The Abbey Pub

Needmore – Vanity Theft – The Break

Leslie — Sat, 07 Apr 2012 18:00:38 +0000

Needmore

Self Made. No gimmicks. Meet NEEDMORE. Being some of the nicest, down to earth, midwestern-rooted boys you’ve ever met, they are hands down one of the hardest working groups of today. Since their “story-worthy” inception in Los Angeles, California (2007), they have been writing, recording, and touring non-stop

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Vanity Theft

Brittany Hill-vocals/guitar
Alicia Grodecki-vocals/guitar/keyboard
Elyse Driskill-drums

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The Break

One of Chicago’s top indie bands is busier than ever. The Break has graced the stages of legendary Chicago venues such as Metro, Lincoln Hall, The Beat Kitchen, Reggie’s Rock Club, Subterranean, Schubas The Elbo Room and others.They are now recording their second album. The first, “Welcome to Our Side” has been on iTunes for the past year and has received rave reviews from “Buzz News”, “WGN TV”, “Chicago Sun Times”, “Park Ridge Herald Advocate”, “Love Shack Blog” and other prime media outlets. The Break has a lot of exciting plans ahead of them and hopes to see you all help them along their journey.

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Kill The Alarm (Acoustic) – Josh Holmes – Fivestar Deluxe

Leslie — Thu, 05 Apr 2012 20:46:18 +0000

Kill The Alarm

Kill the Alarm is a rock band from New York City that is led by singer/songwriter Garen Gueyikian. Gueyikian had previously fronted the band Granian, a name he had also used for solo work until he adopted the name Kill the Alarm in 2006. They sold out a string of New York City shows including a show in early 2008 at the Bowery Ballroom. Additionally, the band played shows with Eve 6, Pat McGee, Cowboy Mouth, Pete Francis (of Dispatch), Stephen Kellogg and the Sixers, Nine Days, Stroke 9, Guster, Huey Lewis & the News, O.A.R., and Kieth Kane (of Vertical Horizon).

The band has been featured on CW11 TV’s Artist Spotlight “On the Radar” in New York, Billboard Underground, and WGN Midday News. KTA’s songs have be heard on multiple TV shows including CSI, ESPN Softball, The Lying Game, Teen Mom, Keeping up with the Kardashians, Real World, Road Rules, America’s Psychic Challenge, Dr. Steve-O and promos for Dr. Phil and The Amazing Race.

Kill the Alarm’s debut album Fire Away was released in 2007 and was produced by Jon Kaplan (Gavin Degraw, Maroon 5, Ingrid Michaelson, Jet Lag Gemini). The album garnered comparisons to alternative rock bands from the 1990s, such as Eve 6, Cowboy Mouth, Live, Better than Ezra, and Matchbox 20. The single “Fire Away” debuted on radio at #15 on FMQB Submodern Charts.

Kill The Alarm’s popularity increased due to JamLegend, an online music rhythm game. Their song “Fire Away” is the top-played song in the game worldwide with 2,219,908 plays.

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Josh Holmes

Indiana native and Chicago area favorite, Josh Holmes, melds guitar-driven rock and roll with insightful lyrics and no-holds-barred live performances. The dynamic performances vary in format from playing solo, to the high energy and sound of his full band shows. The band has been described as “impressively cohesive and a group beyond their years.” Reviews like these, combined with an ever-growing fan base, it is no wonder that this project has left such a huge impression on his fans.

Singer/songwriter Holmes was raised on Motown and rock and roll. His musical style manages to reflect his varied influences including artists such as; Ritchie Valens, Buddy Holly, Smokey Robinson, and the Temptations, while maintaining a modern sound. Part rock and roll troubadour and part guitar prodigy, the self-taught Holmes puts on energetic, eclectic, and extremely entertaining live performances. A typical show includes solid musicianship interspersed with humor, rock and roll history lessons, improvisations, and audience participation. Whether you catch Josh Holmes solo or with his band, you are guaranteed an exciting musical experience. It is these live performances that have made Josh Holmes a favorite throughout the Midwest. Josh Holmes started touring and recording original music in 1998 releasing four CDs under his group name, The Josh Holmes Band, leading to thousands of CD sales.

November 2003 marked a change in the direction of Holmes when he released his first solo album under his own name, Josh Holmes, entitled, A Table 4 One. The launch was coordinated with a national radio market release, where it was extremely well received with numerous songs added to radio’s current rotation. A Table 4 One created a buzz among the commercial radio market and was picked up at popular Chicago, Indianapolis, New York, Tampa, Hawaii, San Diego and Atlanta commercial stations. This radio exposure, combined with the success of Josh’s CD at popular internet music sites ended up attracting Sony Pictures/ABC network to incorporate Josh’s song “Greener On the Other Side” into the season finale of their popular series, “Beautiful People.” All of this success would catch the eye of numerous record labels, and in 2004, Josh ended up signing a deal with Oarfin Records stationed in Minneapolis, MN.

After the success of A Table 4 One, Josh would tour relentlessly for the next five years around the US, sharing the stage with bands such as The Bodeans, Sister Hazel, Brett Michaels, Virginia Coalition, Marshall Tucker Band, Collective Soul, The Doobie Brothers, Rusted Root, the Crickets, among dozens of other national acts. After his seventh and eighth cd releases in 2008, the following year would mark a well deserved break for Josh, as he had previously averaged over 200 shows a year spanning a decade.

In 2010 and 2011, Holmes secured two opening slots for Huey Lewis and the News. During that time, Josh also shared the stage with Bobby Hendricks’ Drifters, Freddy Cannon, Charlie Gracie, Tommy Allsup and Dickey Lee at the annual “50s in February” event held in Clearlake, Iowa, commerating the lives of fallen rock legends Ritchie Valens, Buddy Holly, and the Big Bopper.

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Fivestar Deluxe

Jason Jeka – Vocals, Guitars
Steve Stasny – Guitars
Jeni Piaseczny – Bass
Jimmy Clausing – Drums

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The Abbey’s Monday Night Winter Bags League PLAYOFFS

Leslie — Mon, 02 Apr 2012 18:13:31 +0000

The Abbey's Monday Night Winter Bags League

Starting Feb. 13th
2 people per team, $25 per person
6 week tournament plus 2 weeks of playoffs
CASH PRIZES!!
Sign up at The Abbey Pub or email Leslie@abbeypub.com

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Ultraviolet Hippopotamus – Indobox

Leslie — Fri, 30 Mar 2012 07:11:54 +0000

Ultraviolet Hippopotamus

In an era which seems like everything has been done before, Ultraviolet Hippopotamus has carved themselves a niche sound of its own with genuinely heartfelt lyrics coupled with compelling composition and explosive instrumentation. The music created by this five piece band from Grand Rapids, MI is progressively diverse, often switching between genres throughout the course of a show. Sometimes even throughout the duration of a song. Their live shows have become an avenue for the band to build upon the core of their songs, exploring new ground, creating tension and taking risks for those moments of pure musical ecstacy, giving fans an original experience within every show.

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Indobox

From Boston, MA, and roots in Northeast PA, The Indobox is starting dance parties everywhere they go, bringing something they call Adventure Rock. Guitarists Joey Zarick and Mike Carter fuse psychedelic rock guitars with dirty dance beats from Steve Learson’s synths and Jules Jenssen’s drums, all with catchy hooks to sing along to.

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The Abbey’s Monday Night Winter Bags League PLAYOFFS

Leslie — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 18:13:02 +0000

The Abbey's Monday Night Winter Bags League

Starting Feb. 13th
2 people per team, $25 per person
6 week tournament plus 2 weeks of playoffs
CASH PRIZES!!
Sign up at The Abbey Pub or email Leslie@abbeypub.com

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The August – Dan Hubbard and The Humadors

Leslie — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 17:00:00 +0000

The August

The august are clearing their own path of music that runs between american roots and american pop music. Determined in their approach to define a strong musical identity, the august, put on a charging live show that is reminiscent of 70s era country rock infused with the pop sensibilities of today.

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Dan Hubbard

Illinois-based singer-songwriter Dan Hubbard has released six albums and toured extensively through the Midwest and both coasts. In the process, he’s built a strong fan base, become a refined songwriter and earned critical acclaim for his efforts. With its foundation in the classic sounds of Tom Petty, Van Morrison, Neil Young and Jackson Browne, Hubbard’s music incorporates folk, country, blues and even a little funk. With a dynamic and powerful voice, Hubbard carries songs of love, loss and soul searching (and occasionally getting drunk enough to forget it all). Like the influential front-men before him, Hubbard delivers a message that people can relate to in good times and bad.

In 2008, the Humadors joined Hubbard on the road. That fall, they released their acclaimed self-titled debut- a collection of songs showcasing graceful lyrics, vibrant melodies and innovative sound. Their 2010 release entitled See You Again received national airplay on over 120 radio stations, and climbed to #190 on the AMA charts. The band’s 2011 album The Love Show appeared on the Top 50 Roots Rock Chart and continues to receive national press and radio play. Dan Hubbard and The Humadors are currently touring the Midwest in support of The Love Show.

In an alternate universe, all country-rock is this vital and satisfying. – Oklahoma Gazette

These are the songs that make you want to crank the volume and go for a drive. Just don’t set the iPod on repeat or you may never come back. – Twangville.com

If you’re planning a trip to the heartland, keep an eye out for one of their shows – they look to be awfully rejuvenating. – San Diego Entertainer

No hyphens or hype, invented categories or inverted genres, just a guy writing good songs with a fine band backing him up. -Illinois Times

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Mr. Dave (Kids Show)

Leslie — Sat, 24 Mar 2012 14:00:18 +0000

Mr. Dave

Whilst leading 56 Hope Road, David has gained national acclaim for playing 1,000 shows from Maine to California.

Teaching Wiggleworms class opened Mr. Dave’s world to the love & joy that is created when kids & parents get involved in music. Certainly a natural with children, Dave continued to perform at parties and mini-concerts in between adult shows. After 5 years with wee ones, he released his 1st kids album, Mr. Dave, in 2003. A crowd favorite, it introduces traditional songs & simple interactive movements to toddlers.

David has an organic way of connecting with children & adults alike. His simplistic approach to writing & performing introduces them to the world of music in an uninhibited way. It is pure magic.

In 2009, Dave teamed up with Annie Dwyer, an early childhood advocate & founder of Loolatopia, A Children’s Company committed to keeping it real for kids 0-99. By joining forces, they were able to create a Mix of whimsical, upbeat originals that have lots to teach. Overnight, Dave was transformed into a music hero with a positive message.

With “gui-tar” in hand, David has just completed It’s Mr. Dave, his 2nd album for children. It is a collection of new classics that are sure to delight. Some claim they are downright super. Y’all are invited to come sing along

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EP3 – Bitch Please

Leslie — Thu, 22 Mar 2012 16:57:12 +0000

EP3

Hailing from Atlanta, GA, EP3 (Eight Planets Past Pluto) is armed to the teeth with inspired new material and a totally renovated live production by Music Matters. The band is constantly redefining their brand of live electronic music. Through heavy touring and lots of studio time, the band is reaching new ground each week. With a new EP and an expansive spring tour on the way, expect the unexpected!

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Bitch Please

Bitch Please is the ghetto glam bastard child of Atlanta based producer Charles F. Moreland III. It was hatched in the backwoods of Kentucky, when Charles wanted to combine his love for Top 40 R&B/Hip Hop mixed with his passion of creating bass driven beats and remixes. Ranging between electro, dubstep, drum n bass and house music, Bitch Please has no problem changing up the tempo several times during a set. The idea of Bitch Please is simple: Stunner shades, champaign flowing, fur coats, and surprise remixes and vocal samples that bring back memories of drinking boxed wine in your car and getting hype to the new Master P track blasting on the radio. Bitch Please has shared the stage with MiMOSA, PANTyRAiD, NastyNasty, The New Deal, Conspirator, Flying Lotus, Ana Sia, Boombox, Treasure Fingers, Eoto, Eliot Lipp, Nosaj Thing, Ooah (of The Glitch Mob), Kraddy, Dark Party, Evol Intent, Ott, and more.

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The Abbey’s Monday Night Winter Bags League

Leslie — Mon, 19 Mar 2012 18:12:19 +0000

The Abbey's Monday Night Winter Bags League

Starting Feb. 13th
2 people per team, $25 per person
6 week tournament plus 2 weeks of playoffs
CASH PRIZES!!
Sign up at The Abbey Pub or email Leslie@abbeypub.com

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The Abbey’s Annual St. Patrick’s Day Festival

Leslie — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 18:00:12 +0000

Schedule

8 a.m.- GAA Games LIVE from Ireland
9 a.m.- Bus transportation to Chicago’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade
12 p.m.- O’Hare School of Irish Dance
1 p.m.- Larry Nugent & Guests
6 p.m.- The Great Whiskey Project
9 p.m.- O’Hare School of Irish Dance
10 p.m.- Shannon Rovers Bag Pipers
11 p.m. The Sandcarvers

The Sand Carvers

The Sandcarvers have been hailed as one of the best Celtic rock bands in the country. The raucous six-piece hits the stage going ninety to the dozen, and their exuberant live show coupled with exhilarating fan interaction earn them rave reviews wherever they perform.

Combining strong solo voices and vocal harmonies with equally strong instrumental skill, The Sandcarvers write original songs that brilliantly tell stories from real life. They also put a wicked spin on traditional tunes from o’er the Pond, turning them inside-out and upside-down.

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Shannon Rovers Bag Pipers

We are the Shannon Rovers Irish Bagpipe Band. For over 75 years, the Rovers have been a cultural fixture in the Chicagoland area. From parades to politics, weddings to funerals, generation to generation, the Shannon Rovers have been there through it all, bringing the passion of Irish music with them.

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O'Hare School of Irish Dance

The O’Hare School of Irish Dance also teaches performance Irish dancing. Our classes at the Irish American Heritage Center combine competitive as well as performance Irish Dancing. Under the direction of World Champion/Riverdance performer Michael Belvitch, students are taught solo steps as well as traditional and progressive set dancing. As a troupe, the students are seen throughout the Chicagoland area performing for Irish festivals, weddings, celebrations and St. Patrick’s Day festivities.

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Kevin Flynn and the Avondale Ramblers

“We’re a Chicago-Irish band.” That’s how front man Kevin Flynn best describes the Celtic inspired sound of Kevin Flynn and The Avondale Ramblers. Based out of the Avondale neighborhood on Chicago’s north side, KF & The Ramblers bring a rollicking take on Gaelic music that reflects the working-class, religious, drunken, sometimes violent (yet always somewhat beautiful) aspects of their city. Though the band’s sound is steeped in the influence of traditional Irish music, their songs are anything but traditional…

“We kind of look at our music the same way Led Zeppelin looked at theirs,” says Flynn. “The basis of their sound was the blues – but they expanded on it. They took it into new and interesting areas. That’s what we try to do with Celtic/Gaelic music.” It’s certainly something they accomplish. Country, folk, gospel and rock seem to meld seamlessly with their Irish tunes. The lyrical perspective is also unique: “We’re from here – so our songs are about Chicago, not Ireland,” continues Flynn. “Instead of singing about Ireland’s pubs, rolling fields and characters we sing about the Harp & Shamrock, Michigan Avenue and Mayor Daley. We don’t sing with a brogue – we sing with our Midwestern accents.”

Along with lead singer/guitarist Kevin Flynn, the Avondale Ramblers are comprised of a stellar cast of veteran players from the Chicago music scene including members of MILLION YEN, NASH KATO BAND and MARY TYLER MORPHINE.

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The Great Whiskey Project

The Great Whiskey Project formed in 2010 when a soulful singer/songwriter and an explosive Irish fiddler teamed up with other Chicago musicians to fuse foot-stomping rythms with poignant melodies. The result is a contagious new sound that will make you want to stay for another drink.

The Great Whiskey Project loves to play great songs. They are less concerned about the genre that those songs fall into. They will play traditional Irish music, Johnny Cash, Gnarls Barkley, Elvis and The White Stripes in the same set. It all works together. They are most proud of their dozens of original songs. They are constantly writing.

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Larry Nugent and Guests

Laurence Nugent carries on a great tradition of virtuoso flute and whistle playing that has graced Irish music on both sides of the Atlantic. As an established performer and recording artist on the Celtic music circuit, Laurence has performed with scores of musicians, including The Chieftains, Shane McGowan, Van Morrison, The Drovers, The Green Fields of America, Martin Hayes, Dennis Cahill and Paddy Keenan. He has been a featured performer at Milwaukee Irish Fest, San Francisco Irish Fest, the Glen Echo Festival in Washington DC, the Willie Clancy Summer School in Ireland, and the International Flute Festival De Cornouaille Quimper in France. He has toured extensively throughout Ireland, the United States, Canada, Europe and Japan. His CDs (Laurence Nugent, Two For Two, and The Windy Gap, on Shanachie Records) have met with critical acclaim. On them, Laurence was joined by some of the greats of Irish music, including fiddle legends Kevin Burke and Liz Carroll, and guitarist Arty McGlynn. He has been heard extensively on radio, including A Prairie Home Companion, The Studs Terkel Show, and Ireland’s national network RTE. He also appears on the Shanachie recording Celtic Tapestry along with Solas, De Dannan, Clannad, Planxty and Silly Wizard. Laurence Nugent comes from the little village of Lack in County Fermanagh, an area steeped in the traditional arts of music, singing and storytelling. Not surprisingly, his first musical influences came from within his own family. His father Sean Nugent was an All-Ireland fiddle champion and leader of the Pride of Erin Ceili Band, one of the top Irish dance bands of its day, and Laurence grew up listening to some of the finest players in the land. Like many young musicians of his generation, Laurence entered many of the regional and national competitions held under the auspices of the Irish musicians association Comhaltas Ceoltoiri Eireann; he took first prize in junior competitions three times in the late 80′s, and went on to win the senior All Ireland Championships in 1994 and 1995. Since moving to Chicago in 1992, Laurence has played a large part in the local scene as an anchor and resource for traditional Irish music in the area. The informal music sessions he has led over the years in Chicago have been well-known for their fine quality of both music and hospitality. He has taught hundreds of students in private lessons, in classes at the Old Town School of Folk Music, and in workshops throughout the United States and Ireland.

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American English

Leslie — Sat, 17 Mar 2012 03:00:37 +0000

American English

American English is simply the best Beatle tribute story of our time. 3-Time Winners at Beatlefest, 4-Time Winners “Best of the Burbs, and Illinois Entertainer of the Year

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Country Night featuring: Back Country Roads & Jin and Tonic

Leslie — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 20:00:25 +0000

Back Country Roads

Back Country Roads is one of the Midwest’s hottest country bands, playing mostly new country, a few older classics, and a multitude of songs from other genres made to fit their unique sound. Back Country Roads, aka “BCR” was created in 2009, when Mary Noren and Kyle Miller began singing Karaokee together. They soon added mutual friend Brian Miller on guitar. They played for a while as an acoustic 3-piece band for local bars. After receiving great feedback on their sound, they decided that the band should expand in numbers. They then added Dave Miller on bass guitar, Jarred Klotz on drums, Dan Alfrey on keys and Hanna Mathey on fiddle. BCR never fails to give the audience a unique and entertaining show. Their vocal blend and talented musicians is what sets them apart from the rest. BCR has opened for acts such as Danny Gokey, Phil Vassar, Darryl Worley and David Lee Murphy. They have also played at Country Thunder Wisconsin in 2010 and 2011. BCR hopes to continue their success in expanding to other areas of Illinois and even other states. They are hitting the recording studio during their time off to record their first cd. If you’re looking for a good time, and want to see some great entertainers and musicians, come check out Back Country Roads. HERE

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Jin and Tonic

Jin & Tonic Band (JTB) is a full 7-piece country band unlike anything you have heard before: combining the power of three vocals (Jennifer Fletcher,Toni Siprut, and Dan Reyes), amazing musicianship, and includes a fiddle player. What gives them their unique and distinctive sound is their incredible three-part harmonies.

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Live Salsa Wednesdays

Leslie — Thu, 15 Mar 2012 00:20:33 +0000

Live Salsa Wednesdays

Come learn to salsa every Wednesday at The Abbey!

Doors are at 7:30, class begins at 8 with live entertainment afterwards!

Every Wednesday enjoy 20% off your meal, $4 Corona and $4 house wines.

Admission includes 1 drink ticket.

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The Abbey’s Monday Night Winter Bags League

Leslie — Mon, 12 Mar 2012 18:11:55 +0000

The Abbey's Monday Night Winter Bags League

Starting Feb. 13th
2 people per team, $25 per person
6 week tournament plus 2 weeks of playoffs
CASH PRIZES!!
Sign up at The Abbey Pub or email Leslie@abbeypub.com

Abbey Website Facebook MySpace Twitter

56 Hope Road – Elisa Grace – Chicago Farmer

Leslie — Sat, 10 Mar 2012 18:31:27 +0000

56 Hope Road

56 Hope Road is a band bonded like a family, and as a result, their music has an unmistakable honesty and openness. Uncanny, intuitive communication creates an easy interplay on stage, making even the most layered tunes sound effortless. They allow the joy of spontaneous creativity to color their song-based arrangements – neither losing their musical center, nor restricting its growth. The music is acoustic funk at its finest with sounds reminiscent of G-Love and Special Sauce, Richie Havens, MMW, Grateful Dead, Paul Simon and Gomez. This Chicago-based “acoustic funk explosion” is known for clever songwriting, lush vocal harmonies and one of the tightest rhythm sections on the scene. Formed in 1999, 56 Hope Road is made up of vocalist/guitarist Dave Hamilton, vocalist/pianist Tim Reid, Jr., drummer Greg Fundis, upright bassist Chad Sanders, saxophonist Casey Fitzpatrick, and often augmented by vocalist Anne Katzfey, and percussionist Matt Katzfey.

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Elisa Grace

Elisa Grace, is an American singer-songwriter whose debut, self-titled record was released independently on December 3, 2011. The soulful record has Country, R&B, and Gospel influences, coupled with strong pop melodies and a Classic Rock foundation that lend to her unique Pop/Alternative-Country sound. The LP was recorded in Los Angeles with Grammy-nominated producer Jamie Candiloro (R.E.M/Willie Nelson/The Eagles/Courtney Love/Ryan Adams) and features Marty Rifkin (Bruce Springsteen/Tom Petty/Jewel) on pedal steel, Ben Peeler (Shakira/The Wallflowers/Josh Kelley) on dobro, Lisa Germano (John Mellencamp/Simple Minds/Sheryl Crow) on violin, and Jamie Candiloro and Elisa Grace on all other instruments and voices. To order the album, hear final tracks and for more information visit www.elisagracemusic.com

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Chicago Farmer

Cody is a folk-singer’s folk-singer and a poet’s poet. He was born and bred in Delavan IL, population 25, surrounded by the endless skies of the American Midwest. Before moving to Chicago in 2003, Cody tried his hand at sessions in Nashville and carefully hewed and tested his art in college town bars and honky-tonks around the Midwest. He now plays regularly in the city and it’s not uncommon to see whole rooms full of strangers erupt and sing along to the choruses of his songs on their first listen (I’ve seen it happen). Cody’s voice is powerful and gritty, emotionally piercing while subtly imbuing additional layers of meaning and poignancy in his lyrical delivery. His song-writing is deeply rooted in the American Folk tradition and all of its grit but with a post Dylan sense of wit, perspicacity and that certain savior-faire. He didn’t go to college but he drank all of their beer.

Every folk-singer has to migrate to the city, in a way it seems to be hidden in definition of a folk singer anymore. Cody has come to remind Chicago that it is in Illinois. And to remind the rest of the world that when Louis Armstrong redefined, some say invented the art of Jazz in the 1920′s he brought his Hot Fives to Chicago to do it. When Robert Johnson wanted to put his Mississippi Mud on wax, his hellhound chased him to Chicago to do it. And same like, Cody has come to Chicago to deliver what it needs, when it isn’t even sure itself. He is currently recording a collection of songs from his vast back-catalog and performing across the heartland.

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Chi Town Get Down feat. Fifth World – Herbert Wiser Band – Indigo Sun

Leslie — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 07:18:56 +0000

Fifth World

Fifth World is a dance band fusing elements of funk, house, acid jazz, hip hop and electronica.

Fifth World came together in the Summer of 2007, their personel includes: Asif Wilson on keys & vocals; Nina Rae on vocals; Greg Firak on guitars & vocals; Patrick Dinnen on bass; David Kuchera on drums; Joe Larocca on woodwinds (sax, flute, & Ewi); and Xavier Galdon on Trombone; Drei “Sensei of Soul” Heward-Mills on vocals; Chris Paquette on percussion. The line up is augmented by band creator and manager Timothy “Smu” McCarthy III, lighting director Michael Lerman, and sound director Juan Garcia. 

The band’s name stems from the Mayan belief of an evolution of consciousness approaching in 2012. Their sound and lyrics are filled with positive messages for social and consciousness reform.

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Herbert Wiser Band

Keyboardist/ Vocalist Ryan Chamlin has been playing the keys for 17 years. Starting when he was in the 1st grade, he eventually attended Columbia College in Chicago studying music theory/composition. As a member of Bill Smith for 6 years, he definitely brings something very new to the HWB.

Lead Guitarist/Vocals Josh Crowley is a native of Bloomington, IL and spends his days playing religiously (for he is a righteous man). His alternating use of dizzying effects and lightning fast guitar work make for a unique style that, at times, makes it difficult to walk.  Bassist/Vocalist Matt Bradford is the shiest member of the band although you wouldn’t know it by his playing. Be it funk slap or straight jazz lines, Bradford always comes through with the goodness. He leaves audiences dazzled and hotel rooms devastated.  Drummer and Southside Native Kyle Davis has been playing drums since he was a young child. After studying drums for a year at Minneanapolis, MN, he decided to move back to Chicago, to pursue music in a more hands- on environment. He is also the only White Sox fan in the band, which is too bad for him.

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Indigo Sun

Indigo Sun is a Chicago based quartet whose sound dives deep into the realms of groove oriented electronica , enriched with funk, and a metaphysical connection leaving the listener with a profound feeling of transcendent joy.

The band consists of:

Kyle Liss – synthesizers, sequencing, and keyboards
Lucas Ellman- Tenor Saxophone and EWI
Mike Cantella – bass
Steve Florian – Drums.

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Kelsey Montanez – The Soundwalls – Drama Junkies – Dinosaur Party

Leslie — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 03:00:35 +0000

Kelsey Montanez

Kelsey Montanez is a singer/songwriter born out of Chicago, IL. Raised into a family of musicians, from an early age she has been exposed to the passion and pleasure music can bring and that joy can be heard in each delicately crafted song she writes. She began singing when she was merely four years old when her father would bring her to band practices and let her sing into the microphone. “ I remember sitting on the basement steps and watching my dad and his band build all these beautiful sounds. It felt like I was in a whole other world. That’s when I really began to understand that my purpose was to create music and that desire never left me.”

As Kelsey grew older her devotion to music remained and grew stronger. For years Kelsey played her fathers instruments in the small recording studio that he had set up in the basement, often times avoiding social situations and family events to continue experimenting with music. And seeing as Kelsey’s passion for music was not just a phase, her father and step-mother decided to buy her first electric guitar when she was thirteen years old. “ I was so elated I cried!” muses Kelsey. “ I began trying to form bands with friends in school. We would all sit in my room with our little amps and talk about how we were going to dominate the world with our music.” She reminisces. She began to write songs of her own since she first got her guitar and realized that she wrote the best when she was alone. The more and more Kelsey began to write songs, her father recognized a gift for writing as well as singing and bought her an acoustic guitar a year after she had picked up the electric. Kelsey had felt an instant connection with the acoustic and began to write more songs than ever before.

She was 14 when she played her first show at an empty little coffee shop in Lombard IL and has since worked her way up to headlining major venues in Chicago like the Elbo Room, The Beat Kitchen, Lakeshore Theatre, Kinetic Playground, Uncommon Ground and many other places in and around the Chicago land area. She accomplished all of this while still in high school as well as winning first place in her high school talent competition. Being the youngest to perform at Chicago’s MOBFEST, she has many other festivals and showcases under her belt as well, including Decibelle festival, women with Guitars, Villa Park Summerfest, chix that rock, and singer spotlight unplugged. She has also worked with noted producers Chris Sernel and Andy Lagis and has done work with Chicago based publishing group KMA Entertainment. She has also had drum tracks done by famous heavy metal rocker Charlie Benante of “Anthrax”.

After graduating high school in May of 2009, she took off on a cross-country road trip to the West Coast. “ I was never the kind of person who did well in predictable, routined patterns. Although I’m glad I graduated from high school I knew I wanted to experience so much more. So I left to play some of my music in a place I had never been before, surrounded by people and things I have never seen before” To her surprise she was very well received on the west coast where she had signed her first autographs and talked to so many people passionate in the same way she is! Being so far away from home she experiences a lot of things that is reflected in her music. She is currently in the studio preparing for her next demo to be released. In her new demo you will find the same experience driven lyrics and heartfelt vocals that is recognizable in every song Kelsey writes. For an 18 year old, Kelsey Montanez displays a profound amount of passion and a gift to infect her listeners with the same intensity, no matter where they came from or what stage of life they are in. As an unsigned, indpendent artist you can expect a long, and honorable career from this young indie songstress…

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The Soundwalls

The Soundwalls are an aggressive pop/rock band from the suburbs of Chicago, Illinois. All three members met in high school/grade school, playing in various bands with different members until the trio formed in January 2010.

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Drama Junkies

Drama Junkies create energetic, poetic and oftentimes angry music, defy description, exceed expectations, champion social injustice, rally against the rich and powerful, understand the Human condition, promote kindness, caring and dignity above all else, despise all forms of oppression and reject bigotry and hatred.”

It is this political musicality that has brought them into the forefront of Chicago’s legendary live circuit with their most recent CD “Not as pretty”. The list of clubs they have played include The House of Blues (with Spin Doctors), Martyr’s, the Elbo Room, the Abbey Pub and a multitude of storied venues.

Drama Junkies features past members of the Flock, Commander Cody, Illinois Speed Press, the James Cotton band and the Warbrides. Its members have also recorded withBuddy Miles, Jeff Marshall, Peabo Bryson, Maria Muldaur, Earl Hooker and more.

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Dinosaur Party

Dinosaur Party was formed when the raw spirit of rock and roll collided with the rogue beer asteroid over the City of Chicago. Casual observers to the blast, Zach Thomas, Kevin Dimpsey, and Chad Bennett were suddenly transformed into a trio of rockers with a taste for beer and mayhem unlike any the world has ever seen. They decided to get drunk and write riffs in the basement of a haunted house in Lincoln Square. Little did they know that Satan lived next door with his family and had turned into a total pussy. The music that flowed forth from the haunted basement filled Satan with so much rage that his demonic heart exploded, destroying the entire neighborhood. Shielded from the blast by the sacrifice of a friendly landlord, the band decided to take their sound to Lakeview and begin work on an album. As soon as the people on the street heard the gnarly rock coming from their third floor practice space, they demanded the band play at all of the local dive bars so that they could finally have some good music to get drunk to. The trio decided that the heavy, slow gallop of the guitar, groovy bass lines, and head crushing drumbeats called to mind the sound of an army of drunken dinosaurs. So, they decided to call themselves “Dinosaur Party” and bring the might of prehistoric rock to the thirsty music fans across the city. Now, they are almost done with their first album, so stay tuned and always, ALWAYS keep a beer in hand, because you never know where they might show up next.

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Live Salsa Wednesdays

Leslie — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 19:17:42 +0000

Live Salsa Wednesdays

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The Abbey’s Monday Night Winter Bags League

Leslie — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 18:11:17 +0000

The Abbey's Monday Night Winter Bags League

Starting Feb. 13th
2 people per team, $25 per person
6 week tournament plus 2 weeks of playoffs
CASH PRIZES!!
Sign up at The Abbey Pub or email Leslie@abbeypub.com

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Stellar Road – S. Joel Norman – 3 In Counting

Leslie — Sun, 04 Mar 2012 03:00:43 +0000

Stellar Road

Since brothers Jack and Michael Daly formed Stellar Road they have gone through much evolution. They’ve developed a love affair with songwriting and performing live in front of crowds, small and large, all across the U.S. They create a raw, eye opening, musically romantic and true experience for their listeners, with lyric and song at the forefront of their being. Their stories are those of love, life and loss woven into an unpredictable but meaningful canvas of music which is appreciated by all ages.

As their home Chicago and it’s neighbored cities caught on to their crafty pop-rock style and high energy live performances, Stellar Road started selling out local rooms and branching out to Midwestern college towns. As they turned the local page and started touring with additional musicians, local and national media started taking notice. Showcasing for Epic Records in L.A., opening slots for Bon Jovi, Nickelback & The Goo Goo Dolls, two successful independent releases, many battle of the bands competition crowns, and several national tours. Stellar Road’s enthusiasm and work ethic has never wavered.

After road-testing all of their initial material, in 2004 they released their debut album “Better Than Yesterday”. “B.T.Y.” was ranked in the top 5 albums of the year by Midwest Beat Magazine and has sold over 10,000 copies all over the globe. After a few months of touring for the album release, Stellar Road took a hiatus to write new music and find a collective group of more permanent band members to tour with. During their search for new musicians brothers Jack and Mike went back to their roots and started touring acoustically again.

In late 2006, Adrian Pacheco (bassist) was added to the SR Lineup. A short time later Maurice Jones (drums) was also acquired. They immediately gelled into what is now the newest edition of Stellar Road. The band started playing locally again to test and tweak new music that would end up on their 2009 self-titled release “stellar ROAD”. They celebrated their new independent album with a show at Chicago’s legendary Park West Theatre. Since then the band has toured relentlessly throughout the Midwest and East Coast. After spending the winter in Chicago and traveling for regional shows, they are eager to get back on the road to blanket the entire U.S. with their unique talents by the end of 2011.

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S. Joel Norman

For over ten years, multi-instrumentalist and composer S. Joel Norman has been fusing soul, rock, funk, blues, jazz, and roots music into the hybrid sound that has become his signature. Transcending trends, the mission has been to create an enjoyable, exoteric musical experience while maintaining a passionate depth in songwriting. It’s a mission that cares less for industry hype and more for crafting a community that values the sheer joy of excellent music.

S. Joel Norman began playing music at age four at the piano. “Mom probably got sick of me pounding on her antique piano as a toddler, so she put me in lessons,” he says. Hailing from the south suburbs of Chicago, Norman got his musical start playing and composing gospel music in the church. “Some of the guys who played there were also working musicians, and after playing a couple Sunday mornings with them they asked me to come play on Saturday nights with them. I was in junior high.”

He went on to study at Wheaton Conservatory of Music, where he was the first to perform juries with a valve trombone, the first to perform an all-jazz recital, and the first to receive a bachelors degree in a new field of study he tailored. He also composed and arranged pieces for orchestra, chorus, and jazz ensemble as well as scores to many Arena Theater productions, including The Madwoman of Chaillot and A Midsummer Night’s Dream. He was most recently commissioned by Northern Illinois University to compose original songs for their Shakespeare production of A Winter’s Tale. He also has won multiple awards at the Elmhurst Jazz Festival, was a tenor in the Northwest Indiana Symphony, played Chicago’s largest independent music festival at the historic Congress Theater, directed music at the largest RCA church in the world, and holds the all-time Wheaton College high score in the original Nintendo game Duck Hunt.

S. Joel Norman has also played alongside jazz greats Ira Sullivan and Mark Colby, as well as rock and roll heroes Billy Ozzello (Survivor) and Chip Znuff (Enuff Znuff), and acclaimed blues artist Jimmy Warren (CEO, Electro Glide Records). He has played all over North America, Europe, Japan, and New Zealand.

His new project, spearheaded by his EP live and studio hybrid album Take it in Stride, is already hailed by audiences and critics.

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3 In Counting

The Chicago suburbs are ripe with local bands trying to make a name for themselves. Glen Ellyn’s 3 In Counting stands out in that its star is already on the rise.

3 In Counting is an acoustic rock/pop/jam band from the Chicago suburbs, and since their formation in 2005 has worked hard to gain fans by crafting songs with interesting lyrics, seamless vocals, and well thought out instrumentation.

With a universal appeal and uncanny ability to enrapture fans of all ages and backgrounds, 3IC is often compared with such lauded acts as The Dave Matthews Band, Jason Mraz, Dispatch, Umphreys McGee, and O.A.R. Yet 3 In Counting has since diversified itself with a unique infusion of various musical backgrounds combined with an unrelenting dedication to the quality, originality, and integrity of their music.

At the core of 3 In Counting’s allure is their dynamic live show. Apparent to the audience is their love of the moment as 3IC performs with magnetic showmanship. With engaging and insightful lyrics, powerful vocals, and multi-dimensional instrumentation, 3IC unites their individual talents to rise above themselves, taking the music to new heights. At any moment one might be witness to a spontaneous, yet timely improvisation as the individual performances of each member coalesce into a cohesive, genre-defying, and cathartic musical euphoria.

As their exhilarating live shows enthralled more and more fans, demands for a studio album became increasingly fervent. 3IC was happy to oblige, and to the delight of their fans harnessed their creative energy in the studio and released their debut LP At the Edge (2011). The success of At The Edge confirms 3IC’s status as one of the most promising and exciting new acts from Chicago.

Not even old enough to have finished college, three hometown friends and original band members Michael Hayes (guitar/vocals), Evan Behmer (percussion) and Eric Csukor (keys) formed 3 in Counting. After writing and recording their first original songs, the band recruited Rob Kletsky (bass) in 2007 and later in 2010 Matt Hines (lead guitar and backing vocals). The band has also featured Chris Hagerman (saxophone), Allie Kral (fiddle/Cornmeal), Leah Pearl (vocals) and Aaron Williams (guitar) for both live and studio situations.

After 2 years of playing every bar and club that would book them, 3 In Counting had it’s first brush with notoriety when they entered and easily won the 2009 Ballydoyle Battle of the Bands contest in Aurora, the prize being a coveted spot on the stage of Aurora’s “Rock on the Fox” summer festival.

Since then the band has built a substantial fan base, attracted press, and gone on to play the Atlantic City Music Festival, The Miami Music Festival, and many premier Chicago venues like The Cubby Bear, The House of Blues, Double Door, Martyrs, and Schubas.

For 3IC, the mission and the message is about the music. They are committed to their collective dream to make a living making music, build a family of fans, continually perfect their craft and express themselves through their music.

If you want to hear what the forefront of the Chicago music scene sounds like, get your hands on the newly released “At The Edge” CD by 3 In Counting, available on iTunes and Amazon.com. Even better, get your groove on and attend one of the energetic 3IC live shows in a city near you!

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