by founders Sean DiCosola (boards) and Jimmy Klimek (guitar), they have found themselves into a one of a kind music experience. Friends must make that bond. Over time they have added new members Nick Bietz on bass, and an absolutely pivotal switch of drummers in Gary Goodheart. The changes brought fullness, camaraderie, and an amazing chemistry to their stage presence. They opened the night. Nellies was on fire, and so were they.

Chachuba Setlist

Vapor City
Jurassic nark>
In your mind>
Jurassic nark
Deeds

And to cap off this show, who else but the new band Mungion? Hailing from Chicago, and just recently releasing their first full-length studio album Scary Blankets, we know there is only more to come.

They derive inspiration from the weird and the quirky. The stories they tell, and messages they represent, were fascinating to the crowd. They infuse music influences from the likes of Zappa, Phish and many others. Each set tries to expand reality, and pushing the limits of what can normally be found at a jam experience.

Rolling through two high-flying sets of wonderland rock, this is what it looked like on paper

Banana Man (Acapella) >
Hindsight >
Justice
Hung Daddy Jam >
Schvingo
Night Night Stan
Ferris Wheel's Day Off

Set 2
Fool In The Rain >
Makanda
My Darling Troll >
Jam
Quemaste Su Cabella
Sloob Syndrome >
Myrtle
Beneath The Shallows >
Fruit Salad Jam >
Beneath The Shallows

Wednesday, September 28, 2016

Jimmy the Mod vs. Jimmy and Poster Nutbag: Halloween 95' Phish covers The Who's masterpiece, "Quadrophenia" Another in Grateful Music's Halloween retrospectives as Vegas gets closer

On Halloween in Chicago, after one of my favorite shows ever in Louisville, Phish tried on it's second musical costume, The Who's Quadrophenia in 1995.

After one of my favorite shows ever, that included "Kung" and "Shaggy Dog", Phish took the party to Rosemont Horizon in Chicago. It was in 95' and Phish was destroying America like The Who destroyed it's instruments. After a fan vote to play Zappa, the band decided not to play the fan's choice due to the complexity of the music, possibly offensive lyrics, and Zappa's own wishes not to have those songs played again, Phish went to the second place winner and donned the costume of those mod monsters, The Who, and covered Quadrophenia.

Quadrophenia was The Who's sixth studio album and following two massive albums, including Tommy, was another album of a hugely ambitious scale. It was released in 1973 and was widely considered a great album and has only grown in regard since then. Phish was on a tour that was one of the most amazing fall tour's in their history. They completed the year with a triumphant run at MSG and released an album of the NYE show that is considered one of their best live albums.

The album Quadrophenia is about a mod named Jimmy who searches and struggles to find his identity and make his way in the world. Each of the members of the band had their own theme. For Keith Moon, he was the bell boy. In concert, crew member Leigh Fordham, of ""46 Days" fame, came out and sang the theme for Keith Moon, "The Bell Boy". The Who's album came out after Tommy, so Pete Townshend was looking to make a bigger statement and break new ground. The album, produced by Glyn Johns of Rolling Stones fame, did this in spades. Utilizing new studio techniques and writing some of the best instrumentals of his career, Townshend made an album so good, it almost couldn't be reproduced onstage at the time. Phish took on the challenge and with an all-star horn section behind them, like Dave Grippo, managed to stage it just fine, now that technology had caught up to Pete Townshend.

Phish performed the whole album after a first set of teases and hints, opening the show with "Icculus" and just getting better from there. When the "om-pa-pa" finally rang out, Mike told a wild story about raccoons and then after a "Beat It" tease from Thriller Trey mentioned Jimmy was listening to the Halloween album and then during setbreak they played "Wanna Be Startin' Somethin'" leaving the fans wondering if they were going to get pranked like last year's Dark Side bells before the White Album. But it wasn't to be, Phish came out and played the whole Quadrophenia album, with the help of a horn section and at the end of the show, during a slower, Phish-ier version of"My Generation" Trey and Fish destroyed their instruments, like The Who used too. This was followed by a crew member bringing out a plunger and after it was pushed down, an explosion went off backstage. Before we go to the tape, this was the time in Phishtory when the band was still playing chess and the costume contest winner, a Wookie, had stage fright and couldn't make the move.

The third set is famous for the forty-minute YEM. It was absolutely one of the highlights of this highlight-filled show and set the bar for YEM's like the Memphish "Tweezer"did for that song. "You Enjoy Myself" was also followed by a smoking "Jesus Left Chicago" and the show went into the books as one of Phish's greatest moments. I'm not a huge Who fan but after Louisville, I kidnapped my rider and made him go to Chicago with me. We bought insanely expensive tickets for a hundred dollars each but we got on the floor and looking back, the scalping situation has only gotten worse but the show made us forget everything. Now for the main event:

Greg Heffelfinger

this is an audio only version but it is SBD and is the whole show

Soundcheck: Guyute, Suzy Greenberg (x2), Jam, Suzy Greenberg, Jesus Just Left Chicago, Jam

SET 1: Icculus, Divided Sky, Wilson > Ya Mar, Sparkle > Free, Guyute, Run Like an Antelope, Harpua[1]

SET 2: I Am the Sea[2], The Real Me[2] > Quadrophenia[2], Cut My Hair[2], The Punk Meets the Godfather[2], I'm One[2], The Dirty Jobs[2] > Helpless Dancer[2], Is It In My Head?[2], I've Had Enough[2], 5:15[2], Sea and Sand[2], Drowned[2], Bell Boy[3], Doctor Jimmy[2] > The Rock[2], Love, Reign O'er Me[2]

SET 3: You Enjoy Myself , Jesus Just Left Chicago [4], A Day in the Life > Suzy Greenberg[5]

ENCORE: My Generation[6]

[1] Narration from Mike about raccoons.
[2] Phish debut; Dave Grippo on alto saxophone, Don Glasgo on trombone, Joey Sommerville on trumpet and Alan Parshley on French horn.
[3] Phish debut; Dave Grippo on alto saxophone, Don Glasgo on trombone, Joey Sommerville on trumpet and Alan Parshley on French horn, Leigh Fordham sang Keith Moon's original part.
[4] Dave Grippo on alto saxophone.
[5] Dave Grippo on alto saxophone, Don Glasgo on trombone, and Joey Sommerville on trumpet.
[6] Phish debut; acoustic.

(courtesy of phish.net)

Also, do yourself a favor and listen to this show as well. My first shows, my mind had a mind of it's own and this was the "one" that I really got it.