

Normal Isn’t: Puscifer’s Theatrical Descent at the Chicago Theatre
Puscifer has always existed in its own orbit—equal parts performance art, industrial rock, and absurdist theater—and their stop at the Chicago Theatre on April 25 proved that Normal Isn’t isn’t just an album title, it’s a mission statement. Frontman Maynard James Keenan, flanked by the ever-dynamic Carina Round and multi-instrumentalist Mat Mitchell, led a performance that leaned heavily into the band’s latest release while never feeling confined by it. The night opened with
Steve Sym
1 day ago


The Hives at Full Velocity
The Hives hit the stage like a controlled explosion, unleashing a relentless barrage of riffs and rhythm that validated their legendary status—half jest, fully undeniable—as one of rock’s greatest live bands. Howlin’ Pelle Almqvist led with manic precision, commanding every inch of the room with swagger and razor-sharp bravado. Behind him, Nicholaus Arson, Vigilante Carlstroem, The Johan and Only, and Chris Dangerous moved with decades-deep cohesion, blending punk immediacy w
Steve Sym
Apr 1


The Band of Heathens Celebrate 20 Years of Soulful Independence at Garcia’s
The Band of Heathens brought their 20th Anniversary Country Sides Tour to Garcia’s in Chicago, delivering an intimate, career-spanning set that celebrated both their longevity and their fiercely independent spirit. Formed in Austin by Ed Jurdi and Gordy Quist, the band has spent two decades carving out a path entirely their own—eschewing industry convention in favor of authenticity, grit, and a deeply rooted connection to their sound. That independence has long defined their
Steve Sym
Mar 22


Jason Isbell Delivers with Purpose and Precision
Jason Isbell and the 400 Unit turned Chicago’s Salt Shed into a room full of quiet reverence and explosive release. Backed by the tight, road-hardened 400 Unit, Isbell moved effortlessly between searing Southern rock and hushed, introspective moments, reminding the sold-out crowd why he’s widely regarded as one of the most compelling songwriters of his generation. The band’s chemistry was undeniable, with guitarist Sadler Vaden trading fiery leads with Isbell while the rhythm
Steve Sym
Mar 11


Wild at Heart: Margo Price Takes Over Metro
Margo Price turned her stop at Metro in Chicago into a defiant, 90-minute celebration of outlaw country grit and sharp-edged storytelling. Blending songs from her latest album, Hard Headed Woman , with well-chosen covers and career highlights, Price struck a balance between reverence for tradition and a rebellious, modern bite. Opening with a nod to classic country swagger, she immediately locked into the room’s energy, commanding the stage with confidence and an unapologetic
Steve Sym
Mar 2


DIIV Drown Lincoln Hall in Sound at Tomorrow Never Knows Festival
DIIV’s Tomorrow Never Knows set at Lincoln Hall felt like a rare chance to experience the band at their most immersive in an intimate room. With the venue packed and buzzing, the shoegaze outfit leaned fully into atmosphere, letting their swirling guitars and dense low end wash over the crowd. It was the kind of setting where DIIV’s music thrives—close, loud, and enveloping. Opening with “In Amber,” the band immediately locked into a steady, hypnotic groove, balancing hazy te
Steve Sym
Jan 25










