LIGHTS UP!

[musicgaragechicago]

The unique sound of Rahel Be (Rachel Bekele) is a ray of light during these uncertain times. Her debut EP Manifest is inspired by her personal struggles and journey to self-acceptance over the past two years. This period of deep reflection and growth led to the creation this sonically meditative EP.  

The Ethiopian American singer and Milwaukee native grew her interest at an early age. Rahel played the Ukulele and violin while continuing to discover artists like Amy Winehouse, Erykah Badu, and Lady Ray. These artists are her main influences. Her writing and storytelling are centered around themes of perseverance, growth, and personal liberation.  

Namaste was the first track created. Rahel eventually joined forces with native Chicago producer Benjamin Karabank for the completion of the song. From there. Other features on the EP include her co-writing by her sister Eden Bekele and Craig Huff, Voice mixing and mastering from rapper Rich Robbins (Music Garage’s February Featured Artist) and guest verses from rappers Sudo Black, tr3e and Since ’93. Together, this dynamic team helped Rahel manifest this flawless EP.  

This is Rahel’s first music project but certainty not her last. She wants to take her time creating new music and eventually incorporate playing the violin into future projects and live performances. For now, self-care and growth will continue to be the priority in her journey.  

The Manifest EP is a project that allows the listener to explore the feeling of being spiritual grounded and liberated at the same time. If you’re ready to take this exploration backed by soulful vocals, honest lyricism and outstanding instrumentation, then head over to Music Garage’s featured artist playlist on Spotify or search for Rahel Be on Spotify and Instagram.  

Instagram: @rahelbemusic

Spotify: Rahel Be

Apple Music: Rahel Be

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Chicago native The 3rd, also known as Theodore Ruiz, is no stranger to the different aspects of the music industry. This week, Lights Up! was fortunate enough to talk to the producer, engineer, businessman, and recording artist known as The 3rd.

The 3rd was born and raised on the Southside of Chicago. His interest in music began during his sophomore year of high school. Producing was a big part of his start in music, and he has only expanded his skills since then. 

The 3rd has been a part of the Jungle AE community for approximately five years now. Jungle AE is an audio engineering company run out of Music Garage. The 3rd first became a part of the community as a recording artist and producer, but since then has grown into becoming an engineer. Taking classes with Lex Cruz from the Jungle was a formative part of his engineering path. 

A go-getter attitude is an important part of being in the music industry, and the 3rd demonstrates that through his adaptability. He explained in our interview that he doesn’t feel limited to the skills he has already begun to master; he can also be a videographer, photographer, or anything he might need to ensure his success. “I don’t ever let the name of something limit me and what I can become,” said The 3rd.

The 3rd feels motivated by his family and Chicago to continue to grow musically. “I want everybody to excel, that’s my purpose and one of the reasons that I was drawn into audio engineering,” said The 3rd. He continued to explain how he wants to learn how he can support musicians, so that he is able to grow with them and give back to the city he has called home his entire life. 

The 3rd also stressed that he wants to help musicians monetize their work, to help them in the pursuit of doing music full-time, if they’d like to. He spends a lot of his time learning how to do this, so that he can support other musicians and himself. The 3rd strongly believes that artists who make music deserve to know how they can monetize their work and support themselves financially.

While most of The 3rd’s discography is composed of singles but says that he has big upcoming projects that are still in the works. In addition to his own discography, The 3rd has also been working on producing and engineering for other local recording artists, such as Big Boy Billionz and Bundzy. Collaborations have been a key aspect of The 3rd’s development from the start of his music career. He hopes to work with artists such as Bianca Shaw in the future. 

In his free time, The 3rd loves to play video games, specifically Call of Duty. He also loves to teach himself how to play instruments and learn more about sound. 

The 3rd wants readers to know that he is here to support Chicago musicians. He would love to take the knowledge he has obtained and use it to assist artists, so if you are a musician looking for support, The 3rd is here for you. 

Be sure to follow The 3rd on social media to keep up with what he is up to. All of his social media handles are listed below, and you can hear his music featured on Music Garage’s “Featured Artist 2020” playlist on Spotify and Soundcloud. 

Social media:

Instagram: @the_real3rd

Twitter: @the_real3rd

Facebook: THE 3RD

Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/the_real3rd

[musicgaragechicago]

This week, Lights Up! had the honor of spending some time talking to our Monthly Tenant Rich Robbins, a musician and poet who is skilled in recording, writing, and engineering. Rich Robbins is sure to impress anyone who is lucky enough to know him, and it was an honor to sit with him and hear about his journey.

Rich was born in Oak Park, IL but raised in Philadelphia. Rich’s interest in music began at a young age, and has been influenced by the music he listened to growing up. Rich grew up listening to musicians such as Stevie Wonder and Lauryn Hill with his dad, and as he grew older he listened to artists such as Kanye West. His experiences listening to music and appreciating the power of rap led to Rich wanting to try and make rap music. 

 “There are memories and emotions that can be evoked through music that cannot be invoked any other way,” said Rich.

Rich’s artistry has developed through poetry, as slam poetry was a large part of his life in high school. He performed at a competition called “Louder Than a Bomb”, the world’s largest youth poetry competition in the world. Rich also got involved in Young Chicago Authors (YCA) in high school and this experience connected him with artists that he would go on to collaborate with, such as Showcase Room Client Saba and Mick Jenkins. 

Going into college, Rich was honored with a full-ride scholarship called “First Wave”, a hip-hop and urban arts scholarship. Rich notes his time at the University of Wisconsin-Madison as being formative to his growth as an artist. 

Rich not only has extensive writing skills that he brings into music and poetry, but he also has experience mixing and mastering. As part of his efforts to collaborate with other artists, Rich has mixed and mastered music for others. Some of the artists Rich has collaborated with include Supa Bwe, Broadway Muse, Amir Tripp, Rahel Be, Marzo and Tan2oonice. 

Rich stressed the importance of exploring newer artists, “There is so much talent in Chicago, and if you were only to focus on names that were presented to you already you would be missing out on so many amazing people” said Rich. 

Rich is actively making music and hoping to release a project soon. In 2020, Rich released four singles that you can now stream. The singles are titled “Satellites”, “Retrograde”, “Good Goodbyes”, and “Slide”.  Accompanying his new releases, you can find his previous projects such as Red Butterfly and Nimbus on Spotify and Soundcloud. 

Performing has been important to Rich’s career, and he has had extensive experience performing in Chicago, Wisconsin, and Philadelphia. There was a point pre-pandemic where Rich was doing multiple shows per week. Once the pandemic subsides, Rich hopes to go on tour and get back to a busy schedule.

For the past two years, Rich has also been supporting his old high school by teaching slam poetry to the high schoolers. In his freetime, Rich loves to write for fun, play with his cat, and watch anime. 

Be sure to follow Rich Robbins on social media to keep up with what he is up to. All of his social media handles are listed below, and you can hear his music featured on Music Garage’s “Featured Artist 2020” playlist on Spotify and Soundcloud. 

Rich’s advice to musicians is to focus on making music that guides you to understand yourself.

Social media:

Instagram: @richr0bbins

Twitter: @richr0bbins

Facebook: Rich Robbins

Website: https://richr0bbins.com/ 

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Featured Artist: Michelle Lerch

This week, Lights Up! spoke with our Hourly Rehearsal Client Michelle Lerch, a singer from Virginia and North Carolina with extensive experience in opera performance. Although Michelle’s main focus has become Opera, she has a diverse repertoire and interest in other types of performance, such as musical theatre. 

Michelle has been singing since she was a child and has put a lot of hard work into her craft. Michelle was involved in musical theater in high school, studied Vocal Performance and Music Theory at East Carolina University, and got her masters and performance diploma in Voice at the Jacobson School of Music. 

“I came out of my mother singing” said Michelle. 

Michelle has experience not only in singing but in acting as well. When asked about what music she connects with the most, Michelle explained that the character she is playing in a show is how she is able to connect. She enjoys portraying characters that have a “fire” to them with a go-getter attitude.

Michelle’s extensive experience led to her go on the road with Opera for The Young, a Wisconsin based program. This program had her visiting and forming connections here in Chicago, which then led to her move to Chicago in October of 2020. 

Michelle’s experience with Opera for The Young took her on tour and allowed her to become invested in the character she was playing. Through Opera for The Young, Michelle performed for children in schools. She described this experience as one that was positive and allowed her to grow as a musician. Michelle said that she would oftentimes be performing the same show twice a day, which led her to learn more about how she could care for her voice and body to make the shows sustainable.

Among Michelle’s experience with the different shows she has done, she has also had opportunities to collaborate with other musicians. Michelle has worked with composers to do score readings for new shows.

Michelle acknowledges that while this pandemic has been unfortunate, she has made the most out of quarantine by reflecting on her career as a musician. She compared this time to the usual fast-paced energy of the music industry and said that this time to reflect has allowed her to look internally at why she is singing and what she wants to sing. 

Michelle would like readers to know that she is always open to collaborating and would love to hear from other musicians.

Be sure to follow Michelle on social media to keep up with what she is up to. All of her social media handles are listed below, and you can hear her music on her YouTube channel listed below as well!

Social media:

Instagram: @mlerchsop

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVC9bf3eq8XMdFGRt84yCBw 

Facebook: Michelle Lerch

Stagetime: Michelle Lerch 

[musicgaragechicago]

This week, Lights Up! had the pleasure to sit down with The Sweeps. The four-piece group creates a sound that combines melodic post-punk, soul and art-rock, to create a thrilling, captivating and incredibly unique sound. The band’s music is mainly driven by true stories and events that occurred in their lives. When you listen to their music, you ultimately join them on a beautiful journey of personal growth.

The band consists of four members, Santiago Torres (guitar, bass, vocals), Chris Dye (drums), Sam Bakken (synth, vocals), and Sean Foxely (bass). The group was originally formed in 2008 when late front man Bob Dain and Santiago Torres met. In 2009, the band went on to release their first EP entitled Midnight at the Box. A few years later, they released two other albums; in 2011 the group released The Terrible Children and in 2013 they released Swift Armour. Chris joined the band between Terrible Children and Swift Armour. Sam joined after Swift Armour.

In September of this year, the band released their self-entitled album The Sweeps. This album pays homage to the band’s front man, Bob Dain, who passed away in 2016. Santiago Torres beautifully stated that “Bob touched the hearts of a lot people and finishing this record took weight off of my shoulders because finally, my friend has something that will forever be a part of him.”

When recording their new album, The Sweeps found themselves using a different approach due to the sudden passing of their beloved bandmate. They were left with over forty rough demos that featured Bobs vocals and guitar leads. During the past three years, the band worked hard to piece those demos together into the beautiful and incredibly telling album that is out today. The album honors the last remnants of Bob’s music.

The COVID-19 pandemic drastically affected the band’s plans for this year. The Sweeps were set to plan a tour to promote their newly released album. The band is known for hosting a release show or listening party when they release an album, but they were forced to postpone these events as a safety precaution. Another hardship that the band is facing due to the pandemic is practicing as a group. Meeting in person is a safety hazard for their family and friends, so the guys are considering virtual sessions until further notice.

The pandemic did not stop the group from working on new exciting projects and engaging with fans through their social media accounts. The group recently released an exhilarating music video for the song I Couldn’t Be Him, which is found on their newly released self-entitled album. Is it a must-see! This video, and others, can be found on their YouTube channel.

The Sweeps have been staying active on social media. They are pushing fans to check out their new album on Bandcamp and Soundcloud. Chris Dye stated that it is hard to get new fans when the band is not playing live. The band is considering performing live stream shows for their fan base, but they are hopeful that once the vaccine is available to the public, they will be on stage again serenading large crowds of people. Currently, the band posts short videos on Instagram and comments on other bands social media accounts to promote their new album. The Album is available on all streaming platforms. Go check it out!

Follow The Sweeps on social media to stay tuned on their upcoming releases and future events. You can hear their music featured on Music Garage's "Featured Artist 2020" playlist on Spotify and Soundcloud!

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4cdDjFKKIZUGGLohv3HHSI

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheSweeps/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesweepsmusic/

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/user/TheSweeps

Bandcamp: https://thesweepsmusic.bandcamp.com/

[musicgaragechicago]

Featured Artist: Malafacha

The week, Lights Up! was grateful for the opportunity to sit down with the band, Malafacha. Malafacha is a Mexican ska band based here, in Chicago. 

Malafacha started with a group of highschool students who formed the band together after having been a part of a mariachi group in school together. The group continued to grow and decided that they wanted to make Mexican ska music together. The development of the group was family-oriented, with influences and involvement by the group members’ families. 

Ska music is a relatively new genre that isn’t even listed as a genre on Spotify. One of the members, Moises, spoke to how they became exposed to Mexican Ska in the 90s because of a friend. Malafacha saw a need for more Latin Ska, so they built their own scene here in Chicago.

As the group kept progressing, they wanted to play at larger venues but found it difficult to get those spaces, so Malafacha began hosting their own events. Their events invited groups from all over the country and created a network of bands. 

Malafacha is very family oriented. Not just because of their founding but also through the continued involvement of their families and the environment they create. Many members of the group are fathers, and will invite their kids to performances and even bring their kids up on stage. 

Ramon spoke to how he had some concerns about being able to perform and practice with the group while also keeping his son safe. But said that his concerns were resolved as he realized that the members of Malafacha, being a community of people who care for one another and their families, were being very careful and striving to keep each other safe. 

Ramon also spoke to how musicians are in a tough spot with the winter coming up, since the winter blues and stay-at-home advisory can mean trouble for some people. But he said that tools such as Zoom and social media can be used as a creative outlet for artists during this time. 

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the group hasn’t been able to host in-person events like they used to. However, they have taken this opportunity to hold livestream concerts and spend more time recording their upcoming album. Malafacha spoke to the difficulty of adapting to this fully online world and learning how to do livestreams, but said that in the end they are grateful for the many outlets they have to connect with their fans.

Malafacha is proof that music can create a sense of community and belonging, even during a global pandemic. 

If you are interested in beginning to listen to Malafacha, you can follow them on social media to stay updated on when their events are being held and stay up to date with their upcoming album.  All of their social media handles are listed below, and you can hear their music featured on Music Garage’s “Featured Artist 2020” playlist on Spotify and Soundcloud.

Instagram: @malafachaska

Facebook: Malafacha Ska

Website: malafachaska.com

Spotify: Malafacha

[musicgaragechicago]

This week, Lights Up! had the pleasure to sit down with Chicago's most vibrant trumpet player, TomCat Trumpet. Tom Burke, aka TomCat Trumpet, is known for bringing brass into the Chicago dance music scene. It is this unique combination of modern dance music and jazzy trumpet chops that makes Toms sound so special.

Tom's relationship with his instrument began at a young age when he frequently attended Broadway shows to watch his father perform on the trumpet. Watching his father influenced him to take on the instrument and being surrounded by that creative environment cultivated the passion, energy, and showmanship that he brings to the stage today. I, for one, cannot wait to see him perform live.

Tom made his debut performance at Electric Forest in 2018. Since that time, he has performed at multiple Chicagoland venues and festivals, such as Spring Awakening Music Festival. In 2019, Tom released his first single entitled Confessions, pushing his music career to the next level.

One of Tom’s most prolific accomplishments was starting a monthly variety show experience, held at AliveOne Chicago called The TomCat Trumpet Experience. This free show features live painting, poetry, comedy, bands, DJ sets, and so much more. To make it even more special, Tom performs with his father at the show. Unfortunately, due to the current COVID-19 city restrictions, this show has been put on hold until further notice. When it starts up again, you will not want to miss it! It takes place on the last Wednesday of every month.

The COVID-19 pandemic drastically affected Tom's plans for this year. As a performing artist, he was forced to cancel all of his shows in order to help reduce the spreading of the virus. However, this did not stop Tom from working on new exciting projects and to engage with his fans. During the past few months, Tom used his time productively by getting into the studio and collaborating with other artists, he released a song with Ryan Neal called Summer Soul, which is now available on all streaming platforms. He is also planning to release a single with DJ Agent Forte in the next upcoming months, so stay tuned for that!

The pandemic also allowed Tom to take on new projects, one being his own clothing line! Tom performed at several high-end fashion shows and realized how passionate he was about fashion and style. When asked about why he chose fashion, Tom stated, "An artist should never stop creating, nor be limited to what the creation is." This quote struck me, and I realized that he not only believes in the ingenuity of a creative mind, but furthermore he lives and breathes with the endless imagination of a true artist. To learn more about the release of his clothing line, go follow his social media accounts.

Throughout the pandemic, Tom has been live-streaming sessions on Instagram-live and posting content regularly on all of his other social media platforms to stay active with his fans. One separate live stream that Tom participates in is Rise and Vibe Yoga. He serenades the yogis while they meditate. Although live streaming is a viable option to connect with fans, Tom is looking forward to standing in front of a live audience once again.

The final message that Tom wanted to share with the public is that he wants people to show more love and understanding during these hard-pandemic times. He wants everyone to be kind to one another and strictly spread good vibes.

Follow TomCat Trumpet on social media to stay tuned on his upcoming releases and future events. You can hear his music featured on Music Garage's "Featured Artist 2020" playlist on Spotify and Soundcloud.

Spotify: TomCat Trumpet

Facebook: facebook.com/tomcattrumpet

Instagram: instagram.com/tomcattrumpet

Twitter: twitter.com/tomcattrumpet

YouTube: youtube.com/channel

[musicgaragechicago]

Independent Venue Week 

The COVID-19 pandemic has put a significant hold on the worldwide live event and concert industry, causing the smaller independent venues worldwide to shut down. The National Independent Venue Association, also known as NIVA, was formed to help raise awareness and money for the struggling venues around the US and UK. As part of an effort to raise this awareness, Independent Venue Week, an annual nationwide initiative supporting indie music venues, used its platform to raise funds to benefit the NIVA Emergency Relief Fund. On their website, Independent Venue Week states that “by championing independent venues, we are able to highlight why they are so much more than just places for live music – they are cultural hubs for learning, creativity, arts and culture more widely connecting people in their local community of all ages, backgrounds, abilities, genders, skills and walks of life.”

The digital Independent Venue Week took place between Oct. 24-30. In the US, over 120 independently owned venues in 70 cities across 32 states have participated in this year’s event. One of those participating venues included Chicago’s very own Hideout. As mentioned on their website, the Hideout is a Prohibition-era bar in a small space that hosts all kinds of live music events. This special venue hosted a roster of notable artists that includes Jack White, Phantom Planet, Jimmy Martin and many more iconic names. 

On October 29th, the Hideout hosted a very special Halloween themed digital livestream entitled “Cosmic Country Showcase”. Fifteen talented acts performed thrilling musical performances and comedy sketches. It featured many fantastic headliners, starting with a yodeling and barking country singer-songwriter known as Nick Shoulders. He performed two original songs entitled “Turn on the Dark” and “Snakes and Waterfalls”. Other headliners include “Los Espookys” writer and actress Ana Fabrega, the “No Respect” comedian Sarah Squirm, fancy drag artist Nico, and banjo playing singer-songwriter Evil.

Other notable acts include the father-son duo, Sammy Tweedy and Jeff Tweedy. Their performance of Black Sabbath’s “Changes” will undoubtedly give you chills. Cosmic Country regular cast members Tenci, Andrew Sa, Hawk Colman, Sima Cunningham, and Ben LaMar Gay presented their talents throughout the show with their outstanding spooky musical performances and comedy sketches. To learn more about the performers, click on the attached link below!

The public can still view the “Cosmic Country Showcase” on the Hideout’s website. Anyone can have access to it for only $15! A full list of the venue’s upcoming events can also be found on their website. It is important to note that all the raised funds from these shows will benefit the NIVA Emergency Relief Fund, which ultimately helps your favorite independent venues around the US. 

Independent Venue Week Artist Ambassador, Alison Mosshard, stated that “Independent venues are incredibly important to our musical history as a country, and they are incredibly important to our future.” What makes a city like Chicago so special is the iconic places where memories and history are made. So please, support your local venues by donating to NIVA Relief Fund. You can save our stages.

Hideout

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hideoutchicago/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hideoutchicago/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/hideoutchicago

Website: https://www.hideoutchicago.com

Cosmic Country Showcase Performers List: https://www.hideoutchicago.com/e/cosmic-country-showcase-tickets-123549918131/

NIVA

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/nivassoc

Instagram: https://www.saveourstages.com/support-niva

Twitter: https://twitter.com/nivassoc

Website: https://www.nivassoc.org

Independent Venue Week

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/IVWUS

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivw_us/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ivw_us

Website: https://www.independentvenueweek.com

[musicgaragechicago]

This week, Lights Up! had the opportunity to talk to Kid Cut, A Chicago based rapper and producer who has been making music since he was kid. Music runs in his family and he was actually named after the famous jazz musician Miles Davis. A self-taught musician, Kid Cut taught himself how to produce and engineer music at a young age. Now, he not only makes his own music, he also produces and engineer’s music for others. 

Inspired by the work ethic of Lil Wayne, Kid Cut has been consistently putting in the work to grow as a musician. He explained that his love for music and friends keep him motivated. The style of Kid Cut’s music draws inspiration and style from many different places, but he said his goal is to project his life into music.

“Music is my life”, said Kid Cut.

In our conversation, Kid Cut mentioned that he resonates with Lil Wayne’s analogy of music being like a sport where you have to put in the work and practice. 

The pandemic hasn’t stopped Kid Cut from creating engaging content for his listeners. While the pandemic caused the cancellation of some Kid Cut performances due to the closure of music venues, he has adapted to the circumstances. Kid Cut described this time as an opportunity for him to refocus and spend time making music.

Since August, Kid Cut has been releasing music weekly. His music encompasses a variety of different styles, so Kid Cut releases music frequently in an effort to draw in listeners from different audiences. Most recently, he released an EP, “Cut from a Different Cloth”,on his birthday and it features nine songs. The EP features older and newer songs made by Kid Cut, and features a single, “City Girl”.

Recently, Kid Cut has also been focusing on showing his followers how he makes music as a way to engage with his fans. He wants to show his fans how he can work independently to create his music. Kid Cut has been doing this by posting about the process of making music on social media. He will also occasionally send unreleased music to his fans for input. 

Kid Cut encourages any of his fans or soon-to-be fans to check out all of his music, including music he has released years ago. Be sure to follow Kid Cut on social media to keep up with what he is up to. All of his social media handles are listed below, and you can hear his music featured on Music Garage’s “Featured Artist 2020” playlist on Spotify and Soundcloud. 

Social Media: 

Instagram: @kidcuttheartist

Facebook: Kid Cut  

Spotify: Kid Cut

Twitter: @OfficialKidCut  

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With an emphasis on thrash metal tradition, Bloodrunner brings a different take on ‘Kill em’ all’ era Metallica with an appreciation for old school metal and aesthetics. If you enjoy the classics, ‘Bloodrunners’ album “Total Annihilation” will be a great experience for you!

Bloodrunner is a band that developed in 2004 consisting of Kyle Hickey on Guitar, Neal Rodriguez on Vocals and guitar, Mike Lerman on Drums and Matt Wensel on the Bass.The album begins with the song ‘Bloodrunner’. This song is reminiscent of bands such as ‘Anthrax’, ‘Metallica’ and ‘Overkill’ with similar style of performance including Neal Rodriguez delivering snarling half sung vocals on this track. Another personal favorite on the album is the track “Fears/ Sentence of Death”; in this track, you really get a feel for the virtuosic performances as the band transitions from a classical guitar passage with sweeping lead guitar, into a classic metal chorus and verse with amazing drum fills and energy. In the song “Total Annihilation” you will get all the elements that could be expected from a contemporary band, like Metallica.This song revives many of the shouted vocals, technical guitar solos and drumming that you will appreciate as fans of the genre. 

In this album, Bloodrunner succeeds in producing an amazing modern rendition of many of the elements revered in classic metal. If you are looking for new sounds and an evolution of the metal genre, this album may not be for you, due to it’s appreciation of the roots rather than it’s offshoots. But if you are looking for a band that fully appreciates the classics with dynamic song structure and well executed playing, this album will definitely be up your alley. Check out ‘Bloodrunner’’s album in the link below and all of our other amazing local musicians, right here, on “Lights Up!”.

https://open.spotify.com/artist/3VJblKGHMRsz327bdZTOui?si=WOzBZwQOTv62BvLxAvpEMQ&nd=1

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7 THINGS TO DO FOR HALLOWEEN IN CHICAGO

During “normal” times, Chicago is packed to the brim with things to do Halloween weekend. This year, Chicago is getting creative with ways to celebrate Halloween while staying safe and distanced. Music Garage has made a list of local events happening on Halloween weekend:

1. Drive in Films

Since the start of the month, The Music Box Theater has been holding a month long series of horror/slasher flicks called “Music Box of Horrors” at Chi-Town Movies Drive In. Sunday-Thursday nights will have late night features, and Friday-Saturday will have double features. 

2. Riot Fest Drive-in

Chicago's famous music and arts festival “Riot Fest” decided to hop on the drive in trend and provide a spectacular event October 30th through 31st. At Chicago Drive-In in Bridgeview IL, musical acts, New Found Glory, Knuckle Puck, and Hot Mulligan will perform live in a drive-in setting. Following the acts on both days will be a screening of the films “Beetlejuice” and “The Exorcist”. Check HERE for more details.

3. Drive-Thru Haunted House at Replay Lincoln Park

The Lincoln Park arcade bar “Replay” is putting on a drive through haunted house called “Replay’s Alley of Darkness”. This event is running until October 31st and you must make a reservation beforehand. Don’t have a car? No worries! Replay Arcade bar is offering rental cars so everyone can still enjoy the experience. Check HERE for more details on ticketing and reservations.

4. Lincoln Park Zoo After Dark Events

Every Saturday during the month of October, the Lincoln Park Zoo is staying open late offering their Zoo Nights as an opportunity to explore the zoo after dark. On October 29th, they are having their “Adults Night Out: Great Pumpkin Glow” where adults only can explore the zoo after dark with a special haunted trail along with seasonal cocktails! The adults night is currently on waitlist but the ‘Zoo After Dark’ is still open! Check HERE for details on the after dark visits and HERE for more details on the adults night.

5. Morgan MFG Room: 237 Pop up experience

For those of you who are fans of the classic psychological horror The Shining, this will be a dream experience you won't want to miss! Morgan Manufacturing, in Chicago’s West Loop, is hosting a pop up exhibition decking out this 32,000 square ft. warehouse like the Overlook Hotel from The Shining, detailed with props, artwork, actors, and themed cocktails. This is a must event for any fans of the classic film looking for a great way to spend Halloween! Make your reservation on Opentable HERE!

6. Day of the Deadmau5 - At the Drive-In

On October 30-31st at Seatgeek Stadium in Bridgeview IL, Deadmau5 will be performing! Deadmau5 is well known for his stunning live production warranting a good time and an experience you won't want to miss, nonetheless on Halloween! You can purchase tickets at this event HERE!

7. Blommer Chocolate Company's ARTS IN THE DARK Upside Down Halloween Parade

On October 31st, the famous State Street Arts in the Dark parade will be held in a Covid-19 safe fashion as a stationary drive by parade in Washington Park! This way you'll still be able to enjoy the parade in a new fashion while still taking safe covid measures. This event is free but requires a reservation, so click HERE to book your slot! 

[musicgaragechicago]

‘Save Our Stages’ Fest Review

Living in the current economic crisis that has been presented by the COVID-19 pandemic, I feel that our music venues are often forgotten victims of this crisis. There is not nearly enough discourse in the mainstream media around the negative impact this crisis has had on music venues, which are spaces that so many of us enjoy. Because of this, I was excited to learn about the “Save Our Stages Fest”, a virtual festival to fundraise for the National Independent Venue Association (NIVA).  

Hosted on the “Save Our Stages” website as well as YouTube, the livestream concert featured a wide variety of artists. From Phoebe Bridgers to G-Eazy to Miley Cyrus, there was an act for everyone. The variety of artists featured was impressive, and made the festival exciting. 

I caught a few of the acts, and was thoroughly impressed with the performances. Several of the artists I saw invited other musical guests to join them, and it created a sense of community. It was so exciting when a musician I loved would bring on stage another phenomenal musician that I wasn’t expecting. All of the performances I saw were all so beautiful, I found myself clapping in my living room to fill the empty space where there should’ve been an audience applause. But the lack of audience applause, while a bit unsettling, reminded me of the importance of protecting the venues so that we can come back one day when the pandemic is over and fill that space.

One of my favorite aspects of the whole festival was hearing from artists about why people should donate to NIVA. Hearing about how important music venues are to the artists reminded me of how venues are a vessel for connecting musicians to the people who care about the art they make. 

The online set-up of the livestream was great as well. There was a live chat function to talk to other viewers which almost provided that sense of community you would get from talking to the people next to you at concerts. It was really easy to donate, you could contribute through the website or on YouTube. 

The ‘Save Our Stages’ Festival created a sense of community during a time where it’s hard to connect with people like we would at concerts. The performances were spectacular and there was a wide variety of acts. I am really glad I got to attend and hope NIVA will do more events like this in the future. 

-Gisselle, MG Featured Artist/Venue Intern

[musicgaragechicago]

This week, Lights Up! had the opportunity to sit down with Wolf Rd and we think this band that will soon be your latest obsession. The four-piece group creates a sound that combines pop-punk with metal and hardcore influences to create a powerful, thrilling, and unique sound. Wolf Rd’s introspective lyrics tackle themes ranging from heartbreaks and toxic friendships, to mortality and regret, in a way that is both relatable and profound.  

The band consists of four Chicago northwest suburb natives: Chris Hoffmann (vocals), Nick Hoffmann (drums/vocals), Devin Stone (bass), and Geoffrey Duckmann (guitar/vocals). The four bandmates played together for about three years in a cover band prior to making their official debut as Wolf Rd in September of 2019, when they released their first single, Oakton. Since that time, these guys have been taking their music career to the next level.  

The COVID-19 pandemic drastically affected the band’s plans for this year. Wolf Rd was set to go on tour, but they were forced to cancel all of their shows as a safety precaution. However, the pandemic did not stop the group from engaging with fans and working on new exciting music.  

During these past grueling months, Wolf Rd has been recording an acoustic rendition of their first original pop-punk/metal EP entitled Nowhere Around You. They stated that if it were not for the pandemic, the idea of recording an acoustic album would have never crossed their minds. They are very psyched about releasing this project to the public.

The pandemic also allowed the band to spend more time writing new music and they plan on releasing a few new singles in the upcoming months. Devin is predicting that there will be a “big bang in the local music scene” once this pandemic is over. Since bands are not occupied with touring, they are most likely using this precious time to write new music without facing any significant barriers.  

Wolf Rd has also been filming music videos for their previous releases. They recently dropped an exhilarating video for their single Dogwood it is a must-see! This video, and others, can be found on their website and on their YouTube channel.

Throughout this pandemic, Wolf Rd has been live-streaming sessions and posting content regularly on social media to stay active with their fans. Although live streaming is a viable option to interact with fans, the band believes that music admirers are now, more than ever, craving to physically see shows performed live. They are hopeful that there will be some change and rise in the local music scene after the pandemic fades. Chris stated that “one major advantage to live streaming for the band is having the ability to talk and engage with fans in real time.” Nevertheless, Wolf Rd is eager to return to the stage.  

Follow Wolf Rd on social media to stay tuned on their upcoming releases. You can hear their music featured on Music Garage’s “Featured Artist 2020” playlist on Spotify and Soundcloud.

Spotify: Wolf Rd

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/WolfRdBand/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wolfrdband/  

Twitter: https://twitter.com/wolfrdband  

Website: https://www.wolfrdband.com/#home-section  

[musicgaragechicago]

‘JUST A MESS’ - ALL THOSE SUNKEN SHIPS AND DEFEATED ARMIES SINGLE REVIEW  Chicago based Alternative rock band Just a Mess is officially streaming their new single: “All Those Sunken Ships and Defeated Armies” with an upcoming album coming early 2021. Boy, does it pack a wallop of pop punk angst in a well executed package.

With Tony Sarlo on guitar vocals, Kyle Blais on bass, and Cory Grey on drums, The trio of Musicians say they formed to keep rock music alive, growing up in the Chicago music scene of the early 2000’s. Their emphasis on creating well executed performances through distorted guitars and hard hitting drums brings back fond memories of the pre-covid days of live music.

The song opens with a lush hum of chorus and reverb which quickly moves into a marching beat of quick snare hits and guitar strums. The bass comes in soon after, followed by the snare hitting out a marching pattern that carries out through the rest of the song. Tony Sarlos vocals compliment the drums and guitar well, with lyrics that bring about feelings of lost love and old friendships. This song balances traditional elements found in alternative rock and punk punk: Distorted chorus, youthful vocals, and a grand croshenndo of hard hitting drums, but I think where this single really shines is in its use of instruments to coat every part of the composition. To my ear, I think the subtlety of the strings really adds to the atmosphere and presence that the band has through their performance.

Although COVID has had to postpone live shows for ‘Just a Mess’, You should definitely see what there up to on there social media, With sneak peaks on there new album, and promotional photos It’s definitely worth taking a look. Until next time, Keep listening and we will keep writing!

Make sure to follow them on all platforms-

FB: @justamessrock

IG: @justamessmusic

Best, -Alex S at the Music Garage

[musicgaragechicago]

This week, Lights Up! had the honor of spending some time talking to Releaser, a four-member Chicago based rock band. The members, Andre, Stephen, Duane, and Jeremy, have been creatively seeking ways to engage with fans during the pandemic and continuing to grow as a group.  

Right before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, Releaser was ready to hit the road and do some shows with their new touring vehicle. Unfortunately, on the second day of their tour, they had to turn around and come home because of the pandemic. The pandemic also caused them to cancel plans to go record out West. Members of Releaser described this as being a time of uncertainty.

While COVID-19 has presented challenges for the group, the members feel that they have used this time to find different ways to connect with fans, existing and new. For Releaser, this has meant growing their online presence and utilizing social media. Since growing their fanbase through shows isn’t possible right now, they have been leaning into engaging with people online and putting out content that showcases who they are.  

Releaser has been putting in a lot of work to ensure they are engaging with fans online, and actually released their latest single “Should’ve Known Better” in July. The song came about approximately a year ago when the band had the idea to post a short cover of the Richard Marx song “Should’ve Known Better” to honor the singer on his birthday. Their producer saw their performance on social media and suggested they record a cover.  

Fast forward a year later, the group found themselves wanting to release an uplifting song amidst the darkness of the pandemic and decided to record and release the cover of “Should’ve Known Better”. The cover was released on all streaming platforms for anyone to listen to the full version. Accompanying the song was a music video, available for viewing on their website or YouTube.  

Releaser has been using their online presence not only to grow as a group, but also to support the music industry as a whole. The group donated twenty-five percent of the proceeds made from their most recent live-stream to the National Independent Venue Association.  

Releaser’s advice for musicians and artists during this unique time is to utilize this time to write as much as possible, and don’t put too much pressure on yourself. They stressed the importance of having fun and remembering why you are making music in the first place.  

The group really wants to recommend that everyone votes, and not for Trump.  

Be sure to follow Releaser on social media to keep up with what they are up to. All of their social media handles are listed below, and you can hear their music featured on Music Garage’s “Featured Artist 2020” playlist on Spotify and Soundcloud.  

Social media:

Spotify: Releaser

Instagram: @releaserofficial

Twitter: @WeAreReleaser

Facebook: Releaser Official

Website: https://www.releaserofficial.com/  

[musicgaragechicago]

Thalia Hall is a historic venue that is located in the Pilsen neighborhood of Chicago. The iconic space is known for bringing a fun and vibrant spirit to its community.

Lights Up! had the pleasure to sit down with Bobby Ramirez, the Director of Music Operations at Thalia Hall, to hear his story of dealing with the COVID-19 pandemic as a venue manager.

COVID-19 hit Thalia Hall pretty drastically. It put a significant hold on their live events, causing acts to cancel or reschedule shows that were supposed to take place during the past seven months. The pandemic ultimately caused the venue to lose a lot of its revenue streams and it is very daunting that they will not be able to reopen fully again until a vaccine is issued. Bobby is continuously thinking of practical ways to make the live show experience feel safe even after it has been deemed safe. He stated that when different government levels issue a recommended reduced capacity, he believes it might be safer to allow even smaller numbers. Thalia Hall has already been investing in plexiglass windows for its bar, gloves/masks for their crew members, and thermometers for temperature checks at the front door.

Bobby believes that the way crews are going to interact is going to change fundamentally. It will not be a great idea to have an internal crew handling all of the equipment of a touring band that has been in several different places. He believes that pairing crews into teams of two instead of everyone touching the equipment at the same time will allow more safety and containment. Thalia Hall had the opportunity to implement this system when Lollapalooza rented their space for live streams this past summer.

Although Thalia Hall is not open for the time being, Bobby and his team have been helping keep the music scene alive during a time where we cannot physically be at shows. Bobby stated that they have been co-promoting live streams that are produced by artists. These live streams are not performed at their space, but they have been jumping in as the Chicago market promoter for many live streams. In terms of live music, Thalia Hall hosts a small outdoor live music series called "Kickin' it Curbside," currently active in the Tack Room space, located on the venue's ground level. The Tack Room is where people can see live outdoor quality programming for free on Wednesdays and Sundays. It only makes sense to use it during these crazy pandemic times to continue providing that same type of vibrant concert spirit while maintaining a safe atmosphere.

Thalia Hall has some exciting things in the works for the next upcoming months. One idea that they are considering for the wintertime is reducing the capacity in the venue to provide fun small in-person experiences. This plan will be contingent on how infection rates will look like in Chicago and the rest of Illinois. Bobby also stated that they are planning to release some fun, new merchandise and will be toying around with the idea of virtual shows. Although virtual shows are a viable form of entertainment, Bobby strongly believes that nothing will ever top the magic of seeing shows in person. Venues have historically been the point of connection between a band and a live audience. They bring acts and get them out to the right fans in their market. Live streaming is just an extension of that.

Thalia Hall's most significant hardship due to the pandemic is placed on the staffers and crew members who work in the music venue and restaurant/bar. They are separate venues, but the entire building is dependent on the nightly influx of people coming through for shows. So, when there are no shows, it drastically affects the numbers they can bring into the restaurant. There is a GoFundMe to help alleviate the hardship placed on the employees. It is a fundraiser that they've been paying out to all of their hourly staffers for both the venue and the restaurant/bar properties located downstairs. The link to the GoFundMe is attached below.

Bobby stated that for venues like Thalia, and other independent venues across the country, one of the biggest things that can help is people writing to their elected representatives to support another stimulus package. The Save Our Stages Act is one grant program that helps performing-arts and music venues all around the nation. If people write to their elected representative in support of this grant program, many of these independent places that have been cultivators of music for so long will get at least a little bit more aid. The existence of venues such as Thalia Hall strictly depends on the presence and support of the people. It is important to help these spaces stay alive during these pandemic times to ensure that we can enjoy them long after.

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thaliahallchicago

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thaliahallchicago/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThaliaHallChi

GoFundMe: https://www.gofundme.com/f/thalia-duseks-employee-relief

[musicgaragechicago]

(source - https://meaww.com/)

Will Butler’s solo album Generations - released September 25th, 2020 via Merge Records.

Butler delivers deep, haunting lyrics coupled with joyous "sing along" choruses reminiscent of Arcade Fire. Every now and then we get very cool epic synthesizer moments like in the opening song, Outta Here. Beginning with a swell of synthesizers slowly revealing the clear and crisp voice of Will Butler belting celebratory "ooohs" atop a soulful bed of voices leading into the next verse. It almost feels like Will is strutting into the “Mad Hatter Tea Party” with a microphone in hand and a message to be heard until the first song subsides, and we're brought into Track 2. Bethlehem ...

Certain lyrics in Bethlehem really make one stop and think a second ... "... Let me close my eyes in the ashes of love, And in the light I’ll join the dead, ‘Cause the best have no position, And the worst are full of Passionate belief ... ". These lyrics feel deep, to say the least. And at the same time it makes one wonder what Butler is actually referring to?

The album’s final song, Fine, highlights Will’s historical roots … “I was born rich, Three-quarters Protestant, Connections at Harvard”.  Throughout the album, it becomes more apparent that Will is lifting the veil on his personal identity as an American. However this album is not just about Butler’s personal American Identity, it also reveals the concept of identity during heightening political disparity.

Majority of the album was produced, written, recorded in his home in Brooklyn, NY along with the help of Sara Dobbs, Miles Francis, and Julie Shore.

Happy Birthday, Will!