the total scene

Blues on the Fox opens RiverEdge Park for the season with high-powered energy

2026-06-21T20:26:21.453-05:00

Guitarist Eric Gales performed on June 20 at RiverEdge Park in Aurora as part of Blues on the Fox.

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

After being closed last summer for major renovations, RiverEdge Park in Aurora reopened to the public on June 20 for the Blues on the Fox festival.

Given the top-notch talent of the artists on the bill, it was not surprising the stage was brimming with energy.

Here are a few highlights from the festival:

Musician Eric Gales performs June 20 at RiverEdge Park in Aurora as part of Blues on the Fox.

The Blues on the Fox festival on June 20 kicked off RiverEdge Park's season.

Musician Eric Gales performs June 20 at RiverEdge Park in Aurora as part of Blues on the Fox.

Musician Eric Gales performs his song "Baby, Baby" June 20 at RiverEdge Park in Aurora as part of Blues on the Fox.

Trombone Shorty performed June 20 at RiverEdge Park in Aurora as part of Blues on the Fox.

Trombone Shorty performs June 20 at RiverEdge Park in Aurora as part of Blues on the Fox.

Trombone Shorty performs his song "I'm Standing Here" – with guest musician Eric Gales on lead guitar – June 20 at RiverEdge Park in Aurora as part of Blues on the Fox.

Trombone Shorty performs his song "Here Come the Girls" June 20 at RiverEdge Park in Aurora as part of Blues on the Fox.

For more videos from the festival, go to youtube.com/@ericschel12/videos .

On her latest album, Chicago musician Denise La Grassa continues to expand her sound

2026-06-09T20:23:07.806-05:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

With her adventurous sound and thought-provoking lyrics, Chicago musician Denise La Grassa sets herself apart from other musicians.

I had the chance to talk to La Grassa about her latest album, "A Crossroads Communion," released on June 5. Those who want to hear her perform songs from the new album will have plenty of opportunities to do so in the next few weeks.

That includes an appearance at 6:30 p.m. June 20 at Chant restaurant in Hyde Park.

Q – Great to talk to you. Of course, you and your band will be performing at Chant restaurant in Hyde Park on June 20.

We love Chant. The audience is always super supportive, and the staff is so welcoming. We’ve been performing there now for 3 and a half years.

Q – That’s going to be an exciting weekend, with the opening of the Obama Presidential Center that same weekend.

It will be! The Obama Center is three blocks away. We’ve driven by it a few times and are awestruck every time as a most beautiful building.

Q – And President Obama called Hyde Park home for many years.

Yes, Chant is just a few blocks away from the home he lived in. I don’t know where Mavis Staples lives in Hyde Park.

I have a dream that one day when they’re in town they’ll stop in for a set and enjoy some wonderful food at Chant.

Q – You have a lot going on this month. Your latest album, "A Crossroads Communion,” was released on June 5. What goals did you have for the album, and do you think you accomplished them?

My first goal was to produce a great album because I knew these were important songs and for the most part, these songs kind of fit together.

But I should first mention that this album likely would not have been made this quickly without the support of the Illinois Arts Council Agency Creative Accelerator Fund. It has allowed me so invest funds into promoting this album in a way I have not been able to before.

That goes to my second goal: Finding a publicist that could help get this album reviewed by name publications and writers.

Mark Pucci Media has done that, with hopefully more to come. I have also worked with Twin Vision out of NYC on my last two albums to get airplay on non-comm/NPR affiliates/college radio.

We’re doing that again with "A Crossroads Communion." As a matter of fact, that campaign has just started.

Q – The album was made in collaboration with producer Jim Gifford, co-owner of Chicago’s Narwhal Music Studios. What do you think he brought to the table?

As producer, Jim brought another set of ears to these songs. Jim is an accomplished drummer who brought deep knowledge of blues/soul/gospel/rock arranging elements to the sessions.

We worked very well together as Jim is always open to what the artist is hearing, and then the collaboration is accomplished with engineer Maxwell Mendeloff offering his ideas.

Jim understands how to knit all ideas together in a positive uplifting way.

Q – When you were in 8th grade, you set the world record for muscle grinds on a trapeze and earned a place in the Guinness Book of World Records. How did you feel after setting that record?

Honestly, it was life changing at the time. Before the record, I was feeling like an artsy, geeky bright curly haired middle school kid who had some athletic talents.

I had trouble fitting in and making friends. I wrote songs back then, but had no clue about how to put together a band.

I tried breaking the world record and practiced hard, not thinking about what the consequences would be. I just knew I wanted to challenge myself.

There was press there from all over the world, television and news stations. It was a big deal.

It was after that, that I started to feel like I fit in.

Q – You have described your music as “blues infused soulful, rocking music.” It seems like you are influenced by many genres of music, including jazz, which you studied in school.

Like many kids at the time when I was young, I listened over and over to Top 40 music on the radio. When I got a job in high school, I would go directly to the record store in Baraboo with my paycheck and buy as many records as I could and listen to them over and over in my room.

I discovered classical music during band practice, as a matter of fact.

I would hop from chair to chair trying out different instruments. My favorite was percussion, the drums.

When I moved to Chicago in my early 20s, I formed a blues/R&B band, then a more eclectic band called, well … Eclectic Red.

Then jazz got a hold of me. My mother and father had much to do with introducing me to jazz. My mom is from Scotland.

When she was growing up, she listened to all styles of music, including jazz. She loved Sarah Vaughn, Billie Holiday, pop music, Areatha Franklin, Stevie Wonder and jazz big bands.

My dad also loved jazz and often talked about seeing Frank Sinatra at the Chicago Theater.

Q – On your album "The Flame,” you talk about the important contributions that immigrants have made to this country.

Yes. "Wide Eyes" from the album most directly addresses that. From the end of the song:

Looking At My Life / Wide Eyes Wide High

Frightened Wall Flower Now Renewed

Centuries of Souls Inside

Calling Me to Stand and Tell the Truth

I Hear Their Rhymes / Proclaiming

Chords of Courage Worth Attaining

Open Up My Wide Eyes

And Ask Why

In the Passage of a Song

How Can WE All……Get Along.

Q – I understand your mother came from Glasgow, Scotland to the United States at the age of 20 with only $50 and a suitcase.

She did. And she (and my father) eventually brought the rest of my mother’s family from Scotland to the Chicago area.

They helped so many people. I’m blessed to have been raised by caring, kind parents.

Q – I imagine that you have some thoughts about the current immigration policies in place.

Jesus in Matthew 25:40 said, “Truly I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of my brethren, you did it to me.”

Zechariah 7:9-10 says: “Thus says the Lord of hosts: Render true judgments, show kindness and mercy to one another; do not oppress the widow, the orphan, the alien, or the poor; and do not devise evil in your hearts against one another.”

There are more, but the Bible is clear on this.

Q – I understand that Chicago blues legend Buddy Guy has been an influence and inspiration for you. How has he influenced you?

Buddy Guy has influenced me on many levels. Musically, his distinctive, theatrical performances are full of emotion, intensity and authenticity.

Just as inspiring is his journey as an artist. He persevered through barriers that would have stopped many others, continuing to develop his craft and establish himself despite the limitations and discrimination of the era he came up in.

His story reminds me that great artistry is often tied to resilience. And Buddy Guy’s Legends here in Chicago is one of the best places to see how he continues to support new generations of talent.

Q – He is still performing at 89 and will soon turn 90. Do you see your career lasting as long as his has?

Remember when Mick Jagger said he would retire at 33? (laughs). Mostly right now I’m just focused on playing out this album.

I know there’s plenty more music in me, let’s see how the next year plays out! Hail Mary pass, here we go!

Chicago band The Claudettes to celebrate release of new album with show at Old Town School of Folk Music in Chicago

2026-04-28T22:25:00.000-05:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

Chicago band The Claudettes certainly has its fair share of news these days.

Drummer Michael Caskey, who formed the band with pianist, singer and songwriter Johnny Iguana, recently left The Claudettes. The band will release its seventh album, "Garage Glamour," on Chicago independent label Pravda Records in June.

The Claudettes will celebrate the release of the album with a show at 8 p.m. May 2 at the Old Town School of Folk Music's Myron R. Szold Music & Dance Hall, 4545 N. Lincoln Ave., Chicago.

Tickets are available at oldtownschool.org.

I had the chance to talk to Iguana about the band and the new album.

Q – The last time we spoke was in November 2022, when Berit Ulseth was the lead singer. Your current singer, Rachel Williams, joined The Claudettes in December 2022.

And of course the band has a lot going on these days. The band’s seventh album, “Garage Glamour,” will be released in June. You also just announced that the drummer and co-founder of The Claudettes, Michael Caskey, has left the band.

I have seen the band perform a couple of times and it seems like you and Michael had a great connection with each other on stage.

What are you going to miss about him not being in the band?

We had such a chemistry and rapport. Every group of humans that makes up a band has its own flavor.

The new drummer, Liz Ele, has been in Chicago for years playing with mostly cover bands, but with some other bands as well.

And she's a really good rock 'n' roll drummer. She's incredibly excited to be doing this and playing with me and this band.

The practice sessions have been going really great.

Q – We were talking about Rachel earlier. She is quite the force on stage.

What do you think she has brought to the band?

One of the first shows that we did with her was an outdoor show in Rockford. And this woman afterwards said, 'When Rachel came out on stage, it was majestic.'

She seems to conserve all her energy for the stage. I think she's really going to turn heads with this album because she sings really heartfelt soulful stuff.

Q – It seems like she is really fitting in with the band. I've watched some of the fun videos that you've done, like when you're out shopping for a piano.

Q – The first track off the new album, "(You Are My) Whole World,” features Chicago blues legend John Primer in a duet with Rachel. I know you have performed with him before.

What made you think he would be a good fit for the song and did the results exceed your expectations?

I heard him in my head because as much as he is known as a blues musician, he also put out an album called "The Soul of a Blues Man," where he is singing songs like "Rainy Night in Georgia" and some '60s and '70s soul songs. And he's so good at it.

I think he's one of the greatest soul singers alive. I asked him and he agreed to do it.

He just suddenly discovered this song while the tapes were rolling. And it was such a thing of beauty.

We were all just really moved by it. It really is a passionate love song.

Award-winning blues guitarist Colin James to perform at the City Winery Chicago

2026-04-21T19:12:00.000-05:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

Award-winning Canadian blues rock guitarist Colin James had to cut his last U.S. tour short after a car crashed into his scooter in September 2024 following his performance at the Niagara Falls Blues Festival.

Fortunately, he has recovered from his injuries and has returned to the United States for a tour that also features fellow Canadian musicians Matt Andersen and Terra Lightfoot.

They will perform at 7:30 p.m. April 27 at the City Winery Chicago, 200 W. Randolph St., Chicago.

Tickets are available at citywinery.com/pages/locations/chicago.

I had the chance to talk to James about the tour.

Q – Great talking to you. Your last U.S. tour was unfortunately cut short after a car crashed into your scooter in September 2024 following your performace at the Niagara Falls Blues Festival.

You spent five days in a New York hospital and had a compound fracture to his foot/ankle and a broken left wrist that required a cast.

It was brutal. I had no memory of getting hit.

I had complete amnesia for a few days. I got a phone call from my daughter saying I got hurt.

And I went, what? What do you mean I got hurt?

Q – But hopefully you are doing well these days.

My left hand was a little numb for a couple of months. I had to play mandolin for a while instead of just because it had shorter frets to navigate.

It's all good now.

Q – Your 21st full-length album, “Chasing The Sun,” was released just before your accident. The second song on the album is “I’m Still Alive.”

The timing of that seems eerie.

I know. I was out for four months and the very first show we did was at the Lyric Theatre in Florida.

I was still limping a little bit. But that didn't last too long.

By the time it came to do my Canadian tour, I was right back in shape. It's a distant memory now, but breaking stuff is a bummer, man.

Q – Yeah, it is kind of weird that you wrote the song before the accident and now you can sing, "I'm Still Alive."

It added a little more importance to the song.

Q – Your memoir, "Playing the Changes," will be released in September. Was this just the right time to be working on your memoir?

It was as good of time as any. I've never done anything like this before.

I really enjoyed the process. And I had a really great co-writer to help me who has worked in the publishing industry.

He let me speak in my own voice. It was a really great experience.

My parents were music lovers, but they didn't play. I started going to folk festivals when I was probably 8 or 9 years old.

I got to see so many great musicians, like Elizabeth Cotten and John Hammond and James Cotton. By the time I was 16, I quit school and started playing on street corners.

And I left home when I 16. Through the book, I wanted to show people that no matter where you're from, if you're dedicated to something, you can make it happen.

Q – Hopefully people will be inspired after reading your memoir.

I hope so. I'm going to go on the road with my good friend Colin Linden, who produced my last record.

Colin lives in Nashville, but he's a Canadian guitar player who plays with T Bone Burnett these days. He's an old friend and we're going to do a little tour in the fall when the book comes out.

Q – You opened for John Lee Hooker when you were about 16 years old. What did that experience teach you?

When you're that age, you are so brave. I don't know if I'd be that brave now, to jump on a stage like that.

After that, I moved around from place to place. I then opened for Stevie Ray Vaughan.

He came around the next year and got me to open up a couple more shows. That started a friendship.

It was pretty mind blowing to be in your hometown – the same place where I had quit school a number of years ago – to open for him. Stevie was hotter than a pistol at the time.

Q – Do you hope that the fact your are coming back strong after this accident will inspire other people?

I hope so. It just shows that you just have to keep moving, you've got to keep going.

Things can seem pretty bad at times, but you always come out on the other side.

Q – Despite all the awards – including 8 Juno awards and 31 Maple Blues awards – you have received over the years along with multi-platinum record sales, I understand you still view your career as a work in progress.

Absolutely. I've always considered this job, this wonderful job I have, as something I never want to quit.

I never want to be a retro act. I think there is so much to be discovered and so much to learn.

Hayley and the Crushers frontwoman Hayley Cain talks about band ahead of show at the Arcada Theatre in St. Charles

2026-04-15T10:54:00.007-05:00

Photo credit:

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

Ahead of Hayley and the Crushers upcoming show at the Arcada Theatre in St. Charles, the band has released "Jewel Case," the first single off its new album set for release later this year on Kitten Robot Records.

“I was inspired by a girl I took to a show once," frontwoman Hayley Cain said in talking about the song. "I turned around for two seconds, and she had consumed enough liquor to get herself sent to the ER by ambulance. I spent the night in that hospital bed next to her while she slept it off, and what struck me was how completely unapologetic she was. She couldn't wait to do it all over again. Everyone has that moment where they say, ‘Yeah, that's the line. I'm not crossing that one again.’ That's what this song is about. That moment.”

Hayley and the Crushers will open for Screeching Weasel along with The Queers at 8 p.m. April 17 at the Arcada Theatre, 105 E. Main St., St. Charles.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and tickets are available at oshows.com.

I had the chance to talk to Hayley about the upcoming show:

Q – Great to talk to you. Of course, you are touring with Screeching Weasel along with The Queers. You also toured with Screeching Weasel last year. How was that experience?

Great. All the guys in Screeching Weasel are incredibly friendly and cool.

Jumping up to these bigger shows, opening for iconic pop punk bands, has taught us a lot about owning the stage and making the most of the spectacle.

Sure, we have been humbled a time or two, but the way we see it is this: we've been given this opportunity to do the Crushers on steroids, and so we really do our best to rise to the occasion with even more energy and even some new ridiculous stage moves like our lead guitarist jumping over our bass player.

It was funny, because once our bass player (Dr. Cain) was just kneeling down to get a dropped pick, our guitarist (Ryan Deliso), thought that was the cue to jump over him. Surprised that one didn't lead to a pile up!

I mean, when we're all feeding off of each other on stage, firing on all cylinders, anything can happen! There's a point in the set where I throw this big iridescent fan into the audience, and it's been cool to see later at the merch table whoever caught it.

It's just one more piece they can take away from the show. Being able to give that to these audiences, while opening for one of my all-time favorite bands, has been an education, a revelation and, well, very surreal at times!

Q – I understand that you started playing Screeching Weasel songs when you first started playing the guitar. What attracted you to their music? I know the band is originally from the Chicago suburb of Prospect Heights.

I loved oldies radio and 50s-60s music growing up, so I think my early slide into Bay Area Lookout-era pop punk and the Ramones was a natural evolution. When I first got into Screeching Weasel through the Lookout catalog, I had no idea they were not from California, which is funny.

I always connected to artists that weren't afraid to be larger than life, and I kind of saw myself as the class clown. Screeching Weasel covered all the bases: danceable, clever, melodic, with a singular point of view, yet didn't take itself too seriously.

Q – I am sure you have heard your band's music described in many ways. How would you describe the music of Hayley and the Crushers?

Poolside glitter trash. Just think of all the stuff you'd find at the bottom of the pool after a raging pool party.

Lipstick, lighters, a piece of pizza, confetti, someone's lost shoe. We're a grab bag of everything from every era, a little punk, surf, garage, pop – it's all in the mix.

Q – As far as calling yourself the Crushers, is there a meaning behind the name?

To crush means to destroy your enemies. It also means to be charmed by someone (to have a crush or infatuation). You do the math!

Q – Your husband, Reid Cain, is the band's bass player. I understand after you first met, you joined his country band, Red Eye Junction. Has playing alongside each other brought the both of you even closer together?

Yes absolutely. We have always had an incredibly special musical relationship.

I am more poetic and he is more literal. I am obsessed with song structure while he loves to break structure apart and integrate chaos into the mix.

We balance each other super well. You have to have both sides of the coin to create something interesting and true.

We've found a way to really let each other do what we do well. Plus, we really do get shit done together, averaging about one release a year for every year we've been together!

Q – Your husband also had owned a comic store in California as well, correct?

Yes, it was called Dr. Cain's Comics in San Luis Obispo, CA. It still exists, just owned by our friend Pat (hi Pat!). He sold it so we could tour more, and then the pandemic happened.

But now live music seems to be coming back and the risk paid off. He's obsessed with comic books and our house is filled with long boxes.

Between his comic book addiction and my love of vintage clothes, we are running out of space!

Q – You also have a podcast, Crusher Talk. What made you want to start the podcast?

Crusher Talk is a podcast I put out each Tuesday through my substack channel, Crusher Talk with Hayley. I think it's interesting for most people to witness the "behind the scenes stuff" of being in a band, and I like connecting to my listeners on a deeper level.

I also love verbal communication, just chatting with friends really crystalizes my ideas and feelings. I am a writer by trade, so doing a podcast feels like a big reprieve from sitting at a desk diligently writing something "perfect."

I can be more freewheeling and spontaneous on a podcast. It all started with my first one, Sparkle and Destroy Podcast, where I interviewed some big names like Kathy Valentine of the Go-Go's and Alice Bag (also Ben Weasel!).

That one is still up somewhere (updated off and on), and you can find it if you snoop around.

Q – I understand the band is working on a new album. What goals do you have for the new album?

The goal for the new album was to write with precision and be ruthless about "keeping it simple, stupid." This album has all the heart, just a lot less fat.

I challenged myself to write with a sense of urgency and to lean into clean power pop hooks. Our last album, "Modern Adult Kicks," was crafted meticulously over the pandemic.

I absolutely love that record and am so proud of what we were able to do over that period of time, but I think the band is ready to put out something that feels of the moment and punchy.

"Unsubscribe from the Underground" had that edge, but it was an EP. This new album is a continuation of our evolving "grit and glitz" ethos, recorded between Detroit and Los Angeles.

Q – Hayley and the Crushers is signed to Kitten Robot Records, which was co-founded by iconic musician Josie Cotton. Have you been influenced by her music?

I didn't discover her until my teens, and it was through Screeching Weasel's cover of "Johnny Are You Queer." So yes, she has in a roundabout way.

I think a lot of people have been influenced by Josie, yet might not know it or give her proper credit. When it comes to the household names of the 80s New Wave scene, Josie was a cut above.

And yet, she didn't really fit the mold of New Wave, punk or pop. I've heard her described as "80s Bubblegum," which feels close.

The intertwining of pop, '60s music, rockabilly and electronic tones in her music are just as fresh today as they were then. Her voice is absolutely singular – you know when you're listening to Josie – and I think that's a testament to why she continues to stand out.

While "Convertible Music" is the instant 80s-does-60s classic that everyone needs in their record collection, my favorite album of hers is "From the Hip." Being able to work with Josie's team and to feel supported by her means the world.

Hayley and the Crushers are also blending together different eras in a tongue-in-cheek way. We don't fit in any one crowd.

So that way, we are both sort of oddballs. That's what makes the Kitten Robot family so great. A bunch of weirdos!

Chicago Soul Jazz Collective to celebrate release of new album with two shows at Winter's Jazz Club

2026-04-12T20:24:00.000-05:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

On its new album, "No Wind & No Rain," Chicago Soul Jazz Collective continues to break new musical ground.

To celebrate the release of the album, Chicago Soul Jazz Collective will perform at 7:30 p.m. April 18 and 5:30 p.m. April 19 at Winter's Jazz Club, 465 N. McClurg Court, Chicago. For tickets, go to wintersjazzclub.com.

I had the chance to talk to Chicago Soul Jazz Collective band leader and saxophone player John Fournier about the new album.

Q – Great talking to you again. The last time we spoke, Chicago Soul Jazz Collective had just released its debut album, “Soulaphone.” I understand you originally had limited quantities of that record made to primarily sell at shows but that jazz stations across the country discovered the album and it ended up becoming one of the top jazz releases that year. Did that surprise you?

Yes, it shocked me. I had never experienced a situation where a record organically found an audience like that. With so many records being released constantly, it is almost impossible to get people’s attention and I think it shows how much love there is out there for this style of music that we had so much surprise success with that record.

Q – And now Chicago Soul Jazz Collective has released its fourth album, “No Wind & No Rain.” How do you think the band has grown since the release of your debut album?

The band has grown in every conceivable way. The compositions are now all original and the arrangements are much more complicated.

We have taken the spirit and initial influence of the "Soulaphone" record and transformed it into a grooving soul, blues, jazz, and gospel juggernaut. We also have embraced the greats and traditions of our home city Chicago and absorbed all those influences into a truly Chicago Sound.

Q – Chicago jazz vocalist Dee Alexander is featured on this album as she was on the band’s last album, “On the Way to Be Free.” What do you think her addition brought to the band?

Dee Alexander is one of the top living interpreters of jazz and she recently was named as one of the 2026 Jazz Legacy Fellows by the Mellon Foundation. So she brings a level of vocal artistry and interpretation to our compositions that take them to a world class level.

When Dee joined the ensemble for "On the Way To Be Free," our third album, everything we did took a giant leap forward and we suddenly found ourselves with an international audience and headlining major jazz festivals. Thank you Dee!!

Q – That record was critically acclaimed and the band started playing at both Chicago Jazz Fest and Hyde Park Jazz Fest along with becoming regulars at establishments like the Jazz Showcase. Were those goals of yours?

Our goals were and are to make the best records and play the best live shows we possibly can. And to be the best individual musicians and people we possibly can be.

Where we play and whatever opportunities come our way are great and we truly appreciate the success, but we concentrate solely on the music and the joy of playing and do not worry about anything past that.

Q – Your new record features a tribute to the late Chicago jazz musician Ramsey Lewis, “A Groove for Ramsey." How did he influence you?

Ramsey was a bonafide Chicago genius and institution; nobody ever like him before and we will never see one like him again. His commitment to the city of Chicago and his fusion of many styles of music in his incredible career make him the Godfather of what we are doing and we thought we should honor his name and legacy on the new record.

Q – I know the theme of your new album is about the importance of perseverance, something that is expressed in the album’s title. In addition, it seems like you also want young people to understand that they can take control of their future. In the song “Message to a Child,” you talk about how “tomorrow belongs to you.” Please elaborate.

I’m a father and also a teacher, so I work with children and spend a lot of time teaching the new generation. I personally feel that being a child is more difficult than it has been for past generations and a lot of these kids are really struggling.

There are a lot of reasons for this, but that is a much longer conversation. Suffice to say, I wanted to create a song with a message to them that if you hold onto the beauty and kindness in this world that things will get better.

This song truly is my message to kids and Dee sings it incredibly well.

Q – You also are in a funk band, The Meadowlark Lemons, which recently released its first album. Do you like being able to show off all your musical sides?

Everyone in the Chicago Soul Jazz Collective are very active with many ensembles in the city. The Meadowlark Lemons are a great and gritty little combo and I recommend you check them out.

Everybody in the CSJC being able to play in so many other bands keeps what we do fresh and moving forward.

Chicago musicians Dave Specter, Brother John Kattke provide plenty of musical highlights at The Venue in Aurora

2026-02-22T15:58:00.002-06:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

One of the things that sets Chicago blues musician Dave Specter apart from other blues musicians is his versatility.

That was something that was on full display during his Feb. 20 show at The Venue in Aurora.

Taking the evening's energy level up another notch was special guest Brother John Kattke, who is also featured on Specter's latest album on Delmark Records, "Live at SPACE."

Here are a few highlights from the show. More videos from the show are at youtube.com/@ericschel12.

The Dave Specter Band featuring Brother John Kattke performs Specter's song "Ridin' High" Feb. 20 at The Venue in Aurora.

The Dave Specter Band featuring Brother John Kattke performs Specter's song "Ponchatoula Way" Feb. 20 at The Venue in Aurora.

The Dave Specter Band featuring Brother John Kattke performs Specter's song "March Through The Darkness" Feb. 20 at The Venue in Aurora.

The Dave Specter Band featuring Brother John Kattke performs Specter's song "Rumba & Tonic" Feb. 20 at The Venue in Aurora.

Stage at The Venue in Aurora overflows with talent during Haiku Milieu concert

2026-02-08T23:15:00.005-06:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

The stage at The Venue in Aurora was overflowing with talent on Feb. 7 when more than 20 musicians joined Chicagoland poet, author and singer-songwriter Jenny Bienemann on stage at The Venue in Aurora to debut new songs inspired by her original haiku poems.

Haiku is a type of short form poetry that originated in Japan.

The night also celebrated the release of her newest tiny book, "The Come Back."

Here are a few highlights from the night:

Chicagoland poet, author, and singer-songwriter Jenny Bienemann performs her song "Jaywalker" Feb. 7 at The Venue in Aurora as part of the Haiku Milieu concert.

Downtown Charlie Brown and Donna Herula perform the song "Love Still Grows" Feb. 7 at The Venue in Aurora. Musicians that night performed songs based on the original haiku poems of Chicagoland poet, author, and singer songwriter Jenny Bienemann.

Naomi Ashley and Jon Williams perform Feb. 7 at The Venue in Aurora as part of Haiku Milieu. The duo and other musicians performed songs based on the original haiku poems of Chicagoland poet, author, and singer songwriter Jenny Bienemann.

Singer-songwriter Alice Wallace performs Feb. 7 at The Venue in Aurora as part of Haiku Milieu. Wallace and other musicians performed songs based on the original haiku poems of Chicagoland poet, author, and singer songwriter Jenny Bienemann.

Singer-songwriter Nathan K. performs Feb. 7 at The Venue in Aurora as part of Haiku Milieu. He and other musicians performed songs based on the original haiku poems of Chicagoland poet, author, and singer songwriter Jenny Bienemann.

Singer-songwriter Noah Gabriel performs Feb. 7 at The Venue in Aurora as part of Haiku Milieu. Gabriel and other musicians performed songs based on the original haiku poems of Chicagoland poet, author, and singer songwriter Jenny Bienemann.

Singer-songwriter Demi Clara performs Feb. 7 at The Venue in Aurora as part of Haiku Milieu. Clara and other musicians performed songs based on the original haiku poems of Chicagoland poet, author, and singer songwriter Jenny Bienemann.

To watch more performances from the night, go to https://www.youtube.com/@ericschel12.

Jenny Bienemann and her musical friends will bring a night of poetry and music to The Venue next month

2026-01-25T21:27:00.001-06:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

Chicagoland poet, author and singer-songwriter Jenny Bienemann knows the power of poetry and music.

On Feb. 7, more than 20 musicians will join her on stage at The Venue in Aurora to debut new songs inspired by her original haiku poems. Haiku is a type of short form poetry that originated in Japan.

The night will also celebrate the release of her newest tiny book, "The Come Back." A number of well-known Chicagoland musicians will perform at the show, including Downtown Charlie Brown, Demi Clara, Noah Gabriel, Dave Ramont, Pete Jive and Naomi Ashley.

The show starts at 8 p.m. and tickets are available at themusicvenue.org. The Venue is located at 21 S. Broadway Ave. (Route 25) in downtown Aurora.

Singer-songwriter Noah Gabriel performs May 10, 2024 at The Venue in Aurora as part of Haiku Milieu. Gabriel and other musicians performed songs based on the original haiku poems of Chicagoland poet, author, and singer songwriter Jenny Bienemann.

I expect the evening will generate the same type of excitement as it did at her Haiku Milieu concert at The Venue in May 2024.

Singer-songwriter Naomi Ashley performs May 10, 2024 at The Venue in Aurora as part of Haiku Milieu. Ashley and other musicians performed songs based on the original haiku poems of Chicagoland poet, author, and singer songwriter Jenny Bienemann.

Singer-songwriter Caitlin Arquines performs May 10, 2024 at The Venue in Aurora as part of Haiku Milieu. Arquines and other musicians performed songs based on the original haiku poems of Chicagoland poet, author, and singer songwriter Jenny Bienemann.

To watch more performances from the night, go to youtube.com/@ericschel12/videos.

Chicago musician Gina Marie DeGregorio to perform this month at Green Mill, Robert's Westside

2026-01-18T21:16:00.000-06:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

Chicago musician Gina Marie DeGregorio is the type of musician that doesn't want to be confined to one musical genre.

She fronts bands that range from jazz to Americana music to rock.

Gina Marie will perform with the Alan Gresik Swing Orchestra at 8 p.m. Jan. 22 at the Green Mill, 4802 N. Broadway Ave., Chicago. There is a $10 cover charge.

Her Americana band Gina Marie & The Golden Bucks will perform at 8 p.m. Jan. 28 at Robert's Westside, 7321 Madison St., Forest Park.

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. and the show starts at 8 p.m. Tickets range from $10 to $15, available at robertswestside.com.

I had the chance to talk to Gina about her music.

Q – I understand that you had been performing the last few months at The Lincoln Park Supper Club on the Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas. How was that experience?

The experience was truly special for me because I was able to represent Chicago jazz in a Chicago-themed room that celebrates real Chicago history!

The menu and the music of the supper club was designed as a nod to classic Chicago nightlife. Representing my hometown scene abroad brought meaning to the placement, especially when talking to guests about the real reasoning behind menu, decor, and music choices that they may not have heard otherwise.

Bringing real, classic Chicago music back to vintage Chicago spaces has always been a passion at home, and I was able to live that passion every night for three months.

Q – I understand that both your father and mother were musicians. Your dad was a band leader and your mom played piano. In fact, the name of your group, the Golden Bucks, was the name of your dad’s band, correct? Do you think it was inevitable that you became a musician?

You started out playing piano and then switched to percussion when you were about 10 years old. Are you happy with the decision you made?

Yes, I stole the band name from my father’s band! I of course asked for permission first! It was impossible to avoid musical growth in our house with both parents playing from the time we were very young.

I actually continued both piano and percussion – I joined band at the age of 10 and fell into that world through college. I became very invested in the marching band world!

I still considered myself a pianist until college, where I officially switched my focus to prepare to be a band director. I sometimes wonder what would have happened if I made other choices, but these experiences molded the musician I am today, and I think I needed that journey to arrive where I am.

Q – Speaking of the Golden Bucks, I see the band will perform at the Buckles 'n Spurs Country Festival in Texas in June, and that it will be your first country music festival. Are you looking forward to the opportunity?

We are looking forward to it! We have played some folk and "newgrass" festivals, but this will be our first proper country fest!

We are very excited, and are looking forward to making a new group of friends and seeing the rest of the lineup!

Q – And the band’s original song “Snake Around” – from the album “Pastures of Plenty” – was released on all digital platforms on Nov. 23. As I understand, the album in part is a homage to Woody Guthrie. Would you consider him an influence?

It would be difficult to find a musician who ISN’T influenced by Guthrie directly or indirectly. He elevated the experience of working America, something our album seeks to emulate.

The title track is his homage to the grit and dignity of America’s migrant workers: as relevant today as it was when it was written. In keeping with that tradition, "Snake Around" is about Chicago in all her industrial glory.

The lyrics compare steely Chicago with her East and West Coast counterparts, punching up on behalf of the Midwest, often overlooked as “flyover country.”

Q – You are involved in so many genres of music, including jazz, country and rock. Do you have a favorite genre?

I am a person for whom all the flowers are beautiful! I enjoy a steady diet of sounds – including the occasional piece of candy.

I can’t imagine cutting any of it out of my life! I also believe nothing exists in a vacuum.

All of the musical genres that I have participated in have co-existed and co-developed. The study of one elevates understanding of the other.

I see the beauty in jazz after spending time in folk, and I feel the companionship of bluegrass after existing in jazz for a while. If you listen closely to modern music, you can hear all these things embedded within.

I love the connectivity of music, the communal nature of its development, and the humanity that led to such diversity.

Q – Along with being a musician, you are also a music instructor. What are some of the things that you hope your students will learn?

Some of the most important lessons are interpersonal. Music is a conversation shared with your peers on stage as well as with the audience.

If no one wants to talk to you, the conversation is over. Ideas people write off as “things teachers always say” about character, reliability and respect are ideas we rely on heavily while entering a new musical community and forging new bonds.

We have all had to perform through interpersonal conflicts, but we communicate best with those we trust – so be trustworthy.

Scott Tipping, Phil Angotti and friends provide riveting night of music at The Venue in Aurora

2026-01-04T13:40:00.003-06:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

Scott Tipping's CD release party on Jan. 2 at The Venue in Aurora for his new album "The Fade" – which also featured fellow musician Phil Angotti and a host of supporting musicians – was an example of what makes the Chicago area music scene so strong.

Here are a few highlights from the evening. More videos can be found at youtube.com/@ericschel12/videos.

Chicago musician Phil Angotti performs his song "Eye for an Eye" while opening for fellow musician Scott Tipping Jan. 2 at The Venue in Aurora.

Chicago area musician Scott Tipping performs his song "Stay" off his new album "The Fade" Jan. 2 at The Venue in Aurora as part of a CD release party for the album.

Chicago area musician Scott Tipping performs his song "The Flicker Of The Fade" off his new album "The Fade" Jan. 2 at The Venue in Aurora as part of a CD release party for the album.

Chicago area musician Scott Tipping performs his song "Slip By Slip" Jan. 2 at The Venue in Aurora.

Chicago area musician Scott Tipping performs his song "The Need" off his new album "The Fade" Jan. 2 at The Venue in Aurora as part of a CD release party for the album.

Chicago area musician Scott Tipping to celebrate release of new album with show at The Venue in Aurora

2025-12-27T19:23:00.017-06:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

Anyone who has seen Scott Tipping perform live knows the excitement and energy that he brings to the stage.

Tipping will take the stage again on Jan. 2 when he performs at The Venue in downtown Aurora as part of a CD release party for his second album, "The Fade." The show will double as a birthday celebration for Tipping, who is turning 52.

It is fitting that the CD release party/birthday celebration will take place at The Venue.

Tipping is talent buyer for The Venue and his band Album Covers – which pays tribute to influential musicians and bands – performs at The Venue on a regular basis. He has been involved in The Venue – which is run by the nonprofit organization Fox Valley Music Foundation – since it first opened in 2019.

For Tipping, the release of the album represents the start of new things. He started writing the songs for "The Fade" shortly after a severe car accident in 2023, two days after Christmas.

He spent his 50th birthday in a hospital room.

Chicago solo artist Phil Angotti will open the show. The show starts at 8 p.m., with doors opening at 7 p.m.

Tickets are available at The Venue's website, themusicvenue.org. The Venue is located at 21 S. Broadway Ave. (Route 25) in downtown Aurora.

The band HOSS and friends entertain the crowd at Two Brothers Roundhouse in Aurora while collecting toys for Hesed House

2025-12-08T10:49:00.005-06:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

Music brings people together.

And it's even better when music brings people together for a good cause.

Such was the case when Pete Lindenmeyer and his band HOSS performed at Two Brothers Roundhouse in Aurora on Dec. 6 as part of the band's 21st annual Hossmas holiday show and toy drive to benefit Hesed House homeless shelter in Aurora.

Joining the band on stage was the Pawnshop Horns.

Songs like Trip Shakespeare's song "Snow Days" – featuring special guest musician Dave Ramont – reminded us of how snow can be a magical thing.

And it wouldn't be Hossmas without the appearance of Santa HOSS, played by Wolfgang Holzl.

The night was also a reunion of sorts, with former HOSS drummer Jason Waggoner joining the band on stage for a couple of HOSS songs.

The night was filled with energy from beginning to end, including a blistering version of King of Leon's song "Molly's Chambers."

The energy level shot up even higher during the band's second set, when it performed The Police's album Every Breath You Take: The Singles.

More videos from the night are at: https://www.youtube.com/@ericschel12/videos

Help Chicago music legend Holle Thee Maxwell as she recovers from knee surgery

2025-11-22T18:59:00.003-06:00

By Eric Schelkopf

For decades, Chicago music legend Holle Thee Maxwell has been entertaining us with her fiery vocals and explosive stage presence.

Now we have the chance to help her after all that she has given us.

The Chicago Blues Hall of Fame inductee recently underwent major knee surgery.

"I am thankful the surgery was successful, but the recovery has been far more difficult than I expected," Maxwell said in a message. "I am in a great deal of pain, and I have been told I need extended physical therapy in order to stand, walk and regain my independence.

The challenge is that these treatments — along with my basic living expenses — are more than I can manage alone right now. I have always tried to be strong, but at this moment in my life, I must humbly ask for your help."

Her friends have created a GoFundMe page to support her recovery. Contributions will go toward additional physical therapy sessions, medical and mobility needs and monthly living expenses during recovery.

To give, go to gofundme.com/f/help-holle-walk-again.

Brothers Scott and Justin Collins will bring a night of high energy when they share the stage on Nov. 8 in Chicago with their respective bands

2025-11-04T11:54:00.001-06:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

It truly will be a family affair when two Nashville bands perform at

Lazymoon Design in Chicago on Nov. 8.

As part of double headlining bill, Scott Collins will perform with his band The Sovereignty. Sharing the stage will be his brother's band, Justin and The Cosmics.

Also on the bill is Chicago-based artist Sarah Krohn. Doors open at 6 p.m. and the show starts at 7 p.m.

Lazymoon Design is located at 4642 North Francisco Ave., Chicago. Tickets are $33.85, available at eventbrite.com.

I had the chance to talk to Scott Collins about the upcoming show.

Q – Great talking to you. I guess life comes full circle because, in 2011 and 2012, I interviewed Coley Kennedy about his bands The Buddies and Welcome to Ashley.

Of course, you were a member of The Buddies along with your then wife Kim and your brother, Justin. I know that in 2012, your wife was battling breast cancer and Coley started an online fundraiser to help with her medical and living expenses.

Hopefully she is doing well these days.

That's very thoughtful of you to inquire. Yes, Kim has been fully recovered from that situation for over a decade now.

Q – I see Coley was also involved with the album Bravery Is Necessary, which you and your band The Sovereignty released in January. It is great that you have had a strong relationship with Coley over the years.

Hopefully you will perform your song “Shittin’ Tears” from that album at your show in Chicago. Your searing guitar work on that song is amazing.

Thank you, graciously. "Shittin' Tears" is, in many ways, the linchpin song for Scott Collins and The Sovereignty; the song that started it all metaphysically for me as a solo artist and now most live shows end with it.

Q – And, of course, your latest solo album, Capistrano Beach, was released on Oct. 10. What goals did you have for the album and did the end result exceed your expectations?

I suppose the fact that Capistrano Beach is out and released as an official album in and of itself has exceeded any expectations. It was originally recorded as a birthday gift.

It was originally intended to be heard by only one person other than myself and the studio engineer (and my best friend), Christopher Lord Byrd. All the songs were played live, in order, one time, one take...on the actual birthday which was 1 degree Aries.

It felt inaccurate, unjust, and illegitimate to call this collection of songs demos, although the eight songs on Capistrano Beach do also live in different, fuller-produced versions as part of a 12-song album to be released in early 2026.

Often people hear acoustic versions of songs AFTER they hear fully-produced album versions, so I realized this was an opportunity to flip that antiquated pattern on its head. It is, without a doubt, the most intimate expression I've ever released.

Chris, Claira, and I – all three couldn't stop listening to it almost daily for weeks on end, so as an exercise in vulnerability and authenticity; I said "fuck it"...[let's] put it out.

Q – The Chicago show will also feature your brother’s band Justin and The Cosmics. I am sure that will make the night even more special for you. Will there be any collaborating with your brother that night?

Affirmative; high probability of a Collins thunderstorm approaching. It is a rare storm these days.

Although I did play lead guitar in The Cosmics for a few years, and on a couple of The Cosmics albums (Perf and Cool Dead), so there is a handsome cesspool to draw from.

I know the duo you had with your former wife – The Smoking Flowers – is on hiatus right now. Do you see the band doing anything in the near future?

The future of The Smoking Flowers is not divulged in the crystal ball. I am holding space for the best scenarios and outcomes possible in the future.

Q – What had been the best part of working with your former wife in not only that band, but also in other bands like The Buddies?

Traveling, seeing and feeling the world through someone else's eyes in addition to your own can prove to be revelatory. The ocean of experience to draw upon for creativity is unrivaled.

The art, the story, the work, the purpose you leave in your wake – no one can take from you. I think some loved and saw us as a singular entity, not as two separate sovereign individuals.

Aurora musician Angus Macaskill bringing new vibrancy to the local music scene

2025-11-02T21:28:00.000-06:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

Listening to Angus Macaskill songs will quickly put a smile on your face.

Take for example his song "Beautiful," which has an infectious melody that will get stuck in your head.

The Scottish-born singer-songwriter calls Aurora home. The stage keeps getting bigger for Macaskill, who recently opened for well-known Americana artist Samantha Grimes.

I had the chance to talk to him after he played recently at the Arcada Theatre in St. Charles as part of Indie Music Night.

Q – It's great to talk to you. I was impressed with your recent show at the Arcada Theatre and the passion you put into the show.

I was especially impressed with the song "Beautiful." The song's melody stuck in my head.

Oh, thank you. I'm a self-taught musician.

I wrote the song as part of a 35-day writing challenge. It's a fun song.

Q – Is the song about anyone in particular?

It's open to interpretation. I try to draw my inspiration from experience and observation.

I like tongue-in-cheek humor.

Q – You recently performed at Nashville North in Milwaukee with Samantha Grimes. You must feel honored to perform with someone of that caliber.

Oh, yeah. She's definitely next level.

Q – I know you are a self-taught musician. What got you interested in music in the first place?

I think I was born with it. I really do.

Music is what keeps me grounded. There's something about playing a guitar that just soothes and connects me to the world.

Q – I understand the day before your show at the Arcada Theatre, you hyperextended your right thumb.

Yeah, I messed it up bad.

Q – But you pushed through it. You didn't bow out of the show.

I don't back out of things. It still hurts, but it is going to be fine.

Q – You live in the Fox Valley and it seems like the Fox Valley has such a vibrant music scene. Why do you think that is?

There's a lot of small, independently owned bars in the Fox Valley. And I think there's a movement happening where more people are going out and seeing local live music because they need that connection.

I have to juggle playing music with a full-time career and being a dad and a husband. I have a 6-year-old and a 3-year-old.

I play my music as much as I am able to do so.

Q – Wow, you have a lot to juggle. Have you released an album yet? Is that a goal of yours?

It is a goal. I have 25 original songs right now that I've written.

It's going to happen hopefully sooner rather than later.

Q – As far as what you want your music to do for people, do you want to be able to have your listeners relate to what you are singing about?

I want to put a smile on someone's face and I want to put a tune in somebody's head. You want to be memorable.

Q – Do you think your heritage plays a part in your music or do you try to instill your heritage into your music?

I think my personality is 100 percent Scottish and it comes through when I perform live. I think people find that entertaining, which definitely helps with the delivery at times.

Q – It seems like you have a pretty good bond with other musicians.

I think I have a good bond with people in general. I connect with people.

That's part of being an artist. And I think that stems from the way I was brought up.

I'm writing songs now that I would have never written a year ago because I didn't feel confident in opening up memories or emotions.

Being around other musicians, I can be genuinely more supportive and understanding when they are writing. And I think that helps me.

Me being confident helping someone else be confident helps my confidence.

Q – What goals do you have in the near future?

I'm currently focused on recording and releasing an original song – hopefully before the end of the year.

I also want to be an opening act for like a big name band. And really that's a lofty goal.

Chicago-based Surabhi Ensemble and Las Guitarras de España will perform Oct. 6 at City Winery in Chicago to celebrate release of new album

2025-09-29T21:58:00.001-05:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

After returning from a successful tour to India, members of Chicago-based Surabhi Ensemble and Las Guitarras de España will come together in October for a global music and dance performance that will feature new music.

The new album, "Guitarra Trotamundos" or “Globe Trotting Guitar,” celebrates years of teaching and performing in countries such as Vietnam, Spain, Portugal, Senegal, Mexico and India. The title is also a nod to the members of Surabhi Ensemble, who have taken to jogging in various places, including recent appearances in the Mumbai and Boston Marathons.

To celebrate the release of the album, Surabhi Ensemble and Las Guitarras de España will perform Oct. 6 at City Winery, 1200 W. Randolph St., Chicago. The evening will also feature several special guests.

The show starts at 7:30 p.m. and tickets are available at citywinery.com/chicago.

I had the chance to talk to band leader and musician Carlo Basile about the show.

Q – Great talking to you again. The last time we spoke, the Surabhi Ensemble was about to embark on its Global Peace Tour of India. I understand it was always a goal of the Surabhi Ensemble to tour India, especially since four of the members were born there. How was the tour and did it live up to your expectations or exceed them?

Hi! Nice to chat again. I’m glad to report that our overall experience greatly exceeded expectations!

Global travel is hard. We experienced a few injuries (more on that later), missed flights and had some typical travel drama, but the concerts were all very well received and the hosts were so kind and welcoming.

For example, in Rajpipla, Gujarat, we had more than 2,000 people come to an outdoor performance as the Prince of Gujarat welcomed us with a live marching band and official ceremony.

It was amazing, unexpected and unforgettable!

Q – And now Surabhi Ensemble and Las Guitarras de España will perform at City Winery in Chicago on Oct. 6 to celebrate the release of “Guitarra Trotamundos.” What goals did you have for the album?

To be honest, I just wanted to gather some new and old friends to make an album which celebrates a few things…global friendships, my turning 60 years old, and continuing to run marathons at this age!

It’s a vanity project for sure, but there are some creative moments in the new pieces, as well.

Q – Do you have any favorite tracks on the album?

Yes, there is so much diversity in general, which may not be a popular word politically, but I am glad that we have about seven languages represented on the tracks.

My favorites are "Malifarka," "Gli Anni Sono Brevi," "Kapi," and "Vencerá."

Q – Music brings people together. It does seem like the country is more divided than ever. Do you hope that “Guitarra Trotamundos” will help teach people about other cultures and perhaps help to bring people together?

Of course, always. But folks have got to figure things out for themselves.

How far do we want to take nationalism and narcissism? I think we are finally starting to see some push back.

Hopefully our work and the ideas of togetherness will come back in fashion soon…I hope!

Q – I know you competed in your first Boston Marathon in April and that you qualified for next year's Boston Marathon. Are you happy with how you did and do you plan to participate again next year?

Thanks! That was a HUGE bucket list item. It went well, but I’ll run the Chicago Marathon in a few weeks and see what my time is.

I’m aiming for under 3 hours 40 minutes because Chicago has now adopted a tougher qualifier than Boston.

I’m going to run in the desert this February, so I’ll skip Boston in 2026.

I’ll likely return, but I would love to run in Berlin and Tokyo next.

Chicago blues musician Mud Morganfield to celebrate release of new album with a show at Hey Nonny

2025-09-10T10:23:00.000-05:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

The eldest son of Muddy Waters has plenty to celebrate this month.

Chicago native Mud Morganfield released signed with a new record label, Nola Blue Records and will release his label debut album, "Deep Mud," on Sept. 26.

On Sept. 27 – his 71st birthday – Morganfield will perform at Hey Nonny, 10 South Vail Ave., Arlington Heights. The show starts at 6:30 p.m. and tickets are available at heynonny.com.

I had the chance to talk to him about the new record.

Q – Great talking to you again. We last spoke in 2018 about your release “They Call Me Mud,” so it’s nice to talk to you again and get caught up on your latest activities.

I’m sorry to hear about the death of your mother, Mildred McGhee. I understand she was a big supporter of yours.

She was kind of connected to my hip. My dad was gone a lot of times and she had to be father and mother on any day.

When I scratched my knee, she was the one who put the bandage on it.

Q – That makes sense, because your dad was on the road a lot.

You talk about wanting to see your mother in your dreams in one of the songs on the new album, “A Dream Walking.”

I imagine that was a hard song to write.

It was a hard song to write and it was a hard song to sing. But I knew I had to get through it.

I knew that was something she would want since she was my biggest supporter.

Q – But it's also a song that other people who perhaps lost their parents can connect with.

I am praying to the highest power that it does. Because there's strength in tears.

It's a cruel man who doesn't cry. I don't want to be that kind of person. I want to be able to share tears.

It doesn't make you weak. It's makes you stronger because there's power in those tears.

Q – Of course, you are on a new record label, Nola Blue Records. What made you want to sign to the label and what do you like about the label?

Well, I shopped around and I couldn't get the right deal from any other label. I spoke with Sallie Bengtson, president of Nola Blue Records, who is a fantastic lady.

Sometimes you can meet people and you get a certain feeling about them. I had nothing but positive feelings from Sallie. I felt like I could trust her.

Q I know that “Deep Mud" is being released on Sept. 26 and then you will perform at Hey Nonny on Sept. 27, your 71st birthday. Does that make it even more special to be able to perform your new songs on your birthday?

It is special because I'm a year older, but I don't care when it would have come out. Me and this band, which includes Buddy Guy drummer Melvin “Pooky Styx” Carlisle, we put together some great tunes.

Q – It seems like you really like your fellow musicians on the album.

I love those guys. We have a personal relationship. They have gone with me on this journey from the beginning, especially Rick Kreher, who was my dad's last guitar player along with John Primer before he passed.

Q – I know you have said in different interviews that you wanted to experience the blues before you became a professional musician.

How can you have some blues if you've never had no blues? If you've never went through drug addiction, alcoholism, being a cancer survivor or something.

You've got to go through something to get some real nitty gritty blues.

Q – You were on the main stage at the Chicago Blues Festival this summer singing your dad’s iconic song “I’m Your Hoochie Coochie Man” in celebration of Chess Records’ 75th anniversary. What was that experience like?

It's always great to represent my city, first of all.

Q – What do you think your dad would have said seeing you perform that song?

I do a lot of my dad's work, man, just to try to keep his legacy here. And also, I add my own songs, like "Ernestine" and "She's Getting Her Groove On."

I do dad's songs to always try to keep his legacy fresh. I can be anywhere in the world and people will be screaming at me to play "Got My Mojo Working" and "I Just Want To Make Love To You."

I slide right into character, because he was my father.

Q – I know that you are trying to carry on the legacy of your dad but at this same time, have your own sound and forge your own path. Is it hard to do both?

Yeah, it is a double-edged sword sometimes. "Deep Mud" features two of my dad's songs, "Strange Woman" and "Country Boy."

And I will never put an album out without at least one or two of dad's songs on there, just to show respect for my father.

I have to honor him. God was just kind enough to give me his lungs and vocal chords and all that.

Q – I know that you perform worldwide. How are the fans in other countries like England, Russia and China?

Outstanding, especially in England. They love American blues music.

The love for blues music is universal.

Musicians Nora O'Connor, Lilly Hiatt and Anne Harris provide riveting night of music at The Venue in Aurora

2025-08-31T23:56:00.004-05:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

As many of you probably already know, The Venue in Aurora goes out of its way to showcase the best musicians in the Chicago area as well as those from around the country.

A great example of that was when Chicago-based Nora O'Connor opened for Nashville-based Lilly Hiatt on Aug. 28 in what was a riveting night of music.

This is the second time I have seen O'Connor perform at The Venue (the first time was in 2022 during The Venue's Americana Music Fest) and her soaring vocals and heartfelt lyrics started off the evening on the perfect note.

Even though Hiatt is the daughter of famed singer-songwriter John Hiatt, it is clear that she is forging her own path.

Her songs refreshingly can't be lumped in one category as she likes to roam in different musical directions.

Adding to the excitement of the night was Chicago area musician Anne Harris, who hosts the music and conversation series She Said at The Venue. The series features performances and conversations with female musicians.

Given the musicality and energy that Harris displays on stage, it is no wonder that she was touring with Keb' No' and Taj Mahal earlier this year.

I'm looking forward to taking in more outstanding performances at The Venue this year.

More videos from the night are at youtube.com/@ericschel12/video.

Beloved Chicago area band The Bad Examples puts on energetic show at Two Brothers Roundhouse in Aurora

2025-07-27T22:22:00.002-05:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

Believe it or not, it's been nine years since The Bad Examples celebrated the 25th anniversary of the band's classic album "Bad Is Beautiful" with a show at Two Brothers Roundhouse in Aurora in 2016.

The band performed at Two Brothers Roundhouse on July 25 (so that's a weird coincidence, right?) in a show that showed off the timeless nature of the band's music.

Suffice to say, there were plenty of perfect moments during the show. Yes, that is a reference to the band's song "One Perfect Moment," one of the songs off "Bad Is Beautiful."

Along with celebrating the band's rich musical history, the show also provided a glimpse into The Bad Examples' future as the band performed several new songs.

Frontman Ralph Covert has a knack for writing songs filled with infectious melodies that get stuck in your head, such as the new song "It's All Good."

And just when you thought the energy level in the room couldn't get any higher, Covert and company turned in a rousing version of the song "Let Her Go."

The Bad Examples will play next at FitzGerald's in Berwyn on Oct. 11.

More videos from the Two Brothers Roundhouse show are at youtube.com/@ericschel12/videos.

Trailblazing musician Kate Fagan returning to Chicago next month for a couple of shows

2025-07-26T19:59:00.002-05:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

To say that Kate Fagan is a trailblazing musician is an understatement.

Fagan wrote the song "I Don’t Wanna Be Too Cool” after moving to Chicago from New York in the late '70s. The song became the best-selling single by a local artist at Wax Trax! Records.

In 1980, she co-founded legendary Chicago ska band Heavy Manners. Fagan, who currently lives in New Orleans, will return to Chicago next month for a couple of rare appearances.

Fagan will do an in-store performance from 4 to 6:30 p.m. Aug. 9 at Bric-a-Brac Records & Collectibles, 2845 N. Milwaukee Ave, Chicago. She also will perform Aug. 10 at the Empty Bottle, 1035 N. Western Ave., Chicago, as part of a bill that also includes Clickbait, Beastii and DJ Modern Girl.

The show starts at 9 p.m. and tickets are available at ticketweb.com/event/kate-fagan-clickbait-empty-bottle-tickets/14481343.

I had the chance to talk to Fagan about her illustrious career.

Q – What do you like about the New Orleans music scene, and what do you miss about the Chicago music scene?

New Orleans is rich in history and community, with a thriving street music scene that gives the city its distinctive vibe. I love the culturally diverse “gumbo”—deep roots in gospel, blues, brass bands, and jazz. The variety of festivals here is truly incredible.

I miss the punk and ska scenes in Chicago, especially the raw energy of those early shows and the original spirit that fueled the new wave bands. I miss seeing major rock ‘n roll acts, as there aren’t many touring in the South.

Q – You wrote “I Don’t Wanna Be Too Cool” in response to the hipster movement in NYC. Was that the reason you moved to Chicago?

Actually, the disco scene and brand-centric consumerism in New York inspired that song. But I moved to Chicago because I was drawn to its vibrant underground music scene and wanted to be part of something young and rebellious.

Q – Did you think “I Don’t Wanna Be Too Cool” would resonate so much? Why do you think it’s still relevant?

I sensed it connected with many people feeling pressure to fit in or be trendy, but I didn’t expect it to reach so many or stay relevant for so long. It still resonates because those feelings of wanting to be yourself never go out of style.

Q – How did you react to the song becoming the best-selling single by a local artist at Wax Trax! Records?

It was surreal and incredibly encouraging. Seeing how many people related to my point of view and musical style boosted my confidence.

Q – What attracted you to ska music, and what were your goals with Heavy Manners?

Second-Wave Ska’s upbeat energy, combining reggae’s earthy rhythms and punk’s political edge, really excited me. With Heavy Manners, we wanted to bring that infectious sound to Chicago audiences and do our part in breaking down racial and gender barriers with our solidarity, and we reveled in the joy of making dance-able songs.

We loved playing together, and the thriving club scene made it even more fun.

Q – What was it like working with Peter Tosh?

Playing with Peter Tosh was a profound experience – his presence was powerful, and working with him in the studio brought an authentic reggae energy that deeply influenced our band’s music. He produced Heavy Manners' “Say It,” which I am especially proud to have written.

Q – What do you enjoy about collaborating with Jeremy Joyce?

Jeremy is an incredibly versatile guitarist and he’s super studio-savvy. His boundless creative range and edgy drive inspire me.

Collaborating with him pushes me to explore new ideas and keeps the songwriting fresh.

Q – What musical direction did you aim for with “Go Faster”?

We wanted punk’s relentless energy to propel the listener forward – sonically, it’s about a driving rhythm that makes you want to GO FASTER! Lyrically, it encourages people to be powerful, act immediately and push boundaries.

Q – Is Heavy Manners working on anything new? What’s next?

I’m always writing and experimenting, so stay tuned! I plan to release more songs and hopefully tour.

I also have some exciting collaborations on the horizon, including a few surprises for fans.

Musician and filmmaker Chris Shern getting ready to premiere his latest movie, "Vic Effects," at Classic Cinemas movie theater in St. Charles next month

2025-07-13T19:35:00.000-05:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

Aurora resident Chris Shern's creative juices take him in many directions.

Along with being the frontman of the band Invisible Cartoons, Shern is a filmmaker. His second feature film, "Vic Effects," will premiere at 7 p.m. Aug. 13 at Classic Cinemas Charlestowne 18 XQ, 3740 E. Main St., St. Charles.

Tickets are available at eventbrite.com/e/vic-effects-movie-premiere-tickets-1381155726959.

I had the chance to talk to him about the movie.

Q – Wow, you are just juggling so much these days. Your band in May released a new album, "Sci-Fi Disco Carnival."

Yeah, we released that back on May 17. We're playing at least one show a month for the rest of the year, so we'll be busy doing that.

Q – Of course, "Vic Effects" will premiere next month. How did you come up for the theme for this movie?

I was doing a film and I was doing some Foley work on the film. (Foley is the reproduction of everyday sound effects that are added to films, videos, and other media in post-production to enhance audio quality.)

It popped in my head that there's not really a lot of movies about people who make sound effects for horror movies. The sound effects, especially in horror movies or action movies, take the movie to another level.

I think I'm bringing something different to the table with this film.

Q – And I see there are a couple of actors in "Vic Effects" that were in your previous movie.

Amanda Winston, who plays Vic Paulette, she was in "Evil Lurks" as well. She also is the lead character in this movie.

And Bill D. Russell, who was in "Evil Lurks" playing the creepy neighbor, plays controversial film director Milo Kemp in "Vic Effects."

Milo approaches Vic if she can work on a movie he's been working on. His previous Foley artist passed away, so he asks Vic if she can finish the movie.

That is how that plays out with those two.

Q – Did you like working with these two actors in your first film and did you think they would be a good fit for this film?

Absolutely. I really liked working with them and I'm going to continue working with them for as long as they want to work with me.

Q – You must be happy that you far exceeded your fundraising goal for "Vic Effects."

Originally, I didn't know if I wanted to do a fundraising campaign for the movie. I self financed "Vic Effects," but getting towards the end, when I was in post production, I wanted to raise some money for visual effects and certain things like that.

My initial goal was to raise $2,000. I raised that in less than 24 hours and I ended up raising almost $8,000 overall.

I thought that was pretty good for my first go around of doing this.

Q – To me, that shows that people believe in what you do and want to support it.

I'm very happy and fortunate there are people who believe in what I'm trying to do. It made me have a little bit of money to pay for some of the visual effects in the movie.

I'm trying to build my brand, so I think that's helpful for me for this movie and also for things that I try to do in the future when it comes to crowdfunding.

Q – As far as the other actors in the movie, how did you pick them?

Well, one of the other actors, Dennis Newport, I worked with him a little more than 10 years ago.

He plays Thomas Raven. I really love this guy.

He's a great actor. And I knew when I wrote this script that I wanted him to be a part of it.

He was one of the main actors that I was really seeking out.

Katelin Stack also is amazing. She plays four different characters in this movie.

And she also did some makeup effects for the movie as well. So she's multi talented.

Q – Along with being the movie's writer and director, I understand you are in "Vic Effects" as well.

I play multiple characters as well in the movie. I play monsters and creatures and killers.

Playing one of the creatures in the movie was very difficult while directing at the same time. That was the most stressful day in shooting the movie.

I am hoping people will get the vibes of different horror genres that we connected with this movie.

We had a lot of fun working on this movie.

Q – What was the most fun part about it?

I think the most fun about it was just knowing that the actors I picked to be in this movie, they understood what the assignment was and what they needed to do.

Q – Which do you like better, making movies or making and performing music? Or do you feel you need both in your life?

At this point in my life, I definitely need both.

I've been making music and have been in bands for 30 years. I still love it.

We have a show every month for the rest of the year and I'm happy about that.

I love the balance between creating and writing songs and performing and then making movies.

I already have my script ready for my next film. I can't wait to make another film.

I'm actually going to start working on short films as well, just to have more material out there.

It's definitely an equal balance when it comes to those things that I'm doing right now.

Chicago band Liquid Soul kicks off The Venue's outdoor concert season in exhilarating fashion

2025-06-29T19:55:00.000-05:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

There are not many bands that can match the energy level of Chicago band Liquid Soul.

As such, Liquid Soul was the perfect band to kick off the outdoor concert season at The Venue in downtown Aurora on June 28.

Liquid Soul certainly has made its mark not only locally, but nationally as well. With its blend of jazz, hip-hop, world music and other genres, the band caused quite the stir when it burst onto the scene in the mid-'90s.

The band quickly gained a following and in 2001, its album "Here's the Deal" was nominated for a Grammy Award for best contemporary jazz album.

The band's sound is as fresh as ever. And the spirit of founder Mars Williams remains strong with the band.

Williams, who passed away last year following a battle with cancer, was the man behind the band's vision.

One of the things that makes Liquid Soul so fun to watch live is the interplay between band members. It's like watching friends hanging out with each other.

The show was filled with magical moments, including when singer Omega took the stage and elevated the show to another level with her strong vocal power.

More videos from the show are at https://www.youtube.com/@ericschel12/videos.

The Venue's outdoor concert series will continue on July 13 with Cesar Rosas & The Chi-Town Playboys. The third annual Summer Jam concert featuring Peach Jam, Cream Puff Warriors and Scott Tipping will take place on July 25.

More information is available at The Venue's website, themusicvenue.org.

Chicago band Ascendant to bring its uplifting sound to City Winery Chicago

2025-06-07T16:45:00.001-05:00

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

With the release of its latest single, "Love Saved My Life," Chicago band Ascendant continues to make music that lifts your soul.

Those who come to the band's show at 7:30 p.m. June 11 at City Winery Chicago, 1200 W. Randolph Street, Chicago, will hear that for themselves. Doors open at 6 p.m.

Tickets are available at City Winery Chicago's website, citywinery.com/chicago.

I had the chance to talk to Ascendant frontman Kael Mboya about the band and the new single.

Q – Congratulations on the release of your new single, “Love Saved My Life.” What were your goals in sitting down to make the song and does it meet or exceed your expectations?

"Love Saved My Life" was an idea I've had since around 1999. I had the bass line, beat and chorus.

Sometimes, I'd go through the unfinished songs we had and remember it was there: "Oh, man. Maybe we should finish this." We never got around to fleshing it out until about 10 years ago but still didn't get to record it until a few years later.

With that being said, the goals were to finally lay that recording down. The idea kept coming back so it was meant to be.

Any time the band gets hold of my ideas they take them places I wouldn't expect. They bring so much life and musicianship to the songs.

Q – The song is from your forthcoming album, "Illuminate: RED,” which I understand will be released in the fall. What should people expect from the rest of the album?

They can expect songs about love...many aspects of love, romantic and personal. "Love Saved My Life" is both the first single from the album and the first track.

It sets the tone for the rest of the album. "Love Saved...(Reprise)" is also on the album (but further down in the track listing) as an echo or a whisper of what was initially stated.

It will make sense when you hear the album.

Q – As I understand, "Illuminate: RED” is the fourth chapter in the four-album “Illuminate” concept. How did you come up with the concept?

After our first release, "Where You Are Now," our lives started to go through some transitions (band mates leaving, parents passing away, children born). We wanted to shine some light on those transitions.

Many of the songs from "Illuminate" are taken from our own personal life lessons. We went with "Illuminate" to present that idea.

Once we landed on that concept, it became clear very quickly that we could give focus to different aspects of life we were living at the time. So as light can be fractured/separated into different colors by a prism, each color would then set a theme.

BLUE represents wisdom...from mistakes; GREEN represents rebirth...for the band; YELLOW represents joy/reminiscing of life; RED represents love.

Initially, I thought of "Illuminate" as being a double album. Unfortunately, I forgot that you can only fit so much music on a side (vinyl). If we come out with a vinyl record for the Illuminate series, it might have to be a quadruple LP.

Q – After “Illuminate: RED” is released in the fall, what’s next for the band?

We're working on setting up a tour after the RED release. That tour will comprise most of the songs in the 'Illuminate' series and we'll take the live versions to some new places like we always do live.

After that is another album for which there are already song ideas.

Q – The band is composed of some of your musical friends from over the years. I would imagine that creates a closeness that other bands might not have.

There is a trust, musically, that I have in these individuals. It happens in studio as well as on stage. All you have to do is tell them where we're going...where we want to land...then allow the water...the journey, to take you there.

"Brand New Me" from "Illuminate: GREEN" is a great example of that. "Love Saved...(Reprise)" is another good example. We set the groove and then allowed it to breathe. This happens when you know each other and trust that we'll all get to where we intend to be (musically) together.

Q – It seems like the band wants to release songs that carry a positive message, such as your song “Power” from your debut album “Where You Are Now.” What are you trying to do with your music?

Really, I'm just trying to uplift people...starting with myself. These songs are for me as much as they are for anyone else.

When we started, I didn't fully believe in myself. It was easier to believe in US than just myself alone. "I've got all this power in me" is a mantra.

I wanted to believe it. I wanted to become it but I needed to get that self-doubt out of the way.

I figured if I'm getting something from these songs, there must be more people who could use it too. It has been helpful to me and to the people who have become fans over the years.

The more Ascendant performs, the more I rise in myself and we hope the audience rises with us.

Q – Soul music has been enjoying a resurgence in popularity over the past few years. I personally am a fan of the Black Pumas and Thee Sacred Souls. What do you think it is about soul music that draws people in?

When it's authentic, it takes you to some place inside yourself; your core being, for lack of a better concept. It's a place where you don't feel wrong, or right or short or tall.

It's a place of BE-ing where feeling, being, and doing are one and the same. This is because, I think, that is where the music is originating from...that same place.

It is music that is meant to be truly listened to and not skimmed over. If you take a moment and really listen, it can transform that moment, your mood and your mind. That is an authentic purpose...soul music.

Musicians Anne Harris, Joanna Connor engage in music and conversation at The Venue in Aurora

2025-05-26T17:58:00.006-05:00

Chicago area musician Anne Harris, left, interviews Chicago-based blues musician Joanna Connor, right, on May 17 at The Venue in Aurora.

By ERIC SCHELKOPF

For me, going to a concert is not just about listening to the songs being performed on stage.

It's also about being able to connect with the musicians on stage.

Fortunately, Chicago area musician Anne Harris is helping to do that through She Said, the music and conversation series that she hosts at The Venue in downtown Aurora.

The series, which features performances and conversations with female musicians, is funded in part through a grant from the Aurora Women’s Empowerment Foundation.

On May 17, Harris and Chicago-based blues musician Joanna Connor engaged in conversation and performed together.

Those attending the show had the opportunity to hear Connor's riveting guitar work as well as learn how she became the powerhouse guitarist that she is today.

Once a student of the Chicago blues scene, Connor is leading the scene today.

As we learn through the conversation, Connor first saw Chicago blues legend Buddy Guy perform when she was 10 years old. After that experience, she became hooked on the blues and eventually moved to Chicago.

Connor learned what it takes to be a Chicago blues musician by performing at Guy's club, the Checkerboard Lounge. Muddy Waters and Chuck Berry were some of the notable musicians who performed at the Checkerboard Lounge.

She was taken by surprise after Guy challenged her to a guitar battle. Guy was mesmerized by her playing and acknowledged that Connor "has got the blues."

Guy was right. And we are blessed to be able to hear her play the blues.

More videos from the show are at youtube.com/@ericschel12/videos.