Incoming

Here’s a hearty Chicago welcome to Joe Jackson, who’s in town as part of his 2026 North America Tour in support of his new album Hope And Fury. Jackson will perform at Park West tomorrow and Wednesday.

The Forever Mine Festival, taking place from noon to 10:00 pm this Saturday and Sunday in Union Park, will honor Chicago’s essential role in house and rhythm and blues music. Headline acts for the all-ages event include Keyshia Cole; Kelly Rowland; Kaytranada; and Shaggy. See the official website for the full lineup.

Rattleback Records, a definitely cool store on Chicago’s far north side, has a three-act showcase of garage rockers Tuff Sudz, power pop/rock quartet A.M. Slingers, and former The M’s leader Josh Chicoine’s new band Cult Canyon coming up on May 29 at the Burlington Bar. A.M. Slingers will be celebrating the release of their second album To The Nines; and Cult Canyon recently released their Smoke Tricks album. Burlington Bar is located at 3425 W. Fullerton.

The Zombies’ lead vocalist Colin Blunstone still draws rave reviews 60+ years after the band emerged from the British Invasion scene. He’ll likely find more critical acclaim during his UK Believe In Miracles Tour, which continues this week with shows in Lytham; Leeds; Bristol; and Coventry. The tour runs through May 28.

International Pop Overthrow - Liverpool 2026 will kick off this Sunday and run through through the following Sunday at The Cavern Pub and The Cavern Club. Dozens of acts are scheduled to perform, including long-time IPO world travelers Dave Rave and The Jeremy Band. The official International Pop Overthrow website has the entire Liverpool 2026 schedule; with links for most of the acts who’ll be performing. It’s a great way to discover new music, especially when the act has a Bandcamp page.

Chicago-based singer-songwriter AJ Rosales has a performance coming up at the Friendly Bar in Berwyn, IL on May 26. The show is part of the Friendly Community Songwriter Series, and will include Rosales introducing new material that wasn’t on his Phasedrift album or earlier releases. The music starts at 7:00 pm, and there is no cover charge.

Thrift Store Halo and The Bishop’s Daredevil Stunt Club, two bands well known in Chicago for bringing catchy rock to their club appearances and albums, will perform this Saturday at Reggies just south of downtown. Levee District, who describe their approach as “Pure Power Pop from Chicago's saloons, brothels, key clubs, and late night dives” are also on the bill that night.

Joe Algeri and Paul Colombini of the Australian power pop band The Outryders are on the verge of releasing their first album in a few years. The new songs will also feature Illinois native, bass player Herb Eimerman, who has worked with Algeri on several projects, thanks to modern recording technology.

The Webstirs (9:00 pm) and The Imperial Sound with Rachel Drew (10:00 pm) will share a double bill this Saturday night at FitzGerald’s Side Bar in Berwyn, IL. Admission is free.

Singer-guitarist Phil Angotti, who’s known for his rock and roll tribute shows around the Chicago club scene, will celebrate Pete Townshed’s birthday a day late at Montrose Saloon this Wednesday. The music starts at 8:00 pm. Looking a few weeks ahead, Phil Angotti and Friends have a Beatles Brunch at FitzGerald’s On The Patio in Berwyn, IL on June 7.

The Ivy - Traces Of You - 2026 Tour, named after a 2025 album of previously unreleased Ivy songs recorded by band members Adam Schlesinger, Andy Chase, and Dominique Durand between 1995 and 2012, comes to Sony Hall in New York City this Thursday. Hopefully, the current version of Ivy will also perform songs from the band’s studio albums, such as Long Distance; guestroom; and realistic. The other venues on the Traces Of You Tour are the Teragram Ballroom in Los Angeles on May 27; and the Schellraiser Humboldt Hideaway venue in Wells, NV on May 30. Sadly, we lost Adam Schlesinger to COVID-19 in 2020.

Phil Yates of Chicago-based power pop band Phil Yates And The Affiliates has a solo gig coming up at Uncommon Ground - Lakeview on June 6. The Transference and Joe Dilillo are also on the bill that night.

Music On Stage, which has been staging plays in Palatine, IL for some time now, will perform Lionel Bart’s Oliver! starting this Saturday and running through May 24 at Cutting Hall. Billed as “freely adapted from Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist,” the musical features book, music, and lyrics by Lionel Bart. Cutting Hall is located at 150 E. Wood Street in Palatine.

Monty Python’s The Holy Grail will continue its run through May 31 at the CIBC Theatre in downtown Chicago.

Slumgullion

See yesterday’s Weekend Reminders post for events happening this weekend.

As announced by the Chicago-based, multifaceted writer Mark Guarino in a recent Facebook post, the Souvenirs - 80 Years Of John Prine four-day event will kick off October 8 at the Chicago Theatre. Members of Prine’s band will perform, along with Steve Earle; Ratboys; Jon Langford; Kathleen Edwards; Alynda Segarra; Amos Lee; Shemekia Copeland; Josh Ritter; Margo Price; and The Cactus Blossoms. Actor John C. Reilly will serve as host. All proceeds from Souvenirs will benefit the Prine-inspired Hello In There Foundation.

Avid record collectors in the northwest Illinois suburbs can now show off their favorite acquisitions before a live audience. The Hey Nonny venue in Arlington Heights recently started a New Vinyl Fridays series in which participants can sign up at 8:30, and hear their album played at some point after 9:30.  As a recent Hey Nonny email noted, “You provide the record, we provide the player.”

Liz Phair and Sleater-Kinney, women performers who first found fame in the 1990s and have been successful ever since, will join together for The Flannel and the Fury Tour this fall. They’ll perform at The Salt Shed Fairgrounds in Chicago on September 17; other stops on the tour include Los Angeles; Denver; Brooklyn; Philadelphia, and Boston.

Long-time entertainment writer Mark Caro (Chicago Sun-Times, Chicago Tribune, etc.) has talked with several rock musicians on his Caropop podcast, and recently started making those interviews available on his YouTube channel, as well as on Apple Podcasts and Spotify. The latest edition features an entertaining and informative two-part interview with XTC member Dave Gregory about the band’s 1982 American tour difficulties, and the recently released album XTC- Live Boots (Emerald City, Cherry Hill, New Jersey 17th April 1981).

The Rolling Stones recently announced that their new album Foreign Tongues, which is due out on July 10, can now be pre-ordered from Amazon and other sites. A video of the hard-edged first single “In The Stars” on YouTube finds the band at the top of their game.

Singer-guitarist Phil Angotti, who’s admired for his original material as well as rock and roll tribute shows around the Chicago club scene, will celebrate Pete Townshend’s birthday a day late at Montrose Saloon next Wednesday, May 20. The music starts at 8:00 pm.

The Roger Daltry - A Great Night Out! North American Tour will kick off in Mesa, AZ on August 23 and wrap up on September 29 in Medford, MA. Fans in the Midwest can choose New Lenox, IL on September 12 or Milwaukee, WI on September 15.

A four-act showcase at Montrose Saloon on May 29 will feature The 321’s; Bellevue Holiday; Means Of Production; and Ride The Lightning. The rocking starts at 7:30 pm. Montrose Saloon is located at 2933 W. Montrose on Chicago’s north side.

A remastered seven-inch vinyl single of “Should I Stay Or Should I Go” by The Clash, with “Straight To Hell” on the B-side, will be available from various sites starting on June 12.

Congratulations to rock and roll legend Patti Smith on being chosen as the winner of this year’s Harold Washington Literary Award. As noted in Rick Kogan’s article in this past Wednesday’s Chicago Tribune, the award will be presented to Smith in Chicago on September 10. Her latest book, Bread Of Angels: A Memoir was published last year.

Joe Jackson’s 2026 North America Tour in support of his new album Hope And Fury kicked off on May 11 in Poughkeepsie, NY, and will include dates at Park West in Chicago on May 19 and 20.

SOLSTICE, which is being described as “A Festival Where Nature Is Not The Backdrop, But The Headliner,” is coming June 19 – 22 to Trematon Castle in Cornwall, England. As noted on the SOLSTICE website, the event will offer live music, dialogue, and workshops centered on the concept of “what a truly nature-centric culture could look like.” Performers include Anna B Savage; Alexis Taylor; Boss Morris; and Chapel Of (Nature) Love. Andy Bell and Deb Grant are among the DJs scheduled. 

Tickets are now available for the May 19 – 31 performances of Monty Python’s The Holy Grail at the CIBC Theatre in downtown Chicago. 

Chicago-based power trio Triple will be in the middle of a three-act showcase at Liar’s on Chicago’s north side on June 5. Woolworthy gets things rocking at 9:00 pm, followed by Triple at 10:00 pm, and Panther Style at 11:00. Liar’s is located at 1665 W. Fullerton.

Bring us back some souvenirs. International Pop Overthrow - Liverpool will run from May 24 through May 31 at The Cavern Club, with dozens of acts scheduled to perform. Two of them—Who’s This Mary and Phil Yates And The Affiliates— are from Chicago, and The Incurables are from Detroit. All three recently performed at International Pop Overthrow - Chicago.

If you check out the official International Pop Overthrow website, you’ll find the entire Liverpool 2026 schedule; with links for most of the acts who’ll be performing. It’s a great way to discover new music, especially when the act has a Bandcamp page.

International Pop Overthrow regulars (in Chicago and elsewhere) Kerosene Stars will share a triple bill with Kenneth Scott Peters and Lonefeather at the Dan Electro’s venue in Houston, TX on June 6. Kerosene Stars have been releasing power pop albums since their 2014 self-titled effort.

Mike Campbell And The Dirty Knobs are coming to The Vic in Chicago on July 9 with special guest Sarah Lee Guthrie. It’s the second date on an upcoming tour that starts two days earlier in Minneapolis. The band has a new album titled Mission Of Mercy coming out on June 12.

Veteran Chicago band The Claudettes, whose adventurous music challenges critics as well fans to slap a label on it, will release their next album, Garage Glamour, on Pravda Records on June 5.

The Zombies’ lead vocalist Colin Blunstone still draws rave reviews 60+ years after the band emerged from the original British Invasion scene. He’ll likely find more critical acclaim during his UK Believe In Miracles Tour, which run through May 28.

Montrose Saloon has a Power Pop On Stage event coming on June 7 that will feature The Unswept, Dolph Chaney And The Phins, and Andy Bopp. The music starts at 6:00 pm.

Kinks fans who collect picture sleeve 45 rpm records are in for a treat. The band’s official Facebook page recently announced they’ll mark the 60th anniversary of their hit single “Sunny Afternoon” with a “sunshine coloured” seven-inch limited edition due out in June. The B-Side will be “I’m Not Like Everybody Else.”

Psychedelic Soul: A Journey Through Rhythm And Time is now open at the Motown Museum in Detroit, MI, and will run through September 27. The website states the exhibit will focus on the years 1967 through 1975, “when the label expanded beyond its signature love songs to embrace experimentation and socially conscious storytelling.”

Chicago indie rock band The Handcuffs have a series of live performances scheduled for the next few months. They’ll be at the Metro Jam Festival with Sonny Landreth in Manitowoc, WI on June 20; Summerfest (as Kim Gordon’s opening act) in Milwaukee, WI on June 25; Mary’s Place in Rockford, IL on June 27; Evanston SPACE with whitewolfsonicprincess on July 28; and PravdaFest at FitzGerald's in Berwyn, IL on September 12. As posted on Facebook today, The Handcuffs have recorded two new songs in the studio for a picture sleeve single to be released some time this summer.

A new music documentary titled Peter Asher Everywhere Man explores the multi-decade career of the English musician and producer. Several major stars are featured in the film, including James Taylor; Linda Ronstadt; Carole King; Paul McCartney; and Robin Williams. Peter Asher Everywhere Man will be shown in select theaters on June 19.

Theater Of The Mind, the imaginative adventure crafted by David Byrne from Talking Heads and writer Mala Gaonkar, has been extended through July 12 at the Reid Murdoch Building at 333 N. LaSalle Street in downtown Chicago. Theater Of The Mind, a Goodman Theatre production, has been picking up rave reviews in Chicago newspapers.

Metric’s 10th album Romanticize The Drive dropped last Friday, and the Toronto indie rock band’s upcoming tour with Broken Social Scene and Stars kicks off on June 8 in Austin, TX. Other cities include Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Chicago (July 24 at Aragon Ballroom), Boston, Philadelphia, and New York.

Weekend Reminders

Weekend Reminders on Thursday posts focus on events that were previously mentioned on Broken Hearted Toy, and are taking place during the upcoming weekend. Plus, the occasional event taking place this weekend that has just come to my attention, or concert tickets going on sale.

Tickets go on sale tomorrow for the Roger Daltry - A Great Night Out! North American Tour. The first stop will be Mesa, AZ on August 23 and the tour will wrap up on September 29 in Medford, MA. Fans in the Midwest can choose New Lenox, IL on September 12 or Milwaukee, WI on September 15. Or maybe go to both.

Chicago-based singer-songwriters Al Rose and Rachel Drew will headline a concert this Saturday at Jarvis Square Pottery in Chicago’s Rogers Park neighborhood. Steve Doyle, John Szymanski, and Steve Hashimoto will also perform at this event. Doors open at 7:00 pm.

Depending on when you read this, you could still see Ivy at the Park West in Chicago’s Lincoln Park neighborhood tonight. The show is part of the Ivy - Traces Of You - 2026 Tour, which is named after a recent album of previously unreleased Ivy songs recorded by band members Adam Schlesinger, Andy Chase, and Dominique Durand between 1995 and 2012. Sadly, we lost Adam Schlesinger to COVID-19 in 2020.

The Peter Asher Everywhere Man documentary, which explores the multi-decade career of the English musician and producer, will be screened at the Cinetopia Film Festival in Ann Arbor, MI tomorrow night at the State Theatre. Several major stars are featured in the film, including James Taylor; Linda Ronstadt; Carole King; Paul McCartney; and Robin Williams. Peter Asher Everywhere Man will also be shown in select theaters on June 19.

Happy Birthday to Drew Richardson, a unique solo performer who proudly bills himself as a fool, and entertains audiences with juggling, mime, and nonstop sight gags. I first saw Richardson at the Mary-Arrchie Theater’s Abbie Hoffman Died For Our Sins festival back in 1989. According to his Facebook page, he’ll soon start a Kickstarter campaign to sell Drew's Fool Tools creativity cards, which he recommends for artists, teachers, and entrepreneurs.

Tickets are now on sale for An Evening of Words and Music with Roxy Music’s Phil Manzanera with Terri Hemmert on May 18 at Evanston SPACE. Long-time WXRT DJ and avid Roxy Music fan. Also, tickets will soon be available for the Peter Himmelman at Evanston SPACE concert on August 23.

The Zombies’ lead vocalist Colin Blunstone still draws rave reviews 60+ years after the band emerged from the British Invasion scene. He’ll likely find more critical acclaim during his UK Believe In Miracles Tour, which continues this week with shows in Milton Keynes; Manchester; Stroud; Gateshead; and Glasgow. The tour runs through May 28.

Four Chicago area music acts will perform at the Concert For A Cause event at The Outta Space venue in Berwyn, IL this Saturday. It’s a benefit for sarah’s inn, an organization whose mission is “to improve the lives of those affected by domestic violence and to break the cycle of violence for future generations.” Big Hair Big Trouble, Phil Angotti, The Nobodies, and Torpedo Los will provide the entertainment. Admission is a donation at the door, or you can use the barcode on The Outta Space social media post.

Phil Angotti And Friends have performed a number of Beatles Brunches at City Winery Chicago and they’ll be back there at noon this Sunday. Angotti has worked with several musicians over the years, and for this gig, his Friends are Tony Richards, John Bowes, Emily Marlow, Tom Ryan, Blair Holmes, and according to his Facebook post, “a special mystery guest.”

Tellin’ Tales Theatre will present Divercity: Our Lives Are Works Of Art this weekend at the Goodman Theatre/Alice Center for Education and Engagement in downtown Chicago. The show, which involves six writers, performers and artists, will demonstrate “that disabilities bring out our creativity in whatever we do.” The shows start at 7:30 on Friday and Saturday and at 2:00 pm on Sunday. The theatre is located at 170 N. Dearborn; tickets are $20 for general admission; $15 for students and people with disabilities.

Incoming

There’s no chance I’ll be misunderstood when I wish Eric Burdon of The Animals (and briefly War) a Happy Birthday. The iconic British vocalist was a master at conveying the deepest of emotions on songs such as “House Of The Rising Son,” “We Gotta Get Out Of This Place,” and “Don’t Let Me Be Misunderstood,” as well as on the irresistible hippie fantasy “Spill The Wine.”

The Ivy - Traces Of You - 2026 Tour, named after a 2025 album of previously unreleased Ivy songs recorded by band members Adam Schlesinger, Andy Chase, and Dominique Durand between 1995 and 2012, comes to the Park West in Chicago this Thursday. Hopefully, the current version of Ivy will also perform songs from the band’s studio albums, such as Long Distance; guestroom; and realistic. The other venues on the Traces Of You Tour are Sony Hall in New York City on May 21; the Teragram Ballroom in Los Angeles on May 27; and the Schellraiser Humboldt Hideaway venue in Wells, NV on May 30. Sadly, we lost Adam Schlesinger to COVID-19 in 2020.

Four Chicago area music acts will perform at the Concert For A Cause event at The Outta Space venue in Berwyn, IL this Saturday. It’s a Benefit for sarah’s inn, an organization whose mission is “to improve the lives of those affected by domestic violence and to break the cycle of violence for future generations.” Big Hair Big Trouble, Phil Angotti, The Nobodies, and Torpedo Los will provide the entertainment. Admission is a donation at the door, or you can use the barcode on The Outta Space social media post.

Phil Angotti And Friends have performed a number of Beatles Brunches at City Winery Chicago and they’ll be back there at noon this Sunday for Hit Songs And Other Goodies By The Beatles.

The Zombies’ lead vocalist Colin Blunstone still draws rave reviews 60+ years after the band emerged from the British Invasion scene. He’ll likely find more critical acclaim during his UK Believe In Miracles Tour, which continues this week with shows at Milton Keynes; Manchester; Stroud; Gateshead; and Glasgow. The tour runs through May 28.

Mike Campbell And The Dirty Knobs are coming to The Vic in Chicago on July 9 with special guest Sarah Lee Guthrie. It’s the second date on an upcoming tour that starts two days earlier in Minneapolis. The band has a new album titled Mission Of Mercy coming out on June 12.

International Pop Overthrow regulars (in Chicago and elsewhere) Kerosene Stars will share a triple bill with Kenneth Scott Peters and Lonefeather at the Dan Electro’s venue in Houston, TX on June 6. Kerosene Stars have been releasing power pop albums since their 2014 self-titled effort.

Tickets are now available for the May 19 – 31 performances of Monty Python’s The Holy Grail at the CIBC Theatre in downtown Chicago. 

Chicago-based power trio Triple will be in the middle of a three-act showcase at Liar’s on Chicago’s north side on June 5. Woolworthy gets things rocking at 9:00 pm, followed by Triple at 10:00 pm, and Panther Style at 11:00. Liar’s is located at 1665 W. Fullerton.

Tellin’ Tales Theatre will present Divercity: Our Lives Are Works Of Art this weekend at the Goodman Theatre/Alice Center for Education and Engagement in downtown Chicago. The show, which involves six writers, performers and artists, will demonstrate “that disabilities bring out our creativity in whatever we do.” The shows start at 7:30 on Friday and Saturday and at 2:00 pm on Sunday. The theatre is located at 170 N. Dearborn; tickets are $20 for general admission; $15 for students and people with disabilities. 

A four-act showcase at Montrose Saloon on May 29 will feature The 321’s; Bellevue Holiday; Means Of Production; and Ride The Lightning. The rocking starts at 7:30 pm. Montrose Saloon is located at 2933 W. Montrose on Chicago’s north side.

Slumgullion

Graphic from the Official Cheap Trick Facebook page.

Happy Birthday to bassist Tom Petersson. He was a founding member of Cheap Trick, and except for a hiatus several years back, he’s always been been with them. I’m pretty sure that means he was on stage when I saw Cheap Trick at the Harlow’s/Pip’s/Haywires venue in Burbank, IL at the beginning of their career in the 1970s. Of course, I’ve seen them several times since then.

I could claim I delayed this week’s Slumgullion so I could wish Tom Petersson a happy birthday, but the truth is I ran into several technical difficulties yesterday.

The Rolling Stones recently announced that their new album Foreign Tongues, which is due out on July 10, can now be pre-ordered from Amazon and other sites. A video of the hard-edged first single “In The Stars” on YouTube finds the band at the top of their game.

Four Chicago area music acts will perform at the Concert For A Cause event at The Outta Space venue in Berwyn, IL on May 16. It’s a benefit for sarah’s inn, an organization whose mission is “to improve the lives of those affected by domestic violence and to break the cycle of violence for future generations.” Big Hair Big Trouble, Phil Angotti, The Nobodies, and Torpedo Los will provide the entertainment. Admission is a donation at the door, or you can use the barcode on The Outta Space social media post.

The Auditorium Philms series, which combines the screening of a hit movie with a live performance by the Chicago Philharmonic, will present Tim Burton’s Edward Scissorhands at The Auditorium in the south Loop on October 23.

Phil Angotti And Friends have performed a number of Beatles Brunches at City Winery Chicago and they’ll be back there on May 17 for Hit Songs And Other Goodies By The Beatles.

The Zombies’ lead vocalist Colin Blunstone still draws rave reviews 60+ years after the band emerged from the original British Invasion scene. He’ll likely find more critical acclaim during his UK Believe In Miracles Tour, which kicked off yesterday and will run through May 28.

Kinks Kollectibles. Kinks fans who collect picture sleeve 45 rpm records are in for a double treat. The band’s official Facebook page recently announced they’ll mark the 60th anniversary of their hit single “Sunny Afternoon” with a “sunshine coloured” seven-inch limited edition due out in June. The B-Side will be “I’m Not Like Everybody Else.”

Meanwhile, Chris Stamey from The dB’s has recorded his own version of The Kinks’ “Waterloo Sunset,” which is now available on various streaming sites. Vinyl lovers can now purchase the seven-inch colored-vinyl edition from assorted online sources. The single has a rendition of the Paul McCartney-penned Mary Hopkins 1969 hit single “Goodbye” on the B-Side.

That same take on “Waterloo Sunset” will be on Stamey’s upcoming album Modernism, which features him performing cover versions of songs by some of his favorite bands, including “Hey Bulldog” by The Beatles and “Ruby Tuesday” by The Rolling Stones. Modernism is due out June 19 via Flatiron Recordings, and if I remember correctly, “Goodbye” will not be included on it.

The May issue of the Illinois Entertainer, with Triumph on the cover, features veteran rock critic Tom Lanham’s interview with Gary Klebe from Shoes. The article provides some basic history on the Zion, IL power pop band, before moving on to singer-guitarist’s recently released Out Loud album. Having recently purchased Out Loud from the Shoes online store, I agree with Lanham’s praise for it. Shoes fans should definitely check it out.

The May Illinois Entertainer also includes Jeff Elbel’s feature story on The Claudettes, the veteran Chicago band whose adventurous music challenges critics as well fans to slap a label on it. Their next album, Garage Glamour, comes out on Pravda Records June 5.

Tickets will go on sale soon for several Graham Nash concerts, starting with the Strings Music Festival in Steamboat Springs, CO on July 7. The tour will run through October 9, including stops at the Virginia Theatre in Champaign, IL on July 21 and Ravinia in Highland Park, IL on July 26. Check the official Graham Nash website for the full schedule, and to learn which concerts will have special guests.

Graham Nash revealed during an interview with American Songwriter News that director Robert Zemeckis is wrapping up a Crosby, Stills and Nash documentary. Nash also told the music publication there are plans to put out a box set of (mostly) previously unreleased CSN material to coincide with the documentary.

Metric’s 10th album Romanticize The Drive was recently released, and the Toronto indie rock band’s upcoming tour with Broken Social Scene and Stars kicks off on June 8 in Austin, TX. Other cities include Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Chicago (July 24 at Aragon Ballroom), Boston, Philadelphia, and New York.

The Ivy - Traces Of You - 2026 Tour, named after a recent album of previously unreleased Ivy songs recorded by band members Adam Schlesinger, Andy Chase, and Dominique Durand between 1995 and 2012, comes to the Park West in Chicago on May 14. The other venues on the tour are Sony Hall in New York City on May 21; the Teragram Ballroom in Los Angeles on May 27; and the Schellraiser Humboldt Hideaway venue in Wells, NV on May 30. Sadly, we lost Adam Schlesinger to COVID-19 in 2020.

The Greenberry Woods will celebrate the release of It’s All Good, Sugar … on June 5 at The Recher venue in Towson, MD. It’s the Baltimore-based power pop/alt rock band’s first album since Rapple Dapple and Big Money Item sparked a loyal following in the mid-1990s. The current album’s first single, “Whenever You Want Me Too,” has been picking up airplay on several rock stations.

The 1960s band Strawberry Alarm Clock, forever known for their “Incense And Peppermints” hit single, have kept recording all this time, according to a positive review of their recent Monster / White Light album in the British rock magazine Shindig. The album is on the Big Stir Records label, and the enchanting new single “The Sky Isn’t Falling” is now available to download on various sites.

Montrose Saloon has a Power Pop On Stage event coming on June 7 that will feature The Unswept, Dolph Chaney And The Phins, and Andy Bopp. The music starts at 6:00 pm.

Jack White will spend most of June touring Europe before returning to North America for a July 10 concert in Washington, D.C. From there, he has several North American gigs, including one at the Chicago venue Radius (640 West Cermak Road) on July 23, and an outdoor gig at The Salt Shed in Chicago on July 24.

The folk-rock/acid folk-rock trio Esmerelda’s Boys, which has been picking up gigs on the Chicago club scene since forming last spring, will start recording at the Loft Studio in Saline, MI next month. Their fans can expect a single some time this summer.

Psychedelic Soul: A Journey Through Rhythm And Time is now open at the Motown Museum in Detroit, MI, and will run through September 27. The website states the exhibit will focus on the years 1967 through 1975, “when the label expanded beyond its signature love songs to embrace experimentation and socially conscious storytelling.”

Chicago indie rock band The Handcuffs have a series of live performances scheduled for the next few months. They’ll be at the Metro Jam Festival with Sonny Landreth in Manitowoc, WI on June 20; Summerfest (as Kim Gordon’s opening act) in Milwaukee, WI on June 25; Mary’s Place in Rockford, IL on June 27; Evanston SPACE with whitewolfsonicprincess on July 28; and PravdaFest at FitzGerald's in Berwyn, IL on September 12. As posted on Facebook today, The Handcuffs have recorded two new songs in the studio for a picture sleeve single to be released some time this summer.

The Forever Mine Festival, taking place from noon to 10:00 pm on May 23 and 24 in Union Park, will honor Chicago’s essential role in house and rhythm and blues music. Headline acts for the all-ages event include Keyshia Cole; Kelly Rowland; Kaytranada; and Shaggy. See the official website for the full lineup.

A new music documentary titled Peter Asher Everywhere Man explores the multi-decade career of the English musician and producer. Several major stars are featured in the film, including James Taylor; Linda Ronstadt; Carole King; Paul McCartney; and Robin Williams. Peter Asher Everywhere Man will be shown in select theaters on June 19.

Michael Stipe of R.E.M. has collaborated with producer/songwriter Andrew Watt on the theme song for the HBO series Rooster. “I Played The Fool,” an easygoing and well-crafted song, is available to stream on various sites.

Theater Of The Mind, the imaginative adventure crafted by David Byrne from Talking Heads and writer Mala Gaonkar, has been extended through July 12 at the Reid Murdoch Building at 333 N. LaSalle Street in downtown Chicago. Theater Of The Mind, a Goodman Theatre production, has been picking up rave reviews in Chicago newspapers.

Brothers’ Field in Long Grove, IL will stage its annual Blues Fest on the weekend of June 12 – 14. So far, I don’t see a list of performers, but that will probably be revealed soon. Blues Fest is one of three outdoor events being offered in Brothers’ Field this summer; Peace Love and Long Grove comes on July 18, and Country Fest is set for August 21 – 23.

Weekend Reminders

Weekend Reminders on Thursday posts focus on events that were previously mentioned on Broken Hearted Toy, and are taking place during the upcoming weekend. Plus, the occasional event taking place this weekend that has just come to my attention, or concert tickets going on sale.

Tickets will go on sale soon for several Graham Nash concerts, starting with the Strings Music Festival in Steamboat Springs, CO on July 7. The tour will run through October 9, including stops at the Virginia Theatre in Champaign, IL on July 21 and Ravinia in Highland Park, IL on July 26. Check the official Graham Nash website for the full schedule, and to learn which concerts will have special guests.

Guitar-driven, local rockers Outronaut promise to deliver Psymphonic Surf-Noir Crime-Jazz during tomorrow’s show at the Side Bar at FitzGerald’s in Berwyn, IL. The adventure starts 8:30 pm.

The Zombies’ lead vocalist Colin Blunstone still draws rave reviews 60+ years after the band emerged from the British Invasion scene. He’ll likely find more critical acclaim during his UK Believe In Miracles Tour, which kicks off this weekend and will run through May 28.

Go Time! has a release event for its latest effort Eleven coming up this Saturday at Montrose Saloon. The title reflects how many albums the Chicago band has released over its extensive career, with this being their second on the noted power pop label Kool Kat Musik. Led by vocalist-guitarist Scott Niekelski’s distinctive vocals, the band specializes in hard-edged, emotional songs that bridge the gap between hard rock and power pop.

That Go Time! album release event will have special guests: The Spindles, who’ve released two albums of impressive power pop; and Chicago club veterans The Long Goodbye, who promise an eclectic mix of covers and originals.

As noted in the May edition of the Illinois Entertainer, new albums due out tomorrow include Remember The Humans by Broken Social Scene; Born To Kill by Social Distortion; and Look For Your Mind! by The Lemon Twigs.

I just received the latest copy of Shindig! in the mail, with The Lemon Twigs as the cover story. The English magazine describes band members Michael and Brian D’Addario as “The Young Saviours Of Guitar-Pop.”

Chicago club scene veterans (and all-around fun bands) Vinto Van Go and Phil Yates And The Affiliates will share a double bill this Saturday night at the Illuminated View Works venue. The music starts at 9:30 pm; Illuminated View Works is located at 6186 N. Northwest Highway in Chicago.

Chris Stamey from The dB’s has recorded his own version of The Kinks’ “Waterloo Sunset,” which is now available on various streaming sites. Vinyl lovers will get their chance to purchase the seven-inch colored-vinyl edition tomorrow. The record has a rendition of the Paul McCartney-penned Mary Hopkins 1969 hit single “Goodbye” on the B-Side.

Music On Stage, which has been staging plays in Palatine, IL for some time now, will perform Lionel Bart’s Oliver! starting this Saturday and running through May 24 at Cutting Hall. Billed as “freely adapted from Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist,” the musical features book, music, and lyrics by Lionel Bart. Cutting Hall is located at 150 E. Wood Street in Palatine.

If you know a Mom with a gypsy spirit, consider treating her to the noon Mother’s Day Brunch - The Songs Of Stevie Nicks presented by PureSoul at City Winery Chicago. PureSoul has presented several tribute events at this venue.

Incoming

The Zombies’ lead vocalist Colin Blunstone still draws rave reviews 60+ years after the band emerged from the original British Invasion scene. He’ll likely find more critical acclaim during his UK Believe In Miracles Tour, which kicks off this Thursday and will run through May 28.

Go Time! has a release event for its latest effort Eleven coming up this Saturday at Montrose Saloon. The title reflects how many albums the Chicago band has released over its impressive career, with this being their second on the noted power pop label Kool Kat Musik. Led by vocalist-guitarist Scott Niekelski’s distinctive vocals, the band specializes in hard-edged, emotional songs that bridge the gap between hard rock and power pop.

That Go Time! album release event will have special guests: The Spindles, who’ve released two albums of catchy power pop; and Chicago club veterans The Long Goodbye, who promise an eclectic mix of covers and originals.

Chris Stamey from The dB’s has recorded his own version of The Kinks’ “Waterloo Sunset,” which is now available on various streaming sites. Vinyl lovers will get their chance to purchase the seven-inch colored-vinyl edition this Friday. The record has a rendition of the Paul McCartney-penned Mary Hopkins 1969 hit single “Goodbye” on the B-Side.

Phil Angotti And Friends have performed a number of Beatles Brunches at City Winery Chicago and they’ll be back there on May 17 for Hit Songs And Other Goodies By The Beatles. 

The Cribs’ current tour in support of their Selling A Vibe album took them to major cities in Europe throughout April. The English alt rock trio is now in the U.S., with a show tomorrow night at The Empty Bottle in Chicago.

If you know a Mom with a gypsy spirit, consider treating her to the noon Mother’s Day Brunch - The Songs Of Stevie Nicks presented by PureSoul at City Winery Chicago. PureSoul has presented several tribute events at this venue.

Guitar-driven, local rockers Outronaut promise to deliver Psymphonic Surf-Noir Crime-Jazz at this Friday’s show at the Side Bar at FitzGerald’s in Berwyn, IL. The adventure starts 8:30 pm. 

Chicago-based singer-songwriter AJ Rosales has a solo acoustic performance coming up at the Uptown Lounge at 1136 W. Lawrence Avenue this Thursday at 8:00 pm. Rosales will likely feature songs from his recent Phasedrift album.

Music On Stage, which has been staging plays in Palatine, IL for some time now, will perform Lionel Bart’s Oliver! starting this Saturday and running through May 24 at Cutting Hall. Billed as “freely adapted from Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist,” the musical features book, music, and lyrics by Lionel Bart. Cutting Hall is located at 150 E. Wood Street in Palatine.

The Auditorium Philms series, which combines the screening of a hit movie with a live performance by the Chicago Philharmonic, will present Tim Burton’s Edward Scissorhands at The Auditorium in the south Loop on October 23.

Slumgullion

Kinks Kollectibles. Kinks fans who collect picture sleeve 45 rpm records are in for a double treat. The band’s official Facebook page recently announced they’ll mark the 60th anniversary of their hit single “Sunny Afternoon” with a “sunshine coloured” seven-inch limited edition due out in June. The B-Side will be “I’m Not Like Everybody Else” The post also states, “And watch out for a special update!” I’ve already pre-ordered my copy via The Kinks website.

Meanwhile, Chris Stamey from The dB’s has recorded his own version of The Kinks’ “Waterloo Sunset,” which is now available on various streaming sites. Vinyl lovers will have to wait until May 8 for the seven-inch colored-vinyl edition, with a rendition of the Paul McCartney-penned Mary Hopkins 1969 hit single “Goodbye” on the B-Side. 

Chris Stamey’s take on “Waterloo Sunset” will also be on his upcoming album Modernism, which features him performing cover versions of songs by some of his favorite bands, including “Hey Bulldog” by The Beatles and “Ruby Tuesday” by The Rolling Stones. Modernism is due out June 19 via Flatiron Recordings.

The May issue of the Illinois Entertainer, with Triumph on the cover, features veteran rock critic Tom Lanham’s interview with Gary Klebe from Shoes. The article provides some basic history on the Zion, IL power pop band, before moving on to singer-guitarist’s recently released Out Loud album. I recently purchased Out Loud from the Shoes online store, and agree with Lanham’s praise for it. Shoes fans should definitely check it out.

The May Illinois Entertainer also includes Jeff Elbel’s feature story on The Claudettes, the veteran Chicago band whose adventurous music challenges critics as well fans to slap a label on it. Their next album, Garage Glamour, comes out on Pravda Records June 5, but The Claudettes have a album release show tomorrow night at the Old Town School Of Folk Music in Chicago.

The Cribs’ current tour in support of their Selling A Vibe album took them to major cities in Europe throughout April. The English alt rock trio is now in the U.S., with gigs in Minneapolis and Milwaukee this weekend, and a show at The Empty Bottle in Chicago on May 5.

The Neil Young: 80 Years On Planet Earth Celebration with Steve Dawson, Tommi Zender, Gerald Dowd, Alton Smith and John Abbey takes place at SPACE in Evanston this Monday. Soul Asylum with Jason Narducy will perform at the venue on May 15 and 16.

Metric’s 10th album Romanticize The Drive dropped last Friday, and the Toronto indie rock band’s upcoming tour with Broken Social Scene and Stars kicks off on June 8 in Austin, TX. Other cities include Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Chicago (July 24 at Aragon Ballroom), Boston, Philadelphia, and New York.

Music On Stage, which has been staging plays in Palatine, IL for some time now, will perform Lionel Bart’s Oliver! May 9 – 24 at Cutting Hall. Billed as “freely adapted from Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist,” the musical features book, music, and lyrics by Lionel Bart. I’m kind of worried about this since I’m currently working on a paranormal/romance/rock and roll novel where a local theatre group creates its own adventurous take on a Dickens novel. Cutting Hall is located at 150 E. Wood Street in Palatine.

The Ivy - Traces Of You - 2026 Tour, named after a recent album of previously unreleased Ivy songs recorded by band members Adam Schlesinger, Andy Chase, and Dominique Durand between 1995 and 2012, comes to the Park West in Chicago on May 14. The other venues on the tour are Sony Hall in New York City on May 21; the Teragram Ballroom in Los Angeles on May 27; and the Schellraiser Humboldt Hideaway venue in Wells, NV on May 30. Sadly, we lost Adam Schlesinger to COVID-19 in 2020.

Chicago-based singer-songwriter AJ Rosales has a solo acoustic performance coming up at the Uptown Lounge (1136 W. Lawrence Avenue) on May 7 at 8:00 pm. Rosales will likely feature songs from his recent impressive Phasedrift album.

The Greenberry Woods will celebrate the release of It’s All Good, Sugar … on June 5 at The Recher venue in Towson, MD. It’s the Baltimore-based power pop/alt rock band’s first album since Rapple Dapple and Big Money Item sparked a loyal following in the mid-1990s. The current album’s first single, “Whenever You Want Me Too,” has been picking up airplay on several rock stations.

If you know a Mom with a gypsy spirit, consider treating her to the noon Mother’s Day Brunch - The Songs Of Stevie Nicks presented by PureSoul at City Winery Chicago. PureSoul has presented several tribute events at this venue.

The 1960s band Strawberry Alarm Clock, forever known for their “Incense And Peppermints” hit single, have kept recording all this time, according to a positive review of their recent Monster / White Light album in the British rock magazine Shindig. The album is on the Big Stir Records label, and the enchanting new single “The Sky Isn’t Falling” is now available to download on various sites.

Montrose Saloon has a Power Pop On Stage event coming on June 7 that will feature The Unswept, Dolph Chaney And The Phins, and Andy Bopp. The music starts at 6:00 pm.

Jack White will spend most of June touring Europe before returning to North America for a July 10 concert in Washington, D.C. From there, he has several North American gigs, including one at the Chicago venue Radius (640 West Cermak Road) on July 23, and an outdoor gig at The Salt Shed in Chicago on July 24.

The folk-rock/acid folk-rock trio Esmerelda’s Boys, which has been picking up gigs on the Chicago club scene since forming last spring, will start recording at the Loft Studio in Saline, MI next month. Their fans can expect a single some time this summer.

Psychedelic Soul: A Journey Through Rhythm And Time recently opened at Motown Museum in Detroit, MI, and will run through September 27. The website states the exhibit will focus on the years 1967 through 1975, “when the label expanded beyond its signature love songs to embrace experimentation and socially conscious storytelling.”

 Chicago indie rock band The Handcuffs have a series of live performances scheduled for the next few months. They’ll be at the Metro Jam Festival with Sonny Landreth in Manitowoc, WI on June 20; Summerfest (as Kim Gordon’s opening act) in Milwaukee, WI on June 25; Mary’s Place in Rockford, IL on June 27; Evanston SPACE with whitewolfsonicprincess on July 28; and PravdaFest at FitzGerald's in Berwyn, IL on September 12. As posted on Facebook today, The Handcuffs have recorded two new songs in the studio for a picture sleeve single to be released some time this summer.

Graham Nash revealed during an interview with American Songwriter News that director Robert Zemeckis is wrapping up a Crosby, Stills and Nash documentary. Nash also told the music publication there are plans to put out a box set of (mostly) previously unreleased CSN material to coincide with the documentary.

The Forever Mine Festival, taking place from noon to 10:00 pm on May 23 and 24 in Union Park, will honor Chicago’s essential role in house and rhythm and blues music. Headline acts for the all-ages event include Keyshia Cole; Kelly Rowland; Kaytranada; and Shaggy. See the official website for the full lineup.

A new music documentary titled Peter Asher Everywhere Man explores the multi-decade career of the English musician and producer. Several major stars are featured in the film, including James Taylor; Linda Ronstadt; Carole King; Paul McCartney; and Robin Williams. Peter Asher Everywhere Man will be shown in select theaters on June 19.

Michael Stipe of R.E.M. has collaborated with producer/songwriter Andrew Watt on the theme song for the HBO series Rooster. “I Played The Fool,” an easygoing and well-crafted song, is available to stream on various sites.

Theater Of The Mind, the imaginative adventure crafted by David Byrne from Talking Heads and writer Mala Gaonkar, has been extended through July 12 at the Reid Murdoch Building at 333 N. LaSalle Street in downtown Chicago. Theater Of The Mind, a Goodman Theatre production, has been picking up rave reviews in Chicago newspapers.

Brothers’ Field in Long Grove, IL will stage its annual Blues Fest on the weekend of June 12 – 14. So far, I don’t see a list of performers, but that will probably be revealed soon. Blues Fest is one of three outdoor events being offered in Brothers’ Field this summer; Peace Love and Long Grove comes on July 18, and Country Fest is set for August 21 – 23.

Weekend Reminders

Weekend Reminders on Thursday posts focus on events that were previously mentioned on Broken Hearted Toy, and are taking place during the upcoming weekend. Plus, the occasional event taking place this weekend that has just come to my attention, or concert tickets going on sale.

Depending on when you read this, you could catch Tributosaurus honoring Buffalo Springfield and The Byrds at Martyrs’ on Lincoln Avenue in Chicago. The show, which is part of the critically acclaimed tribute band’s Signature Series, will kick off tonight at 7:00 pm.

Also, depending on when you read this, you could catch Brett Newski And The Bad Inventions performing at 7:30 tonight at the Hey Nonny venue in Arlington Heights, IL.

Bandcamp Friday returns tomorrow, which is when Bandcamp waives its revenue on the first Friday of the month. Or, as stated in an official email, “More of what you spend goes straight to the artists and labels you care about.”

Milwaukee-based power pop band Trolley showcased their new A Carnival Of Grey And White album at International Pop Overthrow - Chicago just over a week ago, and they’ll be back in Milwaukee this Sunday when they open for British trio The Cribs at the Cactus Club. Fellow Milwaukee residents the indie rock band Known Moons is also on the bill.

Cult Canyon, the Chicago-based band led by Josh Chicoine of The M’s fame, will headline a triple bill tomorrow night at Fitzgerald’s in Berwyn, IL. The gig will likely be a showcase for Cult Canyon’s very recently released album Smoke Tricks. Craig Benedict Valentine Badynee And The Blanks will also perform, along with special guest Jacob Augustine. Smoke Tricks is available on Bandcamp, as well as on vinyl.

The Doc10 Festival returned for its 11th year last Friday, and will run through this Sunday at the Gene Siskel Film Center in downtown Chicago and at the Davis Theatre on the north side. All of the films being screened will be documentaries selected from around the world.

Push Puppets will likely showcase songs from their 2025 album Tethered Together when they perform at FitzGerald’s Side Bar in Berwyn, IL this Saturday. The Chicago area band specializes in melodic, well-crafted indie rock.


Prog rock band McLuhan will celebrate Kentucky Derby Day by performing songs from their recently re-released album Anomaly, as well as a few new singles, at Phyllis’ Musical Inn this Saturday. The festivities will include raffles, a set by the folk rock trio Esmerelda’s Boys, and possibly everyone singing “Happy Birthday” to McLuhan founding member Neal Rosner. The fun starts at 4:00 pm; Phyllis’ Musical Inn is located at 1800 W. Division on Chicago’s north side.

Incoming

Here’s another round of incoming events, as I try to catch up with my Broken Hearted Toy duties.

Milwaukee-based power pop band Trolley showcased their new A Carnival Of Grey And White album at International Pop Overthrow - Chicago just over a week ago, and they’ll be back in their home town this Sunday when they open for British trio The Cribs at the Cactus Club. Milwaukee indie rock band Known Moons is also on the bill.

The Cactus Club gig is part of a recently started tour by The Cribs in support of their new Selling A Vibe album. They’ll be at The Empty Bottle in Chicago on May 5.

The Bruce Springsteen And The E Street Band’s Land Of Hope And Dreams Tour arrives in Chicago tomorrow for a performance at the United Center just west of downtown. I’m pretty sure this critically acclaimed show sold out quite a while ago.

Music On Stage, which has been staging plays in Palatine, IL for some time now, will perform Lionel Bart’s Oliver! May 9 – 24 at Cutting Hall. Billed as “freely adapted from Charles Dickens’ Oliver Twist,” the musical features book, music, and lyrics by Lionel Bart. I’m kind of worried about this since I’m currently working on a novel where a local theatre group creates its own take on a Dickens novel. Cutting Hall is located at 150 E. Wood Street.

The Doc10 festival kicked off last Friday, returning for its 11th year, and will run through this Sunday at the Gene Siskel Film Center in downtown Chicago and at the Davis Theatre on the north side. All of the films being screened will be documentaries selected from around the world.

Happy Birthday to Erich Specht, singer-guitarist for the Chicago-based indie rock band Push Puppets. As I mentioned in yesterday's post, Push Puppets have a show coming up this Saturday night at FitzGerald’s Side Bar in Berwyn, so you can wish him a belated Happy Birthday then.

Brothers’ Field in Long Grove, IL will stage its annual Blues Fest on the weekend of June 12 – 14. So far, I don’t see a list of performers, but that will probably be revealed soon. Blues Fest is one of three outdoor events being offered in Brothers’ Field this summer; Peace Love and Long Grove comes on July 18, and Country Fest is set for August 21 – 23.

Speaking of Long Grove, congratulations to Blu Fig Cafe on celebrating its third anniversary this past Saturday. It’s a classy venue with good beverages and food, as well as a friendly staff. Stop by if you check out one of the festivals being held in Long Grove during the upcoming months.

Incoming

Congratulations to David Bash and Montrose Saloon for staging another entertaining and successful International Pop Overthrow - Chicago festival. I spent a few hours at the north side venue last Friday night instead of putting together my weekly Slumgullion column. Saturday brought a major family celebration, and Sunday is when I do all my household chores. So, it’s on to another Incoming post.

The Greenberry Woods will celebrate the release of It’s All Good, Sugar … on June 5 at The Recher venue in Towson, MD. It’s the Baltimore-based power pop/alt rock band’s first album since Rapple Dapple and Big Money Item sparked a loyal following in the mid-1990s. The current album’s first single, “Whenever You Want Me Too,” has been picking up airplay on several rock stations.

Depending on when you read this, you could still catch Todd Kessler’s album release party tonight at 7:30 pm at Evanston SPACE. The Chicago singer-songwriter explores sensitive subject matter via well-crafted acoustic songs on Here Is All We Have.

The 1960s band Strawberry Alarm Clock, forever known for their “Incense And Peppermints” hit single, have kept recording all this time, according to a positive review of their recent Monster / White Light album in the British rock magazine Shindig. The album is on the Big Stir Records label, and the enchanting new single “The Sky Isn’t Falling” is now available to download on various sites.

Chicago-based singer-songwriter Rachel Drew’s A Tribute To Amy Winehouse takes place tomorrow night at Evanston SPACE. Drew will focus on Winehouse’s Back To Black album, and she’ll be supported by musicians John Szymanski; Michael Krayniak; Jason Batch; Kenn Goodman; and the Total Pro Horns.

On Wednesday night, the self-described “Chicago's twisted sunshine pop super-group” The Flat Five will perform at Evanston SPACE.

Montrose Saloon has a Power Pop On Stage event coming on June 7 that will feature The Unswept, Dolph Chaney And The Phins, and Andy Bopp. The music starts at 6:00 pm.

Chicago-based singer-guitarist Terry White will host another Songwriter Circle tomorrow night at Fitzgerald’s Sidebar in Berwyn, IL This time out, White’s guests will be Andon Davis and Chris Siebold. The event starts at 7:00 pm; admission is free.

Upcoming shows at the Hey Nonny venue in Arlington Heights, IL as this month wraps up include Chris Greene Quartet on Wednesday; and Brett Newski And The Bad Inventions on Thursday.

Push Puppets will likely showcase songs from their 2025 album Tethered Together when they perform at FitzGerald’s Side Bar in Berwyn, IL this Saturday. The Chicago area band specializes in melodic, well-crafted indie rock.


A Double Dose Of IPO - Chicago For Its Finale

International Pop Overthrow - Chicago will wrap up its 2026 run at Montrose Saloon with a pair of showcases tomorrow; one in the afternoon, and one at night. Looking at both sets for this last day serves as a reminder of the eclectic approach IPO Founder David Bash takes in choosing the acts he invites to this festival. 

The Saturday afternoon set starts at 2:00 pm with singer-songwriter Finn Swingley, who has performed as a solo act and in numerous bands over the years. He released the full-length album Pet Hates last year and The Wild Hunt in 2020. His offbeat observations are engaging, whether he’s dealing with a troubled relationship on “Ex-Lovers” or spinning a sailor’s journey on “The Captain.”
Progressive hard rock band Refrestramus will likely showcase the adventurous songs from its latest release Morri’s Rock Boutique, as well as its 2024 debut Intourist. Freetoed has performed at a number of IPO - Chicago shows in the past, with an alt rock sound that’s influenced by Wilco, Pearl Jam, and Bon Iver. Their latest album, Cure For The Common Sound, is available on Bandcamp.

The Jeremy Band, led by Kalamazoo, MI vocalist-guitarist Jeremy Morris, traditionally cuts loose with high-powered, melodic rock at one of the Saturday afternoon showcases, and that’s exactly what will take place this Saturday. His latest album, Opener Of Eyes, once again finds Morris collaborating with Ken Stringfellow of The Posies. Mrs. Smith And The Present will likely perform their catchy recent singles “Pretty Things” and “Big Man” at their IPO - Chicago showcase. They also have four solid tunes on their 2024 She’s Right Here EP to choose from. The Nobodies will close out the afternoon showcase with offbeat and satirical lyrics set to arrangements that range from the garage rock of  “You’re Making Me A Headache” to the country and western twang of  “Drunk Text My Ex.” They’ll likely showcase songs from their 2025 EP Even The Score, Vol. 1. 

The Saturday evening showcase kicks off at 7:30 pm with Einstein’s Sister. The band is a veteran of IPO Chicago and IPO - Los Angeles festivals. Their Exit Strategies EP dropped in November, 2023, and this year, they’re celebrating the 25th anniversary of their Humble Creatures album. Kerosene Stars have been releasing power pop albums since their 2014 self-titled effort, and put out the fun “Ants In The Bathroom” single last year. Their set at IPO - Chicago this Friday night will most likely also feature the catchy song titled “Kerosine” (yes, the spelling’s different), which was posted on Bandcamp last year. The Incurables released their Inside Out And Backwards album of non-stop energetic and often humorous garage rock in 2024. The highlights included “Soda Pop,” a bass-driven tribute to the fizzy beverage, and the hard-edged rejection voiced in “Go Away.”

Singer-songwriter Tom Henry is a regular on the Chicago club scene and has posted well-crafted videos for catchy songs such as “But I Loved Her” and “Bella.” He released the album Songs To Sing And Dance To last summer. Nashville, TN musician/filmaker Greg Pope will be backed by The Popmonsters at his IPO - Chicago set. He’s been recording albums since 2008, and released The Roar Of Silence last year. Pope’s knack for social satire is especially noteworthy on the catchy “Fanboy” and “Worthy Son.” As the title of their 2021 album National Absurdatory suggests, The Embryos view life through satiric glasses. That album had plenty of highlights, and so does their 2024 effort Selling What You Want To Buy. There’s the humorous country weeper “Desiree,” the 1960s flavored silly dance number “Do The Donkey,” and the blistering but catchy satire “He’s A Hypocrite. They’ll have vinyl copies of their new Full Disclosure EP, for sale at their IPO - Chicago gig. (It’s also available to download on Bandcamp.)
Who’s This Mary? once again has the honor of bringing IPO - Chicago to a close with their midnight performance. The Chicago scene veterans have also rocked IPO - Liverpool, and bill themselves as “celebrated globe-trotting power pop sons,” with a particular emphasis on Britpop.

Check the official International Pop Overthrow website for the full Chicago 2025 schedule. You’ll also find links for most of the acts who’ll be participating this year. Even if you can’t attend in person, it’s a great way to discover new music. Many of the acts have Bandcamp pages, so it’s possible to already have some favorite songs before you even see the band perform.

Weekend Reminders

Weekend Reminders on Thursday posts focus on events that were previously mentioned on Broken Hearted Toy, and are taking place during the upcoming weekend. Plus, the occasional event taking place this weekend that has just come to my attention, or concert tickets going on sale.

John Cowsill and Vicki Peterson will likely showcase songs from their debut album Long After The Fire, along with songs from The Bangles and The Cowsills, when they perform at The Woodstock Opera House in Woodstock, IL this Saturday. They recently opened for The Smithereens at the Des Plaines Theatre in Illinois, and were a blast. Their opening act at The Woodstock Opera House will be the multi-talented Chicagoan Dag Juhlin, who recently toured with Michael Shannon and Jason Narducy on their Celebrate The 40th Anniversary Of R.E.M.’s Lifes Rich Pageant Tour. He’s also known for his work with Sunshine Boys; The Slugs; and Sonic45.

The Black Ensemble Theater on Chicago’s north side is presenting The Jackie Wilson Story through this Sunday. Black Ensemble Theater is now celebrating its 50th season.

Metric’s 10th album Romanticize The Drive drops tomorrow, and the Toronto indie rock band is staging a release eve party tonight at the Xanadu Roller Arts in Brooklyn, NY. Metric won’t be performing, but plans to film “as many fabulous cameos of as many people as possible so with any luck you will end up in the official ‘Crush Forever’ video with the band.” Metric’s upcoming tour with Broken Social Scene and Stars kicks off on June 8 in Austin, TX. Other cities include Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Chicago  (July 24 at Aragon Ballroom), Boston, Philadelphia, and New York.

The folk-rock/acid folk-rock  trio Esmerelda’s Boys, which has been picking up gigs on the Chicago club scene since forming last spring, will start recording at the Loft Studio in Saline, MI next month. Their fans can expect a single some time this summer. In the meantime, they’re performing at Phyliss’ Musical Inn in Wicker Park tonight.

 The B-52’s are currently in a return engagement at The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas, NV that will continue tomorrow and Saturday. 

Paul Weller’s upcoming release Weller At The BBC Vol. 2 will be available in 3-LP or 3-CD formats tomorrow.

The Wailers will celebrate the anniversary of the Rastaman Vibration album they released with Bob Marley 50 years ago, in a 7:00 pm concert at The Old Town School Of Folk Music tomorrow. The 9:30 pm concert that same night will feature The Wailers performing their 1977 album with Marley, Natural Mystic.

Ike Reilly & The Zimmermen have a DO DYLAN event coming up at FitzGerald’s in Berwyn, IL tomorrow night.

IPO - Chicago: Friday Night Preview

Photo from Michael Steven Cohen Facebook age.

International Pop Overthrow - Chicago 2026 will finish up at Montrose Saloon this weekend with a six-act showcase on Friday night, and a doubleheader (six acts in the afternoon, seven in the evening) on Saturday. Long-time IPO - Chicago fans will notice familiar faces scheduled for both days, as well as a few acts making their debut.

One sure thing about Mike Cohen’s set at Friday night’s IPO - Chicago show at Montrose Saloon is that he won’t have trouble finding the venue. Cohen has literally performed there 100 times as a solo act and as part of various bands. He’s also a Chicago - IPO veteran at its various locations dating back to the days when he led The Abbeys with vocalist-guitarist Jeff Janulis. As for tomorrow’s Chicago - IPO gig, Cohen noted on Facebook that he’ll “put together a set of some great songs” an will be accompanied by bass player Edward Hasse. The power pop band The Thin Cherries have released two albums and a few singles dating back to 2017, with material ranging from the mysterious “I Love Your Ghost” to the catchy though still a bit unsettling “Weird World.” The band’s vocalist-guitarist Steven Delisi has released solo music they can also perform. The Spindles have spent several years on the Chicago club scene perfecting their British Invasion flavored power pop. Their Past And Present and Wavelength albums each offer an entertaining mix of originals and well-chosen covers. Vocalist-guitarist and chief songwriter Jeff Janulis was a band mate with the above-mentioned Mike Cohen in the power pop band The Abbeys.

Judging from its Bandcamp page, Sample Quincy features the same three musicians as Bur, a band that has performed at IPO - Chicago in previous years. Certainly, the two songs on Sample Quincy’s very recently released Soup And Salad digital effort offer the same style of engaging harmonies, ornate pop, and guitar-driven rock as on Bur releases. The Minneapolis, MN band High On Stress has been recording music since its 2005 full-length album Moonlight Girls. Their soon-to-be-released album Still Here features catchy indie rock songs such as “House Of Cards” and “Over/Thru.” The Queue have been bringing their melodic Brit pop style tunes to IPO - Chicago for quite a few years now. Their song “Settle Down Your Gun” was included on the Dum Sun Records Compilation, Vol. 3 Halloween Edition last fall. Earlier efforts include the single “Love Save Us All” and the hard-edged EP Fire And Lies.

Check the official International Pop Overthrow website for the full Chicago 2025 schedule. You’ll also find links for most of the acts who’ll be participating this year. Even if you can’t attend in person, it’s a great way to discover new music. Many of the acts have Bandcamp pages, so it’s possible to already have some favorite songs before you even see the band perform.

IPO - Chicago: Thursday Night Preview

As far as I can determine, tomorrow night’s showcase at Montrose Saloon on the city’s north side brings a mixed bag of International Pop Overthrow - Chicago veterans and rookies. They all look pretty interesting.

Singer-songwriter Cody Piper’s set tomorrow night will not only be his IPO - Chicago debut, it will be his first-ever gig in this town. He’ll likely showcase tunes from his new Revealed album. Tomorrow also seems to be Max Loebman’s first IPO - Chicago appearance. His 2025 double single offers the well-crafted folk rock of  “Room For Love” and “Halfway There.” He might also pick a few of the easy-going tracks on his 2016 album Wild. The Oh Boys, whose Facebook page lists their location as Chicago, Philadelphia, and Vancouver, expertly tap into vintage rock and roll, and then tweak that era with their own offbeat sentiments. Tomorrow night will be at least their second IPO - Chicago set. Also of note, The Oh Boys’ drummer Kieran McCabe portrayed The Kinks’ drummer Mick Avory in the Chicago Shakespeare Theaters’s production of the critically acclaimed musical Sunny Afternoon last year.

New England native Andy Lampert’s IPO - Chicago debut will be a solo acoustic set. His two albums, 10 Songs of Pain and The Original Motion Picture Soundtrack, draw on 1960s and ‘70s rock and pop artists for inspiration. The Sonnets are veterans of the local club scene and certainly no strangers to IPO - Chicago. They specialize in an intriguing mix of glam, mod, power pop, garage, surf, and blues. You can find three albums packed with party songs on their Bandcamp page. The Shifties have recorded songs for film and TV projects, and on their nine-track CD Song Dynasty and six-song EP Patty, they pursue a variety of musical styles. From what I can tell, they’ve performed at IPO - Chicago on few occasions in the past.

Check the official International Pop Overthrow website for the full Chicago 2025 schedule. You’ll also find links for most of the acts who’ll be participating this year. Even if you can’t attend in person, it’s a great way to discover new music. Many of the acts have Bandcamp pages, so it’s possible to already have some favorite songs before you even see the band perform.

IPO - Chicago: Wednesday Night Preview

International Pop Overthrow - Chicago returned last Friday for its 23rd year, and will present evening showcases through this Friday, and two showcases (afternoon and a nighttime) for the finale on Saturday. All shows will take place at Montrose Saloon on the city’s north side. I’ve already posted previews for the lineups through today, so here’s a look at tomorrow’s performers.

On a sad note, Wednesday night’s opening act The Walkdown has cancelled its performance due to the death in the family of one of the band members. My deepest condolences to that person. 

Singer-guitarist Kristin Rose Kelly’s frequent performances on the Chicago area club scene include engaging ballads as well as hard-edged rock. Her IPO - Chicago gig will likely showcase songs from her recently released Pantyhose album. Mark Winkler and Preston Pisellini are from The Webstirs, the Chicago-based band that’s been a reliable source for well-crafted and witty indie rock for decades. The band’s latest album, High Up In The Trees came out last November, which, along with several previous releases, will give Winkler and Pisellini lots of fun material to choose from.

Rolling Numbers will likely showcase songs from their two albums, 2023’s Killer Machines and their self-titled 2022 release. The band’s harmony vocals play a major role on melodic songs such as “Best Of Luck” and “Memories Of You.” I could be wrong, but I think tomorrow night will be Danimal’s first appearance at IPO - Chicago. Singer-guitarist Danny Doom from the Chicago group Milk At Midnight is Danimal’s sole member, and he supplied the “vocals, guitars, all other noises” on the 2025 album Perseverance Hotel. “All I Want,” with its Beatles Revolver feel, is one of the highlights, along with  “Note To Self” and “Crawl.”

Check the official International Pop Overthrow website for the full Chicago 2025 schedule. You’ll also find links for most of the acts who’ll be participating this year. Even if you can’t attend in person, it’s a great way to discover new music. Many of the acts have Bandcamp pages, so it’s possible to already have some favorite songs before you even see the band perform.

IPO - Chicago: Tuesday Night Preview

Photo from the River Rats Facebook page.

I was determined to post today’s preview last night, but ran into technical difficulties trying to navigate the official International Pop Overthrow website. Sorry for the delay. IPO - Chicago continues through this Saturday night at Montrose Saloon on the city’s north side.

On a sad note, Wednesday night’s opening act The Walkdown has cancelled its performance due to the death in the family of a band member. My deepest condolences to that person.

This night’s opening band Brother Derek is well acquainted with Montrose Saloon, and is returning to IPO - Chicago for the fourth time. Their new EP Bootlickers, UNITE! takes a satirical point of view while exploring various genres, much like their 2022 album Parade Rest. South Bend, IN trio River Rats describe their approach as classic pop punk rock, and they have several releases on their Bandcamp page. Son Of Dad, released just last month, offers revved-up tracks such as “Odd Years” and “Bob Dylan’s Chair,” as well as the more experimental “Living In The Dark” and “Ode To Slow.” Channahon, IL quintet Space Age Zeros craft a punk rock power pop blend designed to appeal to fans of  “The Ramones, Screeching Weasel, Material Issue, Cheap Trick and beyond.” In a recent Facebook post Space Age Zeros promised they’ll perform four brand new, recently recorded songs at tonight’s show.

Rollo Time is equally impressive with the psychedelic rock of “12-17” and the Who-inspired “Spider In The Hole.” Their full-length new album One Thing Is Everything is available in vinyl format only on the official Rollo Time website. The Long Goodbye has been performing a blend of adventurous covers and their own material on the Chicago club scene since 2019. Their 2024 songs “Leavin’ And Yer Gone, Part 1” and “Leavin’ And Yer Gone, Part 2” showcase the band’s varied approach, as have entirely different arrangements from each other.

Check the official International Pop Overthrow website for the full Chicago 2025 schedule. You’ll also find links for most of the acts who’ll be participating this year. Even if you can’t attend in person, it’s a great way to discover new music. Many of the acts have Bandcamp pages, so it’s possible to already have some favorite songs before you even see the band perform.

Incoming

Psychedelic Soul: A Journey Through Rhythm And Time recently opened at Motown Museum in Detroit, MI, and will run through September 27. The website states the exhibit will focus on the years 1967 through 1975, “when the label expanded beyond its signature love songs to embrace experimentation and socially conscious storytelling.”

The folk-rock/acid folk-rock trio Esmerelda’s Boys, which has been picking up gigs on the Chicago club scene since forming last spring, will start recording at the Loft Studio in Saline, MI next month. Their fans can expect a single some time this summer. In the meantime, their next live gig is this Thursday at Phyliss’ Musical Inn in Wicker Park.

Jack White will spend most of June touring Europe before returning to North America for a July 10 concert in Washington, D.C. From there, he has several North American gigs, including one at the Chicago venue Radius (640 West Cermak Road) on July 23, and an outdoor gig at The Salt Shed in Chicago on July 24.

Ike Reilly & The Zimmermen have a DO DYLAN event coming up at FitzGerald’s in Berwyn, IL this Friday.

Metric’s 10th album Romanticize The Drive drops this Friday, and the Toronto indie rock band is staging a release eve party the night before at the Xanadu Roller Arts in Brooklyn, NY. Metric won’t be performing, but plans to film “as many fabulous cameos of as many people as possible so with any luck you will end up in the official ‘Crush Forever’ video with the band.” Metric’s upcoming tour with Broken Social Scene and Stars kicks off on June 8 in Austin, TX. Other cities include Dallas, Denver, Los Angeles, Chicago (July 24 at Aragon Ballroom), Boston, Philadelphia, and New York.

The Black Ensemble Theater on Chicago’s north side is presenting The Jackie Wilson Story through this Sunday. Black Ensemble Theater is now celebrating its 50th season.

Singer-songwriter AJ Rosales has been impressive in live performances on the Chicago club scene as well as on his 2025 album Phasedrift. His recently released LIVE AJ EP finds Rosales armed only with an acoustic guitar but still conveying the introspective lyrics of five songs from Phasedrift, along with the previously unreleased track “Dreams.”

John Cowsill and Vicki Peterson will likely showcase songs from their debut album Long After The Fire, along with songs from The Bangles and The Cowsills, when they perform at The Woodstock Opera House in Woodstock, IL this Saturday. They recently opened for The Smithereens at the Des Plaines Theatre in Illinois, and were a blast. Their opening act at The Woodstock Opera House will be the multi-talented Chicagoan Dag Juhlin, who recently toured with Michael Shannon and Jason Narducy on their Celebrate The 40th Anniversary Of R.E.M.’s Lifes Rich Pageant Tour. He’s also known for his work with Sunshine Boys; The Slugs; and Sonic45.

Paul Weller’s Weller At The BBC Vol. 2 will be available in 3-LP or 3-CD formats this Friday.

The Wailers will celebrate the anniversary of the Rastaman Vibration album they released with Bob Marley 50 years ago, in a 7:00 pm concert at The Old Town School Of Folk Music this Friday. The 9:30 pm concert that same night will feature The Wailers performing their 1977 album with Marley, Natural Mystic.

Sons Of The Silent Age - The Cracked Actor Cabaret is coming to City Winery Chicago, located straight west of the downtown area this Thursday. These guys have been impressing audiences around town with their David Bowie tribute for years; this particular event will feature them performing stripped down arrangements of his songs.

The B-52’s have a return engagement at The Venetian Resort in Las Vegas, NV this Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.

IPO - Chicago Monday: Start The Week Rocking

 Status Foe lead vocalist-guitarist Colby Holmes

International Pop Overthrow - Chicago returned for its 23rd year this past Friday, and will offer showcases on a daily basis at Montrose Saloon through next Saturday, April 25. I’ve already posted previews for the lineups through today, and since this is being posted now, it qualifies as a preview of what tomorrow will bring.

The official IPO website lists the first act as Status Foe (solo), which means lead vocalist-guitarist Colby Holmes will perform some of the Indiana band’s impressive originals on his own. Last year’s full band show featured hard-edged material such as “Learn It For A Fee,” and “Lenses Of Greed,” so it should be interesting to see which songs Holmes selects. Barry And The Fountains features vocalist-guitarist Barry Fontenot, who did pretty well as a contestant on The Voice TV show in 2025. The group has released a series of soulful singles on its Bandcamp site since 2019. Named after founding member Jerry Schwartz, The Jerrys have been creating Anglo-influenced, guitar-driven pop since releasing their debut album in 2001. Cover Songs, which came out last year, finds them performing material by The Beatles, The Kinks, Johnny Rivers, The Ventures, and other 1960s hit makers. Their 2022 release Ready Or Not offered original material. 

The Pickpockets are IPO - Chicago veterans, and their webpage shows they pursue a variety of approaches and instrumentation on songs such as the catchy “The 1 Dream” and the funkier “If I Were You.” The None Others have returned to the Chicago club scene after being away for awhile. They have a number of singles on their Bandcamp page, and their 2018 album Pipe Dream finds them exploring various styles, including some hard-edged rave-ups.

Check the official International Pop Overthrow website for the full Chicago schedule. You’ll also find links for just about all the acts who’ll be participating in Chicago this year. Even if you can’t attend in person, it’s a great way to discover new music. Many of the acts have Bandcamp pages, so it’s possible to already have some favorite songs before you even see the band perform.

Slumgullion

Tonight marks the official kickoff of International Pop Overthrow - Chicago 2026 on the city’s north side. So, here’s an official Broken Hearted Toy welcome back to the festival’s founder and traveling guardian David Bash, as well as best wishes to Eric Chial and the staff at Montrose Saloon for a successful run. I’ve already posted previews of tonight’s and both of tomorrow’s showcases (see April 13, 14, and 15 posts.) My plan is to post a preview for each of this year’s IPO - Chicago showcases.

Tomorrow is Record Store Day, and as I stated in yesterday’s preview of this event, I’m aiming to snag The dB’s Cycles Per Seconds: US Tour 2024 and XTC - Live Boots - Live At Emerald City 1981. I’m also hoping to get Chris Stamey’s 7-inch single covering The Kinks’ “Waterloo Sunset,” which was released today.

As noted on the entertainmentNOW website, Robert Plant, whose Saving Grace With Suzi Dian album is one of the RSD selections this year, has been chosen as the 2026 Record Store Day Legend. He’s only the third recipient, with the other two being Elton John in 2017 and Johnny Marr in 2025.

The Handcuffs recently announced a series of upcoming gigs via a Facebook post. The Chicago indie rock band will perform at the Metro Jam Festival in Manitowoc, WI on June 20; Summerfest (as Kim Gordon’s opening act) in Milwaukee, WI on June 25; Mary’s Place in Rockford, IL on June 27; and PravdaFest at FitzGerald's in Berwyn, IL on September 12. The Handcuffs plan to record a pair of new songs for a vinyl and download single release some time this summer.

As reported in a recent American Songwriter News Facebook post, Graham Nash revealed during an interview that director Robert Zemeckis is wrapping up a Crosby, Stills and Nash documentary. Nash also told the music publication there are plans to put out a box set of (mostly) previously unreleased CSN material to coincide with the documentary. So far, there isn’t definite date for either project. Nash kicked off a major tour last Saturday in Lansdowne, PA, and it will run through September 19 in Fredericton, NB. The tour includes a July 26 stop at the Ravinia Festival in Highland Park, IL, with Emmylou Harris as his special guest.

Congratulations to my nephew Joe Flamm, who’ll celebrate the fifth anniversary of his acclaimed Rose Mary restaurant this Monday. According to a recent Rose Mary Facebook post, the special event will feature “chef stations throughout the restaurant serving all of our greatest hits, live music, flash tattoos and more.” The $150 ticket will include all of your food and beverages. Rose Mary is located at 932 W. Fulton in Chicago’s Fulton Market neighborhood.

A new music documentary titled Peter Asher Everywhere Man explores the multi-decade career of the English musician and producer. Several major stars are featured in the film, including James Taylor; Linda Ronstadt; Carole King; Paul McCartney; and Robin Williams. Those of us who’ve seen Asher’s live presentations at Fest For Beatles Fans and various venues can attest to his amazing career, as well as his often amusing descriptions of it. Peter Asher Everywhere Man will be shown in select theaters on June 19.

“Days We Left Behind,” the easygoing first single from Paul McCartney’s upcoming album The Boys Of Dungeon Lane, is now available on various streaming sites. Its introspective tone is likely to drift throughout the album, which is due out May 29. A Paul McCartney And Wings exhibit will open on May 15 at the Rock And Roll Hall Of Fame in Cleveland, OH.

Chicago-based singer-songwriter Rachel Drew’s A Tribute To Amy Winehouse will take place on April 28 at SPACE in Evanston. Drew will focus on Winehouse’s Back To Black album, and she’ll be supported by musicians John Szymanski; Michael Krayniak; Jason Batch; Kenn Goodman; and the Total Pro Horns. Other upcoming shows at Evanston SPACE include The Flat Five on April 29; the Neil Young: 80 Years On Planet Earth Celebration with Steve Dawson, Tommi Zender, Gerald Dowd, Alton Smith and John Abbey on May 4; and Soul Asylum with Jason Narducy on May 15 and 16.

Chris Stamey’s upcoming album Modernism finds the The dB’s member and solo artist performing cover versions of songs by some of his favorite bands, including “Hey Bulldog” by The Beatles; “Waterloo Sunset” by The Kinks; and “Ruby Tuesday” by The Rolling Stones. Guest musicians Jody Stephens; Pat Sansone; Jon Wurster; Mitch Easter; Probyn Gregory; Wes Lachot; and Emily Frantz; as well as Stamey’s fellow dB’s band members Will Rigby and Peter Holsapple, pitched in during the recording. Modernism is due out June 19 via Flatiron Recordings.

The 42nd Latino Film Festival opened today at the Landmark Century Centre Cinema on Chicago’s north side and will present 51 features and 31 shorts April 27.

Thomas Dolby, who had major hits with “She Blinded Me With Silence,” “Europa And The Pirates Twins,” and other new wave gems, will bring his The Iconic 80s: My Personal Recollections tour to the House Of Blues in Chicago on April 20; other stops include New York, Indianapolis, and St Louis.

A Tribute To The Smiths presented by PureSoul will take place on April 21 at City Winery Chicago just west of the Loop. The band will be led by Bob Nanna and Rodrigo Palma. PureSoul Presents has staged several tributes to famous music acts there over the past few years.

“It’s Been Too Long,” the first single from Ringo Starr’s next album, is now available to stream on various sites. The album, titled Long Long Road, will feature collaborations with T Bone Burnett; Sheryl Crow; Billy Strings; Molly Tuttle; Sarah Jarosz; and St. Vincent. It’s due out April 24.

Upcoming shows at the Hey Nonny venue in Arlington Heights, IL this month include Mud Morganfield on April 25; Chris Greene Quartet on April 29; and Brett Newski And The Bad Inventions on April 30.

Singer, guitarist and quite witty English songwriter Nick Lowe will perform at The Old Town School Of Folk Music on July 13. It will be the first in a series of concerts that month that also feature Lowe’s buddies, the guitar-driven instrumental band Los Straitjackets. Other stops on the July tour include Minneapolis; Milwaukee; Cincinnati; Cleveland; Toronto; and Washington, DC.

Guitar-driven, local rockers Outronaut promise to deliver Psymphonic Surf-Noir Crime-Jazz during their May 8 show at the Side Bar at FitzGerald’s in Berwyn, IL. The adventure starts 8:30 pm.

Issue #22 of Second Scene includes articles on The Godfathers, The Pandoras, Reckless Eric, and Big Stir Records. Led by editor-in-chief Tim Thomas, the Pittsburgh, PA indie rock music newspaper presents its reviews and articles within a colorful, eye-catching layout. Second Scene can be found in some records stores, and is available through its Bandcamp page.

Michael Stipe of R.E.M. has collaborated with producer/songwriter Andrew Watt on the theme song for the HBO series Rooster. “I Played The Fool,” an easygoing and well-crafted song, is available to stream on various sites.

Del Amitri has a show coming up at the Vic Theatre in Chicago on June 15. It’s the third date on the Scottish band’s first U.S. tour since 2023, following shows on June 13 in Milwaukee and June14 in Minneapolis. The other stops on the tour are Providence; Boston; New York; Washington D.C. and Philadelphia.

Theater Of The Mind, the imaginative adventure crafted by David Byrne from Talking Heads and writer Mala Gaonkar, has been extended through July 12 at the Reid Murdoch Building at 333 N. LaSalle Street in downtown Chicago. Theater Of The Mind, a Goodman Theatre production, has been picking up rave reviews in Chicago newspapers.

If you’d still like to be friends with Todd Rundgren—and who wouldn’t?—you have two opportunities to see him perform live in Illinois this summer. His Damned If I Do Tour kicks off at the Arcada Theatre in St. Charles on June 11 and moves to the Des Plaines Theatre in Des Plaines, IL the next day. Rundgren is known for hits such as “Hello, It’s Me”and “Can We Still Be Friends?” Other cities on the tour include Dallas, Atlanta, Fort Lauderdale, and Washington, D.C.