Incoming

Photo of Cheap Trick from the band's official Facebook page.

Happy Birthday to Cheap Trick guitarist Rick Nielsen, who’s been one of rock’s most unique performers for decades. I still have the guitar pick that struck me in the face after he flicked it from the stage during a concert at the University Of Illinois - Chicago several years ago. 

As noted on his Facebook page, former WXRT radio personality Richard Milne will pay a visit to Chicago indie station CHIRP Radio 107.1FM tomorrow from 6:00 to 9:00 am. He’ll join DJ Michael B and share “some of my all-time Holiday faves” with listeners. Milne was an engaging host for XRT’s morning show a while back, and he also promoted countless Chicago area bands on his Local Anesthetic program.

The Bob Dylan biopic A Complete Unknown opens in theaters on Christmas day, and if the advance reviews are correct, actor Timothée Chalamet will be impressing a lot of people. 

Chicago guitarist Ellis Clark had the honor of being one of the band members when Billy J. Kramer of original British Invasion and Beatles pal fame performed at the Moon Theatre in St. Charles. Kramer must have taken a like to Chicago area musicians; he’s previously performed here with Phil Angotti.

Wisconsin-based Americana rockers The BoDeans will perform at The Ames Center in Minneapolis, MN this Thursday, and at The Arcada Theatre in St. Charles, IL on Saturday.

Susanna Hoffs and Elvis Costello recently celebrated Keith Richards’ 81st birthday by recording a version of the vintage Rolling Stones song “Connection” that can be heard on YouTube. Hoffa and Costello have worked together previously; she and The Bangles recorded his song “Tear Off Your Own Head” on their 2003 Doll Revolution album, and they have also performed in concert with him. I would gladly download the Hoffs and Costello take on “Connection,” but I haven’t found any info as to whether it’s available. 

It’s not too late to download some fun rock and roll for your holiday gathering. The Very Best Of Hi-Fi Christmas Party by various artists is now available on the Futureman Records Bandcamp site.