
Alexander Great
Thursday, May 15 • 5:00 PM
Alexander Great is a creative storyteller that weaves genres, influences, eras & ideas that spark curiosity into journeys full of soul. As a strategist, he explores his passion for storytelling & examining humanity. As a DJ, he unpacks his love for music & history - taking listeners on a trip across the diaspora. Collectively, he aims to mirror & magnetize communities, providing spaces for people to feel seen, inspired & cherished.
Virgin Hotels Chicago
203 N Wabash Ave
Chicago

DJ gnar
Thursday, May 15 • 5:00 PM
Neriya, or simply DJ gnar (@_gnar._) is a lover of all genres - growing up studying piano and jazz guitar before finding his way into the house music scene many years ago.
During the day, he works in product marketing helping to build the future of travel and in-person connection at TravelPerk.
Virgin Hotels Chicago
203 N Wabash Ave
Chicago

Supes Base
Thursday, May 15 • 5:00 PM
Supes Base - aka Justina Nguyen - is an experience strategist, cultural curator, and a good vibestigator who is passionate about making visceral connections with humans through music, empathy, and positive energy. With over a decade of classical repertoire and music theory + composition, she is able to transcend and blend a variety of genres to take people on an odyssey of movement.
The One Show Creative Week
450 W. 31st St. 7th Floor
New York, NY 10001
NYC

Tea Vibe
Thursday, May 15 • 5:00 PM
Aspiring DJ and music enthusiast embarking on a journey through the world of beats! I’m diving into the realm of DJing to share my unique perspective. From the pulsating rhythms of house to the infectious grooves of hip-hop, I’m on a mission to create unforgettable vibes.
The ADDY Awards
201 N State St 27th Floor, Chicago, IL 60601
Chicago

Heaven Malone
Thursday, May 15 • 5:00 PM
Moving to Chicago from New Orleans, Heaven Malone quickly became immersed in Chicago’s underground industrial and electro music scene. First throwing parties with the likes of Ministry and My Life With The Thrill Kill Kult and then DJing events with members of Echo & The Bunnymen, Bauhaus, The Smiths, and other 80s favs, as well as contemporary acts like LCD Soundsystem, Justice, Jared Leto, and Steve Aoki.
As the multi-media museum fashion exhibition “David Bowie Is” came to its first American showing, Heaven Malone partnered with the Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago to produce multiple launch events. These events generated the first acknowledgement about the exhibit opening by David Bowie and Iman.
Malone’s relationship with the MCA grew as he became the first-ever (and only) DJ for the Vernissage launch event of Chicago’s International Exposition of Contemporary & Modern Art – EXPO Chicago.
Malone also creative directed & produced Room 237: The Shining Pop-Up, featured in Esquire and trended in international press, Rhiannon: The Fleetwood Mac Pop-Up featured in VICE, as well as DJed the infamous Stranger Things Pop-Up, The Upside Down.
Each year, Heaven Malone returns to Cannes, France to DJ multiple dates along the French Riviera for the Cannes International Festival of Creativity.
The ADDY Awards
201 N State St 27th Floor, Chicago, IL 60601
Chicago

DayBreaker, Dead Dog, Violet Waves, New Divine
Friday, May 16 • 7:00 PM
Grab your earplugs, kids—this underground gig is about to blow the roof off. DayBreaker, Dead Dog, Violet Waves, and New Divine are converging in the belly of the local scene, promising an evening that will send seismic shocks through your eardrums and soul. DayBreaker’s wall of gritty guitar fuzz is set to collide head-on with Dead Dog's nihilistic punk poetry. Throw Violet Waves' ethereal dream-pop into the brew, then top it all off with New Divine's genre-bending electro beats and you've got a sonic soup that's both a feast and an assault on your senses. Pretentious posers might scoff, but those in the know understand that this isn't just another gig—it's a communion with the gods of the indie underworld. So ditch your Netflix queue, push away that lukewarm takeout, and step into the chaos of real, raw, electrifying music. Because missing this event? That's the real tragedy.
Bottom Lounge
1375 W. Lake St
Chicago 60607
House of Burlesque
Friday, May 16 • 8:00 PM
Throw out your preconceptions and buckle up for a night that will rattle your expectations. House of Burlesque is set to paint the town a new shade of audacious at the House of Blues Chicago. The doors swing open at 8 PM sharp, but the magic begins at 9 PM, when the lights dim, the room simmers with anticipation, and the first strum reverberates through the standing-room-only venue. This isn't your typical sloppy basement shoegaze or DIY synthpop soirée—this is the 21 AND OVER event that’s all about musical subversion with a side of style. Yes, there's a dress code (the House demands business casual), but consider this your golden ticket to swap out those worn-in flannel threads for something that screams "casual chic" instead. And bear in mind, the lineup is as fluid as a vinyl record in the sun—support acts may shift without notice. So if you're sick of predictable nights and itching for an escapade that's going to make your eardrums pulsate, dial 312.923.2000 and hitch a ride to the House. Trust me, your Monday-morning-self will thank you for this one.
Foundation Room at House of Blues Chicago
329 N Dearborn St
Chicago 60654

Matador Red & Brain Repair
Friday, May 16 • 9:00 PM
Matador Red & Brain Repair, two scene vanguards, are joining forces in what's shaping up to be the indie world's equivalent of a Super Blood Wolf Moon. Matador Red, oozing with raw, unfiltered emotion, their sound a churning sea of post-punk angst and alt-rock rebellion, meet Brain Repair's ethereal synth-infused murmurs, the aural antidote to your existential dread. Think Sonic Youth's grunge ethos meets the avant-garde electronica of Aphex Twin, but with a twist of their own idiosyncratic style. These bands don't make a setlist; they craft a soundscape that's going to reverberate in the hollows of your being long after the last chord has faded away. So mark your calendars, kids. This isn't just another gig. This is a baptism by distortion, a communion in the church of reverb, a manifesto of all things indie served on a platter of raw, pulsating soundwaves. Grab your leather jacket, don your darkest eyeliner, and leave your pretensions at the door. This might just be the sonic balm your jaded soul needs.
Cubby Bear
1059 West Addison
Chicago 60613

BEAUZ - Ages 21+
Friday, May 16 • 10:00 PM
BEAUZ is launching their sonic invasion, and you're invited. This dynamic duo brings electro-pop to the foreground, taking over the indie scene with an untouchable blend of moody, synth-heavy beats and emotive showers of lyricism. Forget your age—you're 21+ in the world of BEAUZ, where each track promises to be a pulsating journey into the underbelly of the human experience. Their immersive soundscape, which plays like a love letter to the shadowy corners of our psyche, is set to transform an ordinary night into an unforgettable trip down the rabbit hole of indie electro-pop. Don't be the one reading the reviews the next day—experience the dizzying highs and haunting lows of BEAUZ firsthand.
Sound Bar - Chicago
226 W Ontario Street
Chicago 60654

Armin Van Buuren (18+)
Friday, May 16 • 10:00 PM
As the very fabric of the underground music realm ripples with anticipation, Armin Van Buuren, the overlord of trance, is commencing a sonic invasion fit for the 18+ contingent with a discerning ear for the avant-garde. Forget your preconceived notions of the EDM scene; this isn't your typical pulsating pop fluff. Van Buuren is a maestro who curates symphonies of synth, ensnaring you in a mesmerizing trance that defies the laws of time and space. Expect sublime beats to permeate the room, intoxicating rhythms that will waltz with your soul, and existential explorations via electric pulses. This isn't just a gig—it's a testament to the transformative power of music. Step into Van Buuren's orbit and let yourself be transported to a parallel universe where sound is the only language. Ready to have your sonic sensibilities realigned?
Radius - Chicago
640 West Cermak Rd
Chicago 60616

Grelley Duvall Presents: Heaven
Friday, May 16 • 10:00 PM
If you needed to make plans for the night, now you have them. The effervescent showman Grelley Duvall is back on stage, this time presenting Heaven. Doors open at 9PM, but the real magic doesn't start until the clock strikes 10. Trust us, you're going to want to be there when it does. Grelley Duvall's performances are a colorful, kaleidoscopic cataclysm of sound and vision, fusing everything from shoegaze to synthpop, and creating something entirely their own. You might think you've seen it all, but Grelley Duvall's eclectic charms and musical prowess will make you think twice. Don't miss out on this one, folks. You'll have to hear it to believe it.
Empty Bottle
1035 N. Western Ave.
Chicago 60622
Peter Bjorn and John - Writer’s Block Tour 2025 with Spun Out
Saturday, May 17 • 8:00 PM
Cancel whatever mundane excuse for plans you've jotted in your Moleskine, because the prodigal sons of indie-pop are making a triumphant return. Peter Bjorn and John, the Swedish savants of infectious hooks and whistling solos, are resurrecting their era-defining album, Writer's Block, for a U.S. tour that's got the cool kids twitching. This is the band's first stateside spin in six years, and it's harmonizing with the 19th anniversary of their breakthrough LP - a record that had Pitchfork swooning and The Guardian reaching for second helpings. Remember "Young Folks"? Of course you do. That whistle is as synonymous with the mid-2000s as skinny jeans and ironic mustaches. Kanye and Drake sampled their tracks, and Azealia Banks couldn't resist jumping on "The Chills". This tour isn't just a nostalgia trip, it's a revisit of a time when indie-pop was king and PB&J were its crowned heads. So, dust off your band tees, re-cork that PBR, and get yourself to the gig - because missing out will be an indie sin worth seven years of bad gigs. For an up-to-date baptism in cool, head to www.peterbjornandjohn.com.
Thalia Hall
1807 S Allport St
Chicago 60608

Grelley Duvall Presents: Heaven
Saturday, May 17 • 9:00 PM
Get ready to ascend to another plane with Grelley Duvall as they present: Heaven. The event kicks off at 8PM, but we suggest you arrive fashionably late to truly soak in the ethereal ambiance. Haven't heard of Grelley Duvall yet? This is your chance to experience the band that's been silently echoing through the indie underworld, their psychedelic, synth-laden soundscapes offering a transcendental escape from the mundane. As the clock strikes 9PM, prepare for a celestial journey into shoegaze and synth-pop that's going to leave Heaven by Grelley Duvall as your newly discovered indie sanctuary. Forget Netflix and chill, this is a night for PBR and thrills.
Empty Bottle
1035 N. Western Ave.
Chicago 60622

The Rising Fall and Bagworm
Saturday, May 17 • 9:00 PM
Get ready to have your senses assaulted and your eardrums blessed: The Rising Fall and Bagworm are set to collide in a discordant symphony of soundwaves. The Rising Fall, famed for their labyrinthine blend of jangly indie rock and plaintive post-punk, are a sonic journey that makes you question the very essence of what indie music should be. Their layered guitar licks intermingle with raw, seductive vocals, creating an atmosphere that's as beguiling as it is jarring. Bagworm, on the other hand, is the antidote to your synth-pop saturation. Pruning away at the overproduced fluff, they're the purveyors of a gritty, organic sound born from a grungy basement somewhere in the darkest corners of Brooklyn. Their lo-fi, fuzz-infused anthems are a testament to the DIY ethos, reminding us of a time when music was less about algorithms and more about raw, unfiltered expression. In a world of Spotify-curated safety and algorithmic monotony, this sonic throwdown between The Rising Fall and Bagworm might just be the most refreshing noise you've heard in a while. So, put down the avocado toast, ditch the overpriced latte, and let the DIY spirit of indie music course through your veins once again.
Cubby Bear
1059 West Addison
Chicago 60613

Grelley Duvall Presents: Heaven
Sunday, May 18 • 9:00 PM
Looking to step into a shimmering, sonic dreamscape? Grab your faux leather jacket and slide into the ethereal audacity of Grelley Duvall Presents: Heaven this weekend. Imagine melting your ennui away in a synthesized symphony that dances between celestial shoegaze and a grittier, basement-grown synthpop. The doors open at 8PM, and by 9PM, you'll be immersed in aural textures that make your standard Spotify playlist seem monotonous. Expect a crowd as diverse as the sound: grungy indie kids, wide-eyed dream pop enthusiasts, and even that guy who always has the latest Substack gossip. From the first thrum of bass to the final echo of synth, this is a night that promises to redefine your concept of cool. Trust us, your Instagram stories can't afford for you to miss this.
Empty Bottle
1035 N. Western Ave.
Chicago 60622
Bartees Strange with Sloppy Jane
Wednesday, May 21 • 8:00 PM
Morphing through genres like a phantom in the night, Bartees Strange slathers his horrifyingly raw new album "Horror" in a spectral glow of fear, vulnerability, and bone-deep truth. Haunted by his past and inspired by a childhood steeped in scary stories, Strange has taken his queer, black, rural American experience and transformed it into a monstrous sonic tableau. This is an album birthed in terror, raised on Parliament Funkadelic, Fleetwood Mac, Teddy Pendergrass, and Neil Young, and matured in the melting pot of hip-hop, country, indie-rock, and house. Strange's latest offering, nurtured by musical wunderkinds Lawrence Rothman and Jack Antonoff, is an unhinged carnival ride through the deepest recesses of his psyche. It's an eerie album release party that promises to be as thrilling as it is soul-baring. If your idea of a night out is turning inward, ruminating on the prickly underbelly of the human experience, and witnessing a genre-bending artist at their most vulnerable, then this is your stop. Forget Netflix horror flicks - experiencing Bartees Strange live is the jump scare your jaded heart craves.
Thalia Hall
1807 S Allport St
Chicago 60608

Izidora Angel
Thursday, May 22 • 5:00 PM
Izidora Angel’s sets are equally inspired by her formative experiences in Chicago’s underground house scene as they are by her early ‘00s UK years exploring speed garage, drum’n’ bass, and trance. Izidora’s vintage sets celebrate the lyrical and melodic timelessness of dance music by bridging time, space, and cultures.
Virgin Hotels Chicago
203 N Wabash Ave
Chicago

Jet Blvck
Thursday, May 22 • 5:00 PM
Jet Blvck aka Jordan Hirsch began DJing at 21 towards the end of college and immediately fell in love with it, starting off DJing parties at his Fraternity, under the moniker “Katabang”. As Jordan developed, he realized he needed to learn how to produce music and build a real brand. This is where JET BLVCK Started.
JET BLVCK is a House music project, that the name itself sheds light on the direction of it. The “JET” can be a reference to the high bpm of Speed House produced by the Artist, and the “BLVCK” references the other side of the production, which is deep and dark. JET BLVCK also displays his brand on stage with an all-black get up, that includes a leather jacket and LED glasses.
As a Producer, JET BLVCK has had the opportunity to release a track on Chicago’s premier house music label, which is Gene Farris’s Farris Wheel Recordings. JET BLVCK has also released on Milwaukee’s premier house music label, Pharoah Phonix. JET BLVCK and his team look forward to continuing to build his brand and release a lot more genre bending music.
As a DJ, JET BLVCK has found success throughout the Midwest, sharing the stage with incredible artists such as: Ghastly, Grandtheft, Dada Life, Herobust, Dillon Nathaniel, Bijou, Valentino Khan, Codes, Moksi, Masteria, Mija, Fetish, and Capozzi. He has played at some notable venues including: The Miramar Theater in Milwaukee, Liquid Nightclub in Madison, Crucible Nightclub in Madison, and Cerise Rooftop at the Virgin Hotel in Chicago. JET BLVCK also played festivals including: Driftmore, and Outlander, as well as DJing for Red Bull for UW Madison’s end of year party.
Brands include: Leo Burnett, Red Bull, EY.
Virgin Hotels Chicago
203 N Wabash Ave
Chicago

Poster Children, Stomatopod!
Saturday, May 24 • 8:00 PM
Amidst the cacophony of mainstream sound, Poster Children, and Stomatopod! claim the spotlight as they prepare to slam into the underground circuit with the force of a musical meteor. A double bill that promises to be an exhilarating ride through the esoteric nooks of the indie scene, these bands are set to detonate the stage with their sonic prowess. Poster Children, a band that has defied categories, oscillates between raw punk energy and an ethereal soundscape, while Stomatopod! adds an unpredictable edge to the night with their genre-bending brew of post-punk and garage rock. Brace yourself for an evening of immersive melodies, beer-soaked mosh pits, and potent lyricism that will leave you questioning the confines of musical labels. If you've been yearning for a respite from the banality of algorithm-curated playlists, this is your chance to dive headfirst into the labyrinth of indie music brilliance. Don't succumb to the fear of missing out, be part of the revolution.
Bottom Lounge
1375 W. Lake St
Chicago 60607

Quicktastic
Thursday, May 29 • 5:00 PM
Nick McCord –known by fans as Quicktastic – is a music enthusiast whose fusion of nu-disco and funky-house tunes emit a groove so catchy, your limbs won’t physically be able to resist bouncing to the rhythm. Nick doesn’t just perform, he takes you on a Quicktastic Voyage.
Virgin Hotels Chicago
203 N Wabash Ave
Chicago
Solid Pink Disco with DJ Trixie
Thursday, May 29 • 6:00 PM
Ready to turn the dial up on your nocturnal exploits? Solid Pink Disco, helmed by the inimitable DJ Trixie, is offering a VIP package about as elusive as the perfect rhinestone-studded jumpsuit. This isn't kid's stuff, folks. Prepare for early entry into the venue, a smorgasbord of thrilling special guests, and first dibs on merch that would make even the most dedicated Discogs hoarder shake in their Doc Martens. And the cherry on this glitter sundae? A limited-edition Solid Pink Disco wig, so you can shake your money maker like the underground queen herself, Trixie. Remember to lace up those dancing kicks, because this is an all-night, serotonin-sapping, synth-drenched soiree. And who leads us into the dawn? None other than Trixie, closing out the event with a set destined to become local legend. The package includes a GA ticket, but what it really delivers is an antidote to your festering ennui. You ready to RSVP to the party of the year?
The Salt Shed Outdoors (Fairgrounds)
1357 N Elston Ave
Chicago 60642

Wolfram w/ HERvana and Foo La La
Friday, May 30 • 8:00 PM
Ready to wash down your ennui with a shot of pure, unadulterated synth-fueled excitement? Wolfram is setting up shop this weekend, and trust me, your couch doesn't hold a candle to this. We're talking vinyl-crackling, dancefloor-shaking, heart rate-spiking synthpop that'll have your neurons firing faster than a one-man band in a caffeine-fuelled frenzy. But wait, there's more: HERvana is on the lineup, the avant-rock rebels who've been throwing sonic Molotovs in the face of mainstream mediocrity since their breakout basement gig in '18. Their blend of grungy catharsis and melodic hooks is the stuff of 3 AM existential revelations. And to top it off? Foo La La, the conceptual cover band that's never met a '90s rock anthem they couldn't rework into a surreal, genre-defying dreamscape. Picture this: Dave Grohl's raw, unfiltered energy zapped into a DIY synth-pop songcraft. Yeah, it's as wild as it sounds. So suit up in your finest flannel, your sharpest leather jacket, or whatever sartorial rebellion speaks to your soul. This ain't a night to miss. This is a night to tell your grandkids about, as they roll their eyes and wonder if grandpa's gone off his rocker again.
Cubby Bear
1059 West Addison
Chicago 60613

SWANFEST 2025 FEAT. DANCE GAVIN DANCE & FRIENDS
Saturday, May 31 • 2:00 PM
Bust out those earplugs and prepare for sensory overload – SWANFEST 2025 is about to turn the Aragon Ballroom into a post-hardcore playground. Curated by the sonic maestros of Dance Gavin Dance, expect a wild, genre-blurring ride that'll make you question your everyday playlists. This is no mere gig, it's a DIY symphony set to the beat of frenetic riffs, impassioned vocals and the occasional synth-driven serenade. And in true "house party" fashion, it's an all-ages affair—no pretenses, just pure, unadulterated raw energy. Oh, and did we mention it's standing room only? Because nothing says "live music" like bruised shins and the sweet, sweet stench of crowd-surfing adrenaline. Just remember: re-entry is a no-go, but who'd want to step outside when the real magic's unfolding within these hallowed halls? Grab your tickets, leave your inhibitions at the door, and immerse yourself in the dissonant wonder that is SWANFEST 2025.
Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom
1106 W Lawrence
Chicago 60640
Preoccupations / Still Depths
Saturday, May 31 • 9:00 PM
Brace yourself, audial explorers—the post-punk prophets Preoccupations are crashing into town like a rogue wave of art-rock adrenaline. And if that doesn't quicken your pulse, the enigmatic Still Depths will be churning the depths of their moody, synth-soaked soundscapes. Doors swing open at 8PM—with the first sonic assault launching at 9PM. This is a 21+ event; a night of maturity soaked in malt whiskey and hazy reverb. This is not just another night—it's THE night. The night where you'll find yourself lost in a labyrinth of layered guitar riffs, hypnotic bass lines, and raw, unfiltered passion. If you're not here, you're nowhere.
Empty Bottle
1035 N. Western Ave.
Chicago 60622
ONE OK ROCK DETOX NORTH AMERICAN TOUR 2025
Friday, June 6 • 8:00 PM
Get ready for the angst-filled crescendo of your dreams. ONE OK ROCK is bringing their idiosyncratic brand of J-Rock to the Aragon Ballroom for the DETOX North American Tour 2025. Known for their kinetic, high-octane performances, this is the band that's been lighting up basement gigs from Tokyo to Brooklyn and resonating with every disenchanted youth in between. Experience the reverberation of their passionate lyrics, raw riffs, and fervent fans in a venue that's as legendary as it gets. Standing room only means you'll be right in the thick of things, a mere guitar pick's throw from the stage. Remember, this gig is all ages—so whether you're a punky Gen Z or a nostalgic millennial, there's a spot in the mosh pit with your name on it. No re-entry means no escaping the intoxicating allure of ONE OK ROCK. This is the kind of night that you'll be bragging about to the uninitiated for years to come. Roll up your flannel sleeves, dust off your Doc Martens, and prepare for a night of raucous revelry.
Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom
1106 W Lawrence
Chicago 60640

Eliza & The Delusionals
Saturday, June 7 • 7:00 PM
Are you ready to be sonically transported to the golden shores of Australia without leaving your comfort zone? The best way to do this? A night bathed in the sun-drenched indie pop sounds of Eliza & The Delusionals, a band that's been spinning melodic webs across the global music scene. Their sound is a vibrant mix of emotive lyricism, jangly guitars, and a driving rhythm section that's as addictive as caffeine on a Monday morning. If your ears have been yearning for the perfect blend of 90s alt-rock and modern indie pop, look no further. Prepare to be ensnared by their infectious hooks and relatable narratives of love, loss, and everything in between. Consider this your invite to the most scintillating sonic odyssey. Do yourself a favor; don't miss out.
Reggie's Rock Club
2105 South State Street
Chicago 60616
Breathe Carolina - Ages 21+
Saturday, June 14 • 10:00 PM
Get ready to shake off your ennui and plunge headfirst into an electrifying mix of electro-pop, punk, and EDM with Breathe Carolina. This isn't your run-of-the-mill, watered-down mainstream sound. This duo, hailing from the Mile High City, doesn't just push boundaries—they shatter them. With their genre-defying sonics and feverish live performances, they're a band who understands that music is an experience, not just a background noise. And if that doesn't rattle your jaded bones, you'll be among the privileged 21+ crowd, adding that extra layer of exclusivity. Let Breathe Carolina remind you why you fell in love with music in the first place.
Sound Bar - Chicago
226 W Ontario Street
Chicago 60654
Provoker - mausoleum tour 'In the Round' with support from RIP Swirl and Faerybabyy
Sunday, June 15 • 8:00 PM
Summon the spirits for a night of supernatural synth-pop as Provoker bring their 'Mausoleum' tour 'In the Round.' The LA trio, known for haunting melodies and spectral storytelling, are ready to haunt your ear canals with tracks from their latest album that echo of dead selves and personal demons, all wrapped up in a gloomy metropolis of their own making. With support from RIP Swirl and Faerybabyy, this isn't just a gig - it's an immersive indie experience. Expect a sonic séance brimming with synth shadows, crystalline beats, and smoky vocals, all amplified to a new level of grandeur under the watchful eye of esteemed producer Kenny Beats. Don’t be the ghost who misses out. Join Provoker, give a nod to the apparitions that follow us, and perhaps exorcise a few of your own.
Thalia Hall
1807 S Allport St
Chicago 60608

Aviram, Tba
Sunday, June 15 • 8:00 PM
Riding the cresting wave of the underground indie scene comes Aviram, a band so fresh, so raw, your outdated Spotify playlists are already quaking in their digital boots. With a sound that's equal parts evocative post-punk and 60s-inspired psychedelic rock, this is the show that'll make you feel like you're finally catching up to the zeitgeist, instead of perpetually chasing it. And that's just half the bill. The enigmatic 'Tba' are slated to throw us into heady, mysterious musical realms. Known for their unique blend of ambient synth-pop and shoegaze, their performances are as intense and unpredictable as a David Lynch film, compelling enough to make you put down your craft beer and succumb to the rhythmic trance. So, prepare for an evening of aural exploration that's more thrilling than scrolling through your ex's Instagram story while nursing your third espresso martini. This isn't just a gig, it's a sonic rite of passage. You don't want to be the one re-reading this blurb post-event, do you?
Reggie's Rock Club
2105 South State Street
Chicago 60616

DJ SD
Monday, June 16 • 5:00 PM
Grammy winner DJ SD creates sets that transcend trends, taking crowds on musical journeys from yesterday to today, around the world and from the top forty to deep cuts. He specializes in musical alchemy, creating gold from a series of tracks that may evolve from Hall and Oates to WuTang. DJ SD has performed on every continent except Antarctica, from Barcelona to Miami to Tokyo, Auckland to LA to Rio, Miami to Senegal to Santo Domingo. Notable performances in Paris, Cannes, London, Cabo, Chicago, Toronto, New York and Cape Town have established him as a premier DJ for premium events. His travels have allowed him to create a sound incorporating the best from around the globe, crossing borders and eras.
As his reputation has grown, doors have been opened to deeper artistic experiences. With his partner Jus One, he has produced and remixed tracks for world-famous artists. He founded Bento Entertainment, a studio specializing in Film/Video Production, Sound Design, and Musical Orchestration. Also, he was Executive Producer/Director for themojamoja.com. Each year, in partnership with Garth Trinidad, DJ SD produced and directed their signature event, the Pre-Grammy Brunch. Most recently DJ SD spun in South Africa at Athletic Club & Social and with D-Nice at Club Quarantine NYC.
In addition to djing, directing and mixing, DJ SD is an award-winning producer who has released remixes for Feist, Santigold and Ne-Yo and an executive producer creating live experiences including the opening and closing night galas at the Cannes Festival, Kevin Hart’s HartBeat Weekend which was highlighted by a private concert by Drake and stunts and events for dozens of global brands.
Cannes Lions
Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, 1 Bd de la Croisette, 06400
Cannes

DJ SD
Tuesday, June 17 • 5:00 PM
Grammy winner DJ SD creates sets that transcend trends, taking crowds on musical journeys from yesterday to today, around the world and from the top forty to deep cuts. He specializes in musical alchemy, creating gold from a series of tracks that may evolve from Hall and Oates to WuTang. DJ SD has performed on every continent except Antarctica, from Barcelona to Miami to Tokyo, Auckland to LA to Rio, Miami to Senegal to Santo Domingo. Notable performances in Paris, Cannes, London, Cabo, Chicago, Toronto, New York and Cape Town have established him as a premier DJ for premium events. His travels have allowed him to create a sound incorporating the best from around the globe, crossing borders and eras.
As his reputation has grown, doors have been opened to deeper artistic experiences. With his partner Jus One, he has produced and remixed tracks for world-famous artists. He founded Bento Entertainment, a studio specializing in Film/Video Production, Sound Design, and Musical Orchestration. Also, he was Executive Producer/Director for themojamoja.com. Each year, in partnership with Garth Trinidad, DJ SD produced and directed their signature event, the Pre-Grammy Brunch. Most recently DJ SD spun in South Africa at Athletic Club & Social and with D-Nice at Club Quarantine NYC.
In addition to djing, directing and mixing, DJ SD is an award-winning producer who has released remixes for Feist, Santigold and Ne-Yo and an executive producer creating live experiences including the opening and closing night galas at the Cannes Festival, Kevin Hart’s HartBeat Weekend which was highlighted by a private concert by Drake and stunts and events for dozens of global brands.
Cannes Lions
Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, 1 Bd de la Croisette, 06400
Cannes

DJ SD
Wednesday, June 18 • 5:00 PM
Grammy winner DJ SD creates sets that transcend trends, taking crowds on musical journeys from yesterday to today, around the world and from the top forty to deep cuts. He specializes in musical alchemy, creating gold from a series of tracks that may evolve from Hall and Oates to WuTang. DJ SD has performed on every continent except Antarctica, from Barcelona to Miami to Tokyo, Auckland to LA to Rio, Miami to Senegal to Santo Domingo. Notable performances in Paris, Cannes, London, Cabo, Chicago, Toronto, New York and Cape Town have established him as a premier DJ for premium events. His travels have allowed him to create a sound incorporating the best from around the globe, crossing borders and eras.
As his reputation has grown, doors have been opened to deeper artistic experiences. With his partner Jus One, he has produced and remixed tracks for world-famous artists. He founded Bento Entertainment, a studio specializing in Film/Video Production, Sound Design, and Musical Orchestration. Also, he was Executive Producer/Director for themojamoja.com. Each year, in partnership with Garth Trinidad, DJ SD produced and directed their signature event, the Pre-Grammy Brunch. Most recently DJ SD spun in South Africa at Athletic Club & Social and with D-Nice at Club Quarantine NYC.
In addition to djing, directing and mixing, DJ SD is an award-winning producer who has released remixes for Feist, Santigold and Ne-Yo and an executive producer creating live experiences including the opening and closing night galas at the Cannes Festival, Kevin Hart’s HartBeat Weekend which was highlighted by a private concert by Drake and stunts and events for dozens of global brands.
Cannes Lions
Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, 1 Bd de la Croisette, 06400
Cannes

Police State
Thursday, June 19 • 5:00 PM
ShamPain Wishes (aka Police State) is an Artist, DJ and man-about-town who wears many hats. Though you may never know what exactly he’ll play during a set, you can rest assured that you’ll be taken on a sonic journey touching cities from Chicago to London, Detroit to Rio de Janeiro and wherever else the music is banging and bodies are moving. Whether breaking new records or paying homage to classics and deep cuts, you’re for sure to be entertained and possibly educated when they’re curating the vibe!
Virgin Hotels Chicago
203 N Wabash Ave
Chicago

DJ SD
Thursday, June 19 • 5:00 PM
Grammy winner DJ SD creates sets that transcend trends, taking crowds on musical journeys from yesterday to today, around the world and from the top forty to deep cuts. He specializes in musical alchemy, creating gold from a series of tracks that may evolve from Hall and Oates to WuTang. DJ SD has performed on every continent except Antarctica, from Barcelona to Miami to Tokyo, Auckland to LA to Rio, Miami to Senegal to Santo Domingo. Notable performances in Paris, Cannes, London, Cabo, Chicago, Toronto, New York and Cape Town have established him as a premier DJ for premium events. His travels have allowed him to create a sound incorporating the best from around the globe, crossing borders and eras.
As his reputation has grown, doors have been opened to deeper artistic experiences. With his partner Jus One, he has produced and remixed tracks for world-famous artists. He founded Bento Entertainment, a studio specializing in Film/Video Production, Sound Design, and Musical Orchestration. Also, he was Executive Producer/Director for themojamoja.com. Each year, in partnership with Garth Trinidad, DJ SD produced and directed their signature event, the Pre-Grammy Brunch. Most recently DJ SD spun in South Africa at Athletic Club & Social and with D-Nice at Club Quarantine NYC.
In addition to djing, directing and mixing, DJ SD is an award-winning producer who has released remixes for Feist, Santigold and Ne-Yo and an executive producer creating live experiences including the opening and closing night galas at the Cannes Festival, Kevin Hart’s HartBeat Weekend which was highlighted by a private concert by Drake and stunts and events for dozens of global brands.
Cannes Lions
Palais des Festivals et des Congrès, 1 Bd de la Croisette, 06400
Cannes
Black Lips, Scam Likely
Friday, June 20 • 8:00 PM
A night of sonic recklessness is unfolding as Atlanta's garage-punk royalty, Black Lips, team up with the lo-fi, mystery-shrouded Scam Likely. Black Lips, famous for their feral live shows and tongue-in-cheek retro sound, are bringing their brand of blistering, fuzzed-out rock to town. Brace yourself for a brazen onslaught of auditory mayhem that'll make you question your allegiance to your earbuds. Sharing the stage, Scam Likely is on a mission to shatter your preconceptions of DIY synthpop. Their concoction of skittish rhythms, homespun synth lines, and cryptic lyrics will take you on an unpredictable ride through the shadowy fringes of the indie scene. If you’ve been yearning for a fresh splash of enigmatic energy and a whiff of music scene cryptid, this is your portal. Get ready to lose yourself in a torrent of raw riffs and pulsating synths. This isn’t just an event, it’s an ear-battering odyssey into the unruly heart of indie. Buckle up, hipsters, this is going to be a wild, wild night. If trend-chasing has left you drowsy, this could be your caffeine shot.
Bottom Lounge
1375 W. Lake St
Chicago 60607
LENNY PEARCE'S USA TODDLER TECHNO TOUR
Saturday, June 21 • 12:00 PM
Don't be fooled by the cheeky moniker - LENNY PEARCE'S USA TODDLER TECHNO TOUR is a pulsating, boundary-pushing spectacle that's more subversive than a basement rave and more infectious than a Top 40 pop hit. This isn't your baby cousin's EDM - expect experimental soundscapes that'll challenge your perceptions, bass drops that feel like an adrenaline shot to the heart, and beats so catchy you'll forget that you're technically at an all-ages event. Word to the wise: don't be that jaded hipster lurking in the back. Get right in the thick of it. After all, Outset is a standing-room only venue and there's no re-entry - like a techno-powered vortex, once you're in, you're in for the ride. It's the perfect place to lose yourself in Pearce's audacious aural architecture. Bring your little sibling, your baby niece, heck, even your grandmother - this is a chance to experience an event that's as much a social experiment as it is a musical extravaganza. And who knows, you might even discover the next prodigious Toddler Techno DJ in the making.
Outset
1675 N Elston Ave
Chicago 60642
Steve Aoki: Cake on the Lake
Saturday, June 21 • 4:00 PM
Steve Aoki, the man, the myth, the legend, is bringing his monumental beats and infamous pastry projectiles to the scenic locale of 'Cake on the Lake'. Renowned as much for his innovative blend of electro house and progressive soundscapes as he is for his literal cake-throwing antics, Aoki's live sets are always a sight to behold. This isn't just another carbon copy EDM show, folks. This is an exuberant celebration of life, music, and frosting. Expect a sensory explosion of pulsating basslines, vibrant light shows, and maybe a few mouthfuls of vanilla sponge if you're lucky. Wash off that ennui, you jaded soul, and get ready to get frosted, because you haven't truly lived until you've been part of a Steve Aoki cake fight.
Festival Hall At Navy Pier
600 E Grand Avenue
Chicago 60611

Spamicidal Jelly w/ Goat Belly, Trash Pandas & Now It's Dark
Saturday, June 21 • 8:00 PM
Get ready to dive headfirst into the frenzied soundscape of Spamicidal Jelly. This enigmatic band pushes the boundaries with their genre-defying tunes, blending found sound, post-punk, and a twist of acid jazz that's guaranteed to rattle your eardrums and soul. They're joined by the equally disruptive Goat Belly, whose guttural, bass-heavy anthems echo from the underbelly of a dystopian near-future. And as if that weren't enough to satiate your aural appetite, Trash Pandas will be there with their unapologetic blend of garage rock and grunge - a sound as endearing as it is invasive. Rounding out the lineup is Now It's Dark, the mysterious trio who's been brewing a storm in the local synthpop scene with their melancholic melodies and cryptic lyrics. This isn't your typical Tuesday night. This is an expedition into the raw vitality of the underground, where the melodies are infectious, the decibels high, and the energy is seismic. You don't just attend gigs like this — you survive them.
Cubby Bear
1059 West Addison
Chicago 60613
LENNY PEARCE'S USA TODDLER TECHNO TOUR
Sunday, June 22 • 12:00 PM
The pop-cultural tour de force that is Lenny Pearce's USA Toddler Techno Tour is about to detonate into the heart of Outset’s standing-room-only venue. It's not just an all-ages event, it's a sonic genesis with an unrestricted class pass in noise-nurturing and mind-stretching. Think: the cybernetic pulse of futuristic beats, fused with the bittersweet nostalgia of childhood melodies. It's where Sesame Street meets 808s, where Cocomelon collides with Carl Cox. Wondering about the crowd? Picture a gaggle of enlightened pre-schoolers on a pacifier-fueled rave, flanked by the coolest spectrum of parent-humans you've never met. And before you scoff at the one year olds and under free entry, remember - that's the age Bowie wrote his first song. Your cave-dwelling mate might deem it ridiculous, but tell him this ain’t no baby’s playpen. This is where the avant-garde meets the playground, where the hipper-than-thou trendsetters ditch their jaded cynicism for an hour or two of unfiltered, euphoric, neon-tinted joy. And remember – there's NO re-entry. Once you're in, you're on a one-way trip to the pulse of the zeitgeist. Lenny Pearce's USA Toddler Techno Tour - because who said the revolution wouldn’t be pacified?
Outset
1675 N Elston Ave
Chicago 60642
Tropical Fuck Storm / Bill Orcutt
Monday, June 23 • 9:00 PM
Get ready to ride a wave of audacious noise as the enigmatic Tropical Fuck Storm join forces with guitar virtuoso Bill Orcutt for a night that promises to be as unpredictable as it is unmissable. Doors swing open at 8PM, but don't be fashionably late—Tropical Fuck Storm is known for their wild, genre-defying performances that feel like stumbling on a secret society's ritual. With their raw energy paired with Orcutt's avant-garde stylings, you'll want to savour every strum, thrum, and feedback-drenched moment. It's not just a gig; it's an exercise in sonic exploration. Don't be the one left reading about it on Twitter.
Empty Bottle
1035 N. Western Ave.
Chicago 60622
Tropical Fuck Storm / Bill Orcutt
Tuesday, June 24 • 9:00 PM
Tropical Fuck Storm meets Bill Orcutt in a sonic collision that promises a night soupy with genre-defying polyrhythms and guitar wizardry. Imagine a post-punk paradise colliding with the frenzied edges of experimental blues, all wrapped in a Dadaist lyrical prowess that would make Magritte blush. Doors open at 8PM, but the real show, the deconstruction and resurrection of indie's boundaries, starts at 9PM. Expect crescendos that roar and lullabies that bite, delivered with the artistic recklessness of a Jackson Pollock painting. Sidenote: it's a 21+ gig, so ditch your fake ID-carrying cousin at home.
Empty Bottle
1035 N. Western Ave.
Chicago 60622
Aimee Mann
Friday, June 27 • 7:30 PM
Pencil it in, folks: Aimee Mann, the iconic indie songbird of sonic sophistication, is crashing our city and it's not to be missed. You know her as the poetic powerhouse behind 'Til Tuesday's "Voices Carry," but Mann's solo work is where she truly soars. Her poignant lyrics, wrapped in layers of lush folk melodies, are a masterful exploration of vulnerability and tenacity that shakes the indie scene to its core. Mann’s performance is the musical equivalent of a Murakami novel – surreal, deeply emotional, and undeniably captivating. Let's be real: this isn't just a show, it's an existential indie pilgrimage. Time to dust off your thrifted Doc Martens and plunge into a night of earnest lyricism and haunting melodies.
Riviera Theatre- IL
4750 N. Broadway
Chicago 60640

Parrotfish w/ Temple of Dome and Ramzi & The Loafers
Friday, June 27 • 9:00 PM
Parrotfish, with Temple of Dome and Ramzi & The Loafers, are gearing up to crash land into your weekend plans, armed with their infectious blend of indie rock and psychedelic pop. Parrotfish's melodies are as colorful as their name suggests, swirling with kaleidoscopic synths and anchored by punchy guitar riffs that will hook you from the first note. Temple of Dome provides the perfect counterpoint, their darkly ethereal soundscapes twisting through your eardrums like a sonic labyrinth. And then there’s Ramzi & the Loafers—this eclectic crew is the cherry on top, peppering in their signature avant-garde jazz pop to keep you on your toes. This isn't just a gig—it's a full sensory experience, a melodic melting pot you won't want to miss. Ditch your Netflix queue and summon the energy to leave your apartment. It's time to lose yourself in the rhythm again. The only question left is: can your playlist handle the competition?
Cubby Bear
1059 West Addison
Chicago 60613
Pepper
Saturday, June 28 • 7:00 PM
Pepper is set to take the stage at the House of Blues Chicago, showcasing their spicy blend of indie and alternative that's sure to induce aural euphoria. Doors swing open at 7PM sharp, serving up an electrifying performance that starts at the witching hour of 8PM. A strictly 17+ show—bring your valid ID to vouch for your coolness quotient, because this isn't your kiddie's pop concert. This isn't your average sit-and-clap gig either—it's a standing-room-only venue, a pulsating mass of bodies, all moving in sync to Pepper's addictive beats. And while the tickets are General Admission, you're not just a general attendee—you're part of the thrumming life force that's gonna make this show legendary. Oh, and the support acts? They're as unpredictable as the Chicago weather. But that's part of the thrill, right? Level up your experience from cool to cosmic with a VIP upgrade. But remember: Pepper's shows are hotter than a habanero, so bring your water bottles to stay hydrated and your dancing shoes to groove all night long.
House of Blues Chicago
329 N Dearborn St
Chicago 60654
Tripping Daisy - I Am An Elastic Firecracker Album Play
Wednesday, July 2 • 7:00 PM
In an era when one can't tell a synth from a sampler, Tripping Daisy is offering a riveting return to their '95 cult classic, 'I Am An Elastic Firecracker.' Lashing back to the vintage era of sound-shaping, this act is set to unspool the strands of their psychotropic masterpiece, live and in technicolor. Expect a raw, unfiltered trip down the rabbit hole of neo-psychedelia, brought to life with the same kind of kinetic energy that once had Spin Magazine dub them "the future of rock and roll." This isn't just another tired reunion—it's a full-on immersion into a time when the band was at the height of pushing the boundaries of experimental pop. Tripping Daisy is back, armed with the strange, the mysterious, and the technicolor dreams that made them the rock world's best kept secret. Be there or be forever stuck in the monotonous drone of the 2020s.
Bottom Lounge
1375 W. Lake St
Chicago 60607
Wavves, Beach Goons, Death Lens
Saturday, July 5 • 7:00 PM
Get ready to ride the gnarliest sonic wave this side of the Pacific, as Wavves rolls into town with their sun-bleached, San Diego-born sounds. Joining them are the equally beachy Beach Goons, whose grungy surf punk will make you yearn for a moonlit bonfire and a cracked cold one. Add a dash of Death Lens' scuzzy garage rock to the mix, and this unmissable night of music promises to be as intoxicating as a saltwater high. Don't be that tragic figure who only reads about it the next day on your friend's Substack.
Bottom Lounge
1375 W. Lake St
Chicago 60607

Heart Attack Man with The Dirty Nil, Carpool, Dear Seattle
Thursday, July 10 • 7:00 PM
Alright, folks - get ready to surrender your calendars for an evening that’s pitching a tent in ‘must-see’ territory. Heart Attack Man is headlining, bringing their signature blend of gritty, emotionally charged punk to the stage. They’re a raucous revelation, a gut punch of raw energy that’ll leave you reeling and begging for more. But wait, that's not all. The Dirty Nil are also on the bill. These Canadian rockers are a sonic cyclone, whipping up a frenzy with their unabashedly loud, defiantly proud rock 'n' roll. If you’re not moshing at their set, you're probably at the wrong gig. Plus, Carpool's been making waves with their blend of 90s-infused indie rock that's as comforting as the smell of your high school girlfriend's hair. And don't sleep on Dear Seattle! Their grungy anthems and killer hooks are the perfect antidote to all that ails you in this post-post-post-modern world. So, step out of your echo chambers, ignore the humdrum of the day-to-day, and witness the kind of night that'll make your Instagram stories a sight to behold. This isn't just a gig, it's a statement—of intent, of passion, and of the power of music to shake us out of our stupor. You in?
Bottom Lounge
1375 W. Lake St
Chicago 60607
United We Dance: The Ultimate Rave Experience
Saturday, July 12 • 8:00 PM
United We Dance: The Ultimate Rave Experience is the sonic tonic your auditory senses have been pining for. This ain't your average glowstick gathering, folks—in fact, it's about to catapult House of Blues Chicago into the stratosphere of the underground dance scene. Doors creak open at the witching hour of 8PM, with beats kicking off at 9PM. Just imagine, the pulsating rhythms vibrating through your veins as you're immersed in an ocean of kindred spirits, all on the same sonic journey. This is a 17+ event (don't forget your ID, kids!) and standing room only, so ditch your inhibitions and let your body move to the rhythm. Brace yourselves, because support acts are as unpredictable as a vinyl record in a microwave. Ready to level up your experience? Check out how you can unshackle your night with the link they've thrown our way. Whatever you do, don't sleep on this one—it's shaping up to be the visionary bash that your wildest analogue dreams are made of.
House of Blues Chicago
329 N Dearborn St
Chicago 60654

Haunt Me, Future Nobodies, Sports Coach, Secret Attraction
Saturday, July 12 • 8:00 PM
Get ready to have your indie-loving senses torched through what is guaranteed to be the most stellar lineup of the month. Headlining the night, we have Haunt Me, the psychedelic synth maestros who've been belting out tracks that feel like the midnight lovechild of The Horrors and Tame Impala. They're joined by Future Nobodies, a band that puts the 'art' in 'heartbreak' with their emotive dream pop anthems. In the mix, we also have Sports Coach, the bedroom pop virtuoso who's been gaining traction faster than your favorite meme. If you've been sleeping on their blend of jangly guitars and introspective lyricism, now's your chance to wake up. Last but not least, Secret Attraction will be there to close the night with an electronic-infused set that harks back to the golden age of synthpop. Think of a smoother, duskier Cut Copy and you're halfway there. So put down your third cup of cold brew, take off those ironic sunglasses, and prepare to be immersed in the kind of sonic wonderland that makes you remember why you fell in love with indie music in the first place.
Bottom Lounge
1375 W. Lake St
Chicago 60607

Janeece with Mary Alice and justJOY
Thursday, July 17 • 8:00 PM
Ready to kick out of your ironic ennui and dive into the deep, delicious waters of indie authenticity? Then it's time to get acquainted with Janeece. This Chicago-based polymath spins an irresistible blend of indie, pop, and soul, a heady brew that's equal parts relatable and captivating. Janeece isn't just a performer; she's a pied piper for those who pulse to their own beat, a musical maestro who stitches together a rich sonic tapestry of emotion in every track. Imagine the raw candor of Maggie Rogers, the soul-infused tales of Mereba, the brooding introspection of Arlo Parks, and the innovative syncopations of Sylvan Esso, all amalgamated into one formidable powerhouse. That's Janeece for you. But don't expect just a listening party. Janeece's music is a call to arms, an invitation to plunge into the profound depths of life’s complexities, to connect, to feel, and to find solace in sound. Get ready to join Janeece, along with Mary Alice and justJOY, for a night that promises to be more than just a gig. It's sure to be a cathartic communion with sound and emotion that will paint the town in hues of cool you didn’t know existed. Trust us, the FOMO will be real.
Joe's on Weed Street
940 West Weed St.
Chicago 60642

Daundry w/ Carnivore Mommy, Children's Crusade and Static Empress
Thursday, July 24 • 8:00 PM
Daundry is headlining a sonic spectacle that's not to be missed. Known for their cathartic cacophonies and melancholic melodies, Daundry creates a soundscape that's as disorienting as it is irresistible—the sonic equivalent of a Wes Anderson film. Sharing the stage are Carnivore Mommy, who blend dream pop and art rock to create a hauntingly hypnotic sound. Their live sets are known to oscillate between controlled chaos and deliberate minimalism, a dichotomy that keeps you on the edge of your PBR-soaked bar stool. Not to be overlooked are Children's Crusade, whose post-punk anthems could soundtrack the existential angst of a generation. Their music is an echo chamber of societal disillusionment, resonating with the echoes of Joy Division and Television. Rounding off the lineup is the enigmatic Static Empress. Their experimental electronica is a radical departure from genre norms—an audacious auditory assault that's sure to leave you reeling. So, dust off those Doc Martens, iron that band tee, and gear up for a night of avant-garde aural artistry. Just don't forget your earplugs, this gig promises to be a decibel-defying event.
Cubby Bear
1059 West Addison
Chicago 60613

Pelican with Coalesce and Porcelain
Saturday, July 26 • 8:00 PM
Pelican, the ode-to-the-90s outfit from the Windy City, is back with an album that's been cooking in the slow cooker for six long years, and they're bringing it to you live. Think your edgiest basement show, only dialed up to eleven—the sonic champs have reassimilated founding axeman Laurent Schroeder-Lebec, taken a deep dive into their post-hardcore roots, and emerged with a fresh, yet familiar sound that's as eclectic as a Fireside Bowl line-up. Flickering Resonance is an auditory exploration of gratitude, perseverance, and the sweet, sweet joy of staying true to your artistic self—be prepared for doom-metal bangers that simultaneously tug at your heartstrings and kick you in the gut. And if that doesn't have you reaching for your Docs and flannel, maybe the thought of emo-legend Geoff Rickly rocking the mic on a vinyl-exclusive version of lead single "Cascading Crescent" will. Get ready for a nostalgia trip drenched in thunderous riffs and twinkling melodies. This is not your average comeback story, folks. This is Pelican 2.0—bigger, bolder, and brimming with a palpable sense of gratitude. So roll up those plaid sleeves and get on the pre-order bandwagon, because missing out on this one would be a cardinal indie sin.
Thalia Hall
1807 S Allport St
Chicago 60608
Can You Feel The Punk Tonight: A Punk Rock Celebration of Disney
Saturday, August 9 • 6:00 PM
Ditch your preconceived notions of skull-encrusted guitar straps and sweaty mosh pits, because the punk rock scene is about to take a magically subversive detour. Can You Feel The Punk Tonight is spinning your cherished Disney nostalgia on its head, transforming the sugary sweet melodies of your childhood into a frenzy of punk rock rebellion. Taking place at the legendary House of Blues Chicago, this isn't your average sing-along soiree. Expect unexpected takes on the classics, raw energy, and a crowd that's anything but tamed. Doors crack open at the unholy hour of 6PM, with the raucous spectacle kicking off at 7PM. And in true punk fashion, this gig is for ALL AGES – no one's too young or too old to have their Disney dreams doused in distortion. Remember, this is a standing-room-only kind of affair, so ditch the glass slippers and strap on your sturdiest Doc Martens. Get ready for a night where Hakuna Matata meets the spirit of '77.
House of Blues Chicago
329 N Dearborn St
Chicago 60654

Altgeld w/ Sidehug & Impulsive Hearts
Saturday, August 9 • 8:00 PM
Dust off your thrift-store denim jacket and prepare to rekindle your love for the immersive sounds of the underground. Altgeld, the enigmatic force of the indie scene, is coming to town, sharing the stage with Sidehug and Impulsive Hearts. Renowned for their evocative brand of sonic exploration, Altgeld's labyrinthian melodies are the stuff of postmodern legend. Sidehug, their hazy-glow sidekicks, add a dose of dreamy introspection to the mix, weaving a tapestry of shoegaze daydreams. And don't sleep on Impulsive Hearts—their synthpop beats are a nostalgia trip, a callback to neon-lit basement parties of yore. This isn't just a gig—it's the convergence of eclectic, unadulterated indie brilliance. Be there or be square, dear reader.
Cubby Bear
1059 West Addison
Chicago 60613

Floats, Mold!, Rad Skulls, Violet Waves
Saturday, August 9 • 8:30 PM
Brooklyn, get your headphones unscrewed, because this line-up is about to re-thread your musical senses. Floats, an ensemble who've turned dreamy psych-rock into a transcendental meditation, are headlining the evening. Following close on their heels is Mold!, the art punk outfit who are revolutionizing the underground scene with their off-kilter rhythms and raw, authentic lyrics. Not to mention Rad Skulls, the garage rock trio who’ve been dubbed the ‘bastard children of Iggy Pop and The Strokes.' They're not just a band; they're a full-blown, rambunctious spectacle. To round out the night, Violet Waves are bringing their infectious synthpop beats, guaranteed to have you dancing like no one's watching. This isn't just another gig, folks. It's a curated cornucopia of non-conformist anthems, jarring guitars, and driving drum beats that'll rattle your ribcage and awaken your senses. Four bands, one stage, and an endless supply of sonic innovation. You'll be telling your grandkids about this one—provided, of course, you can pry yourself away from your vinyl collection long enough to have kids in the first place.
Reggie's Music Joint
2105 South State Street
Chicago 60616

Ricky Liontones Band w/ Brad the Bard & Danny McDermed
Thursday, August 14 • 8:00 PM
Get ready to have your minds blown by the triple threat this weekend. The Ricky Liontones Band, notorious for their chaotic yet subtly melodic indie rock vibes, will be joined by Brad the Bard, the enigmatic folk hero of our time, and Danny McDermed, synth wizard extraordinaire. Together, they're going to hit you with a sonic experience that's louder than standing next to the speakers at a My Bloody Valentine show. Expect soaring guitar riffs, intricate synth lines, and lyrics that'll make you rethink your life choices. This isn't just an event, it's a rebellion wrapped in a symphony.
Cubby Bear
1059 West Addison
Chicago 60613
Yacht Rock Revue - Yacht Rock Forever Tour
Friday, August 15 • 7:00 PM
Prepare to cast off into a sea of smooth, as the Yacht Rock Revue sails into town for their Yacht Rock Forever Tour. These purveyors of nostalgia offer up a sultry blend of 70s and 80s soft rock covers, reminding us of a simpler, more sequined time. Think Hall & Oates meets Steely Dan, with a sprinkling of Toto for good measure. It's a show that's less about being seen and more about feeling the vibe, an oasis of mellow in our hyperactive indie scene. So don your finest captain's hat, forget what you think you know about "cool," and surrender to the siren song of the saxophone. It's time to yacht rock like it's 1979.
The Salt Shed Outdoors (Fairgrounds)
1357 N Elston Ave
Chicago 60642

Marcus Bailey w/ DZ Riley & Martha White
Saturday, August 16 • 8:00 PM
Ready to let your ears embark on a sonic odyssey? Introducing an unmissable trifecta of aural sensation: Marcus Bailey, DZ Riley, and Martha White are uniting to redefine the landscape of indie music. Marcus Bailey, a wizard of ambient folk will cast his melodic spells, blending achingly beautiful lyricism with a raw, lo-fi edge. Known for his intricate guitar work and whispery vocals, Bailey is a troubadour for our times, conjuring tales of heartache and hope with a sincerity that'll seep into your soul. Next up, DZ Riley - purveyor of psychedelic rock with a side order of grungey punk. His sound is a kaleidoscopic journey through time and space, leaving no rock 'n' roll stone unturned. Prepare for an intoxicating mix of jangly guitars, relentless drums, and a voice that’ll turn your heart into a mosh pit. And finally, Martha White, the reigning queen of the lo-fi synthpop scene. She melds nostalgia soaked 80s synths with lyrics that feel like a John Hughes movie - melancholic, but hopeful. Her ethereal soundscapes are an analogue-drenched dream that’ll take you on a neon-tinged journey to a better tomorrow. One night. Three indie titans. An extraordinary journey that meanders through the undulating terrain of the human condition. So, buckle in, tune out the world, and lose yourself in the sonic labyrinth. An event that promises to be as mesmerizing as it is memorable.
Cubby Bear
1059 West Addison
Chicago 60613

Janeece w/ justJoy, and Mary Alice Roach
Thursday, August 21 • 8:00 PM
Step out of your comfort zone and into the sonic wild this Wednesday as Janeece, justJoy, and Mary Alice Roach take the stage for a night that'll shatter your sound-barrier. Bask in the echoes of Janeece's dream-pop wonderland, where ethereal keys and hushed vocals reign supreme. Feel your heart thump to the beat of justJoy's DIY electro-pop, where every synth line is an ode to insomnia-fueled creativity. And lose yourself to Mary Alice Roach's lo-fi lullabies—stripped-back soundscapes that'll break your heart, then piece it back together with the warmth of a thrift-store tape deck. It's a lineup that proves once again that the underground isn't just alive—it's thriving, pulsating, and ready to soundtrack your existential dance parties. Don't miss out.
Cubby Bear
1059 West Addison
Chicago 60613

Michael Learns to Rock: Take Us to Your Heart Tour 2025
Wednesday, August 27 • 7:00 PM
There's a peculiar thrill that comes with admitting you're a Michael Learns To Rock fan in 2025, like wearing your heart on your sleeve, but it's a heart penned by Danish soft rockers with a penchant for sugary hooks and earnest balladry. Their "Take Us to Your Heart Tour" hits the timeless Chicago Theatre, a venue as storied and grand as MLTR's multi-decade spanning discography. This isn't your typical indie gig. There's a rich vein of irony to tap here, but the real gold is in the unironic, unadulterated nostalgia trip. MLTR's music is a time capsule of late 90s and early 2000s sentimentality, sure to induce misty-eyed sing-alongs from even the most aloof concert-goers. So toss on your thrift store cardigan, dig out that old scrunchie, and brace yourself for an evening of unabashed sentiment, soaring harmonies, and power ballads that'll have you swaying unabashedly in the aisles. After all, in the world of indie cool, what's more punk rock than embracing something as decidedly uncool as Michael Learns to Rock? Health and safety measures will be in place, but don't let that stop you from feeling the rhythm of the night and the power of love. NOT
The Chicago Theatre
175 N State St
Chicago 60601
OASIS LIVE '25
Thursday, August 28 • 7:30 PM
Fasten your seatbelts, folks, because the indie scene's most notorious brothers are back on the block. That's right, OASIS LIVE '25 is about to rock your world like it's 1995 all over again. Imagine the raw energy of "Supersonic" colliding with the emotional intensity of "Don't Look Back In Anger," all wrapped up in a post-pandemic haze of pure, uncut nostalgia. This isn't just another reunion gig— it's a resurrection. A testament to the enduring allure of Britpop, a sonic séance summoning the spirit of a time when the charts echoed with attitude, not algorithms. No faux-nostalgic filters, no 'remember when' retrospectives. Just Gallagher, Gallagher, and the unmistakable sound of a generation's pent-up longing for something real, something raw, something rock 'n' roll. So toss aside your TikToks, flip off your Spotify 'Discover Weekly', and prepare to be transported back to the heart of the 90s. OASIS LIVE '25 isn't just a show, it's a statement. Be there, or be forever branded a Wonderwall wannabe.
Soldier Field
1410 S. Museum Campus Drive
Chicago 60605

Peephole w/ Back and Forth and Lions of the Tone Age
Saturday, August 30 • 8:30 PM
This Friday, prepare to journey through the sonic wormhole with Peephole, the genre-defying trailblazers that have been setting music forums ablaze. They're teaming up with the up-and-coming buzz generators, Back and Forth, who've perfected the art of aural whiplash with their rhythmic oscillations. Also on the bill are the Lions of the Tone Age, whose meaty riffs and atmospheric melodies will make your heart beat to the rhythm of a time you can't remember, but your soul won't forget. This evening promises to be an aural odyssey that would make even the most reticent hipster lift their PBR in salute. From the first chord to the last feedback echo, you'll be captivated by explorative soundscapes and lyrical depth enough to make Sartre tap his foot. Don't miss out—come and be a part of the indie event of the season that's guaranteed to have everyone talking (in hushed, respectfully reverent tones, of course).
Cubby Bear
1059 West Addison
Chicago 60613
Pink Turns Blue
Saturday, September 6 • 8:00 PM
Pink Turns Blue, the legendary post-punk luminaries, are set to explode at their latest gig. This isn't your typical over-hyped indie fluff—the band's existential lyricism, shrouded in brooding synth pads and icy guitars, promises a transcendental escape from reality. It's a chance to immerse yourself in their hauntingly beautiful melancholy, a rare breed of sound that's both nostalgic and refreshingly unique. Their live performances aren't just gigs, they’re unhinged, emotional seances for all us lost souls. A Pink Turns Blue show isn't something you attend, it's something you survive, emerging on the other side as a different, more enlightened creature. Be there or be forever stuck in your mundane indie rut.
Bottom Lounge
1375 W. Lake St
Chicago 60607

Castle Rat
Wednesday, September 10 • 8:00 PM
Castle Rat, the obscure darlings of the underground scene, are back on the prowl. Known for their wailing guitar anthems that channel My Bloody Valentine with a sprinkle of Sonic Youth's rawness, they’ve been creating a sonic earthquake in the basements of Brooklyn and beyond. Imagine a lo-fi symphony echoing through a rat-infested castle—that's Castle Rat. Their signature blend of post-punk grit and ethereal shoe gaze will make you question the fabric of your flannel shirt while transporting you to the darker corners of your consciousness. This isn’t just another Tuesday night gig, this is a cathartic communion for the lost souls. So, dust off your Doc Martens, the Rat is back.
Reggie's Rock Club
2105 South State Street
Chicago 60616
Frankie Cosmos with fantasy of a broken heart and Moontype
Saturday, September 13 • 7:30 PM
The envelope-pushers of the indie underground, Frankie Cosmos, are landing in town with their sixth and finest album, Different Talking. This NYC indie-rock quartet, led by the DIY pioneer herself, Greta Kline, paints a world within the musical spectrum that is both visceral and introspectively human. Kline's lyricism has evolved from the band's previous cynical charm to a more vulnerable exploration of the human brain and heart. Don't mistake Different Talking as a nostalgic yearning for the past, it's a nuanced introspection of growing up, a sonic journal that ponders on the concept of selfhood. Joining them are fantasy of a broken heart and Moontype, promising an evening dedicated to the indie ethos. This show marks Frankie Cosmos' first entirely self-produced album, a step that has given birth to a purer, core version of the band. Kline puts it best: "It's the best version of what I've wanted to make since I was a teenager". Recorded in a living room with the same high fidelity of any studio production, this album is a testament to Frankie Cosmos' undying commitment to their sound and vision. If you're a sucker for sturdy, worldly indie-rock that offers more than just an auditory experience, this is a gig you wouldn't want to dismiss. Get ready to immerse yourself in an indie-rock spectacle where nostalgia, growth, and introspection harmonize into a unique musical narrative.
Thalia Hall
1807 S Allport St
Chicago 60608
Lorde: Ultrasound
Friday, September 19 • 7:00 PM
Crank up your phonograph, punters, because Lorde: Ultrasound is dialing up an auditory feast that's set to reverberate through your eardrums and seep deep into your soul. Say goodbye to algorithmic playlist fatigue and hello to a pure, unadulterated live spectacle that's as enigmatic as a Robert Smith lyric and as intoxicating as a limited run vinyl pressing. Compliance with health and safety measures isn't just a ticket stipulation, it's a commitment to preserving the sanctity of the indiesphere, a gloriously grimy world where the riffs are raw, the drumbeats dirty, and the basslines beautifully belligerent. Keep your ear to the ground, your eyes on the venue website, and your expectations high. This isn't just a gig—it's a cultural catharsis.
United Center
1901 W Madison
Chicago 60612
Quinn XCII - LOOK! I'm Alive Tour
Friday, September 19 • 8:00 PM
Ditch the bedroom pop playlists and experience the pulse-pounding, heart-throbbing spectacle of Quinn XCII's LOOK! I'm Alive Tour. The indie-pop sensation, known for his genre-blurring tunes and electrifying performances, is taking his act to the next level. And the best part? Every ticket sold comes with a side of good karma. Quinn XCII has teamed up with PLUS1, ensuring that a dollar from each ticket sold goes towards the Surfrider Foundation—an organization committed to safeguarding our oceans, waves and beaches. That means you're not just letting loose at a show, you're also contributing to a powerful activist network. Now, that's what we call hitting the right note. So, if you crave the thrill of live music and want to make a difference, the LOOK! I'm Alive Tour is the event for you. Get ready to plug into an unforgettable night of indie-pop magic. Your earbuds will thank you.
Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island
1300 S. Linn White Drive
Chicago 60605

Bandalos Chinos
Tuesday, September 23 • 8:00 PM
Start your night off right with Bandalos Chinos, the Argentinian synth-pop sensation that's been setting speakers on fire across the globe. Doors are at 7:00PM sharp, but don't fret if you're usually fashionably late – the sonic banquet doesn't kick off until 8:00PM. Expect a potent blend of infectious grooves, dreamy melodies, and electric energy that'll have you questioning why you ever settled for Spotify's Discover Weekly. This isn't just a gig, it's a chance to be part of a music revolution that's making waves from Buenos Aires to Brooklyn. Forget binging Netflix tonight because this is an experience your earbuds desperately need. Dust off your dancing shoes, grab that fake ID you’ve been hoarding since high school (it's a 17+ only event), and prepare to lose yourself in the euphoric soundscape of Bandalos Chinos.
Thalia Hall
1807 S Allport St
Chicago 60608
Vision Video, House of Harm
Wednesday, September 24 • 8:00 PM
Get ready to descend into the netherworld of your deepest sonic fantasies with Vision Video and House of Harm. Vision Video - part gothic synth, part post-punk revival - will bathe you in melancholic melodies and bittersweet nostalgia. Their basslines are as brooding as an Edgar Allan Poe poem, and their synthesisers sizzle like an acid-soaked 80s prom night. House of Harm, on the other hand, offers a different kind of solace - their coldwave tunes are as bone-chilling as they are enchanting, evoking the ghost of Ian Curtis with every reverberated strum. This isn't just another gig - it's a hauntingly immersive experience designed to penetrate the icy armor of the most jaded audiophile. Miss this, and you're missing an opportunity to witness the spectral union of synth and soul, a confluence of sounds that will leave you questioning your very existence.
Bottom Lounge
1375 W. Lake St
Chicago 60607

Sidewalks and Skeletons, CASHFORGOLD, Ghost Cop, Brittany Bindrim
Thursday, September 25 • 8:00 PM
Experience the euphoria of ethereal dreamscapes and dance in the ashes of your ennui this weekend as Sidewalks and Skeletons, CASHFORGOLD, Ghost Cop, and Brittany Bindrim lead an otherworldly pilgrimage through the sonic cosmos. Sidewalks and Skeletons, known for their spectral synth-heavy beats, will be your spectral sherpa, weaving you through the opalescent fog of their post-internet soundscape. CASHFORGOLD, the Detroit-based enigma, will sprinkle her stardust across the evening with her idiosyncratic blend of dream-pop and lo-fi electronica that shimmers like a dimly lit disco ball in a David Lynch film. Meanwhile, Ghost Cop is ready to patrol the perimeters of your comfort zone with their hauntingly addictive cyberpunk aesthetic and dystopian disco grooves. Rounding out this constellation of cool is Brittany Bindrim, whose introspective, electro-laced melodies will gently guide you back down to earth. Her voice, an echo of a parallel universe where Cocteau Twins and Portishead are a supergroup, will stun you into blissful silence. Sharpen your hipster epithets and don your thrift-store best, this is one hazy, crazy night of reverb-drenched revelry you won't want to forget. See you on the dance floor, or the edge of the universe, whichever comes first.
Bottom Lounge
1375 W. Lake St
Chicago 60607
Beyond the Gate featuring Godspeed You! Black Emperor / Dry Cleaning @ Bohemian National Cemetery
Saturday, September 27 • 6:00 PM
Catch some soul-stirring sonics at an unlikelier-than-usual venue as Beyond The Gate throws open its hallowed gates at the Bohemian National Cemetery. This isn't your regular Friday night fare—Godspeed You! Black Emperor, the post-rock prophets of doom and gloom, will be conjuring up their sprawling, apocalyptic soundscapes under the open sky. Expect a cathartic mix of drone, jazz, classical, and punk that's as transcendental as it is earth-shattering. Fresh off the press of their critically acclaimed album, alt-rock phenoms Dry Cleaning will be serving up their brand of spoken-word post-punk - it's like your favorite '80s British indie club night got a 21st-century upgrade. And yes, they're just as crisp live as you'd imagine. Oh, and did we mention this is all going down in a cemetery? It's the perfect backdrop to GY!BE's hauntingly beautiful compositions and Dry Cleaning's darkly humorous lyrical narratives. So, don your darkest denim and waxed jackets, summon your Uber, and prepare for a night of boundary-pushing music that's as potent as the Pilsner. Beyond The Gate, indeed. You might just find yourself on the other side of cool.
Bohemian Nat'l Cemetery (Outside)
3969 W Bryn Mawr Ave
Chicago 60630
The Raveonettes, Shallowater
Sunday, September 28 • 8:00 PM
You'd be hard pressed to stumble upon a more sonically riveting rhapsody than The Raveonettes and Shallowater's upcoming set—this isn't your run-of-the-mill shindig, trust. The Raveonettes, Denmark's finest exports since Carlsberg, have been setting the standard in noise pop since their inception, blending stratospheric guitar walls with entrancing, droning harmonies. Remember when your heart first skipped a beat to "Attack of the Ghost Riders"? Expect the same level of heart-throbbing nostalgia. Then you've got Shallowater—the local heroes who've been surfacing to the indie scene's shallow ends with their murky blend of shoegaze and dream pop. They're the undiscovered gem your Spotify algorithm hasn't caught onto yet, but will soon. Their sonic landscapes are staggering—like gazing at a Pollock painting for the first time, layers and layers of distortion and melody swirl into a captivating chaos. So, dust off your Doc Martens, find your blackest skinny jeans, and prepare to lose yourself in the reverberations. This isn't just a show, it's a full-sensory pilgrimage back to the glory days of reverb-soaked anthems. If you've been craving a night that'll fill your soul with fuzzy, feedback-drenched melodies, this is it. If you're not there, you'll be kicking yourself when it's all over your Instagram feed. You've been warned.
Bottom Lounge
1375 W. Lake St
Chicago 60607

Frankie and the Witch Fingers, Population II
Wednesday, October 1 • 8:00 PM
Crank up your sonic curiosity, folks. Coming up is a one-two punch that'll rearrange your indie palate for good. Up first, Frankie and the Witch Fingers, a band that's been stoking the psychedelic fires with their hefty garage-rock freak-outs and mind-warping jams. They're the kind of band that makes you feel like you've tripped into a kaleidoscopic wormhole where time and space are but mere playthings. Sharing the stage are Montreal's Population II, who are set to hypnotize with their raucous blend of proto-punk and space-rock. They've been turning heads with their fuzz-drenched guitar, trudging rhythms, and a vocal delivery that feels like it's being broadcast from another galaxy. So put your boredom on pause and step into the sonic wild with us. Because, let's face it, you're not just here for the music. You're here for the subterranean vibes, the paisley-patterned memories, and the chance to say you were there when the next wave of indie icons took off.
Bottom Lounge
1375 W. Lake St
Chicago 60607
letlive
Thursday, October 2 • 5:30 PM
Push the boundaries of your auditory senses with letlive's incendiary live performance at the iconic House of Blues, Chicago. In a world where concert experiences are as dime-a-dozen as your dad's worn-out vinyls, this standing-room-only, all-ages gig promises to deliver a sonic catharsis only the brave dare to experience. Doors creak open at 5:30PM, but the real ear-bending begins an hour later. And don't get hung up on the lineup—support acts may change, but letlive's post-hardcore intensity remains unwavering. Wanna transcend the mediocrity of the mosh pit? Level up your experience at this link: (https://www.sevenrooms.com/events/hobchicago/hobwebsite).
House of Blues Chicago
329 N Dearborn St
Chicago 60654
Sean Nicholas Savage
Thursday, October 23 • 9:00 PM
Brace yourselves, cool cats of the indie scene, as we dive into the mesmerizing world of Sean Nicholas Savage. The creative virtuoso is back with a fresh pop palette, and it's everything your vintage-loving heart didn't know it needed. He's transformed his classic ballads into a riveting collection that feels both thrillingly subversive yet effortlessly on-trend. This masterpiece, "The Knowing," is a transatlantic collaboration, cooked up in London with confidante Pascal Chenard. The standout single, "Your Drug," is a poignant duet with Arbutus Records' Marci that manages to make the familiar feel fresh and edgy. There's also a delightful surprise for you Iggy Pop aficionados – a heartstring-tugging cover of "Lust For Life," aptly reimagined in the style of Green Day's "Good Riddance." You'll also be treated to the guitar prowess of Belgian singer-songwriter David Numwami on "Stranger Than Fiction" and "Wild Things," and the co-writing brilliance of JJ Weihl aka Discovery Zone on "Pink Bouquet." The album art is as artistically captivating, with snapshots by Lulannie capturing Savage's NYE 2025 in the city that never sleeps. "The Knowing" drops on June 27, 2025, via Born Losers Records and Mansions & Millions. Don't miss your chance to experience the artistic evolution of Sean Nicholas Savage – because let's face it, your Spotify playlist is crying out for something this authentic.
Empty Bottle
1035 N. Western Ave.
Chicago 60622

Fish56Octagon (18 & Over)
Thursday, November 13 • 8:00 PM
Get ready to dive headfirst into the sonic abyss with Fish56Octagon, a band that refuses to be limited by any genre or convention. They're a serpentine cipher in the indie landscape where the only constant is the unexpected. This eighteen-and-over gathering promises an evening of mind-bending frequencies and polyrhythmic exploration. Fish56Octagon will alchemize your ennui into awe, from a stunning soundscape that oscillates between the guttural depths of shoegaze and the digital euphoria of synthpop. If your soul has been yearning for the kind of live music experience that leaves you questioning the fabric of reality and your place within it, this is the gig for you. Don't let the fear of missing out keep you stuck at home scrolling through your endless feed of mediocrity. Put on your coolest get-up and take the plunge into the Fish56Octagon.
Park West
322 W. Armitage
Chicago 60614
Minus the Bear - 18 & Over
Saturday, November 15 • 8:00 PM
Prepare to be catapulted into a universe of math-rock majesty as Minus the Bear takes center stage. This isn't some run-of-the-mill indie gig – it's a full-blown sonic spectacle, a cosmic collision of intricate guitar work and sublime synth riffs. And if you think you've heard it all before, think again. Minus the Bear has been redefining the genre, turning tropes inside out and pioneering a sound that's as cerebral as it is catchy. This isn't just a concert, it's a masterclass in musical evolution. Don't be the sad sap stuck at home scrolling through blurry gig photos – experience the magic IRL. 18 and over only, so leave the kiddos at home. This is grown folks' business.
Metro
3730 N. Clark St.
Chicago 60657
Minus the Bear - Ages 18
Sunday, November 16 • 8:00 PM
Minus the Bear is ready to invade your eardrums and subvert your expectations. This Seattle-based quintet, known for their interweaving guitar work and intricate, mathy rhythms, are an aural anomaly—every show a unique construct, every track a different approach. These indie rock maestros have managed to create a sonic universe that's all their own, where glitchy samples and spectral synths meet poignant lyrics and unforgettable melodies. Their coming of age sound is like a punchy, potent cocktail—sweet yet biting, familiar yet foreign. As unpredictable as their setlist may be, one thing is certain: with Minus the Bear on stage, you're in for a night of indie-rock ecstasy, perfectly balanced between the nostalgic and the novel. So, grab your ticket, feel the rumble, and let this 18+ event be the antidote to your ennui. Minus the Bear, plus your presence— sounds like the perfect equation to us.
Metro
3730 N. Clark St.
Chicago 60657
95 WIIL Rock Presents - Mammoth - The End Tour
Wednesday, November 26 • 6:00 PM
Are you ready to witness the last hurrah of a rock legend? 95 WIIL is ready to rock your world with Mammoth - The End Tour. Say goodbye to the mundane and get lost in the seismic echoes of Mammoth's send-off. This isn't just a concert, it's a farewell celebration at House of Blues Chicago, a venue whose very name reverberates with the history of music itself. Prepare to be enveloped in an atmosphere of unadulterated rock, where every chord and riff reverberates with raw emotion. This is an experience that's straddling the fine line between the past and present, a momentous occasion that's sure to etch itself into your memory. And with a strict four-ticket limit, it's an exclusive affair that makes it all the more enticing. Remember, this is a standing room only event, so get ready to lose yourself in the immersive soundscape that Mammoth has perfected. Support acts may change, but the commitment to create an unforgettable night of music remains. Upgrade your experience and elevate your night from memorable to legendary. Doors open at 6 PM, and the performance starts at 7 PM. Don't forget your ID, because this is a night for those 17 and older only. Be prepared to be part of an experience that will leave you buzzing with adrenaline long after the last note has faded. If you're in the business of creating memories, this is one you absolutely cannot miss.
House of Blues Chicago
329 N Dearborn St
Chicago 60654
*SOLD OUT* All Them Witches - House of Mirrors Tour with King Buffalo
Friday, December 5 • 8:00 PM
Ready to have your eardrums obliterated by the aural assault of All Them Witches? The no-holds-barred quartet, a whirlwind of raw, bluesy, neo-psychedelic rock, is hitting the road on their House of Mirrors Tour, sharpening their sonic knives to a lethal edge. They're pulling power chords from their six-album arsenal, including their latest masterpiece birthed in the hallowed womb of Abbey Road. If you've been pining for the unpredictable and the unhinged, let the Witches spellbind you with their progressive riffs and hypnotic grooves. Oh, and did we mention King Buffalo is joining? Consider your evening haunted by their riff-laden specter. Trust us, this isn't a show you want to watch through the various Instagram stories of the lucky few who snagged a ticket. It’s SOLD OUT for a reason. RIP to your FOMO, long live the night.
Thalia Hall
1807 S Allport St
Chicago 60608
All Them Witches - House of Mirrors Tour with King Buffalo
Saturday, December 6 • 8:00 PM
Are you ready to get your face melted by absolute rock-n-roll alchemy? Straight from the haunted heart of Nashville, All Them Witches are hitting the road again, this time with the Buffalo Kings in tow. ATW's singular blend of progressive, blues-infused, neo-psychedelic rock is the kind of earworm that burrows deep, rattling your skull with ferocious energy and rhythmic nuance. This is a band that thrives on contrast and shapeshifting dynamics, as casually epic as dropping a new record recorded at Abbey Road and then turning around to sell out a Halloween show at the Ryman. With six records and countless tours under their belt (including gigs with the likes of Mastodon, Ghost, and Primus), ATW are no strangers to the rock and roll grind, but they still manage to infuse every note with a palpable hunger, like they've got something to prove. So, do you want to be stuck scrolling through the same three apps on your phone, or do you want to dive headfirst into a live music experience that promises crafted songwriting, spacious grooves, and a visceral, full-bodied sound that echoes long after the final note has died? Your move, cool kid.
Thalia Hall
1807 S Allport St
Chicago 60608