Illinois Entertainer

Kill Hannah
Metro, Chicago
Saturday, August 23, 2008

For whatever can be said about Kill Hannah, the group’s enthusiasm and affection for their hometown is undeniable. After years of Next Big Thing proclamations — from Billy Corgan to local radio to this magazine — their long-awaited superstar status would never arrive. Yet the outfit seem unfazed and less concerned with their place in the mainstream, and more intent on making sure they deliver in the here and now. Such was clearly the case Saturday night at the Metro, where they touched down following a long string of away games that only seemed to heighten the group’s fervor.

• Read more: Kill Hannah live!

Nico Muhly
Lakeshore Theater, Chicago
Thursday, August 28, 2008

I once interviewed a rock guitarist who claimed he could find musical inspiration in any mundane, common, everyday sound. Nico Muhly agrees.

• Read more: Nico Muhly preview

Sonny Rollins | Ornette Coleman
Jazz Festival, Chicago
Thursday, August 28 | Sunday, August 31, 2008

The battle of the saxes highlights the Chicago Jazz Festival this year, featuring a pair of giants in Sonny Rollins and Ornette Coleman.

• Read more: Jazz Festival preview

Death Vessel
Nothing Is Precious Enough For Us
(Sub Pop)

Death Vessel’s Joel Thibodeau is a) an insect, b) female, or c) a bluegrass artist. At varying points one and none are true.

Appearing: Saturday, August 30th at Schubas in Chicago.

• Read more: Death Vessel reviewed

Chris Isaak
Morton Arboretum, Lisle
Saturday, August 16, 2008

Few artists are capable of tapping into a winning formula that doesn’t significantly evolve as the years progress, but colors just enough outside the lines to attract repeat customers. Enter veteran singer/songwriter Chris Isaak, the debonair crooner who’s made a killing channeling the outfits of Elvis Presley and the nuances of Roy Orbison with a flavor from the 21st century.

• Read more: Chris Isaak live!