From a place that’s not here, comes a band that will explore new reaches of the universe of rock. Where the limits of the imagination are not limited but unlimited. Experience astral riffs and cosmic grooves that put a warp in your beryllium sphere. If you want to hear something new this is for you. Venture into adventure, wander into wonder and believe.

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Bio – inger-songwriter Bob Palas founded Brouhaha in 2006 when he entered the music world via the digital ether. Focusing on a mix of quirky, crunchy and acoustic themes his Youtube and SoundCloud presence quickly gained attention after people started noticing the hook laden DIY esthetic that he poured into his songs. Joining him in harmony on the majority of his tracks during this time was Delay Evangeline – a lovely, young lady who wished to share her voice with the world but kept her face a secret. For now, Delay has gone into hiding. In 2011 an old friend of Bob’s found his music online and inquired about a collaboration. After a conversational feast at a local watering hole this old friend, Jeff George, would join Brouhaha and bring his progressive/pop esthetic into the mix. At this point Bob and Jeff craved the bombastic. A call was made and Marino Alejakis joined Brouhaha to help create the explosion. Marino brings with him an unbelievable dynamic sensibility that exponentially increases the explosive power of Brouhaha’s music.

In 2012 Brouhaha launched their official website www.brouhaharock.com. They are currently playing live shows in and around the Chicago land area and have plans to record in the fall.

Brouhaha is a love of melody, harmony and power.

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Balls To The Wall is comprised of some of the Midwest’s finest performing musicians, all degreed with years of national experience. Their performances are powerful and moving, one of North America’s premier tribute act’s.

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Today’s audiences are searching for something fresh, something new, something different. A.D.D., from humble Lockport, IL welcomes this challenge and gives rock fans hope of what’s been missing in today’s cookie-cutter world of music. This quintet, led by Margaret Young’s words of real-life’s hopes and failures, covers a cross-section of influences from the 70′s to the present. As heard on their 11 track CD, produced by Tadpole (3 Doors Down, Disturbed), their mix of lyrical passion and superb musicianship make for a great recipe for success.

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DMW is a five-piece music machine with JP Soule and Josh Barker trading leads and rhythms on the front line. Troll proves that the bass isn’t something to be shoved into the background with brilliant and talented grooves sure to keep you moving. Topped off with Kryssie Ridolfi’s bluesy-yet-rock’n'roll vocal styles, DMW promises to rock your face while you sing along. Recently seen opening for In This Moment, with their debut album “It Comes To This” flying off the shelves and a tour in the works, DEADMANSWAKE is about to show the world what the Chicago music scene really has to offer.

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“Burning Eve” has spent much of the past winter writing and rehearsing new material for their upcoming album expected in late August or early September. After its release, the band anticipates a short regional tour of the Midwest. Burning Eve consists of fiery vocalist; Toyah, and the other members, guitarist: Kenny and bassist; Jeremy, Guitarist: Michael from Chicago, Illinois. They have brought forth a new heart-pounding rhythmic sound.

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Persistence Of Memory is an up and coming hard rock band out of the Chicago land area. Singer Jennifer Imparato, Drummer Justin Luebeck, Lead Guitarist Dan Bikar, Rhythm Guitarist Grant Forkenbrock, and Bassist Keith Hensley join musical abilities together to create a dark melodic sound glorified by meaningful lyrics. With themes of love , loss, and life , POM reaches their audience through their ears and into their hearts. The band spent 2011 hitting the stage at local venues and expanding their already growing fan base and is currently working on their 13 song Album that should be recorded and mastered by Spring 2012.

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Well known for her voice in Mary and The Black Lamb, Lindz Riot is taking the reins yet again in her first ever solo effort “Schoolcraft”. Native to Canada, the classically trained vocalist and pianist draws new inspiration from nature, fantasy, electronic ambience, and symphonic orchestration. All while keeping the simplicity of piano driven pop ballads.

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Atlanta based Last Red Ransom formed in 2007. Charlotte Kelli on vocals, keyboard, guitar and programming, Saint on vocals, guitary, keyboard and programming, Adair on drums, and Zakk on bass.

Their debut album released in 2010, Sleep Well Sweet Vanity, can only be described as epic and is a splendid introduction to the world, says John Wiled with Rock Realm. “Sleep Well Sweet Vanity” features an intoxicating array of styles and emotions, says Tony Cannella of Femme Metal. The album unfolds like the soundtrack of a dream screaming to awake. SMWV moves seamlessly through melodic rock hooks, raw metal, and industrial soundscapes. The pounding aggression of “October” and the symphonic flair of “Lay Down” offers listeners an exciting array of material.

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Straight-lined hard rock band based in Chicago fronted by a female vocalist. All members of 4WITHOUT have many years of experience as musicians, playing all over Chicago and suburbans venues. The music is very energetic and powerful with nice vocal melodies. The overall sound of 4WITHOUT is very promising, it’s tight and catchy!

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Formed in December of 2008 by Mark Villanueva (Lead Vocals/Guitar), Justin Fernandez (Bass/Vocals), Gerald Bonus (Guitar/Vocals), Jackson Fabros (Guitar/Vocals), and Rick Madison (Drums). They recorded a 5-song Demo @ Apetrax Recording Studio and played a handful of shows before Gerald’s departure in September of 2010. In July of 2011, after a 10-month hiatus, Mark gave up his lead vocalist duties and the band recruited Deborah Villanueva, Mark’s wife, as the new frontwoman of Virulence Factor. Virulence Factor can be described as a female-fronted heavy/melodic metal band consisting of catchy riffs, strong vocal harmonies from all three vocalists, soaring leads from both guitarists, and a groove-driven rhythm section.

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In just a few brief years, Strange Arrangement has routinely filled larger venues throughout the MidWest as their ever evolving sound steadily gains more and more notoriety. Drawing on influences from the likes of Phish, Herbie Hancock, Umphreys McGee, and Wilco, a Strange Arrangement show will take an audience through several different musical genres touching upon jazz, funk, rockabilly, soul, and progressive and psychedelic rock. Opening for National Touring Acts such as Future Rock, Outformation, The New Mastersounds, and Umphreys McGee as well as performing at large festivals like Summer Camp, Hookahville, Hoxeyville, and North Coast Music Festival Strange Arrangement’s original brand of dance friendly progressive funk has music fans taking notice. The relationship Strange Arrangement shares with its ever growing audience is based around the idea of creating a moment in time where one can laugh, dance, sing, and connect with the band and its music.

The origins of Strange Arrangement can be traced back to 1996, when a friendship formed between keyboardist Joe Hettinga and drummer Bob Parlier when they were students in the music department at Lyons Township High School in LaGrange, IL. This original grouping also included Arie Buer on guitar and Mitch Manz on harmonica and percussion. The lineup would later become somewhat solidified when Kevin Barry, from neighboring High School Hinsdale Central, would join the band to play bass guitar. Through mutual friends, Jim Conry would eventually meet and join the band in 1998. Arie Buer and Manz would later leave the band in the Spring of 1998, and by the time Hettinga and Barry had graduated from High School in June of 1998 the Strange Arrangement combination of Conry, Barry, Hettinga, and Parlier was born.

From 1998 to 2000 Conry, Parlier, Hettinga, and Barry all attended the School for Music Vocation, created by Grammy Award Nominated Arranger Phil Mattson, in Creston, IA to study improvisational jazz theory and composition. Their education kept them busy traveling with different jazz ensembles playing prestigious venues like Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center in New York City. While learning the fundamentals of jazz performance, their education left little time for Strange Arrangement, with the exception of the occasional house party. In 2000, members of Strange Arrangement would go their separate ways when Barry, Parlier, and Conry moved to Boulder, CO to pursue various professional musician jobs, while Hettinga attended Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, MI to get his Bachelor of Arts Degree in Music.

The band would not officially regroup and start doing gigs as Strange Arrangement until the late part of 2006, when all four members found themselves back in Chicago for the first time since 2000. Hettinga and Conry shared an apartment in the Bucktown neighborhood where most of the debut full length album “Side x Side” was conceived and written. Recorded at Deer Tick Manor, in Michigan City, IN and mixed by Larry Millas at World Stage Studio, owned by Jim Peterik (Eye of the Tiger/Survivor/Ides of March), the self released “Side x Side” would come out in the winter of 2008. The release of the record would find Strange Arrangement touring exclusively in the Midwest nearly every weekend since.

Playing mostly small bars in Chicago and college towns in the MidWest since late 2007, Strange Arrangement watched its crowds grow more and more. By the end of the summer of 2009 they were opening for national touring acts like Umphreys McGee and Outformation, while playing bigger clubs in the same cities they had been frequenting over the last year and a half. 2010 found Strange Arrangement playing rooms like the House of Blues in Chicago, The Canopy Club in Champaign, IL, the Lafayette Theater in Lafayette, IN and several large festivals like Summer Camp, Hookahville, Rootwire, Hoxeyville, and North Coast Music Festival.

In October, 2010, original member and drummer Bob Parlier decided to leave Strange Arrangement to pursue his formal education in Percussion. While very sad to see Bob go, Strange Arrangement pressed on by promptly filling his seat with Steve Sinde at the beginning of November, 2010. Sinde grew up in the south suburbs of Chicago and was a member of Chicago late night jamband regular Tula. He is set to graduate in the spring of 2011 from Columbia College in Chicago with a degree in Percussion Performance.

In January, 2011, Strange Arrangement will release its second full length album “Polygraph” recorded and mixed at IV Labs Studios in Chicago, by Manny Sanchez (Umphreys McGee, Smashing Pumpkins, North Mississippi All Stars). The album marks a new chapter for Strange Arrangement autoand represents what the band has accomplished both professionally and personally since their release of “Side x Side”. An extensive tour in support of “Polygraph” will find Strange Arrangement playing larger clubs, theaters, and festivals throughout the MidWest in 2011 and on.

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Family Groove Company is a four piece band from Chicago that is turning heads and catching ears with a sound that is uncannily fresh, and live performances that simply envelop audiences in the fun, excitement and passion that the band radiates from the stage. Growing audiences everywhere FGC plays attest to the impact the band is making, as they bring the excitement of their live performances to ever growing venues, in more and more cities across the country. Appearances at most of the Midwest’s major music festivals (Summer Camp, 10,000 Lakes, Summerfest, Wakarusa) have helped along the way, the band’s steady shift from club dates to small theaters and music halls points to the great things to come, and the over 50,000 live CDs that have been distributed and traded all over the country speak for themselves. Family Groove Company is a band that music fans should not miss.

FGC integrates the groove sensibility developed by funk/jazz crossover artists like Herbie Hancock and Medeski, Martin, and Wood, with thoughtful, tight song writing that takes cues from the likes of Steely Dan and the Beatles. The result? An infectious, fresh sound the band calls “groove informed jazz/rock”. 2008 marked the release of not one, but two FGC records – the band’s first official live album, Live in Chicago (February), and the band’s third studio record, Models and Metrics (October). Live in Chicago captures the band where they are most comfortable, on stage in front of a live audience, and offers listeners a taste of the extraordinary experience fans have been enjoying at FGC performances for several years now. Models and Metrics represents the strongest statement FGC has made with a record to date. The album delivers high-energy rockers, touching moments of introspection, extraordinarily tight ensemble playing, and profoundly engaging twists and turns, both musically and lyrically.

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DrFameus is an electronic music project created by the versatile drummer, Allen Aucoin. Allen explores many realms with DrFameus ranging from breakbeats to drum ‘n’ bass to dubstep to techno/house. It is his ability to survey the crowd and then improvise that has allowed Aucoin to play in such diverse projects over the years.

Allen began his musical career not onstage, but instead in education and composition. This included instructing and writing for award winning percussion ensembles and teaching drum lessons. While attending Berklee College of Music in Boston Massachusetts Allen was given the nickname DrFameus and it has stuck ever since. Like so many of us, college was not exactly a punctual time for Allen. He became known as the guy that was famously late all the time; so much that a friend gave him the honorary doctorate, DrFameus.

After moving back to the southeast from Boston, Allen continued to work as a teacher and percussion instructor while touring with the band “Skydog Gyspy.” In 2005 Aucoin acquired his current role as the drummer for Philadelphia electronic act, the Disco Biscuits. Since winning the “drum off” held by the Biscuits in Atlantic City, Allen has played 450-500 shows with the quartet including shows at the Gorge Amphitheatre and Red Rocks Amphitheatre.

Keep an eye out for live shows and studio work from Drfameus!

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Tulsa, Oklahoma based Jacob Fred Jazz Odyssey is Brian Haas on piano, Josh Raymer on drums, Chris Combs on lap steel, and Jeff Harshbarger on double bass.

To say that JFJO’s music transcends boundaries and expands minds is an understatement. JFJO’s music generates an all-encompassing sensory experience for the listener. Since 1994, the JFJO collective has brought their impressionistic and improvisational vision from the Midwest’s Bible-Belt to many of the world’s finest music festivals and clubs.

Currently the band is on tour in support of their 20th album, entitled Stay Gold, released on their record label Kinnara Records. Continuing their evolution of the Red Dirt Jazz sound the album features “romantic melodies, rock breakdowns and impressionistic jazz.”

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Guitarist Harrison Birch and banjo player Chuck Oakton met each other in early 2001 when, during the talent portion of the Mr. Universe pageant, both contestants played the same song. The song was Bill Monroe’s ‘Real Life Blues’ and, embarrassing a moment though it was, an instant friendship was formed. They began playing as a duo. Then in the summer of 2002 Peter Briarwood, with whom Oakton had worked in the adult film ‘Shotgun Charlie,’ began sitting in on mandolin.  The sheer amount of picking was really getting on everyone’s nerves and the search began for a ‘long note’ instrument.  One afternoon outside of the 711 on Howard St., Chuck Oakton found fiddle player, Allen Ellwood, digging through garbage for his next meal.  Despite his foul stench and rancid attitude, Chuck knew he’d found the lead instrument the band was missing. Finally, in May 2003, bass fiddler Bradley Longwood blackmailed his way into the band and Sexfist was born. They have since taken Chicago by storm, amazing audiences with their high-energy, hard-driving picking and angelic harmony singing. Sexfist has won numerous awards and accolades including Third All-Time Highest Score on the Golden Tee game at the Oasis in Rogers Park, a citation in June 2005 by Officer Reginald A. White for disorderly conduct, and a 2007 Franky nomination for Best Supporting Actress. The band is not currently touring in support of its self-titled debut CD as they are not legally allowed to operate motor vehicles. You can however see the Fist live and in person every Tuesday night at The Abbey Pub, 3420 West Grace Street, Chicago, IL.

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The Twin Cats have been crushing dance floors with their distinct approach to fusion music since finalizing the lineup in 2004. Taking influence from funk, prog rock, jazz, and electronica, The Twin Cats’ sound is responsible for inducing spontaneous dance parties all across the Midwest. This Indianapolis-based band guarantees one thing……face melting funk in your face……….melting it

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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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Dopapod exists at the crossroads of full throttle intensity, deep pocket groove, intricate technicality, and limitless experimentation. With no regard towards limiting themselves to stylistic boundaries, the sound that emerges from the quartet both live and in the studio is as varied and diverse as the many influences that they adapt from. Their approach and commitment to complementing a distinct genre bending sound to top-notch musicianship has set them apart from many of their contemporaries and keeps music lovers eagerly returning to shows.

In the past two years, Dopapod has firmly planted seeds in music fan’s ears all up and down the East Coast and into the Midwest with their incessant touring schedule. Covering all this ground has seen the young, yet seasoned group make appearances at numerous festivals including Camp Bisco, Mountain Jam, Bonnaroo, Burning Man, Bear Creek, The Big Up, Rootwire, Strangecreek, and more. Their electric live showcase has been cultivating a fast growing, loyal fan base, and seen them share bills with artists such as Lotus, EOTO, Papadosio, Zach Deputy, Brothers Past, Yo Mama’s Big Fat Booty Band, Spam Allstars, Sam Kininger (Lettuce, Soulive), and Carl Palmer (Emerson, Lake, & Palmer).

Dopapod’s latest release, I Saw Live Dopapod, Evil Was I, is a candid representation of choice cuts from the first half of 2011. Recorded and mixed from multi track recordings, the album showcases the band at their very finest. From explosive disco jazz funk tracks like ‘Indian Grits’ and ‘Off the Cuff’ to wompy progstep rockers such as ‘French Bowling’ and ‘Freight Train’, the quartet’s compositional and improvisational splendor has been captured and put on display to offer a peak into the brainwork of their entrancing live experience. The crown jewel of the collection might be “Dazed and Confused” – an arrangement that shows the group’s simultaneous mastery at both synth-bass womp drops and guitar scorched classic rock wailing. Each track was carefully select, mixed, and mastered to showcase the full Dopapod gamut: new and old, premeditated and spontaneous, light and dark.

While the distant future reads plots for world domination, the near future will see Dopapod continuing to develop their craft both on the road and in the studio. With a heavy touring regimen in place to continue scouring the country, Drawn Onward, the second studio release, will be dropping at the blink of an eye, offering fresh takes on live favorites. Keep your eyes and ears peeled for the sonic whirlwind that will be coming to venues and stereos near you!

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Professor Fareed Haque recently returned from interstellar pan dimensional time travel, and has brought with him his new jazztronica trio MathGames! to earth and its environs.

MathGames! is Fareed Haque on classical and Moog guitars, Alex Austin on upright and electric bass, Greg Fundis on drums and electronics, with Craig Pessolano, visualist.

Moog guitar enthusiasts will not want to miss MathGames!, as the new and innovative instrument is featured throughout.

MathGames! made its debut at Chicago’s Mayne Stage theater in November of 2010. Watch the video below to see how this unique trio is transforming light and sound into a funktronica sweatbox. Combining the phenomenal skills of guitar master Fareed Haque with the wildly entertaining drumming of Greg Fundis, and the solid and sweet foundation supplied by Alex Austin, you get a MathGames! equation that will perplex but eventually satisfy your thirst for knowledge. Surprises are in store.

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Cosby Sweater is a new and vibrant voice in electronic music. The group is comprised of David Embry (DJ Embry-O, Embryonic Fluid) on production and vocals, Nicholas Gerlach (The Twin Cats) on Tenor Saxophone and EWI and Richard “Sleepy” Floyd (The Native Sun) on drums. Their strength lies in their high energy live shows and genre bending tracks. Cosby Sweater is already gaining momentum after just a few live shows and is working towards the release of their first EP in the coming months.

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Fusing a mix of funk, rock, jazz, and more, Spare Parts is a Chicago based group rapidly gaining international acclaim. An eclectic list of influences ranging from Weather Report to The Beatles fuel the creative engines of Spare Parts, both live and in the studio. In addition to their successful weekly residence at Alive One Chicago, the band has played at festivals from Wakarusa and Summer Camp, to Festival de Jazz in Lima, Peru to name a few. Spare Parts is sought after in every type of market, pleasing the discerning ears of music aficionados and general listeners.

The band’s broad musical scope has landed them opening spots for acts such as George Clinton, Snoop Dogg, Liquid Soul, Fareed Haque, Marco Benevento, and The Jazz Mandolin Project. Spare Parts has also shared the stage with artists including bassist Victor Wooten, SNL/Tower of Power saxophonist Lenny Picket, Jerry Garcia Band organist Melvin Seals, and Dirty Dozen Brass Band drummer Terrence Higgins.

Spare Parts has recently released their finest work to date on their album, “Trio”. The tracks receive regular airplay on jazz DJ Russ Davis’s “Moja Radio,” WXRT, WDCB, and other fine independent stations across the country. The band’s previous two albums “Exit 54” (2003) and “Brain Candy” (2006) have sold out of physical copies and enjoy continued radio play.

Spare Parts remains focused on expanding musical boundaries while attracting new listeners from all walks of life and leaving them thirsty for more. See you at the next show!

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Eumatik is a living, trance-inducing, funk-blasting, dance mechanism that stimulates the mind by being harmonically innovative and experimental, yet easily accessible in the conventions of modern electronica. What makes their approach to music so interesting is their ability to allure the listener with catchy hooks, slowly lead them outside their accustomed musical boundaries by means of developing harmony, and finally bring them back within a single composition. This is accomplished by fusing a diverse variety of musical techniques that range from jazz theory to 18th century counterpoint. Although their music is thoroughly composed, it contains lengthy sections of improvisation that make every live show unique. Eumatik brings elements of hip hop, funk, trance, jazz, dubstep and disco into ideas that reorder the perception of its own genre-based facade by tastefully covering an incredibly large range of musical concepts. Another important aspect that contributes to their thumb-print sound is their mix of vintage keyboards with ultra-modern sound design and synthesis.

As much of their time off-stage is spent organizing and maintaining a focused outlook on each composition, Eumatik is constantly looking for fresh and innovative ways to use music technology as a tool for improvisation. When they’re on-stage, they strive to keep the crowd dancing while making sure everything is melodically and harmonically interesting at the same time. While performing, the overall form and direction is controlled by Josh Lockwood, who utilizes Abelton Live along with an Akai MPK and APC. Jazz pianist, Ashton Kleemann, is constantly playing signature parts on various keyboards along with a MIDI-keyboard that Josh runs Ableton effects through. This MIDI-keyboard directly interacts with what is being played live to create a bizarre and unique atmosphere of band member communication. Mix in the organic sounds of their live drummer, Derek Shelton, and you hear the UFO-summoning, twist-bopping, trance-inducing, disco-fever-catching sounds that are Eumatik.

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Zmick’s unique sound can be described as a modern interpretation of progressive rock. A quartet hailing from Chicago, IL, they write an eclectic variety of heartfelt lyrical songs and instrumental music. Zmick’s lyrical sound is strongly influenced by soul funk, folk, and rock, while their instrumentals are influenced by jazz, fusion and electronica. Zmick creates music that is entertaining and broadly appealing yet still intellectually challenging for their listeners.

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Folk Rock / Jam Band / Psychedelic

There’s a little bit folky Dylan; a little bit Ray Davies (or Hermans Hermits) with a wacky carnival charm. This is their debut and is a very successful ambitious effort from a group of highly enthusiastic talented musicians..” – Di Kulka, WLUW Radio Show Host

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The day begins at 7:30. An alarm pops, playing T.I.’s Motivation. After breakfast and a shower, work begins at 9 a.m. Follow-ups with DJs and radio stations, getting the day’s business in line, staying connected with fans. A quick lunch launches him into his daily workout and right into the afternoon’s tasks: a meeting with manager Jason Garcia, laying down tracks at The Attic, doing overdubs and mixing with band FiveSTAR, and always time spent with the pen and the pad, the writer’s favorite tools.

What more do you need to know about Young General? We could talk lyrical ingenuity (“I’m so real, I could never spit a fake line/Ain’t nobody from the Chi got this much face time/Not since John Starks went baseline”) and freestyle chops, and I could direct you to the tracks, (including standouts White Sox Fitted and Never Love You) the video clips, the websites, tell you to play this-or-that and look out for such-and-such concert or project coming down the pipe. But that’s the payoff, the net, the long-earned result. If you want to know what the General is really about, know this: the talent is God-given, but the schedule is man-made. It’s a workaday life for this Minnesota-transplant, and he is only too happy to profess his love for the daily grind.

“I would sound sill-ay/rappin’ about puss-ay/jewels and ice/homey that’s not my life.” So spit the Minnesota Monster during the premier FiveSTAR recording session in March 2010. It was one of many reminders that hip-hop can be commercial without being commercialized, that MCs can keep it real by actually being real, that for Young General, the game is about combining the flow and the fun with the business and the branding. His talent for writing a strong hook? For riding the beat? For having the sack to jump in any cipher in any town and leave onlookers repeating his lines? That’s why he’s good. His commitment to the craft, the business, the day-in day-out of it all? That’s why he’ll be here for the long haul. Get up early, people. Young General’s doing work.

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MY BOY ELROY is the jaw-dropping Chicago-based DJ/Beat-Boxer of the world famous Acid Jazz pioneering group & Grammy nominated live act, Liquid Soul. His passion & dedication to his craft along w/his unique presentation quickly led him to open for a sold out show @The Riviera for the one & only Massive Attack. He’s shared the bill w/legendary greats of our times such as B.B. King & Stevie Wonder!

Since early 2000′s MY BOY ELROY has been an intricate part of the nation-wide collective, Every Starving Artists Productions (aka ESA), he’s currently the only mid-west representative. MY BOY ELROY is also the Music Director & DJ for the amazing Midnight Circus. He’s also making serious waves as part of the dynamic tag-team duo Dextrous Roy & as a member of the explosive show Digital Tape Machine, all while remaining the recording & touring DJ for Liquid Soul. Combining performance tactics with DJing his show is nothing to deny and sets a new standard for musical quality and entertainment value.

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There are many lessons that come from age and experience. When one discovers such a thing, there’s an inherent need to broadcast it to the world. This is that. With an eclectic variety of ages and experiences, Chicago based musicians Sidewalk Chalk are a force to be reckoned with

This emcee, singer, trio of keys, bass, and drums, horn section of trumpet and trombone, and tap-dancer are the evolution of Hip-Hop, Soul and Jazz superbly packaged into sounds that you’ve quite possibly never heard before. The legend Sam Cooke once sang, “Change is Gonna Come.” Musically, change is already here. Upon the heels of the release of their debut full-length album, “Corner Store” (released 3/6/12 and co-produced with Greg Magers of Lupe Fiasco’s The Cool), Sidewalk Chalk has already proven themselves worthy of a listen. They’re sure to satisfy the cravings of anyone in love with music and hungry for something different.

Musicality, honesty, and intellect are becoming harder to find. Thankfully, Sidewalk Chalk’s goal is to be heard by the world and inspire its inhabitants. Quickly on their way to becoming one of the most talented live bands of this generation, Sidewalk Chalk was named “Best Hip-Hop Act in Chicago of 2010″ by the Chicago Reader. The group’s Emcee, Rico Sisney, represented Chicago at the 2012 World Expo in Shanghai, China. They’ve been featured on CBS News Online, 2dopeboyz, and Guest of a Guest Los Angeles. On top of that, Sidewalk Chalk has shared the stage with artists such as J*Davey, Company of Thieves, Georgia Anne Muldrow, and ?uestlove of The Roots. Individually, members of the group have acted as musical director(s) for Brother Ali, toured with Jazzanova and played behind Buddy Guy and Talib Kweli.

So, wake up world and meet the rest of us at the “Corner Store.” We’ll be out front with Sidewalk Chalk.

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Categorization be damned, the Madison-based five piece, Steez, consisting of Matt Williams (keyboards/synthesizers/accordion), Steve Neary (guitar and vocals), Rob Bessert (drums), Chris Sell (bass), and Andrzej Benkowski (saxophone, keyboards, vocals) is — in the simplest terms and the most convenient definitions — a funk band, a jamband, a fusion band, a disco-fanged multi-beast, and a basket case.

Churning out their self-described Creepfunk, a high energy, danceable variety of funk — one uniquely laced with electronic and improvisational sensibilities – Steez has garnered a loyal following throughout the Midwest, winning contests to perform at both the 2008 Summer Camp and Rothbury Festival and performing to capacity crowds at rapidly growing venues . After receiving repeated acclaim for their live performances, which typically include a seamless weaving of thoughtfully composed originals and crowd pleasing covers spanning from Madonna to clever obscurities like Genialistid (Estonia), Steez is ready to take Creepfunk into the studio for their first full length LP.

Hoping to carve out a niche in the competitive jamband landscape, what really sets Steez apart is the camaraderie and endearing sense of humor. The band’s humble beginnings include getting banned for life from a venue after their first ever live performance, maneuvering a moped accident involving a parked car, and cruising the Midwest in the inspired 35 foot band bus, “Big Brown.” While it’s the original songs and taut musicianship that initially grab both fans’ and critics’ attention, the band’s personality keeps it.

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Brainchild is a band that combines the feeling of jazz & soul with the intensity of shredding guitar solos. Their growing list of original songs combined with a diverse selection of covers are a perfect blend of many styles of music. The best way to describe the sound is Brainchild. They are an up and coming band that’s out to melt your face. Recently they have been traveling the mid-west rocking out with bands like Sublime, Marshall Tucker Band, Oteil and the Peacemakers, 56 Hope Rd., Family Groove Co. and Groovatron. Playing regularly in Chicago and Indianapolis. A recent highlight was having special guest Kris Myers from Umphrey’s McGee sit in at the Kinetic Playground after show during their New Years run. Brainchild attended their seventh straight Summer Camp Music Festival this year and it was the best one yet!

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Marco Villarreal(g)
Buddy Pearson(b)
Waz Fox(p)
Bill Romer(d)
……ALL THINGS FREEK JOHNSON.

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Fresh Hops is a 6-piece band from the Tri-Town Area of Northwest Indiana. The band has played over 400 shows in 9 different states. After 4 years of being together, their sound continues to evolve, as the fans and family continue to grow. Fresh Hops has created a love for the “live” show, incorporating the concept of “having fun” as the main idea. Each show is different, consisting of a mixture of creative originals, and catchy/crafty instrumental cover songs. Fresh Hops puts the emphasis on real music while blending their influences into something brand new. The band celebrates the rich history of each instrument playing bluegrass/classical songs through the violin, classic soul/jazz with the tenor sax, and heavy metal with distorted guitars. Somewhere along the way all the elements combine to create a truly unforgettable experience.

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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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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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Listen my voice.

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Formed in August 2011, Shapes & Colors derived from the funk-fusion band, Raoul Duke, and is knocking down all barriers within the Live Electronic Music community. Consisting of Ramsey Zabout aka RamZ (production/ableton/synth), Matt Rezetko (drums/percussion), Jeremy Williams (bass/moog) and Lucas Ellman (EWI/Sax), Shapes & Colors continue to evolve and develop their unique blend of electronic production and live instrumentation.

The quartet delivers a collage of Glitch, Funk, Electro Soul, & Hip Hop beats. Lyrical samples from our favorite MC’s are often found in a “Shapes & Colors” set, along with growling bass lines, crackin’ live drums, and melodic synth lines.

Be on the look out for Shapes & Colors coming to a venue near you. You heard It here first…

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Madison, WI’s Jam/electronic band, Wook has drawn on influences from all genres. A mix of jam, progressive rock, singer songwriter roots, and electronic instrumentation, the group creates a sound that is ever changing. This youthful approach to music is mirrored by the youthfulness of the band. Only in their early twenties, Wook has seen great success with sharing their music for all to enjoy. Stressing a fun and inclusive atmosphere, Wook shows have grown to become a must-attend party. As the group continues on their musical path, it is clear that the best is yet to come!

Since 2008, Wook has been spreading it’s reach all over the Midwest, in markets like Minneapolis, Milwaukee, Madison, and Chicago. Participating in festivals such as Summer Camp (2010 & 2011), Jammin’ On The Wolf (2010 & 2011), and Grateful Garcia Gathering (2009, 2010 & 2011), and sharing the stage with acts like Conspirator, Future Rock, Family Groove Company, Strange Arrangement, Zach Deputy, Steez, Ultra Violet Hippopotamus, Roster McCabe, and The Coop, Wook has begun to carve out its own niche in the growing jam scene. Through their fresh take on instrumentation, song composition, and life, Wook inspires audiences and fans to join in the party and the music.

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The Mission of Tonal Caravan is to provide a positive environment to explore the world of today. Our means of achieving said goal is producing quality sound worthy of being explored. Our point is to bring people with a love of music out of the chaos of everything, and into the chaos of something unique that exists now.

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Dragon Wagon is led by Mandolin Virtuoso Troy Radikin and Guitarist/Singer Don Sicheneder. With multi-instrumentalist Rich Delcamp, Michael Bustos on bass, Fritz McGirr on percussion and the amazing Diana Ladio on fiddle, their live performance thrives with originality, humor and expert musicianship. Dragon Wagon truly is Michigan Roots music at its finest. Their sound can be described as bluegrass-folk rock with a shot of Irish Whiskey. Dragon Wagon thrives while playing live and never disappoint with their honest music and genuine crowd connection. They have played across the country, have been featured in many festivals and are currently nominated for a Detroit Music Award. Dragon Wagon is sure to bring an infectious energy that gets the crowd dancing and laughing along with one of Michigan’s premier Roots Music outfits. Hold on to your hats and get ready for a boot-stomping good time!

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Lou Shields is an Artist, Musician, Teacher and Skateboarder who has been living and working in the Chicago area his entire life. He has also traveled extensively and draws on life experiences when making his work. His music is rooted in pre and post war 20th century America with a 21st century perspective. He has a deep appreciation for Delta Blues, Country Blues, early Country and beyond. Shields continues that tradition with respect in the 21st century and transcends any specific genre. He released his first EP in the Spring of 2011 but has been making music for over 20 years.

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Following an eventful year in and out of the studio and on the road consistently, Matt Poss Band are steadily proving that overnight success can take a while to accomplish. It’s not unusual for new fans to think that this band suddenly just appeared out of nowhere, but in fact they’ve been paying their dues for many years, performing across the Midwest and continually improving on all fronts. New fans are drawn in by the songs, the musicianship and the dynamic live shows, but they’re retained primarily by the affable personalities in the band, as well as the honest images and feelings conjured up by the song lyrics.

Matt Poss Band’s most recent studio effort, entitled ‘Buy The Ticket, Take The Ride’, was released in November of 2011. Recorded in Nashville over the course of about a year and a half, it’s the fourth album to spring forth from the Matt Poss Band camp since 2003. About the new disc, band founder, primary songwriter and lead singer Matt Poss says: “This record definitely shows our growth in terms of songwriting, as well as an improved depth of musicianship, and we think our fans will really like it. The progress from the first record to this one is tremendous and we’re quite proud of it.”

In 2009 and 2010 Matt Poss Band successfully headlined the “Pickup Truck Tour” across the Midwest, and also managed to squeeze in trips to Kyrgyzstan, Saudi Arabia and Afghanistan to perform for U.S. troops in and around war zones.

In between the headlining dates and USO/AFE tours, the band has managed to open shows and share the stage with some heavy hitters over the last few years. Some of these would include Shooter Jennings, David Allan Coe, Cross Canadian Ragweed, Georgia Satellites, Blackberry Smoke, Lady Antebellum, Pat Green, Miranda Lambert, Gary Allan and Brantley Gilbert. “If we’re getting the calls,” says Matt, “we’ll continue to try to make it happen. We’re not too picky – we like to play.”

While the band strongly identifies with country music and continues to have success in that genre, it’s not an easily categorized crowd that appears at the shows. Loyal country fans show up in droves, but the band also appeals to lovers of rock, bluegrass and everything in between. Upon listening to many of the songs, it makes perfect sense, because the music is not easily categorized either. Quite appropriately, the band say they’ve composed a new slogan that goes something like this:

“Sounds like Country, Feels like Rock, Tastes like Chicken.”

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MaxSoul was born Max Arciniega in the great city of Chicago, home to some of the most creative and marketable Hip Hop artists including Kanye West, Common, and Lupe Fiasco. MaxSoul follows in their steps with his thought provoking lyrics, his concept driven songs and his eye catching stage shows. A spoken word artist, MaxSoul opened for Russell Simmons Def Poets at the Metro in Chicago after winning first place in a poetry slam. He brings the detail of words into all his songs creating a fresh, new, marketable sound to the Hip Hop community.

A veteran of the stage, MaxSoul is also an accomplished actor being featured on some of the biggest prime time shows including his recurring role on the Emmy Nominated show “Breaking Bad” on AMC, Guest Star roles on “Blue Bloods” on CBS “Lie to Me” on FOX “ER” on NBC “The Unit” on CBS, “Private Practice” on ABC, “Without a Trace” on CBS and “Lincoln Heights” on ABC Family to name a few. Max just wrapped his run of the Pulitzer Prize nominated play “Lydia” at The Mark Taper Forum in Los Angeles. ” MaxSoul also just wrapped a small role in Steven Soderbergh’s new film “Haywire” starring Michael Douglas, Channing Tatum, Antonio Banderas, and Gina Carano due out in early 2011.

He is currently filming a Guest Star role on the new ABC show “Off the Map” in Hawaii.

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Astonish joins the veteran hip-hop collective, the Molemen, as their youngest burgeoning emcee. Originally from Humboldt Park but now residing in Old Irving/Jefferson Park, Astonish embodies Chicago’s capacity to produce a street-smart lyricist with enough intelligent swagger to hold his own in the midst of both the thugs and the backpackers.

Having been reared in a diverse musical environment, Astonish gained a unique eclectic auditory experience that has helped him develop his balanced approach to music. Between the old-school soul records of his grandparents’ era, his father’s penchant for NWA, and his own musical delving with everything from Usher to Nas to Red Hot Chilli Peppers: Astonish’s rhymes convey a multitude of topics that reflects this musical heritage.

After gaining a street buzz as a younger teen, Astonish felt that he needed to restrain himself from putting out tracks without a proper network behind him to ensure that his first album wasn’t lost in a flood of underground releases and never heard. By biding his time, he was able to cultivate his craft and eventually gain the ear of the Moles, quickly earning their acceptance with his sincerity and the quality of his delivery.

With nearly six years of devoted rhyming under his belt, Astonish is in a solid position to quickly establish himself as one of Chicago hip-hop’s newly tiered breakthrough artists. One of his songs, “Broken Dreams”, focuses on his strong impulse to take advantage of the opportunities presented to him while they are still available, and not to let time pass him by. Having joined up with the legendary Molemen collective at the young age of 21, it is clear that he is wasting no time in taking advantage of a very strong opportunity to allow his dream of becoming an internationally respected emcee to be realized.

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There’s not everyday you find a 22 year old rapper who studies Aerospace Engineering at one of the top engineering universities in the nation; As a student at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign Timothy “TimBuckTu” Sanders childhood dream was to become an astronaut. He’s on track to complete his bachelors degree next year and receive his private pilot’s license. To say that he is a hard worker would be an understatement.

TimBuckTu was born in Chicago and moved around a lot as a child. This allowed him to see things from different perspectives and it gave him a strong sense of self and community. He say his love for music was the only thing that he could always depend on.

He describes his style of music as a melting pot when asked he says “my style is diverse”. Influenced by artist such as Nas, Jay-Z, Common, Talib Kweli & Andre 3000. TimBuckTu knows he has what it takes to be successful in the music business.

After releasing his latest project “TimMillion” the supporters helped reassure him of his goals. The single “D-Rose For The MVP” took off and gained world-wide attention. The song received over 100,000 downloads in a few weeks.

TimBuckTu has come along way since 2005 after creating his rap group Talk Of Chicago but there’s a lot more grounds to be gain. “I haven’t accomplished my goal, I have a ways to go”.

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“On their debut album Reservoir [2010], Great Divide issues a strong set of tunes steeped in American roots music, but nonetheless entirely modern in presentation. Inspired by the past but not indebted, the band filters this cocktail of blues, soul, and traditional rock – with nods to country, funk, and even reggae – through a contemporary rock and pop lens that makes the music entirely their own….” – Performer Magazine

Although they now call Chicago home, Great Divide formed in Ann Arbor, MI, cutting their debut album in the hallowed grounds of Detroit city. With over 100 shows under their belt that include multiple appearances at festivals (SXSW, North Coast Music Festival, Chicago Bluegrass & Blues Festival) and renowned venues across the midwest and east coast, Great Divide currently has its sights set on recording their much anticipated follow up album in early 2012

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Spero’s evocative melodies are conjured into a powerful, arousing encounter for the ears, heart and mind. A lifelong musician, Spero’s twenty plus years of defining his soul with a keyboard set the foundations for his becoming one of Chicago’s most exciting new artists on the Jazz scene. Formally trained in Jazz Piano and Music Composition, Spero will transform your perception of instrumental music, revolutionizing jazz fusion for truly unique listening experiences. Spero has recorded with the top echelon of hip-hop artists (from Jay Z’s producer Ski Beatz to Digital Underground founder Shock G), and performs with the very best of modern jazz, including Maurice Brown, Robert Irving III and Corey Wilkes. A caffeinated kick to the ear drums, Spero’s music will surely keep you buzzed.

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Leslie Beukelman is a young professional singer who originally hails from a small town outside of Chicago called Sandwich, Illinois. In 2005, she graduated with honors from Roosevelt University’s Chicago College of the Performing Arts with a Bachelor’s degree in jazz vocal performance. She has studied with Jackie Allen, Karrin Allyson and Patricia Barber among others. Since graduating, Leslie has gradually forged a central role in Chicago’s unique and vibrant music scene. She is a first-call musician in Chicago because of a rare gift for versatility, as well as a disciplined commitment to ongoing musical growth. Leslie prides herself on a willingness to create fresh, new music even while she honors and studies the music of the past. On any given night in Chicago, she could be leading her modern jazz quartet at the Jazz Showcase, performing with a swing-era big-band at Fitzgerald’s, belting out soul and R&B hits at the Drake Hotel, or pushing the experimental music envelope with her band Information Superhighway at Schubas. Regardless of the music or the setting, one of Leslie’s truly remarkable gifts is her ability to connect with any audience while drawing listeners in with her charisma, professionalism and extraordinary vocal command. She is favored by many of Chicago’s top jazz musicians for her ability to improvise at a high level, much like any instrumentalist. At only 28 years old, Leslie is a 4-time winner of the Union League Civic and Arts Foundation Jazz Improvisation Competition. In addition, she has been formally recognized at the IAJE regional conference in 2005, and has drawn praise from several of Chicago’s top media outlets, including the Chicago Tribune, the Chicago Reader, and Timeout magazine.

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Up-and-coming indie rockers Magatha Trysty are a power-pop force to be reckoned with. Based in Chicago and founded in 2009, this four-piece outfit is making its mark with narrative songwriting, undeniable hooks, and sweet boy/girl harmonies – delivered with a kinetic punch. Their exuberant live shows – featuring manic guitar riffage, tasteful keyboard color, witty lyrics, in-your-face delivery and bombastic rhythmic energy – bring their solid set of original music to the next level.

The husband-and-wife team of Christopher David (lead vocals/guitar) and Catherine Louise (lead vocals/keyboards) front the group, share lead vocals and songwriting duties, and exude an enthusiasm and connection that goes beyond the music. The commanding stage presence provided by Christopher and Catherine drives the infectious aural assault, and hometown rock veterans Billy Blastoff (bass) and John Monaghan (drums) round out the foursome, putting the “power” into this power-pop extravaganza.

Taking their cues from artists both old (Big Star, Cheap Trick) and new (The New Pornographers, The Decemberists), the band has been busy songwriting and playing shows throughout the Midwest, and debut album “Another Lovely Party” will be released in mid-2012.

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Power Pop with a Sunny Smile & a Black Heart

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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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Sarah Holtschlag’s songs are an uppercut as much as a french kiss. From fightin and truckin songs to woebegone lullabies about forget-you-not low-flying birds, her sounds charm as well as haunt, tilt as well as persuade.

In the growing up times, Sarah lived in the foothills of factory towers in mid-Michigan. There she learnt to play the singing saw (a 26″ stainless steel blade from ace hardware).

The Crosscuts are:
Chad Harrington (bass)
Josh Lerner (guitar)
Benjamin Miranda (drums).

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Pink Monkey was born with a saxophone player trying to sing, a techno dj playing bass, and a drummer just looking to play. After a bit of refinement and a merging of musical ideas Pink Monkey has created a unique genre crossing sound. Their original compositions combine acid jazz and punk rock, and their song library covers everything from jazz standards, to classic rock greats, to modern pop songs.

Since Pink Monkey’s inception, their approach to music has allowed them to play in both the Chicago jazz and rock circuits with the versatility to fit into intimate lounge settings or wow large crowds with high energy stage shows. The band has now become its own distinctive sounding jazz trio with limitless energy and acclaim from all musical circles.

Tim Koelling has been playing saxophone since the age of 11. Early experience with classical music gave way to a love of improvised music. After studying saxophone at Webster University in St. Louis and The University of Iowa he found himself in Chicago wanting to play his music without limits and trying to find like-minded collaborators. His love of performance, and desire to break the jazz perception has lead to sprained ankles and bruises, but gives the audience an experience like nothing else.

Michael Koelling has made the seamless transition to becoming a bassist. Formerly DJ Asterix based out of St. Louis, he moved to Chicago for a change of scenery. After moving into a sun-less apartment with Tim they started collaborating with a singer searching for different creative outlets. To fill out the bands sound he began playing bass to bring out his already honed skills in solid timing and stimulating grooves.

Nick Kokonas joined the band by answering an ill advised classified ad. Upon learning the jazz background of the brothers he fell flawlessly into the rhythm section, forming the beginning of Pink Monkey. Originally playing a multitude of hand percussion prior to moving into the jazz genre, he brings a new approach to the sound, but is also known to leave the kit to reveal his talents in other areas of music.

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Rivals layer lush harmonies and foot stomping energy with a head for lyrics and a nod to their outlaw country heroes.

Rivals draw influences from country, rock, blues and punk, Americana – The band drifts between genres weaving stories of rebels and sweethearts, heartbreaks and revenge.

Rivals usually play as a six piece, with a tight knit band of veteran players of the Chicago music scene on guitar, lap steel, and rhythm, and bringing in friends on mandolin, violin, harmonica, banjo and more. They play as an acoustic duo in select venues with Billy Watson on guitar and Alex Watson dividing time between guitar and washboard.

Rivals of the peacemaker has built a solid foundation on original music, a few choice covers and a rip roarin’ live show. Rivals have been featured artists on the Shure Give it Voice Tour, Rukus Radio, Taste of Madison, Q106 Country Showdown, The WBWI Hodag Country Pickoff, WNUR’s “Both Kinds” Show, and WLUW’s Razor and Di Show, and are currently completing their debut album to be released in the summer 2012.

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Sarah Holtschlag & the Crosscuts are from Chicago. Sarah Holtschlag’s songs are an uppercut as much as a french kiss. From fightin and truckin songs to woebegone lullabies about forget-you-not low-flying birds, her sounds charm as well as haunt, tilt as well as persuade. In the growing up times, Sarah lived in the foothills of factory towers in mid-Michigan. There she learnt to play the singing saw (a 26″ stainless steel blade from ace hardware).

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Versatile Chicago based singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, GRAHAM CZACH, fuses modern and progressive rock sensibilities with old school social consciousness and message driven music. The Chicago Music Award winner’s live band and debut album ‘Lucid’ feature: Kris Myers (Umphrey’s McGee) – drums, Matt Nelson (Lupe Fiasco) – keys, and Chris Siebold (Howard Levy) – guitars —plus brilliant artwork by album artist Jeff Jordan (The Mars Volta).

Currently celebrating the release of his independent debut album ‘Lucid’, featured on WXRT 93.1fm Chicago, Graham Czach (www.grahamczach.com) has also been a big part of The Windy City music scene for a number of years playing bass with the Chicago Afrobeat Project and many other bands. Graham received a nomination for The Deli Chicago’s Artist of the Month for September 2010 and his originality/versatility as both a musician and composer have earned him endorsements from two internationally recognized music equipment companies—D’Addario Strings and Eden Electronics/US Music Corp. Czach has also performed with the best in music including GRAMMY Award winners Paul Wertico and Howard Levy. He recently recorded double bass on GRAMMY winner Lupe Fiasco’s new album L.A.S.E.R.S.

If one was asked to characterize this music, this is what they would say you’re in for. Take Classic/Psychadelic rock (The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, CSNY, Pink Floyd) fuse with early 90′s Grunge and rock with social and political messages (Soundgarden, Pearl Jam, Tool, RATM) mix with modern Singer-Songwriter (Jeff Buckley) and top it off with some dark Melodic Rock (Radiohead).

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LOS VICIOS DE PAPA has quickly gained worldwide recognition, through hard work and a true love of Ska music, with shows from Los Angeles to Miami and planning an international tour. LVDP is also currently working in the studio on a new album.

In addition to helping kick-start a vibrant Chicago Latin Ska scene, LVDP is also heavily involved in non-for-profit community groups, regularly playing benefits for Zapatista communities, people with disabilities, independent cultural organizations, and radio stations.

LVDP lyrics tackle diverse issues, problems, and experiences that affect all of us: love, injustice, happiness, hope, and perseverance in life.

LOS VICIOS DE PAPA arranges Cumbia, Dancehall, Huapachon, Hip Hop, Metal and Reggae into their 2-Tone Ska, creating an intoxicating mix that whips fans into a dance-frenzy as soon as they begin.

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Any boss would be proud to promote The Employees, a Midwestern four piece alternative / rock band that has been climbing the musical corporate ladder in Chicago without taking a sick day. Clocking in over time working on their sophomore album release titled, Unemployed, the band has been hard at work putting the final tweaks on this new concept album. From the depression of our economy, unemployment, corruption, environmental disasters, flu epidemics, the death of the America dream, and wanting to escape from all of it, The Employees take us on a wild Ride. Who else to know better about the economy than The Employees in it?

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Afternoon Moon is an Illinois based progressive jam band that has been moving and shaking in the mid-west scene since 2009. From a place where you stare out into mysterious clouds and swear you can hear the corn grow; Afternoon Moon has been creating an interesting honest sound. Bridging the gaps between progressive flatland folk, Chicago blues, and psychedelic funk grooves and rhythms; the music is true organic rock n roll.

The band consists of three core members: Josh Daniels (vocals/guitar), Justin Crabb (percussion), Jordan Daniels (vocals/piano/organ/moog). Afternoon Moon would just like to focus on sharing their own ideas. What started as two brothers writing songs throughout the years has grown into an organic sound with Justin providing the heartbeat and Jordan and Josh’s infusion of inspiring lyrics and melodies

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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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