Music Top 5 of 2021
2021 Top Albums By Chicago Artists
Beyond Livestreaming: Musicians Chart a More Complex Future
Livestreaming is not the panacea we hoped it would be; but it has the power to transform the way we think about music, and point to the way forward.
Music Top 5: December 2021
The must-see acts that round out a tumultuous year.
Taking the Plunge: A Review of Circuit des Yeux’s “-io”
In attempting to transcend grief through music, Haley Fohr has created a dazzling, often revelatory piece of orchestral art-pop.
Speak Everything, Sing Nothing: A Preview of Dry Cleaning at The Empty Bottle
Words spoken over jagged-edged guitars is not the norm; and that is the field within which Dry Cleaning operates with dynamic impact.
Seen But Not Heard: On Not Listening to Chvrches and Guided By Voices
I can extrapolate from the title “Screen Violence” that there may be a through-line of horror/anti-horror and anti-misogyny coursing through the album.
Music Top 5: November 2021
The can’t-miss shows coming to Chicago this month.
Last of the Summer Wine: Three Chicago Releases Spill Into Fall
This is the time of year when we begin to harvest the last few remnants of summer; these recordings are the sonic equivalent to a few tomatoes still ripe on the vine.
The Uses of Adversity: Macie Stewart Draws Art from Isolation
Stewart has been a vibrant presence on the local music scene, but this is the first time we’ve heard her voice undiluted. What she has to say is riveting to hear.
Music Top 5: October 2021
The must-see music events of the month.
