Featured Live Music Artist of the Week - The Shift

The Shift is an all-original alt-pop 5-piece band founded in the Chicago Southland - who also happens to have a very cool drum kit -

Now, obviously, there is more to a band than a cool bass drum.  They self-categorize as "alt-pop", and one can definitely hear the alternative roots in their sound - but their sound is much more than just alternative.  The musical and lyrical structure certainly echos back to classic 90s alternative - but the music is given dimensions beyond alternative with a strong 6-string acoustic presence as well as a laid-back ever-present harmonica line.  Not just a harmonica solo, but the harmonica plays the role of the harmonies to the vocals.  The presence of the acoustic guitar brings a down-home feel to the alternative style of the vocals and melody - bringing a very distinct Midwestern folk sound to their music.  In this writer's opinion, it's like Mellencamp and Dylan meet REM and Pearl Jam.  But, that is a limiting statement, as The Shift is their own band with their own songs and sound.  A very pleasant and unique sound that sits right between an "unplugged" set and a fully electric set.

But let's not forget the rest of the band, electric guitar, bass (also electric) and drums.  It is these three instruments that bring the full band rock sound to the song, which is absolutely critical to this unique blending of styles.  And, all the while,  the vocals ride somewhere just on top of the electric and acoustic musical contributions.  This blend of power-alternative and Midwestern acoustic allows the band to drift from full-on rockers to comforting ballads, and every tempo in between.

The Shift just happens to be playing Steger Days of Music on the Main Stage from 7:00-8:00pm on Thursday, July 16.  Prior to that you can check out some of their originals at www.reverbnation.com/theshiftmusic