Local Live Music Guide - March Onwards

As always, this is live music, times and dates may change.  Always check with the venue or the band to verify.

4/20 - Sad Monster Party (EP Release Party) - LiveWire Lounge, Chicago, IL
4/20 - The NATU Band - Full House, Moroa, IL
4/20 - Big Boppers & Friends - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
4/21 - Witchcross, Hellgrind, Trauma - Bada Brew, Crest Hill, IL
4/21 - The NATU Band - The 5th Quarter, East Moline, IL
4/26 - HandGrenades - The Loving Touch, Ferndale, MI
4/27 - The NATU Band - Timbuktu, Decatur, IL
4/27 - Big Boppers & Friends - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
4/29 - Cornerstones of Rock - Arcada Theatre, St. Charles, IL
5/1 - HandGrenades - CODA, Cleveland, OH
5/2 - HandGrenades - Tape Swap Session, Bethlehem, PA
5/3 - HandGrenades - Bourbon & Branch, Philadelphia, PA
5/4 - Jeff Givens & The Mugshot Saints - The Outtaspace, Berwyn, IL
5/4 - The NATU Band - Roca Bar, Evansville, IN
5/4 - HandGrenades - Rocket #9, Kingston, NY
5/4 - DirtyMac - Grape & Grain, Homewood, IL
5/4 - Big Boppers & Friends - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
5/5 - HandGrenades - Rockwood Music Hall - New York, New York
5/5 - Tynan - Jenny's Southside Tap, Mokena, IL
5/6 - HandGrenades - The Camel, Richmond, VA
5/8 - HandGrenades - The Velvet Lounge, Washington, DC
5/9 - HandGrenades - Howlers, Pittsburgh, PA
5/10 - HandGrenades - No Culture, Columbus, OH (afternoon)
5/10 - HandGrenades - Space Bar, Columbus, OH (night)
5/11 - Witchcross, Vatican, Axe Master - Empire Concert Club, Akron, OH
5/11 - The NATU Band - Top Shooters, Columbia, IL
5/11 - Big Boppers & Friends - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
5/11 - HandGrenades - Virginia Avenue Music Fest, Indianapolis, IN
5/12 - HandGrenades - Virginia Avenue Music Fest, Indianapolis, IN
5/12 - WireSky - Cairo Ale House, West Chicago, IL
5/13 - Herman's Hermits starring Peter Noone - Arcada Theatre, St. Charles, IL
5/15 - Alice in Chains - Riviera Theater, Chicago, IL
5/18 - The NATU Band - Stampede Saloon, Manteno, IL
5/18 - HandGrenades - The Pyramid Scheme, Grand Rapids, MI
5/18 - Big Boppers & Friends - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
5/19 - The NATU Band - Tailgaters Pub, Le Roy, IL
5/19 - Tynan - Jenny's Southside Tap, Mokena, IL
5/25 - The NATU Band - Bonifest, Edwardsville, IL
5/25 - HandGrenades - Be Here Now, Muncie, IN
5/25 - Big Boppers & Friends - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
5/25 - Bacchanal - Jenny's Southside Tap, Mokena, IL
5/26 - HandGrenades - American Dream Hi-Fi, Kokomo, IN
6/1 - Big Boppers & Friends - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
6/2 - The NATU Band - Homecoming Carnival, Lexington, IL
6/2 - Jeff Givens & The Mugshot Saints - Montrose Saloon, Chicago, IL
6/8 - Big Boppers & Friends - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
6/9 - The NATU Band - Moweaqua Pow Wow Festiva, Moweaqua, IL
6/9 - Bacchanal - Mister Mo's, Palos Heights, IL
6/15 - Big Boppers & Friends - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
6/15 - Off Kilter - Celtic Fest Ohio, Waynesville, OH
6/16 - Off Kilter - Celtic Fest Ohio, Waynesville, OH
6/17 - Off Kilter - Celtic Fest Ohio, Waynesville, OH
6/21 - Just Roll With It - Friendship Festival, Bourbonnais, IL
6/22 - Big Boppers & Friends - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
6/23 - The NATU Band - Make Music Normal Festival, Normal, IL
6/28 - The NATU Band - Curve Inn, Springfield, IL
6/29 - Big Boppers & Friends - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
7/6 - Big Boppers & Friends - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
7/7 - The Ides of March - Hoover Auditorium, Lakeside Marblehead, OH
7/13 - Big Boppers & Friends - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
7/14 - The NATU Band - Arpeggio Winery, Pana, IL
7/20 - Big Boppers & Friends - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
7/21 - Jeff Givens & The Mugshot Saints - Mix's Trading Post, Utica, IL
7/27 - The Ides of March - Prairie Fest, Wood Dale, IL
7/27 - Big Boppers & Friends - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
7/28 - Big Boppers - American Legion Hall, Hazel Crest, IL
9/21 - OZZY OSBOURNE - Hollywood Casino Amphitheater, Tinley Park, IL

Featured Running Event of the Week - AshleyCan Race Series

Going to do something a little different to start the season.  We are going to focus on a series of races (and other events).

The AshleyCan Pediatric Cancer Foundation Race Series....and more.

The AshleyCan Foundation raises money to find a cure for Childhood Cancer, and to raise awareness of this terrible disease, and to help qualified families who have been impacted.  All of the money raised from these events goes to St. Jude's Children's Hospital, other pediatric cancer efforts, and to qualified families impacted by this disease.  No profit is made from these events, the volunteers are not paid, and the Foundation Board is not paid.

These are all excellent races - and events - and are all very well organized.  The Board and their wonderful volunteers put everything they have into these events to make them successful.  If you live anywhere near the Bourbonnais/Bradley/Kankakee/Chicago Southland/Chicagoland area, I HIGHLY recommend you check out one - or more - of these events.  It's a great cause, and the events are great as well.

Details about the foundation and the events can be found at www.ashleycan.org, along with a Contact Us option.

2018/2019 Season Running/Walking Events.  Races (and walks) of all different lengths and courses!

Sunday May 13 - Mother's Day 5k Run, 2 Mile Walk, Kids Fun Run - Perry Farm, Bourbonnais, IL
Saturday June 2 - Inaugural 24 Mile Walk For A Cure - TENTATIVE
Saturday July 7 - Ashley Forever 5k/10k Run, 2 Mile Walk - Hickory Creek-LaPorte, Mokena, IL
Sunday Sep 9 - Ashley Forever Half Marathon/10k/5k, Family Fun Run - Bourbonnais Municipal Center, Bourbonnais, IL
Tues Jan 1 2019 - New Year New Cure 8k - Bourbonnais Municipal Center, Bourbonnais, IL

Other great events

Friday Mar 9 - JamNight - Live Music and Prizes - Glass Tap, Steger, IL
Saturday June 16 - Inaugural 15/25/50/75/100 Mile Bike Ride - TENTATIVE
TBD - Charity Motorcycle Run

For TBD/TENTATIVE items, check webpage link above for further details as they are announced.

This is an important cause, and these are great events!

Local Live Music Guide - 2018!!!

This is only a guide - always check with the venue or the band to confirm.  This is live music - things can definitely change.


2/2 - Low Voltage - Mainstreet Bar & Grill, Hopkins, MN
2/2 - Big Boppers & Guests - Mama and Me's Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
2/3 - The NATU Band - 5th Quarter Sports Bar, East Moline, IL
2/3 - Groove Candy - 5th Quarter Tap/Press Eatery Room, Homewood, IL
2/9 - Jeff Givens & The Mugshot Saints - Reggie's, Chicago, IL
2/9 - Big Boppers & Guests - Mama and Me's Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
2/10 - Dennis DeYoung - Genesee Theater, Waukegan, IL
2/10 - Jeff Givens & The Mugshot Saints - Grape & Grain, Homewood, IL
2/10 - Charlie FoxTrot - Rod & Gun Club, Bruceville, IN
2/10 - The NATU Band - Kevin's Backstage Bar & Grill, Evansville, IN
2/10 - Kashmir - Austin's Fuel Room, Libertyville, IL
2/13 - Big Boppers - Chicago Heights West Golf Course Banquet Hall, Chicago Heights, IL
2/16 - Big Boppers & Guests - Mama and Me's Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
2/16 - Wiresky - O'Connell's Pub Time, Blue Island, IL
2/17 - OZZY TICKETS ON SALE
2/17 - Jeff Givens & The Mugshot Saints - Friendly Tap, Berwyn, IL
2/17 - The NATU Bad - Castle Theater, Bloomington, IL
2/17 - DirtyMac - Grape & Grain, Homewood, IL
2/17 - Sniper - Cuzin's, Tinley Park, IL
2/23 - The NATU Band - Commodore Grill, Nashville, TN
2/23 - Big Boppers & Guests - Mama and Me's Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
2/23 - Kashmir - Smokestack Brew, Mishawaka, IN
2/24 - The NATU Band - Whiskey Room Live, Franklin, TN
2/24 - Time Bandits - Tracy's Tavern, Clarendon Hills, IL
2/24 - Kashmir - The Forge, Joliet, IL
2/24 - World Golden Memories - Peck School of the Arts, Milwaukee, WI
2/24 - The Kingsnakes Old School - Bottom's Up, Lansing, IL
2/26 - Jeff Givens & The Mugshot Saints - Rialto Square, Joliet, IL
2/28 - Phil Angotti & Friends - Montrose Saloon, Chicago, IL
3/2 - Big Boppers & Guests - Mama and Me's Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
3/2 - We Came As Romans, The Plot In You - The Forge, Joliet, IL
3/3 - The NATU Band - Pop's Place, Decatur, IL
3/9 - 2nd Annual AshleyCan Pediatric Cancer Foundation Jam Night - Glass Tap, Steger, IL

Featured Live Event of the Week - "A Christmas Story : Live"

Yeah, I know, we are normally on hiatus, but being Christmas and all..........

Spoiler-free review

A Christmas Story Live was shown live on the Fox Network on 12/17 (and hopefully will be sold on DVD at some point) and filmed on the famous Warner Brothers Lot in Burbank, California.

Some personal background. Years ago, a film called “Scrooged”, a modern day adaptation of A Christmas Carol had a plot centered around the live filming of A Christmas Carol. I always thought that was a really cool idea and would love to have seen that as a real thing, not just a fictitious plot in a movie. Background part 2 – A Christmas Story is my absolute, hands-down, favorite Christmas Movie ever. Ever.

So, I was very excited to see this come true. Admittedly, I also was concerned, I didn’t want anything to even remotely tarnish the memory of my most favorite Christmas movie. So, I went in with excitement, and hesitation. And I was NOT disappointed.

I don’t want to say much, because I don’t want to spoil the experience in any way, as I hope people will have the opportunity to view it later, perhaps on DVD or rerun or both. But I do want to say – the crew did an OUTSTANDING job turning a backlot in sunny California into the cold winter town of Holman, Indiana. Within minutes, the viewer would easily believe this was filmed on location.

The major, and most glaring difference (no spoiler) between this and the movie is that this was also part-musical. And guess what....it worked!!! The musical numbers fit perfectly.

The script stayed true to not only the original movie, but also to the chapter in Jean Shepherd’s book, and was an excellent vision of both, without being a rerun of either.

The choice to cast Matthew Broderick as the narrator (or grown-up Ralphie) was simply genius!!! I can’t even imagine it being done by anybody else after watching it.

The cast was tremendous and talented and engaging to watch. I’d like to tell you about some clever nuances, but I won’t as I don’t want to bring any spoiler to this review at all.

For some reason, for me, the ending, after they had dinner, was particularly touching, I can’t put my finger on it, but like the original movie, this will also live in my Christmas memories forever.

Some would say that I might be one of the toughest critics of this venture, being that it is my favorite Christmas movie and I have yearned for such a concept since seeing Scrooged. So, with that in mind, I would have to say, I HIGHLY HIGHLY recommend the viewing of this should it come around in some repeat fashion – and if it becomes available on DVD, it’s worth the purchase!

Our long-standing Holiday Tradition - Erika Amato's "A Merry Little Christmas"

[We first published this in December of 2014, and we republished in December of 2015, and again in December 2016, and again this year] 

Why do we keep republishing this?  Because in my honest opinion, this is the best Christmas CD I have ever - ever - ever owned.
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In the past, we have focused on Live Performances in this feature - but this week we are going to focus on a CD and a singer.

I have only seen Erika Amato perform live in a stage version of Flashdance - and on TV on stage at "The Bronze" with her band, Velvet Chain.  I was uber-impressed both times!  Heck, if it wasn't for that show at "The Bronze", I never would have discovered Velvet Chain.

About a year or two ago, I purchased a solo CD that Erika did called "A Merry Little Christmas" - which is available online here (the official Velvet Chain/Erika Amato webpage).

This is BY FAR THE BEST Christmas album I have ever heard since I was a kid.  It's not fair to compare this to the Christmas albums of my childhood, as those will always have a special place in my heart and will always bring back memories.  But, "A Merry Little Christmas" by Erika Amato is the best collection of Christmas songs I have heard since then - hands down - period - no discussion!

It's not just the selection of songs, but Erika's amazing, dare I say it - Angelic- voice coupled with amazing music, that makes this CD great.  The CD consists of absolutely beautiful (a word I only use when absolutely necessary, like now) music and an amazingly beautiful voice that just becomes one with the music.  It's like music+singer=perfection.

The sound is a great combination of classical and jazz - and even some rock, with piano, strings, brass, and probably instruments I am not trained enough to appreciate.  I can't say this enough, absolutely perfectly arranged around and together with Erika's absolutely amazing - angelic - voice.

It's not just the obvious talent that shines here, but the Christmas feeling is embedded in the music and the vocals.  It's not just some singer covering Christmas tunes - it IS Christmas.  The Christmas spirit can be felt within these songs - these songs bring Christmas to life.  There is no way to listen to this CD and not be filled with the Christmas spirit.  No lie - I could play this CD non-stop from Thanksgiving until New Year's and never grow tired of it - never.

My personal favorite (thought they are all my favorites, but if I had to choose) is "Christmastime Is Here", a song many will recognize from the Charlie Brown Christmas movies. It is probably the best rendition I have ever heard and is done with complete respect for the original.  (Of course, I won't lie - the Charlie Brown version will always be my most favorite - but WOW does this come close to replacing it in my heart!)

Songs on the CD :
White Christmas
Santa Baby
What Child Is This?
Merry Christmas Darling
Carol Of The Bells
Have Yourself A Merry Little Christmas
Rockin' Around The Christmas Tree
Silver Bells
Christmastime Is Here
O Holy Night
The Christmas Song

Again - this is available online at the Erika Amato's official site

Merry Christmas everybody!!!

Featured Live Artist of the Week - "Marie Christine"

Yes, I know this is normally our Holiday Hiatus time - but some entries just need to be written.

This particular BoHo Theatre presentation took place at the Theater Wit, located in Chicago’s Lake View Neighborhood.  The Theater Wit has 3 theaters within the building.  On this evening “Marie Christine” was performed in Theater 1, which has about 10 rows on inclined seating.  The chairs are theater quality comfortable chairs, and the sightlines are great from any row.  My guess, the back row is at most 10 yards away from the stage.  The Theater Wit itself was a great venue, polite workers, bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic offerings, and patrons can pre-order their intermission drink, and it will be waiting for them during intermission.

Now, onto the play.  In order to give the best representation of the story, I will borrow from the BoHo Theater website :

Set in the twilight years of the 19th century, this dark musical chronicles the journey of Marie Christine, a racially mixed woman imprisoned without a trial to face death. From her jail cell, she recounts her journey from a genteel life of privilege in New Orleans Creole society through love, betrayal, and incomprehensible vengeance, to her final tragic fate. Inspired by the Medea myth, this tale of dark magic and raw emotion is loosely based on the life of real-life voodoo practitioner Marie Laveau.

As for the specific performance – amazing and spectacular – are the words that come to mind.  The cast is around a dozen people, some of them playing multiple characters, especially when the setting switches from New Orleans to Chicago.  Although the eye recognizes them by appearance, they do an excellent job, immediately, becoming the new character, and there isn’t any “wasn’t he or she so-and-so 5 minutes ago”.  THAT takes talent.  The set stays the same for the entire show with various props moving in and out (by the performers as part of the scene) as needed, but not many.  The performers do a great job setting the scene with music and words, where one can actually see the open field or the ballroom or whatever in their mind.  An added clever touch was the location of the live musicians.  Instead of being off to the side, or in a pit (this place doesn’t have a pit), or hidden behind a wall somewhere, they are carefully placed behind a wall with open doors.  So, when the play starts, the doors open, and the musicians (dressed in black) are there – but not there.  Patrons can see them if they want to, they are in plain sight, but simultaneously, they are not there and in no way distract from the scene.  It’s a very clever approach.

The show has some moments of chuckles and even a couple of real-life laugh-out-louds, but is primarily a serious and dramatic musical.  Great references to Chicago, and anybody who understands the inner workings of Chicago, will find that portion especially amusing and real.  To be quite honest, within the first 10-15 minutes of this 2 hour performance, I was fully vested in the main character and found all of the characters to be very believable and real.  It wasn’t difficult to actually feel for the characters, and that speaks volumes about the performers.

The sound and lighting were superb as well, the entire crew deserves the same kudos that the performers and musicians receive.

BoHo Theatre Link

Theater Wit Link

Local Live Music - Nov/Dec Edition

This is only a guide - always check with the venue or the band to confirm.  This is live music - things can definitely change.

11/9 - Love, Chicago : A Benefit Concert for Mexico & Puerto Rico, Old Town School of Folk Music, Chicago, IL
11/10 - HandGrenades - Mac's Bar, Lansing, MI
11/10 - Time Bandits - Tracy's Tavern, Clarendon Hills, IL
11/10 - Krewella - Aragon Ballroom, Chicago, IL
11/10 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
11/11 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
11/11 - Time Bandits - Old Town Pub, Crestwood, IL
11/11 - Susan Williams Band - Porkchop, Glenwood, IL
11/11 - 95th Street Band - Slapshots, Midlothian, IL
11/12 - Finding God in Popular Music - St. Raymond de Penafort Parish, Mount Prospect, IL
11/17 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
11/17 - Snow Leopard Love Affair, Underclass, Big Sky Hunters, Feedback Friends - Bada Brew, Crest Hill, IL
11/18 - Sniper - Mister Mo's, Palos Heights, IL
11/18 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
11/18 - Cornerstones of Rock - Coronado Theatre, Rockford, IL
11/18 - Charlie FoxTrot - The Port, Bridgeport, IL
11/22 - Low Voltage - Mainstreet Bar & Grill, Hopkins, MN
11/22 - Kashmir - Q Sports Bar & Grill, Darien, IL
11/24 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
11/25 - Sopro's Annual Thanksgiving All-Star Blues Revue - Cheers, Midlothian, IL
11/25 - Cornerstones of Rock - Arcada Theater, St. Charles, IL
11/26 - Old School Jam Night - Lynwood Skating Rink, Lynwood, IL
11/29 - Big Boppers - Melody Mart Adult Jam Session, Homewood, IL
12/1 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
12/2 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
12/2 - Charlie FoxTrot - Main Street Pub, Robinson, IL
12/2 - Modern Day Romeos - MT Barrels, Schaumburg, IL
12/8 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
12/8 - Hed(pe) at Dark Days of Christmas - Bada Brew, Crest Hill, IL
12/9 - Sniper - Finnegan's Pub, Dyer, IN
12/9 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
12/9 - Kashmir - Buddy & Pal's, Crown Point, IN
12/15 - 4th Annual Night Ministry Christmas with the Beatles Glove Drive feat. Danny Donuts & Crabby Road Band, Yellow SubMorons, Sgt. Sauerkraut's Polka Band, Meet The Beatles - Harry's Sports Bar & Grill, Countryside, IL
12/15 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
12/16 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
12/16 - The Ides Of March - Arcada Theater, St. Charles, IL
12/16 - Liquid Monday - Bottom's Up, Lansing, IL
12/22 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
12/23 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
12/27 - Big Boppers - Melody Mart Adult Jam Session, Homewood, IL
12/29 - Jeff Massey from Steepwater Band - J. Martin's Tap, Steger, IL
12/29 - Kashmir - The Forge, Joliet, IL
12/31 - Kashmir - Ballydoyle's, Downers Grove, IL
1/20 - Jim Peterik's World Stage - Wentz Hall at North Central College, Naperville, IL
2/10 - Dennis DeYoung - Genesee Theater, Waukegan, IL
2/10 - Charlie FoxTrot - Rod & Gun Club, Bruceville, IN
3/9 - 2nd Annual AshleyCan Pediatric Cancer Foundation Jam Night - Glass Tap, Steger, IL

Featured Live Music Artist of the Week - Sniper

Finally, after numerous hit-and-misses, I got to see Sniper live and in person.  I had planned to see them many times, but things never worked out.  But this time it did, and it was perfect, an early autumn evening outdoor concert at a local bar.

This band is so prepared, they even built the stage for the event!!  (seriously)

Sniper is a hard rocking 4 piece band, with a bass guitar, lead/rhythm guitar, drums, and lead vocalist/frontman.

This is a band that stays true to the hard rock formula of the 1980s, powerful vocals with an energetic frontman, awesome lead solos with an energetic guitar player, featured drums solos with a hard hitting drummer, and an energetic bassist who loved going out into the crowd.  (Okay, so the bassist wasn't the ordinary 1980s/1970s stand in one spot bass player)

Speaking of going out into the crowd, this band probably makes the best use of cordless instruments an microphones than any local band I have seen in a while.  Throughout each and every song in every set, at least 1 of the band members was rockin out in the crowd (except the drummer.....yet).  The bassist would walk right up to people and slap out some awesome bass lines, the lead guitarist not only went up to people in the crowd and displayed his guitar playing, but the stage couldn't contain him, I think he spent most of the time in front of the stage moving around.  And the lead vocalist, always mixing it up with the audience, singing with them, going up to them, and putting on a show.  Not just a vocalist, but that classic 80s frontman as well.  High energy output from each member of the band, it was more than music, it was also a show. 

But, it's not just the showmanship, this band can play!  Awesome recreations of songs from the 80s and 90s and 70s that we all know and love.  When playing covers, there is definitely pressure to do it right - and they did it right.  All of the songs played perfect tribute to the original songs, many spot on, and some with minor twists that the band threw in, which is always a welcome change!

I can't remember the entire set list, but I do remember a segment where they went from Judas Priest directly into an extended jam version of Radar Love and seamlessly into War Pigs!  Radar Love to War Pigs - now that's variety!   One surprise was when this 4-piece hard rock band broke into a song from a local legendary band, The Ides of March.  That's right, this hard rock band was about to play Vehicle.  (Chicagoans know the significance of that song and that band in music lore)  And you know what, without the use of a horn section, this band PULLED IT OFF!!!  I admit, I was curious as to how such a strong Chicago-horn style song would work without horns - and with only 2 guitars (one being a bass) - but you know what - they rocked it!!!!!  Very cool to have seen/heard!!

Definitely a fun-night-out kinda band.  Between sets the band didn't go hide backstage or in their vehicles (no pun intended) - but rather sat at the bar and did shots with people and drank beers and met people and mingled with their audience.  A great band to book for that fun-night-out type event!!

Throwback Thursday - Featured Live Music Artist of the Week - HandGrenades

So, I just returned from Detroit earlier this week - so I decided (just like last week) - I'll post a TBT post - this one from 2014 (reprinted unchanged)

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Sitting here watching the Bears vs. Lions on TV - while they are at Ford Field in Detroit - it helped me decide today's Featured Live Music Artist of the Week.

Based in the Detroit Metro Area - THE HANDGRENADES

The best way to describe this band's musical style is with adjectives, not with a genre: melodic, guitar-driven, impressive harmonies, evolving, energetic, fun, astounding lyrics, and with one noun - ROCK & ROLL.   This is rock-n-roll in its most pure form, it's all about the music, it's fun, it's contagious - it is everything Rock & Roll is meant to be.

Originally a 4 piece (2 guitars, bass, drums), now a 5 piece with the addition of keys, the band members shift between instrumental roles during the show, as some move from lead, to rhythm, to bass guitar.  Although every aspect of the band is impressive, they are most certainly defined by their harmonies - a modern-day much-heavier Beatles in that area.  But, make no mistake, just because they have Beatle-like harmonies - this is far from being "a band that sounds like the Beatles" - this is an original new band with their very own unique sound.

They are now on their 3rd full-length CD, plus an earlier EP/demo.  The band writes the songs from music through lyrics.

But even more than the music is the STAGE PRESENCE!  And man, it is a presence!!!  A very cool inside lit bass-drum with the red glowing HG is the centerpiece of the stage.  Speaking of drums, and I've told him this to his face, the drummer beats the living daylights out of those drums!!!  Rumor has it he has actually broken cymbals!!  But, the sound that comes out is forceful, full, and driving - just like the guitars.  The guitars drive the song along, pushing each song onward, and bring pure energy to the forefront!  And the vocals, on top of all that, with the amazing - dare I say "perfect" - harmonies put the whole package together.  I saw these guys cover "This Boy" (or is it "That Boy") by The Beatles, and I think HG did it better than the actual Beatles!!!

So, now we've established the sound - full, driving, forceful, melodic, harmonic, energetic, and fun.  And that FUN translates to an on-stage presence that is captivating.  This band never stops moving, never stops playing, never stops singing, never stops smiling, never stops laughing, never stops HAVING FUN.  Every song is a 200% effort, that somehow looks effortless, yet fun.  You can clearly tell the band is having just as much fun making the music as the crowd is having listening to it.

They have another quality which is only present in few bands - chemistry.  All that moving around on stage and jamming - and they are all in-sync with each other - both musically and physically.  They are a cohesive unit (using a football term, since I am watching the Bears/Lions game while writing).

The best way to truly appreciate their music - buy it.  The best way to truly appreciate them on stage - go see them.  This band has a long great future.  This is a band that on a 1-10 scale, gets an 11.

Their only drawback, from what this Chicagoan can see, they actually enjoy watching football played INDOORS!!!

(ps - with no disrespect towards the new members, I admit, I do miss founding member, Tom)

Throwback Thursday : The Rockingbirds - Featured Live Music Artist of the Week

We don't usually do Throwback Thursdays - but seeing how we will be in The D for the Detroit International Half Marathon, seemed fitting to feature a local Detroit band.......


The Rockingbirds, from "The D" (Detroit), are the featured live music artists of the week.

The Rockingbirds are a 4-piece classic rock band.  And not just a typical classic rock band.  Many bands play all the most well-known (and sometimes overplayed) classic rock hits, which is fine, that's a good time too.  But this band plays some of the deep cuts.  And not just from 5 or 6 famous bands, but from across the 60s and 70s, and even 80s.  To be honest, I didn't even know them, BUT, the bulk of the crowd did - and that's what counts!  And this is what makes them a great cover band - they bring back songs that you might have forgotten about, songs that aren't played 10 times a day on the local classic rock station.  But, of course, they also play songs that are very well known.  A great variety.

I do recall songs from CSN, Stephen Stills, Beatles, Traveling Wilburys, Hollies, Eagles, Outsiders, Steely Dan, Badfinger, and others.  I wish I could remember the entire set list, but I was busy enjoying the show - not taking notes.

The band is in the process of changing out guitarists, as long-time member, Tom is leaving and the newest member, Tom is joining.  Yep, Tom's spot is now being played by Tom.  The new member, Tom, was a former member of Detroit based band The HandGrenades and current member of Beatles Cover Band - Mister Mustard.

I was fortunate to see the band play with both members, half the set with Tom - and the other half with Tom.  The band was great in both incarnations.  They all exhibit my favorite characteristic in a musician - they love what they are doing and they love music.  And it is obvious - it comes across in their stage presence and in the music itself.

They happened to be playing at a local K of C, where they knew many of the audience, and that added to the night as well, as they interacted often with the crowd, in fun ways.  In addition - they supplied the crowd with a duffle bag of percussion items to play along!!  Not just a sing-along but a percussion-along!

The band lists their hometown as Allen Park - but they can be seen throughout the Detroit area.  Well worth checking out!

Featured Live Music Artist of the Week - Pepperland Rockestra Strings

No, no, this isn't deja vu all over again.

Last week, we featured the Pepperland Rockestra, this week we are featuring the Pepperland Rockestra Strings, a sub-band of the band (if there is such a term).

The name is quite self-explanatory - Pepperland (Beatles-related) Rockestra (like an orchestra, but rock) Strings (well - strings).  This band is the "string section" of Pepperland Rockestra, and they actually perform on their own, and they perform an entirely different show.  This isn't just the string section re-performing what the larger band performed, this is different.

One could say this is where classical music meets classic rock.  Or, one could say, as one did in the audience during the show, "This is beautiful music".

The PR Strings consist of 4 distinct string instruments; the violin, the viola, the cello, and the 7-string viola (yes, there is such a thing).  This combination allows the quartet to cover many different musical ranges.  The Pepperland Rockestra Strings is an instrumental band and covers Beatles and Beatles Solo tunes.

Unlike Eleanor Rigby and Yesterday, most Beatles/Beatles solo tunes were not written for a string quartet.  However, that doesn't stop these ladies, as they score the songs themselves as a collaborative effort.  So, they are able to cover songs like Yes It Is, Photograph, I've Just Seen a Face and so many unexpected tunes.  And they do it in such a manner that the audience would think these were always written this way.

To illustrate how they choose unexpected songs to cover with a string quartet - check out these two medleys they played :  No Words/Happy/Money Money Money/With A Girl Like You/Spin It On/Back Seat Of My Car - and this one - I Want You/Happiness Is A Warm Gun/You Never Give Me Your Money.  Nuff said.

The feeling of a Pepperland Rockestra Strings show is sort of like a recital, with all of the class and charm and talent, but without the seriousness.  (obviously the band isn't goofing off, but they most certainly are not "stuffy" either)

Pepperland Rockestra Strings is a great addition to any Beatles related show or weekend, a very classy change of pace.

Featured Live Music Artist of the Week - Pepperland Rockestra

The name sounds large and grand - and well, it fits.  The band is large and grand.  Pepperland Rockestra consists of Keyboards, Drums, Bass Guitar, Guitars, Viola, Violin, Cello, a 7-string viola, and an entire horn section.  This is like "Wall of Sound" stuff that would make The Wrecking Crew and Phil Spector proud!

For those not familiar with The Beatles, this is a Beatles and Beatles-Solo cover band.  Pepperland coming from Yellow Submarine and Rockestra from Paul McCartney.  But it's not just a clever combination of song titles.  (Yes, both are actually song titles)  The band takes the stage dressed in late 1960s style attire, colorful, flowery, and imaginative - like Pepperland the place.  Though they obviously aren't cartoonish, thing of the attire as something from Yellow Submarine, if it were a live action band today.  Rockestra, well, with horns, strings, and a rock & roll band - that IS a Rockestra if there ever was one!

The band takes the "big sound" songs of the Beatles or Beatles solo and recreates them in full orchestral fashion - and they do it very well.  It's like listening to the recording - but watching it live and hearing it in real-time.  They also take some of the less "big sound" songs and recreate them as if they were originally "big sounding".  And they also do this very well!  Playing well known songs with a new flare.  (or is it flair, it's not Ric Flair, though I think he'd love the bigness of this sound - woooo - sorry I digress)

Not that The Beatles weren't cultured, but this full orchestral band, brings a new element of culture to what could have been "just another Beatles band".  Of course, as you can tell, they most certainly are NOT "just another Beatles band".

They are fun to watch on stage, as every single band member, whether it's the lead vocalist, the drummer, the guitarists, the string section, or the horn section, every single band member really gets into the music.  They are having fun - and it shows - and that's what music is about.  Didn't Mr. Holland say, "that's why it's called PLAYING music" because it's supposed to be fun.   And this band is having fun - and so is everybody watching them.

Highly Highly talented musicians, all combined on one stage (or on the stage, in front of the stage, and next to the stage).  This band is definitely one of the premier "Beatles bands", without a doubt.

Featured Live Music Artist of the Week - Mister Mustard

Beatles fans will recognize the name of the band and immediately think it will be a Beatles cover band, and, well, they would be correct.  Mister Mustard is a side project of the original 3 members of the HandGrenades.  One of those members now plays in The Rockingbirds, which we have featured here before, and the other two remain in the HandGrenades.

The HandGrenades are well known in the music scene not just for their musical chops and songwriting talents, but also for spot-on perfect harmonies.

So, one would expect Mister Mustard to also have spot-on perfect harmonies - correct?  Yep - and that would be a correct expectation - and they far exceed that expectation on stage.  The band consists of 2 guitars, 1 bass, and 1 drum - the standard rock combo.  All three guitarists take tuns on lead vocals of various Beatles songs from the early years to the final years - and all three guitarists combine for harmonies throughout the songs.  And the do it well, very well.

I was so focused on the music and having a good time, I didn't keep track of a set list, but they did play once on Saturday and once on Sunday on the Apple Jam Stage at Chicago's Fest For Beatles Fans.  And they packed the atrium both times.  Honestly, it almost felt like a Beatles concert with girls screaming (seriously) during some songs.  And, well, everybody screaming when they pulled off the rising vocals in "I've Got A Feeling".  If you know the song, you know the part I'm talking about.  And of course, with those vocals, the music is also rising.  Talk about nailing a song spot-on perfect.  Literally, the crowd, every person in the crowd, screamed and whistled and clapped at that point - literally everybody.

Their on stage presence is relaxed and fun, which is not surprising given that is exactly how one would describe the HandGrenades and Rockingbirds.  But, at the same time, as one young lady sitting behind me said, they "even sort of act like The Beatles up there, having fun and looking at the crowd".  And I think she was right.

Another quote from an older gentleman sitting near me was, "I like how they keeping cracking wise between songs".  And again, he was right.  From the time they got on stage until the time they got off stage, they had funny little dialogues between songs, totally relaxed and unforced fun.

They do play out on occasion, and hopefully those occasions will increase.  One thing is certain, if you ever need the perfect Beatles cover band - Mister Mustard is the call you should make.

Local Live Music - Autumn Edition

This is only a guide - always check with the venue or the band to confirm.  This is live music - things can definitely change.

10/20 - Time Bandits - Tracys Tavern, Clarendon Hills, IL
10/20 - Steadfast, The Shindiggas, Blue Carpet Authority, Crystal Killers, Distant Haze, Oh Dreamer - Bada Brew, Crest Hill, IL
10/20 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
10/21 - Celtic Aire - 115 Bourbon, Merrionette Park, IL
10/21 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
10/21 - The Ides Of March - Watseka Theatre/Iroquois Performing Arts Center, Watseka, IL
10/21 - Kashmir - Cheers, Midlothian, IL
10/21 - Groove Candy - Bottom's Up, Lansing, IL
10/25 - Big Boppers - Melody Mart Adult Jam Session, Homewood, IL
10/27 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
10/28 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
10/28 - Charlie FoxTrot - The Diamond BBQ, Sullivan, IN
10/28 - Sad Monster Party - Gallery Cabaret, Chicago, IL
10/28 - Kashmir - 210 Live, Highwood, IL
11/3 - Kashmir - Buddy & Pal's, Schererville, IN
11/3 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
11/4 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
11/4 - Wild Dogs - Brass Monkey Bar, Wyandotte, MI
11/4 - Sniper - R-Bar, Highland, IN
11/10 - HandGrenades - Mac's Bar, Lansing, MI
10/10 - Krewella - Aragon Ballroom, Chicago, IL
11/10 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
11/11 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
11/17 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
11/17 - Snow Leopard Love Affair, Underclass, Big Sky Hunters, Feedback Friends - Bada Brew, Crest Hill, IL
11/18 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
11/18 - Cornerstones of Rock - Coronado Theatre, Rockford, IL
11/18 - Charlie FoxTrot - The Port, Bridgeport, IL
11/22 - Kashmir - Q Sports Bar & Grill, Darien, IL
11/24 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
11/25 - Sopro's Annual Thanksgiving All-Star Blues Revue - Cheers, Midlothian, IL
11/25 - Cornerstones of Rock - Arcada Theater, St. Charles, IL
11/29 - Big Boppers - Melody Mart Adult Jam Session, Homewood, IL
12/1 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
12/2 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
12/2 - Charlie FoxTrot - Main Street Pub, Robinson, IL
12/8 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
12/8 - Hed(pe) at Dark Days of Christmas - Bada Brew, Crest Hill, IL
12/9 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
12/9 - Kashmir - Buddy & Pal's, Crown Point, IN
12/15 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
12/16 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
12/16 - The Ides Of March - Arcada Theater, St. Charles, IL
12/16 - Liquid Monday - Bottom's Up, Lansing, IL
12/22 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
12/23 - Big Boppers w/ Special Guests - Mama & Me Pizzeria, Homewood, IL
12/27 - Big Boppers - Melody Mart Adult Jam Session, Homewood, IL
12/29 - Kashmir - The Forge, Joliet, IL
12/31 - Kashmir - Ballydoyle's, Downers Grove, IL
1/20 - Jim Peterik's World Stage - Wentz Hall at North Central College, Naperville, IL
2/10 - Charlie FoxTrot - Rod & Gun Club, Bruceville, IN
3/9 - 2nd Annual AshleyCan Pediatric Cancer Foundation Jam Night - Glass Tap, Steger, IL

Featured Artist of the Week - Ron Fitzgerald

So, this week's "artist" is not a musician (well, he might be and I don't know) and he's not a painter, but he is an artist.  He is an Illusionist - and is the driving force behind Ron Fitzgerald's Dark Realm.

I've seen his show twice now, one time on a stage, and one time as part of an outdoor afterparty sponsored by Zombie Army Productions, both as part of Flashback Weekend HorrorCon - Chicago.  (as a side note, back in 2016 we did a Featured Artist of the Week about Flashback Weekend, you can use our search function to find that)

Anyhow, back to Ron Fitzgerald.  This guy immediately makes an impact, and he definitely makes an interest.  He has a "dark" look to him from the minute you see him, including his pale eyes, which almost look grey.  He is clad in exactly the outfit you'd expect a dark illusionist to be clad in - long dark jacket and supernatural surreal jewelry.  But, that's all just superficial, right?  What really matters is the show.  And, he can put on a show - whether it's on a stage or outdoors in a parking lot surrounded by people who have been drinking free beer (compliments of Zombie Army) for hours.

Certainly don't want to delve into spoilers here, because spoilers would ruin the show - right?  But, I can say it's a great mix of well-known illusions (sawing a woman in half), to new and dark illusions, to dark humor, to sexual innuendo (some not so subtle).  That combination equates to 100% entertainment.  The illusions will leave even front-row skeptics going "how DID he do that?"  But even if the viewer is a non-believer in magic and illusions, it's still entertaining as Fitzgerald throws in humor and dark humor at just the right times - and throws in a little innuendo here and there as well - all at the expense of his fun-loving female assistants.  And let's not take anything away from the assistants - as everybody knows, a "magic" act is only as good as the assistants.  The combination on Mr. Fitzgerald and his 2 (or 3) assistants makes for a well oiled machine.  The show moves along without a hitch and there is no question that Mr. Fitzgerald is not only a master of illusions, but also a true professional who understands that it's all about the show - it's all about entertaining (and surprising and shocking) the audience.

The show never feels fake, it never feels phony, and it never feels cheesy.  The entire show is engaging from start to finish and keeps the audience on the edge of their seats (unless they are standing in a parking lot).  Even during the free-drink show, as we were calling it, the show was so engaging, few people walked away to get refills - very few.

Whether he is able to have all the effects that a stage show provides - or whether he is doing it the old snake-handler way in a parking lot in the dark - the show is engaging, funny, dark, and shocking!  Everything one would want from an illusionist from the Dark Realm.

Featured Live Music Artist of the Week - Tuesday Knight

So, to be honest, the "live" part of this really only applies to one song, but even music from CDs was live - live in the studio - so this all counts.

Fair warning - this is one of my "long-winded" reviews, but please indulge me - it all ties together.

To horror fans, Tuesday Knight is known for a couple of things - 1) Her role as Kristen in Nightmare On Elm Street 4 (and also playing herself in New Nightmare) and 2) Singing the theme song, "Nightmare" for Nightmare on Elm Street 4.

However, Tuesday has many more film credits than just the Nightmare franchise, and she also has many many more songs than just "Nightmare". And, I'll be the first to admit it - I had no idea about the song part. I knew she sang the theme, but really that is all I knew about her music career.

It just so happened that one of the features of the 2017 Flashback Weekend HorrorCon was that Tuesday would sing "Nightmare" live just before the outdoor screening of Nightmare 4. How freaking cool is that?!?!?!

So, earlier that same day, I went to her booth on the convention floor to get a selfie and autograph, and I commented about how cool it's going to be seeing her sing "Nightmare" live. She was super nice, very friendly, and very genuine. After a few minutes of talking, her husband asked if I knew more about her music. I sheepishly said "Sorry, I really don't". So, we talked a bit about it, and she happened to have a pre-release of her newest CD, "Uncovered" along with the EP CD "Nightmare", which had "Nightmare" (duh), a few different mixes of "Nightmare" and some other songs. I decided to purchase the pre-release CD - why not, what a cool chance to get something before the public - I love music, Tuesday seemed very nice - figured I couldn't lose. Thinking I had brought my portable CD player with me, I said that I would listen to it that day.

Fast forward to that evening. The cast of Nightmare 4, including Mrs. Knight and Robert Englund, did a brief live intro to the movie - and then the cast left the makeshift stage - and the "Nightmare" music began. Tuesday Knight, standing front and center to an audience that was glued on her - like convention fans will be. She started singing and, immediately, right out of the box was knocking it out of the park. She was hitting the high notes, she was grooving, she was walking back and forth across the stage - hitting every lyric exactly as we all remembered it from the movie. No signs of nerves whatsoever (I would imagine it would be a little nerve wracking performing in front of this audience that memorizes every word to movies they love) and she rocked it for the entire length of the song - making the outdoor gathering feel like a large scale concert. She finished the song to a standing ovation!

Fast forward again, the next day, I headed back to her table and complimented her on the performance - and immediately bought the other 2 CDs that I had not bought the day before. Sold on the strength of her live performance - and her voice. The 3 CDs are titled "Faith", "Nightmare" and "Uncovered".

Sadly, when I got back to my room that first night, turns out that I did NOT bring my portable CD player - so when she asked me what I thought about the CD, I had to admit my failure. But when I got home I transferred them all to my iPod and listened to them on my way to the Fest For Beatles Fans convention the next weekend. And, I was SO BLOWN AWAY by her sound, that her CDs became my in-room music for the entire Beatles event - and that says a lot, because usually, it's Beatles music.

Her sound across the CDs varies from not only CD to CD but from track to track. And variety is a good thing always. I'm not a fan of categorizing artists, but to help explain her music - it's like Rock & Roll, Pop, Groove/Dance, and "New" Country all rolled together. Each song has an element of those items, some songs are little more of one than the other. Her sound is uniquely Tuesday Knight, which is why I don't like to compare her to other singers, because it does a disservice to her own style - but I kinda see it as a great mixture of Blondie, Pat Benatar, Heart, and Shania Twain. All of the songs are excellent - including the novelty mixes of "Nightmare" - and she even throws in a cover song here and there, with her own very unique interpretation on them.

It's hard to pick a "favorite" song, because they are all good - but of course "Nightmare" is in the running - and I have to admit - I enjoy the attitude in "Sorry Bout That" (from her newest CD, "Uncovered") - makes me smile each time I listen to it.

If you like music, if you like to expand your collection, and if you like the "Nightmare" franchise - I'd suggest picking up some Tuesday Knight CDs.

By the way, even more important than all of my opinions about her music - she is really a class act. One of the nicest people I've ever met at any convention. Genuine and friendly. Glad I had a chance to meet her and to see her perform!!

Featured Live Music Artist of the Week - The Neverly Brothers

The Neverly Brothers : A Rock & Roll Tribute from Elvis to the Beatles.

No, that's not a great headline I thought up, that's the promo tag line for the 3-piece band, based in Chiagoland, called The Neverly Brothers.  And well, it's a perfect description, but not a complete description.

The Neverly Brothers is more like a musical history lesson - or as they called it - a "Magical History Tour".  I was fortunate enough to see their show at Steger's First Responders Community Event.  The band was the part of the Day 1 festivities, which also included a parade, bouncy-houses, touch-a-trunk, dunk tank, a DJ, and fireworks.

The band's tagline basically explains the musical genre - but the band doesn't just play music or cover music for that era, they literally transport one back in time.  The band itself consists of just 3 band members, and the 3 basic instruments of that time, instruments that gave that era of music its own never-since-duplicated sound.  A bass violin (the band taught us that was the correct term), many know it as the upright bass, standup bass, "the doghouse", and "that giant bass".  A 6-string acoustic guitar.  And, a simple drum kit - one bass drum and one tom, no cymbal.  Basic, but to the point - and pure - just like the sound of that era.  Those three instruments, when played properly can sound like an orchestra.  Less is more, as they say.  The band played everything from Elvis to The Beatles, to Johnny Cash, to Rolling Stones, to The Kinks, to the Big Bopper, and so many bands in between.

The show focused on Early American Rock & Roll, starting at Sun Records, and progressed through the British Invasion, led by The Beatles and ending with the Stones.  The show even included a costume change to go with the different eras.

But, really, a Neverly Brothers show is so much more than the songs and the attire.  It truly is a Magical History Tour.  Throughout the evening, from the opening to the encore, the band transports the audience back in time through narration.  They set the stage with descriptions of venues, recording studios, and events.  Literally, one could close their eyes and be transported.  But it was even more than that - there was even history lessons about the songs or the artists or their influences or the times.  Did you know, for instance, that "Wake Up Little Susie" was so controversial in its time, that radio stations would not play it?  I didn't know that - but I do now - thanks to The Neverly Brothers.

More than a concert, this was a show, more than a show, this was a true TRIBUTE, a heartfelt recreation of an era that was the cornerstone of Rock & Roll.

Featured Live Music Artist of the Week - First Responder Community Event

With today's entry, we are helping to spread the word for an event occurring Saturday August 19 and Sunday August 20 in Steger, IL.

The First Responder Community Event.

This event is to honor the men and women of the First Responder Community; Fire Department/EMT, Police Department, Emergency Management Agency (EMA), and Public Works.  These are the first people on the scene serving and protecting the residents of Steger and nearby communities.  They are there for fires, accidents, general assistance, traffic control, snow removal, water main breaks, getting cats out of trees, checking for carbon monoxide or natural gas in homes, keeping water purified, illness, injury, and education - and so much more.

The event starts on Saturday, August 19 with a parade.  Everybody loves a parade.

The parade begins at 3:00pm on the west side of town, and travels down Steger Road to Hopkins and ends at the Louis Sherman Community Center.

At this point, all sorts of activities will be ready to roll - a dunk tank, water games, bean bags, and a DJ.  There will also be food and beverages available.

At 7:45pm, The Neverly Brothers- A Rock N Roll Tribute from Elvis to The Beatles - takes the stage for a free concert.

Following the concert - FIREWORKS!!!  And then a DJ in the beer tent to finish off the evening.

On Sunday, August 20, there will be a fundraiser dinner to raise money for the First Responder Departments.  Money raised will be split across the groups and used as necessary.  Reservations are now closed for this event, so the caterer has a headcount.  This dinner takes place inside the Louis Sherman Community Center.

Here is the link to the official facebook invite page - https://www.facebook.com/events/1930286787235340/

Featured Artist of the Week - "The Barn"

Going a slightly different route with this entry.  Instead of a musical artist, or a visual artist, we are going to treat the concept of art in its all encompassing meaning - "the expression or application of human creative skill and imagination".

"The Barn" is a movie - and the artists are the producers, directors, actors, musicians, director of photography, F/X specialists, stuntmen, and everybody else, such as the gaffer and best boy (whatever those are) - and anybody else involved.  The "artist" as a whole is Nevermore Production Films.

I'm not a movie critic, so bear with me on this one.

"The Barn" in an independent studio horror/slasher picture.  I picked up a copy at the recent Flashback Weekend HorrorCon, because they had quite the booth.  They offered it on DVD, they had a video game, they had a board game, they had an orange vinyl something (not sure if it was soundtrack of that old movie format).  Anyhow, it was clear they were serious about this venture - so I supported them.  Heck, they even have their own website dedicated to the movie - The Barn Merch Store.

The concept of the movie (no spoilers because it's printed right on the box) - "It's Halloween 1989, best friends Sam and Josh are trying to enjoy their last Devil's Night before graduating high school.  Trouble arises when...take a detour on their way to a rock concert, finding an old abandoned barn and awakening the evil inside..."  (Nevermore Production Films)

I wasn't sure what to expect from an indie film, but given their booth at the convention, I figured it should be pretty good.  And it was.

I'll admit, there were some jumps in logic, or things that just didn't make sense, but it's a horror film - name one where everything makes sense.  Being a horror film, it also had a pointless gratuitous nude scene, but again, most horror/slasher films do - it's almost expected.  But, really, those are the only sorta negative aspects, and are they really negatives - or just standard horror/slasher items?

The filming is very good, the camera angles are interesting, and the lighting is perfect, considering it's almost 75% filmed in the dark outdoors.  Many films end up with these very very dimly lit and hard to see scenes - but The Barn does an excellent job of keeping the dark night feel, but still enough lighting to clearly see everything going on. 

The acting and dialogue are actually pretty strong and it all feels "real" - none of it looks like "acting" or sounds "scripted".  

As a HUGE fan of Halloween (the holiday, the legends, the myths) - I am very impressed with the storyline and the premise and the underlying theme of the movie.  VERY impressed.  The plot stays true to the mythology and ambiance of Halloween (the holiday, not the movie).  The plot is established very well in the first 5 minutes and stays consistent until the end.

And, it is a horror/slasher - which means there will be blood and gore - and there is - and plenty of it.  But, it's not gratuitous (love using that word) blood and gore, it's not "gore for the sake of gore" - it's appropriately used.  And, with that comes up the topic of Special Effects and Makeup!

FX and Makeup - SUPERB!!!  Quality makeup work, quality splatter, quality kills - some very unique ones too!  Mega props to the FX, Makeup, an Props people!!!  It's not cheesy and it's not low-budget - it looks good - and from what I can tell, it's all Practical FX, no CGI.  Which, in my opinion, makes it even better!

And, finally, let me tie this back to what this blog usually writes about - music (and running).  The soundtrack is KILLER!!!  PERFECT horror/slasher music - perfect.  And integrated very well into the scenes, especially at the Hootenanny!

If you are a horror/slasher buff - and if you are willing to give independent filmmakers a chance - this is worth your investment!!!  Check it out.