Slumgullion

If your calendar is clear for May 2025 and you live in the UK or are able to travel there, you could catch one of the concerts on the Supergrass I Should Coco 30th Anniversary Tour. Here’s a sample of what I wrote in an Illinois Entertainer review of this album back when it was first released: Hailing from Oxford, England, the trio follows in the high-energy tradition of The Undertones and Buzzcocks. The album kicks off with a rollicking quest for a fun night out, “I’d Like To Know,” which features the highest harmony vocals this side of Lou Christie. Supergrass rips through a number of energetic gems, such as “Caught By The Law,” “Lose It,” “Strange Ones,” and “Lenny.” They cap off this flawless effort with “Time To Go,” an acoustic Syd Barrett style charmer that could become the ‘Last Call’ song for bars. Like a night spent in an English pub, I Should Coco is a blast of eccentric fun. 

Welcome to everyone who’s arrived in Chicago for Riot Fest this weekend. The annual indie rock music event wound up back at Douglass Park after all, and will feature several high-profile acts, such as St. Vincent; Spoon; The Hives; Pavement; Beck; Buzzcocks; Cypress Hill; Beach Bunny; Public Enemy; and The Dickies.

Jeff Lynne’s ELO The Over And Out Tour will make a stop next Friday and Saturday (September 27 and 28) at the United Center in Chicago. The tour will wrap up in California with shows on October 23 and 25 at Sacramento and Inglewood respectively.

There will be a double bill of Material Issue (with Phil Angotti as lead vocalist-guitarist) and Tamar Berk, along with a special appearance by Starball at the Chicago north side venue Lincoln Hall next Saturday night, September 28.

Chicago Live! will offer over 100 performances across five stages at Navy Pier tomorrow and Sunday and each one will be free to the public. Every imaginable genre will be represented, including Jeff Tweedy from Wilco; Chicago Sinfonietta; Chicago Repertory Ballet; Trinity Irish Dance Company; Porchlight Music Theatre; Black Ensemble Theater; Dee Alexander; Second City; Linda Clifford; Delmark Records All-Stars; Chicago Samba; Chicago Philharmonic; Hubbard Street Dance Chicago; Chicago Shakespeare Theater; Teatro ZinZanni; Tellin’ Tales Theatre; Theo Ubique Cabaret Theatre; Liquid Soul; DJ Readerz; and Chicago Children’s Theater. The entertainment starts at noon each day.

Congratulations to the always inventive PJ Harvey on selling out her September 30 concert at The Salt Shed here in Chicago. It’s her first American tour in quite a while.

Twisted Dream Machine - The Paisley Underground - California’s Psychedelic Renaissance: 1982-1986 is now available to preorder as a double-LP or CD Digipak from the Futurismo site. It’s the next volume in Futurismo's Altered Vision compilation series, and features tracks by The Three O’Clock, The Rain Parade, True West, The Bangles, Thin White Rope, Game Theory, The Dream Syndicate, The Long Ryders, Green On Red, 28th Day, The Pandoras, and Wednesday Week.

 

The World Music Festival opened today and will run through September 29 at various Chicago venues.

Monty Python members Michael Palin and Terry Gilliam have raised over half of the £120,000 they need in their GoFundMe campaign to finance an effort to erect a statue honoring late Python member Terry Jones on the promenade in his home town of Colwyn Bay in Wales. Those interested in helping A Python On The Prom campaign reach its goal can donate at the official GoFundMe page. Fans can also help the cause by purchasing a t-shirt.

This year’s Phil Angotti and Friends John Lennon Birthday Bash will take place at Martyrs’ on October 5. As in recent years, the event will be divided into an afternoon show and an evening show, with the total numbers of songs adding up to 84. Martyrs’ is located at 3855 N. Lincoln Avenue.

The OHANA Festival takes place next weekend, September 27 – 29, in Dana Point, CA. The impressive lineup includes Pearl Jam; Garbage; Crowded House; Neil Young with Crazy Horse; Black Pumas; Jenny Lewis; Cat Power Sings Dylan 66; Alanis Morissette; The Breeders; and Kim Gordon.

 

Reeling 2024 - The 42nd Chicago LGBTO + International Film Festival, a production of Chicago Filmmakers, started last night and will run through October 6 at various venues around the city.

The Zombies’ 2024 Begin Here Festival, which takes place November 8 – 10 in St. Albans in the UK, will include a Tribute To Rod Argent on November 9. The longtime keyboards player/songwriter gave up live performances after recently experiencing a stroke, but will continue to record with the band. The tribute will include special guests Russ Ballard, Tanita Tikaram, Danny Mattin, Millies Riquelme, Hugh Grundy and Chris White.

The 10th Annual Irish American Movie Hooley will run next weekend (September 27 – 29) at the Willamette Theatre in Willamette, IL.

A new album titled Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young Live At Fillmore East, 1969, which is being described as “a newly discovered multi-track recording,” will be released in CD and double LP formats on Oct. 25. It’s currently available to pre-order from Rhino Records. Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young Live At Fillmore East, 1969 will also be available in digital format.

The new musical Ain’t Too Proud - The Life And Times Of The Temptations will run September 24 – 29 at the CIBC Theatre in downtown Chicago.

Thank You For The Days - Fans of The Kinks Share 60 Years Of Stories, a new book edited by Chris Kocher, will be available from Sonicbond Publishing in England on November 29, and in America on January 31. The collection includes a preface by band members Ray and Dave Davies and Mick Avory.

As recently noted by Albert Williams on the Chicago, Theatre Capital of America: Past. Present. Future. Facebook page, Matt Fotis has just released his new book Fifty Key Improv Performers: Actors, Troupes, and Schools from Theatre, Film, and TV. Several key comedic/theatrical figures are covered, including Viola Spolin, Del Close, Charna Halpern Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Mick Napier.

   

Issue 19 of the very cool Pittsburgh-based alternative rock publication Second Scene can be purchased for $7 (plus shipping) on its Bandcamp page. This issue features stories on The Telescopes, Vince Melouney, Amy Rigby, and several other musicians.

The Marky Ramone Plays The Ramones Classics show will take place at Bottom Lounge in Chicago’s West Loop next Friday, September 27. Musician/author/media personality Marky Ramone played drums with The Ramones for 15 years after replacing original member Tommy Ramone, so there’s no doubt he knows pretty their stuff.

Aussie garage rockers Hoodoo Gurus are currently touring the U.S.A., and they’re performing tomorrow night at the Gothic Theatre in Englewood, CO. Other cities left on the tour include Salt Lake City, Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego.

The Chicago-based alt rock band Smoking Popes plan to release a Live-In-Studio 30th Anniversary vinyl edition of their second album Born To Quit on September 27. The Get Up Kids will be the opening act for a tour that wraps up with shows in Chicago at Metro on October 10 and 11.

The Matthew Sweet Acoustic Trio Tour begins October 1 in Des Moines, Iowa and will travel extensively around America through November 16, with a show in Seattle. Sweet will be joined by Paul Chastain and Adrian Carter, who along with playing instruments, will join him for lots of three-part harmonies. For some of the dates, including October 6 in Chicago show, the trio will be opening for Hanson.

Chicago’s iconic punk band The Effigies has a show coming up next Friday night, September 27th at Red Rooster in Madison, WI, followed by one on the next night at Mary’s Place in Rockford, IL. Their fifth album, Burned, which was recorded shortly before we lost founding member John Kezdy in a bicycle accident, has an October 25 release date. The hard-hitting single “Cede The City” is available as a preview on various streaming sites.

Trouser Press Books will offer new editions of two previously released rock and roll books on October 15. This Ain’t No Disco combines Roman Kozak’s prose with Ebet Robert’s photography to capture the unbridled atmosphere of the CBGB rock club. Robert Sellers and Nick Pendleton co-author a look at one of London’s most swinging music venues with Marquee. Both books will be available for pre-sale soon; see the official Trouser Press website for details.

 

The Fleshtones are coming to FitzGerald’s in Berwyn on November 8. The long-time, critically acclaimed garage rockers will no doubt feature songs from their latest supernatural-influenced album Face Of The Screaming Werewolf. That evening will also feature Chicago area favorites, New Duncan Imperials (celebrating their 35th year) and The Handcuffs.

Legendary rhythm and blues vocalist Mavis Staples has an 85th Hometown Birthday Celebration coming up on December 6 at The Auditorium Theatre in downtown Chicago. That’s five months after her actual 85th birthday, but it’s not likely anyone will complain. The event is part of the 93XRT Fall Jam Series, and will feature special guest sets by Jackson Browne and Margo Price.

Congratulations to producers Judy Simonds and Clancy Carroll, and director/editor Doug LaValliere on the success of their Taking The City By Storm - The Birth Of Milwaukee’s Punk Scene. The limited-edition DVD has completely sold out, except for a few copies that will be available in select Milwaukee record stores.

Soundtrack Serenade, the self-described “Chicago-Based Eclectic Cover Band,” will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the cult classic Pulp Fiction on October 22 at Montrose Saloon on the city’s north side.

Music industry veteran Dean Brownrout will have a book release party for his No Big Deal memoir at the Marble + Rye  bar/lounge in New York on September 30.

Chicago: Home Of House, an exhibit honoring the city’s pivotal role in widespread success of house music over the past 40 years, runs through the end of October.

 

Steve Wynn from The Dream Syndicate is now also an author, with a memoir titled I Wouldn't Say It If It Wasn't True that’s available from Jawbone Press. Copies are available on Wynn’s Bandcamp page, which is also where you can pre-order his a new solo album Make It Right.

 

Sixteen chefs from successful Chicago area restaurants will compete in the Hamburger Hop event taking place September 27 on the Harris Theater Rooftop. A Judges’ Choice Award will be determined by a panel of eight judges; and there will also be a People’s Choice Award. Joe Flamm of Rose Mary restaurant, BLVD Steakhouse, and being my nephew fame will serve as host, along with James Beard Award nominated chef and cookbook author Adrienne Cheatham. Joe and Adrienne were finalists on season 15 of the Bravo series Top Chef, and are both very cool people. Hamburger Hop will also feature DJs, and a variety of spirits will be available.

Harry Potter And The Cursed Child has started its run at the James M. Nederlander Theatre in downtown Chicago, and will run through the beginning of February, 2025.

Weekend Reminders, Plus A Few New Listings

The Northman Riverwalk in downtown Chicago will stage the first of its two Oktoberfest Weekends this Friday through Sunday. Natalie Grana will perform at 5:30 pm tomorrow, and she’s bringing her alphorn with her. The Polkaholics, a comic and authentic trio that’s well known on the local club scene, will follow at 6:15 pm. On Saturday, the multi-piece Die Musikmeisters will play traditional German music from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, and Sunday brings a double bill of The Dirndolls at 2:00 pm and The Deutsch Meisters at 5:00 pm. The former is a six-woman Alpine folk band; the latter has been performing together for decades, including shows at Six Flags Great America and Berghoff’s.

Reeling 2024 - The 42nd Chicago LGBTO + International Film Festival, a production of Chicago Filmmakers, started today and will run through October 6 at various venues around the city.

A recent Facebook post from Chicago-based singer-guitarist Phil Angotti offered what he called an “early warning” regarding the Phil Angotti and Friends John Lennon 84th Birthday Bash coming to Martyrs’ on October 5. The annual tribute will once again feature local musicians performing a song for each year that has passed since Lennon’s October 9, 1940 birth, and be staged as two separate shows. The afternoon event starts at 3:00 pm, and the evening event starts at 8:00 pm. Angotti didn’t mention which friends will be joining in 2024, but those familiar with his previous John Lennon Birthday Bash celebrations have a pretty good idea who’ll be involved. Martyrs’ is located at 3855 N. Lincoln Avenue.

The 10th Annual Irish American Movie Hooley will run next weekend (September 27 – 29) at the Willamette Theatre in Willamette, IL. Entertainment columnist Rick Kogan had an interesting interview with Irish American Movie Hooley founder Mike Houlihan in a recent issue of the Chicago Tribune.

As noted by columnist Mary Houlihan in today’s edition of the Chicago Sun-Times, the new musical Ain’t Too Proud  - The Life And Times Of The Temptations will run September 24 – 29 at the CIBC Theatre in downtown Chicago.

Incoming

Twisted Dream Machine - The Paisley Underground - California’s Psychedelic Renaissance: 1982-1986 is now available to preorder as a double-LP or CD Digipak from the Futurismo site. It’s the next volume in Futurismo's Altered Vision compilation series, and features tracks by The Three O’Clock, The Rain Parade, True West, The Bangles, Thin White Rope, Game Theory, The Dream Syndicate, The Long Ryders, Green On Red, 28th Day, The Pandoras, and Wednesday Week. In a recent Facebook post, Michael Quercio of The Three O’Clock described Twisted Dream Machine as, “A virtual odyssey of incredible music. ...and yes, that's me being freaky and psychedelic on the cover.”

As recently noted by veteran theatre critic Albert Williams on the Chicago, Theatre Capital of America: Past. Present. Future. Facebook page, Matt Fotis has just released his new book Fifty Key Improv Performers: Actors, Troupes, and Schools from Theatre, Film, and TV. Several popular comedic/theatrical figures are covered, including Viola Spolin, Del Close, Charna Halpern, Tina Fey, Amy Poehler, and Mick Napier. 

  

The Zombies’ 2024 Begin Here Festival, which takes place November 8 – 10 in St. Albans in the UK, will include a Tribute To Rod Argent on November 9. The longtime keyboards player/songwriter gave up live performances after recently experiencing a stroke, but will continue to record with the band. The tribute will include special guests Russ Ballard, Tanita Tikaram, Danny Mattin, Millies Riquelme, Hugh Grundy and Chris White. 

Polka On The Water. The Northman Riverwalk in downtown Chicago will stage the first of its two Oktoberfest Weekends on September 20 – 22. Natalie Grana will perform at 5:30 pm this Friday, and she’s bringing her alphorn with her. The Polkaholics, a comic and authentic trio that’s well known on the local club scene, will follow at 6:15 pm. On Saturday, the multi-piece Die Musikmeisters will play traditional German music from 2:00 to 4:00 pm, and Sunday brings a double bill of The Dirndolls at 2:00 pm and The Deutsch Meisters at 5:00 pm. The former is a six-woman Alpine folk band; the latter has been performing together for decades, including shows at Six Flags Great America and Berghoff’s.

The official Facebook page for The Hollies recently had a rather bewildering post involving a photo of Graham Nash taken in the mid-1960s. It was presented via an appealing graphic design that read:

The Hollies Digital Trading Cards  Graham Nash  No. 1 Of 1  62¢ 

After a brief description of Nash, the post states: “Share this card with the biggest Graham lover in your life.” I’m not sure why a price was involved or if No. 1 Of 1 means there won’t be any other Hollies Digital Cards. But it looked cool so I dragged a copy onto my desktop.

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A new album titled Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young Live At Fillmore East, 1969, which is being described as “a newly discovered multi-track recording,” will be released in CD and double LP formats on Oct. 25. It’s currently available to pre-order from Rhino Records. Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young Live At Fillmore East, 1969 will also be available in digital format.

Congratulations to the always unconventional and frequently funny Chicago area covers band EXPO ’76 on its 15th Anniversary. The Chicago music scene veterans came together with the concept of performing their favorite songs regardless of era or genre, and as their Facebook page notes, “we’re still out there making it happen.” EXPO ’76 celebrated the occasion at its long-time home base Simon’s Tavern earlier this week.

Monty Python members Michael Palin and Terry Gilliam are hoping to raise £120,000 via a GoFundMe campaign to finance an effort to erect a statue honoring late Python member Terry Jones on the promenade in his home town of Colwyn Bay in Wales. Those interested in helping “A Python On The Prom” campaign reach its goal can donate at the official GoFundMe page.

The Chicago-based alt rock band Smoking Popes plan to release a Live-In-Studio 30th Anniversary vinyl edition of their second album Born To Quit on September 27. The Get Up Kids will be the opening act for a tour that wraps up with shows in Chicago at Metro on October 10 and 11.

Thank You For The Days - Fans of The Kinks Share 60 Years Of Stories, a new book edited by Chris Kocher, will be available from Sonicbond Publishing in England on November 29, and in America on January 31. The collection includes a preface by band members Ray and Dave Davies and Mick Avory.

The Fleshtones are coming to FitzGerald’s in Berwyn on November 8. The long-time, critically acclaimed garage rockers will no doubt feature songs from their latest supernatural-influenced album Face Of The Screaming Werewolf. That evening will also feature Chicago area favorites, New Duncan Imperials (celebrating their 35th year) and The Handcuffs.

Reeling 2024 - The 42nd Chicago LGBTO + International Film Festival, a production of Chicago Filmmakers, opens September 19 and will run through October 6 at various venues.

The Matthew Sweet Acoustic Trio tour begins October 1 in Des Moines, Iowa and will travel extensively around America through November 16, with a show in Seattle. Sweet will be joined by Paul Chastain and Adrian Carter, who along with playing instruments, will join him for lots of three-part harmonies. For some of the dates, including October 6 in Chicago show, the trio will be opening for Hanson.

 

As an avid alt-rock fan, I’m aware U2 lead vocalist Bono has a son named Eli Hewson who fronts the Irish band Inhaler. Check out this live clip of “Dublin In Ecstasy” to see them at their best. But until today’s Chicago Tribune picked up a piece by Nicole Sperling from The New York Times about actress Eve Hewson, I didn’t know Bono has a daughter who’s well on her way to major success after films such as Flora And Son and The Perfect Couple. Quite a talented family. 

Legendary rhythm and blues vocalist Mavis Staples has an 85th Hometown Birthday Celebration coming up on December 6 at The Auditorium Theatre in downtown Chicago. That’s five months after her actual 85th birthday, but it’s not likely anyone will complain. The event is part of the 93XRT Fall Jam Series, and will feature special guest sets by Jackson Browne and Margo Price.

Issue 19 of the very cool Pittsburgh-based alternative rock publication Second Scene can be purchased for $7 (plus shipping) on its Bandcamp page. This issue features stories on The Telescopes, Vince Melouney, Amy Rigby, and several other musicians.

Soundtrack Serenade, the self-described “Chicago-Based Eclectic Cover Band,” will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the cult classic Pulp Fiction on October 22 at Montrose Saloon on the city’s north side.

Aussie garage rockers Hoodoo Gurus have returned to the U.S.A., and they’ll be performing in Nashville, Chicago (Thalia Hall on September 18), Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego, and other cities. After treating American audiences to several of their classic tunes, the Hoodoo Gurus will return to their homeland for a series of shows starting on November 14.

Sixteen chefs from successful Chicago area restaurants will compete in the Hamburger Hop event taking place September 27 on the Harris Theater Rooftop. A Judges’ Choice Award will be determined by a panel of eight judges; and there will also be a People’s Choice Award. Joe Flamm of Rose Mary restaurant, BLVD Steakhouse, and being my nephew fame will serve as host, along with James Beard Award nominated chef and cookbook author Adrienne Cheatham. Joe and Adrienne were finalists on season 15 of the Bravo series Top Chef, and are both very cool people. Hamburger Hop will also feature DJs, and a variety of spirits will be available.

Trouser Press Books will offer new editions of two previously released rock and roll books on October 15. This Ain’t No Disco combines Roman Kozak’s prose with Ebet Robert’s photography to capture the unbridled atmosphere of the CBGB rock club, Robert Sellers and Nick Pendleton co-author a look at the famous Marquee club in swinging London. Both books will be available for pre-sale soon; see the official Trouser Press website for details. 

Congratulations to musician/author Freda Love Smith of Blake Babies and Sunshine Boys fame on being chosen as Bloom Magazine’s Inaugural In Residence. She’ll be working on her novel Daughter Universe at The Hundredth Hill Artist retreat center in Bloomington, Indiana.

 

Autographed copies of Neko Case's new memoir The Harder I Fight the More I Love You are available to pre-order from Premiere Collectibles. Case is a member of The New Pornographers indie rock band, as well as a successful solo artist.

Congratulations to producers Judy Simonds and Clancy Carroll, and director/editor Doug LaValliere on the success of their Taking The City By Storm - The Birth Of Milwaukee’s Punk Scene. The limited-edition DVD has completely sold out, except for a few copies that will be available in select Milwaukee record stores.

Music industry veteran Dean Brownrout will have a book release party for his No Big Deal memoir at the Marble + Rye  bar/lounge in New York on September 30.

Chicago: Home Of House, an exhibit honoring the city’s pivotal role in widespread success of house music over the past 40 years, runs through the end of October. 

Paul Weller + Special Guests, the renowned U.K. musician’s first US and Canada tour in seven years, is underway, and he’ll be at The Vic Theatre on Chicago’s north side tomorrow night (September 15). Most likely, Weller will showcase songs from his new full-length album 66. Other cities in September will include Brooklyn, Boston, Washington D.C., Minneapolis, San Francisco, Toronto, and Vancouver.

Harry Potter And The Cursed Child has started its run at the James M. Nederlander Theatre in downtown Chicago.

The forever-suave Roxy Music frontman and solo performer Bryan Ferry will release the 81-track Retrospective - Bryan Ferry 1973 – 2023 on October 25. Available on colored vinyl or as a 5-CD deluxe box set, it will include new and unreleased recordings, along with extensive liner notes and rare photography. It’s currently available for pre-order from his official website.

Steve Wynn from The Dream Syndicate is now also an author, with a memoir titled I Wouldn't Say It If It Wasn't True that’s available from Jawbone Press. Copies are available on Wynn’s Bandcamp page, which is also where you can pre-order his a new solo album Make It Right.  

Jeff Lynne’s ELO The Over And Out Tour throughout America is now under way and will wrap up in California with shows on October 23 and 25 at Sacramento and Inglewood respectively. Lynne will perform at the United Center in Chicago on September 27 and 28.

There will be a double bill of Material Issue (with Phil Angotti as lead vocalist-guitarist) and Tamar Berk, along with a special appearance by Starball at the Chicago north side venue Lincoln Hall on September 28. 

Weekend Suggestions And Reminders

Today’s post is focused on events taking place this weekend that were previously mentioned here on Broken Hearted Toy, plus a few brand new items. This gives readers an extra day’s notice, and since the events won’t be repeated in tomorrow’s Slumgullion, helps streamline Friday’s post. Slumgullion won’t be entirely new. I’ll keep mentioning upcoming events up to and including the Thursday prior to the weekend they take place.

The 10th Annual Super Nova Ska Festival will be held this weekend at Fort Monroe in Hampton, VA. British pioneering ska act The Selecter, still led by Pauline Black, will be the main draw with its performance on the last day. Other acts include Roy Ellis with The Aggrolites; Skavoovie and the Epitones; Five Iron Frenzy; and Catbite. A total of 38 acts, from 8 countries are scheduled to appear.

Over 120 artists will display their work at the 19th Annual Lakeview Festival Of The Arts this Saturday and Sunday from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm. The event will be held on Chicago’s north side between Belmont and Hawthorne on Broadway. It will also feature live music until 10:00 pm on Saturday, and until 7:00 pm on Sunday. Local power pop band The Spindles, who have a new album coming out next March, will perform at 4:30 on Sunday. See the official website for the entire schedule. 

The Chicago Underground Film Festival, which bills itself as the longest running underground film festival in the world, opened tonight and will run through the weekend, primarily at Harper Theater (5238 South Harper Avenue). Just Above The Surface Of The Earth, scheduled at 7:30 pm on Sunday at the Gene Siskel Film Center, will be the final screening of this year’s event.

 

Chicago-based, guitar-powered instrumental band Outronaut will likely include its rollicking new song “Riot Flower” during this Saturday’s performance at FitzGerald’s in Berwyn. Their gig starts at 7:00 pm.

Nick Lowe’s Indoor Safari, his first album in 11 years and another joint effort with Los Straitjackets, is coming out tomorrow. That’s when we’ll also see the release of  White Noise And Lightning: The Best Of Continental Drifters.

Even as we approach mid-September, it’s still possible to enjoy live entertainment in a picturesque outdoor setting this weekend at the Northman Riverwalk in downtown Chicago. The venue’s DJ series continues this Saturday from 3:00 to 6:00 pm as Chicago-based DJ KØRA crafts an energetic blend of house and techno. Sunday brings the smooth jazz of MarLo2da$ki from 11:00 am to 1:00 pm. Looking ahead to September 20 – 22, The Northman Riverwalk will kick off the first of two special Oktoberfest Weekends. 

The Sound He Appears To Make

Reviews and news regarding recordings.

Long-time Hollies fans were pleasantly surprised when the recent album The Hollies BBC Sessions 1963 - 1964 -1965 seemed to arrive without any previous notice. A vinyl-only release from the Rhythm And Blues label, this collection offers 16 previously unreleased live tracks that aired on British radio programs. The earliest recordings show a dependence on cover versions of hit singles by American recording artists, but The Hollies bring their own approach to each of them. Particularly in terms of harmony vocals and Tony Hicks’ energetic guitar playing.

“Stay” and “Searchin’” were the hit singles that first put The Hollies on the British charts (American success would come a few years later), and they covered “Mickey’s Monkey,” “Nitty Gritty” and “Something’s Got A Hold On Me” for their albums. These live versions on BBC Sessions evoke a fun, sock hop atmosphere, while “Yes I Will” and “I’m Alive” find the Hollies moving toward a more sophisticated mid-60s sound. The collection also showcases the catchy originals “We’re Through,” “You Know He Did,” and “Nobody” that band members Graham Nash, Allan Clarke, and Hicks wrote under the pseudonym L. Ransford.

When the Chicago-based power pop band The Spindles follow up their impressive 2018 effort Past And Present with a new album next March, they plan to aim for a similar mix of catchy originals and a few well-chosen covers. As a preview, The Spindles recently posted a video on Facebook that matches their cover of The Elvis Brothers rarity “Rock For It” with a montage of The Elvis Brothers themselves performing at various times in their career. Quite a nice tribute. I’ve also heard The Spindles are looking to record another Hollies song—they faithfully covered “Look Through Any Window” on Past And Present—for the upcoming album.

Steven Delisi, a founding member of the power pop band The Thin Cherries, has a solo album coming out September 20. In the meantime, he’s released “New Valentine,” a clever and catchy single about searching for love. Delisi gets solid backing on the recording from local musicians John Abbey, Gerald Dowd, Matt Pittman, and Mike Hagler.

The October 25 release date for Burned, the fifth album from Chicago-based punk band The Effigies, will come a little over a year after we lost founding member John Kezdy in a bicycle accident. Kezdy had finished recording the album just prior to his death, and after what the official Effigies Facebook page described as “a very challenging year,” it’s ready to go. The Effigies recently released the hard-hitting single “Cede The City” as a preview on various streaming sites.

Listening to the original concept recording of Ladyship The Musical, it’s easy to understand the success of its stage production at the Arkley Center for the Performing Arts in Eureka, CA this past summer. The show, with music and lyrics composed by Linda and Laura Good, is based on the true story of how England shipped women convicts to Australia from 1789 to 1841. The heavy subject matter was a change for Linda and Laura, who started out as a folk duo called The Good Twins on the Chicago club scene. Later, they gave us catchy and inventive alt rock songs such as “Blue,” “Lucky,” and “It’s Alright” with their full band The Twigs.

Ladyship’s rollicking first track “Seven Years” establishes an accusation that resonates throughout the musical; that the only crime these women committed was that they lived in poverty. The pretty “A Way Out” strikes a more hopeful note, and the ornate “Ready To Begin” offers genuine romance. On the other hand, “Pour Another Rum” sets the lecherous urges of the ship’s crew to a sea shanty, which makes “Only The Strong Survive” more meaningful. Songs such as “The Emerald Wye” and “The Bonnie Sea” tap into traditional Celtic fare, while “I Need An Anchor” and “I’ll Find A Way” are heartfelt ballads. The accapella “Sparrow Sparrow” is another highlight. The full cast includes several Broadway veterans; including Maddie Shea Baldwin, Savannah Frazier, Lisa Karlin, Annie Sherman, Quentin Oliver Lee, Brandi Knox, and Trevor St. John-Gilbert.

Slumgullion

Note: For information on events coming up this weekend, check out yesterday’s Weekend Reminders post.

Tickets are now on sale for The Fleshtones' gig at FitzGerald’s in Berwyn on November 8. The long-time, critically acclaimed garage rockers will no doubt feature songs from their latest supernatural-influenced album Face Of The Screaming Werewolf. That evening will also feature Chicago area favorites, New Duncan Imperials (celebrating their 35th year) and The Handcuffs.

Happy Birthday to Henry Diltz, who’s been an iconic photographer of rock and roll artists for several decades now. He’s best known for his work (including album covers) with Crosby, Stills and Nash and The Doors; as well as with The Eagles, America, The Lovin’ Spoonful, The Hollies, and other bands.

On the subject of birthdays, legendary rhythm and blues vocalist Mavis Staples has an 85th Hometown Birthday Celebration coming up on December 6 at The Auditorium Theatre in downtown Chicago. That’s five months after her actual 85th birthday, but it’s not likely anyone will complain. The event is part of the 93XRT Fall Jam Series, and will feature special guest sets by Jackson Browne and Margo Price. The WXRT radio station promises to reveal more details this Monday morning at 10:00 am; tickets go on sale September 13.

Issues of Second Scene, the very cool, Pittsburgh-based alternative rock publication, can be purchased for $7 (plus shipping) per copy on its Bandcamp page.

Soundtrack Serenade, the self-described “Chicago-Based Eclectic Cover Band,” will celebrate the 30th anniversary of the cult classic Pulp Fiction on October 22 at Montrose Saloon on the city’s north side.

Aussie garage rockers the Hoodoo Gurus return to the U.S.A. with a concert at the House Of Blues in Houston, TX tonight. Their tour will include stops in New Orleans, Atlanta, Philadelphia, Boston, New York, Nashville, Chicago (Thalia Hall on September 18), Seattle, San Francisco, Los Angeles, and San Diego. After treating American audiences to several albums worth of great tunes, the Hoodoo Gurus will return to their homeland for a series of shows starting on November 14.

As noted in this week’s special Fall Festival Guide issue of Streetwise, the Chicago Underground Film Festival opens next Wednesday at the Gene Siskel Film Center and Harper Theater, and will run through Sunday, September 15. Streetwise, which benefits homeless people, is available from vendors in the downtown Chicago area

Trouser Press Books, which gave us The Best Of Trouser Press Magazine - 1974 – 1984 earlier this year, will offer new editions of two previously released rock and roll books on October 15. This Ain’t No Disco combines Roman Kozak’s prose with Ebet Robert’s photography to capture the unbridled atmosphere of the CBGB rock club, and Robert Sellers and Nick Pendleton co-author a look at the famous Marquee club in swinging London. Both books will be available for pre-sale soon; see the official Trouser Press website for details. 

Chicago-based, guitar-powered instrumental band Outronaut will likely include its rollicking new song “Riot Flower” during next Saturday’s performance at FitzGerald’s in Berwyn. After that, it looks as though Outronaut will take a break for a while. Here’s hoping Steve Gerlach and the lads are back with us soon.

The 10th Annual Super Nova Ska Festival will be held next weekend at Fort Monroe in Hampton, VA. British pioneering ska act The Selecter, still led by Pauline Black, will be the main draw with its performance on the last day. Other artists include Roy Ellis with The Aggrolites; Skavoovie and the Epitones; Five Iron Frenzy; and Catbite. A total of 38 acts, from 8 countries are scheduled to appear.

Congratulations to musician/author Freda Love Smith of Blake Babies and Sunshine Boys fame on being chosen as Bloom Magazine’s Inaugural Resident. She'll be working on her novel Daughter Universe at The Hundredth Hill Artist retreat center in Bloomington, Indiana. 

Congratulations to Pop Art Sports Cards on its fifth anniversary of creating rock and roll trading cards that mimic the baseball cards many of us collected as kids. To mark the occasion, PASC is offering Limited Edition packs of 15 trading cards that include a stick of gum. Fans who order a PASC Limited Edition pack can choose each of the 15 cards, so there’s no danger of your favorite player not being included. Anyone interested in assembling their team can contact Pop Art Sports Cards at popartsportscards@gmail.com or check out the Pop Art Sports Card public Facebook page. 

Autographed copies of Neko Case's new memoir The Harder I Fight the More I Love You are available to pre-order from Premiere Collectibles. Case is a member of The New Pornographers indie rock band, as well as a successful solo artist.

Smoking Popes plan to release a Live-In-Studio 30th Anniversary vinyl edition of their second album Born To Quit on September 27. The Chicago-based alt rock band, led by vocalist-guitarist Josh Caterer, recently performed at the Troubadour in West Hollywood. The Get Up Kids will be the opening act for a tour that wraps up shows in Chicago at Metro on October 10 and 11.

Music industry veteran Dean Brownrout will have a book release party for his No Big Deal memoir at the Marble + Rye bar/lounge in New York on September 30.

A new DVD titled Taking The City By Storm - The Birth Of Milwaukee’s Punk Scene, is now available for $26. Billed as “A documentary focusing on the progression of Milwaukee’s Protopunk, Power Pop, Punk and New Wave,” it was produced by Judy Simonds and Clancy Carroll and directed and edited by Doug LaValliere. The DVD can be purchased by sending a direct message to the official Taking The City By Storm - The Birth Of Milwaukee’s Punk Scene Facebook page.

As of yesterday, V–U2, a new, immersive film featuring concert footage from U2’s extensive run at the mind-altering Sphere venue in Las Vegas will be screened exclusively at the Sphere.

 

Chicago: Home Of House, an exhibit honoring the city’s pivotal role in widespread success of house music over the past 40 years, runs through the end of October on Navy Pier, near Kilwin's (between doors 5 and 6). 

The forever-suave Roxy Music frontman and solo performer Bryan Ferry will release the 81-track Retrospective - Bryan Ferry 1973 – 2023 on October 25. Available on colored vinyl or as a 5-CD deluxe box set, it will include new and unreleased recordings, along with extensive liner notes and rare photography. It’s currently available for pre-order from his official website.

The 19th Annual Lakeview Festival Of The Arts will be held next weekend (September 14 and 15) on Chicago’s north side. Local power pop band The Spindles, who have a new album of catchy originals and a few well-chosen covers coming out next March, are among the many live music acts scheduled to perform at the fest.

Steve Wynn from The Dream Syndicate is now also an author, with a memoir titled I Wouldn't Say It If It Wasn't True now available from Jawbone Press. Copies are available on Wynn’s Bandcamp page, which is also where you can pre-order his a new solo album Make It Right. 

Jeff Lynne’s ELO The Over And Out Tour throughout the USA is now under way and will wrap up in California with shows on October 23 and 25 at Sacramento and Inglewood respectively. Lynne will perform at the United Center in Chicago on September 27 and 28.