Formed by frontman Luc Richards and guitarist Davis Haley, Nashville crossover thrash quintet Waxed is now a full cadre with Will Alley on bass, Noel Richards on guitar, and Ian Sundstrom on drums. Known for the ferocity of their live shows, Waxed concocts a sludgy brew of heavy riffs, cutting leads, and quick turnarounds that make for a truly unique brand of rock n’ roll. Having recently opened up for Jack White and Converge, their newest single “Big Blind” follows the group’s 2022 debut album Give Up and 2023’s Idlewild, a split EP with local heavy hitters Soot.
“‘Big Blind’ is a song about dominating personal shortcomings by whatever means necessary and failing even still,” says Richards. “Wherever you go, there you are. We feel like the song stays true to our sound but also represents our ever evolving approach to songwriting. We write the music that we want to hear and strive to never lock ourselves in a box creatively.”
The Banshees are a high-energy traditional Irish ballad group from Chicago. Founded by Tony Duggins, Aaron Duggins, and Pete Muschong (from legendary Chicago Irish band The Tossers).
With their debut album now streaming, The Banshees are delivering electrifying live shows that resonate with both traditionalists and modern music fans alike. The voices and spirits of ancient Ireland and old America resound in every word, every note and every room they play.
Bella Moss is an up-and-coming artist from Dubuque, Iowa, with a pure, mellow voice that has the power to captivate an audience. Her heartfelt folk style is clear and transcends genres. She began learning guitar off YouTube and has evolved to play the banjo, mandolin, bass guitar, violin, and harp.
CARO GRANNER
caro granner (she/they) is an indie folk musician based in chicago, il. caro draws from a variety of sources to craft a lyrical, nostalgic, and heartfelt sound– from the folk and bluegrass sounds of childhood family road trips, to the wordplay and storytelling of musical theatre, to the humor and melancholy of treasured artists like samia, jensen mcrae, phoebe bridgers, christian lee hutson, and andy shauf. outside of making music, caro is an early childhood teacher and proud front desk person.
Chris Shreve is a NC based MC/producer & founder of the hip-hop collective Free The Optimus. His brainchild–FTO–became an award winning blog era success, earning their following & relevance through an unrelenting tour & release schedule, largely driven by Shreve’s vision.
The Professor moniker references his 12 years as a university professor teaching biostatistics. He defines Free The Optimus as “a call to action—to set free our optimal ability & our optimistic perspective & to transform the world around us.”
From the writers at Earmilk: “C.Shreve’s lyrical prowess is undeniable. FTO is known for bringing positive & poetic lyrics that flow over jazz influenced hip hop beats that bring in a hint of soul. Their lyrical talent goes above & beyond what is expected in rap music these days.” Since 2009, FTO has helped to define Carolina music & continues to set the bar for hip hop in the live space.
Shreve has toured & shared stages with The Pharcyde, Big Boi, CL Smooth, The Hieroglyphics, Lupe Fiasco, Raekwon, Onyx, Gift of Gab, Cannibal Ox, Camp Lo, Nappy Roots, Talib Kweli, Oddisee, Guilty Simpson, Planet Asia, Tanya Morgan, Chubb Rock, Slum Village, Zion I, Marley Marl et al. He’s performed at Hopscotch, Blue Plum, LAAF, Beats & Bars, Boone in Blossom, Drink Durham, Brooklyn Wildlife, GURP Fest, Shrimp N Grits & AVL Fest.
His work has been featured on Shade45, Hip HopDX, Earmilk, Revolt TV, I Still Love HER, INDYweek, & has been spun by both DJ Premier & Chuck D.
This GRAMMY® Award-winning band has quietly impacted pop, R&B, and hip-hop with
production credits from The Weeknd, Travis Scott, and SZA, to Jazmine Sullivan, Ellie Goulding
and Billy Porter. In 2021, KG co-wrote “Sing” for Jon Batiste’s We Are. It gathered eight
GRAMMY® Award nominations, and took home an award for “Album of the Year.” KG also
penned “Sweeter” [feat. Terrace Martin] on Leon Bridges’ Gold-Diggers Sound, which notched a
GRAMMY® nod in the category of “Best R&B Album.”
Along with being known as producers, they have rocked stages along side Talib Kweli,
Ghostface Killah, Raekwon, Mr. Bungle, and the Nate Smith trio.
Be sure to check out their contemporary take on American Soul on their first 2 albums- “Make It
Sweat” (2017) and “Heavy Metal Greasy Love” (2022) on Mike Patton’s Ipecac Records. KG is
currently working on a 3rd studio album.
Think dirty but decadent slabs of blues rock riffage, boot-stomping delta swagger and a cocksure voice – Classic Rock Magazine UK
Sebastian Rider is a Los Angeles-based singer, guitarist, and songwriter blending alternative blues rock with heart, soul, and swagger. Formerly known as Blue House/Bluhauz and the frontman of Berklee-formed rock band Stone Giant, he’s performed major festivals including Lollapalooza Argentina and Chile and shared stages with acts like Gorillaz and Tame Impala.
A Berklee College of Music graduate (songwriting major), Sebastian’s journey includes a standout moment performing Led Zeppelin music for Jimmy Page at Berklee’s 2014 commencement after first meeting him in England years earlier.
His solo debut album (released August 6, 2021) led by the single “Purify My Soul” reflects his focus on spirituality, self-awareness, and personal growth, earning recognition from outlets like Billboard, Spotify, Classic Rock Magazine, Berklee, and Blues Rock Review (Top 20 Albums of 2021).
Since moving to Los Angeles in 2022, he’s become a fixture in the local rock scene, performing at venues like Whisky A Go Go and the Viper Room, and appearing on Joe Bonamassa’s Keeping The Blues Alive at Sea (2023). He’s also a Recording Academy Grammy voting member and has released singles “Get It On,” “I Got Mine,” and “Running” from his upcoming second album, expected in 2026.
Zeno Camera is a Brazilian-American pop musician. Born and raised in Rio de Janeiro, Zeno started writing songs at 12, which is either adorable or suspiciously early depending on who you ask. He grew up in what he describes as an “extremely musical household,” meaning family jam sessions were just as common as dinner. Now based in Chicago, Zeno has carved out a name for himself in the college music scene, performing across the city and opening for major acts. After the release of his debut album Xeno, which critics (aka his friends) described as “actually really good,” Zeno dropped his latest EP – Syc*amor*e – a moody, melodic deep dive into messy feelings and metaphor trees.
WOOF is known for crafting emotionally charged, post-punk-inspired tracks with a raw and rebellious edge.
With a passion for blending gritty soundscapes and reflective lyrics, WOOF creates music that explores both human and personal transformation themes.
A daily practitioner of meditation and spirituality, WOOF’s work reflects a deep connection to inner growth while staying true to his rebellious spirit.
He prides himself in showing people how to embrace their shadow especially if they’re outcasts like himself.
Eli Bridges is a New York City based actor, voice over artist and musician. Most recently he played the part of Sebastian in Axis Theatre Company’s aclaimed off-broadway production of Twelfth Night. He attended the American Musical and Dramatic Academy after moving from his home town in Northfield, MA to persue theater. His television/film credits include LAW AND ORDER SVU, MOTHERLESS BROOKLYN (dir. Edward Norton), FBI MOST WANTED, JESSICA JONES and YOUNGER to name a few.
His musical projects include his solo act under the name Eli Bridges, Mama Juke and CC and the Boys. Mama Juke has performed in the SXSW festival and plays all over the country. His solo album, Long Night, will be released this February. Eli travels to different cities around the world as a street performer and has performed in numerous venues across the country.
Tongues Unknown is the musical project of Chicago born/Brooklyn based singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Connor Grant. After years of performing with a wide range of Midwestern artists, he relocated to New York to pursue his own music. His 2017 self-titled debut full-length album was written on planes, trains and automobiles while on the road with Sean Lennon’s The Ghost Of A Saber Tooth Tiger. Once the writing process was complete, he began the laborious journey of making the record as a one-man band – producing and performing everything that made the final cut.
The resulting album offers audiences a diverse 10 track-collection of genre-bending, experimental rock that exhibits a uniquely eclectic musical palate. It take’s listeners on a musical journey through thick textures and complex arrangements, illuminating the general sense of celebration that’s at the root of the album and beautifully reflected in the cover art painted by Michael Brieger.
The Tongues Unknown live experience is as unusual and captivating as the record itself. Through a one-of-a-kind looping rig that could loosely be described as a psych rock spaceship, Grant seamlessly loops and layers drums, bass, keys and guitar – all the while singing and wildly manipulating sounds on the fly.
Catch Tongues Unknown in a city near you, and stay tuned for more music. There’s more coming soon.
SUN.DYLE is a Fort Wayne, Indiana based 5-piece ensemble that radiates the warmth of jazz, the enchanting vibes of neo-soul, and the rhythmic heartbeats of R&B. Hailing from diverse musical backgrounds, the members of SUN.DYLE converge to create a harmonious blend of genres that persuades the listener to feel, think and transcend.
We are a five piece alternative pop band dedicated to catchy hooks, curious sounds, and large living. Our sound is centered around the vocal harmonies of Drew Swartz and Sophie Delay, supplemented by driving drum beats and rolling basslines that have equal footing in 60’s style pop and diy punk. Ranging from rootsy folk to full blown rock n roll, our sets span a wide variety of styles while remaining consistent with our vision of high energy original music. We are deeply rooted in visual art, printmaking, and zines!! So we’re more than happy to whip up a flyer if called upon.
Featuring Drew Swartz on vocal/guitar
Sophie Delay on vocals/percussion
Mark Palomino drums/guitar
Nicole Kezdy on bass
Owen Clary on drums/percussion
“The Taxmen” are a nationally touring band based out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. In 2024 they released their debut album, “Dead Man’s Float”, comprised of 14 original songs. In the past year, The Taxmen have performed in New York City to Chicago to Florida to Minneapolis, and everywhere in between! This spring, they won 1st place in Marquette University radio’s battle of the bands. Will (Guitar), Anthony (Bass), Jeff (Guitar), and Will (Drums) are keeping the sound of rock bands alive and are introducing the music of the Beatles to a new generation. The Taxmen’s vocal harmonies and musicianship bring a youthful energy that is sure to ignite the room and bring any party to life! (Singing and dancing is highly encouraged)…
I am Luv Moore, formerly known as Jaz Moore. I was born in Memphis, TN but spent most of my late childhood and beyond in Louisville, KY. My music is the embodiment of sensual soul and contemporary R&B.
A Chicagoland local and full time musician, Cheryl Rodey is a vocal powerhouse and songwriter, with a raw, emotional honesty that makes you sit up and pay attention. Whether performing her own well-crafted originals or blowing the roof off with her version of well known tunes, she is an exciting and dynamic musician to catch. Cheryl has opened for popular artists such as, Daughtry and other national acts. Check out Cheryl’s music, available on all streaming services.
The Masters Collection is a network of independent artists that come together under one umbrella for the purpose of musical production and performance.
Jason Vest, a retired veteran who traded his boots for a microphone, brings a unique perspective to comedy. As a multi-platform viral content creator, he’s amassed 150,000 followers in the last three years, using his digital platform not only for laughs but also as a mental health advocate. His brand of humor is a bizarre mix of the unexpected and the insightful, tackling everything from the silly to the absurdly profound. Jason has graced stages at comedy clubs like the Chicago Laugh Factory, Chicago Comedy Bar, Kenosha Comedy Club, and Comic Strip Live. He’s also a former regular host of the “Future of Comedy Show,” Michigan’s longest-running comedy production. His voice has hit the airwaves on KROQ’s Loveline, where he delves into the weird world of feet. Plus, he’s shown his hosting chops with the ’90s band Lit. Jason has made a name for himself on the “Kill Tony” show, the largest live online podcast recorded at the Comedy Mothership in Austin, Texas, where he’s appeared twice and won the Big Joke Book award, proving he can find comedy in the silliest places. His humor doesn’t just reflect society; it holds up a funhouse mirror to it, making us laugh at our own ridiculousness.
The Cynz are a full-throttle rock band formed around the songwriting talents of Cyndi Dawson and Henry Seiz. The band has been called “the closest thing to the 1970s CBGB’s you will get from a band that formed in 2011.” Their songs are hard-rocking tales of pain, heartbreak, survival, determination, redemption, and unbridled joy at 120 mph! They are a fixture on the Lower East Side, NYC.
LOEWY is a collection of music makers hailing from Berwyn, IL. Their music is born out of an appreciation for many different generes; their creations have undercurrents rooted in rock and alternative sounds spanning across time and states of mind. Collectively they have decades of experience making and sharing music.
Their live performances are energetic, electric, and fresh. Each time they take the stage offers something new for their audience.
New Jersey’s underdogs Bayway have been in the hardcore scene since the early 2000’s when long t-shirts reigned and crowd killing was more than a trend, it was a fucking lifestyle.
In a world where poverty is curren$y, members of Bayway come from Elizabeth, Linden and Newark bringing you a street sound that is real and authentic. Not one fabricated by trust funds and stipends.
Bayway lives for New Jersey Hardcore and God has entrusted Bayway with the New Jersey Hardcore Scene. Bayway believes we must protect our great freedoms to jump off the stage, take the mic and punch the air.
For too long men on the internet have said, “that wouldn’t happen if I was there” or “try that with me and see what happens” well they’re not here. This is our scene and we intend to keep it that way!
Under Bayway’s great leadership-we will defeat the evil forces dedicated to destroying our scene.
There’s a phrase you’ll hear repeatedly when in the company of Split Chain: “The Chain does what it wants”. As mantras go, it’s used by the Bristol, UK quintet as a means of encapsulating the broad-minded, unconstrained creative freedom with which they approach their art, as well as a means through which to try to make sense of the sky-rocketing trajectory the band have found themselves on.
Call it instinct, fate, divine intervention, whatever – the whims of ‘The Chain’ have led to a moment where one thing is abundantly clear: Split Chain are one of the hottest, zeitgeist-capturing new bands in the world.
“Split Chain is something that none of us feel like we have any control of,” says frontman Bert Martinez-Cowles. “Split Chain simply does what it wants and what it needs.”
It is at this juncture in Split Chain’s journey that debut album motionblur arrives. Described by Bert as “a coming of age story”, the album channels the conflicting and contradictory angst, excitement, joy and pain of growing up and discovering your true sense of self. motionblur presents a story that speaks to both Split Chain’s members’ personal experiences and those shared together in the past few dizzying years; a visceral, kaleidoscopic wall of sound where unsettling, disorientating confusion meets a fevered adrenaline-rush. motionblur is an album to experience, to feel, to engulf; it’s the blissful sense of euphoria that comes with drowning in its waves.
“We’re Soul Blind, from the Hudson Valley,” is how the set starts. And the band makes good on that threat from the first note. Thick, pedal-drenched, and aggressive, Soul Blind take the heaviest elements of their hardcore roots and cut it with Modern Rock. The songs you heard in your dad’s truck are run through the unforgiving filter of the music that drew you to punk and metal. Crowbar and Stone Temple Pilots. All Out War into Tad. It’s all there, because Soul Blind doesn’t try to hide what shaped them. The result is music for the freaks. Non-denominational subculture weirdo tracks. It’s the sound of living in the shadow of NYC and never feeling jealous. The sound of proudly standing on the shoulders of local giants who never got their due. The sound of being four reprobates with nothing to offer the world but music. In other words, a real band.
Eric Johanson’s music blends raw blues, gritty rock, and heavy grooves with a modern twist. His guitar work ranges from soulful and smooth to distorted and aggressive, creating a unique mix of sharp riffs and deep, atmospheric rhythms. There’s an intensity to the sound—sometimes raw and stripped-down, other times thick and heavy—but always with a balance of emotion and attitude. It’s rock that’s rooted in blues but isn’t afraid to push boundaries, mixing vintage vibes with a darker, modern energy.
His newest album, The Deep And The Dirty (2023), continues to make waves, debuting at #1 on the Billboard Blues Chart. Since its release, Johanson has been on a whirlwind tour, hitting stages across the US and Europe in over ten countries. The buzz around him is real—he was named one of Guitar Player magazine’s 25 best new blues guitarists and earned a spot in Total Guitar magazine’s Top 50 blues guitarists of all time.
Susan Carol combines poetic songwriting and a deep gospel background to make rich and emotive contemporary R&B. The native Texan appeared in 2016 with her self-produced Alchemy, and around the turn of the following decade gained more ground as she continued to record independently and collaborate with the likes of Full Crate and PJ Morton. Carol truly broke through in 2023 as the featured vocalist on Morton’s Grammy-winning “Good Morning,” and subsequently landed a contract with Def Jam. “Karma,” a confrontational post-breakup ballad with throwback production from Harmony Samuels, was released in 2024 as Carol’s major-label debut.
Leo Middea was born in Rio de Janeiro in 1995 and currently resides in Barcelona. He is a singer, composer, and instrumentalist. Over his 10-year career, Leo has released five studio albums, each reflecting different phases of his life and career: Dois (2014), A Dança do Mundo (2016), Vicentina (2020), Beleza Isolar (2020), and Gente (2023), and has given over 300 performances in 16 countries – with 100 of them taking place in 2024 alone.
Leo is reinventing Brazilian music by blending traditional genres with influences from diverse cultures. His music has garnered over 10 million plays on Spotify. Leo’s captivating performances have sold out concert halls across Europe and Brazil. In 2024, he achieved second place in the traditional Portuguese Song Festival, becoming the first Brazilian to reach the final. Leo is currently working on his sixth album, featuring songs recorded live in different parts of the world.
YEAR 2087
Welcome to the futuristic sounds of YEAR 2087! From full projects like “IN-VISION PLAYLIST” to fire singles like “DONT BE SCARED” and “See Through”, Year 2087’s sound bends genres, styles, moods and aesthetics! With being a producer and artist , every songs arrangements, texters and soundscapes create a style you recognize as his! Make sure to follow Year 2087 on all socials and stay tuned into all new music to come.
Hailing from the rugged landscapes of western Norway, Slomosa has emerged as a powerhouse in modern rock, developing their signature Tundra Rock sound. Comprising Benjamin Berdous (guitar, vocals), Marie Moe (bass, vocals), Tor Erik Bye (guitar), and Jard Hole (drums), and drawing inspiration from , and , the band fuses the heavy, groove-laden riffs of stoner rock with raw, melodic vocals and thunderous guitars.
Since the release of their self-titled debut album in 2020, Slomosa has become synonymous with raw power and electrifying performances. They’ve conquered major festival stages at Hell Fest, Freak Valley, and Bergen Fest, earning accolades for their ability to ignite crowds with their relentless energy and infectious sound. In July 2023, the band released Cabin Fever, a thunderous single from their highly anticipated sophomore album, showcasing their knack for gritty storytelling and soaring riffs.
In 2024, Slomosa plus brought their massive sound stateside, joining Alkaline Trio on a U.S. tour and further solidifying their reputation as a global force. They’re set to return in 2025 as direct support for Helmet, continuing their relentless march across international stages.
Whether on record or live, Slomosa delivers a visceral, unrelenting sonic experience that lingers long after the final chord. With their sights set high and their sound louder than ever, the band is carving out a legacy as the torchbearers of modern heavy rock.
I am an artist that cannot be placed inside of a box. From art to music, I have expanded my reach well into graphic design in all aspects as I provide an artistic approach to multiple mediums, including (but not limited to) audio engineering, videography, photography, and media development. These mediums have allowed me to work with a number of successful individuals and companies across the country to further equip myself with resources to build my own brand within myself as a musician within the Chicagoland area.
The artist known as iGoByLC, incorporates melodic elements with introspective lyrics as an MC. Some musical works have been featured on numerous platforms, including Shade45, Vocalo, Illanoize Radio, and UIC Radio. With over 6 music projects, my versatility is sure to stand out as I encompass as much knowledge as possible to shape each project into masterpieces.
Sonny Trill, born Cory Medlock, is a hip hop recording artist hailing from the south suburbs of Chicago. He began writing music at the age of 11. At 16 he decided to forgo music to pursue basketball and focus on academics. Unfortunately his love and desire for a career in music became too strong to deny. He left college and decided to do just that. Since then Trill has begun to create quite a buzz from his energetic, rockstar style performances. His melodic delivery and rapid style flow over trap beats can most be described as “lyrical trap”, much different from the typical “drill” style music most are accustomed to from Chicago artists. Aside from performing all over Chicago, Sonny’s latest EP “Trill Smith” has caught the attention of many across the city and looks to follow up that success with his latest project “Heartbreak Trill” slated to drop later on this year.
Born and raised on the westside of Chicago, rapper, songwriter, and creative, Wan00 uses his lyricism to put you right into his life experiences and the knowledge he’s gained from them. Every song comes with its own bit of advice and motivation from the emcee. The love Wan00 has for making music and displaying his creativity is very evident in the content he gives fans. Listen closely and you can hear the hunger and drive he has to improve and become the best yet. But don’t take my word for it, listen for yourself by clicking any of the tracks you see here!
Mic Logik is a veteran emcee from the Chicagoland area(Des Plaines,IL) Mic dropped his buzz worthy first LP in 2018 “Overdue” then followed that up with the collaborative album Chi-Native (Mic Logik, I.Deal, WRDS) “Passports” Now he has now also released his second solo LP “As I Was Saying” 11/26/2021 & “Too Much To Text” Vol 1 with Joey Childz
02/10/2023
CHRIS RUBEN
Lower West Side, Chicago.
Chris Ruben caters underground production in this Renaissance era of Hip-Hop. From working with Chicago artists such as Daze, Novatore, MoeCyrus & more, to New York’s very own ELCAMINO, Meyhem Lauren, & Los Angeles artist XP The Marxman.
Alternative-Country music singer, songwriter, and guitar picker Joshua Quimby has one of those special voices that demands any listener’s immediate attention. His unique, bellowing rasp cuts through each song he sings, no matter the context – whether delivering a slow Folk ballad, a Blues-Rock uptempo number, a Honky Tonk classic, a 90’s Grunge tune, or really anything else, you’ll believe Quimby the moment he opens his mouth.
Born in Pawtucket, RI and raised in quaint small-town CT, the New England native established home base in Nashville, TN in 2019 when he was just 18 and began cutting his teeth playing small clubs around the city by late 2020. The release of his 2022 self-titled debut record established Quimby as an underground/indie Country music name-to-know.
Nowadays, having achieved millions of streams and hundreds of thousands of social media followers, Quimby continues to develop and hone his sound and to push the limits of Country music forward, one song at a time. His genre-bending third album, “Something Like Country,” is out now.
Seven Teller is the art-rock brainchild of Baltimore musician and songwriter Sam Cochran, who started the project in 2020. A blend of post-punk, dance, and psych-rock music nourishes the band’s unique, immersive sound. After several big releases and national tours, Sam has sought to re-imagine the band’s sound with steady releases throughout 2025 and a full-length expected in 2026. Seven Teller is expanding the norms by creating music that’s reminiscent of acts like LCD Soundsystem, Talking Heads, and CAN, while still performing live shows that showcase deep improvisation, referencing their roots in the jam scene and early influences like Phish and Lotus. Seven Teller has featured sit-ins from Cotter Ellis (Goose), Jake Brownstein (Eggy), and Eli Winderman (Dopapod).
For the Love of Elvis
Cliff E is the Elvis tribute artist whose performances excite his audiences as he brings the sound, the moves and the look of Elvis Presley alive with the care and attention to detail that truly makes for a most worthy tribute to the King of Rock n’ Roll!
Bring Cliff E’s “For the Love of Elvis” tribute to your next anniversary, birthday, corporate event, fundraiser, private event or reunion. Your guests will be moved, energized and sure to have fun as Cliff E sings and moves as he captures the essence of Elvis at his peak with authentic costumes from the That’s the Way It Is and his many Concert Performances.
Hailing from the heart of Chicago’s vibrant music scene, Sonic Motel is a high-voltage alternative rock outfit with a sound as infectious as it is unrelenting. Fronted by vocalist Trace Hamilton, with Aidan Cramer on guitar, Sam Frederickson on bass, and Isaiah Stieger on drums, the band channels the spirit of acts like Foo Fighters, Weezer, and Green Day—while carving out a sound that’s entirely their own.
Fusing raw energy, punchy melodies, and a no-holds-barred stage presence, Sonic Motel has built a loyal following that regularly fills Chicago venues to capacity. Their ability to connect live, loud, and unapologetically makes them one of the city’s standout rock acts.
Stream their newest single “Won’t Go Easy” where ever you get your music!
Follow their journey @sonicmotelmusic and witness the rise of a band hellbent on leaving its mark—one packed room at a time.
The Isles band from Chicago is a rising emo/post-hardcore group known for their energetic live shows and recent EP Let Yourself Feel, featuring members with local ties and recent East Coast tours, including a headlining show at Schubas Tavern in late 2025. They blend pop-punk vibes with emotional depth, gaining traction in the Chicago music scene with support from bands like Gold Steps and Long Gone.
Conscious. Passionate. Purposeful. Janeff the Poet is a spoken word artist whose lyrical mission is rooted in truth, justice, and personal evolution. With his latest EP “Peaceful Journey”, he merges poetic storytelling with genres like house, jazz, and hip-hop to move minds and bodies alike.
The Sidepieces is a country band with a rotating cast of Chicago singers and players revisiting a range of mostly sad songs, some recent/some old, some familiar/some hidden gems, some traditional/some unorthodox. Led by Jordan Martins on pedal steel, The Sidepieces play these songs in order to listen to each other, improvise, find the form, invite surprises, and stretch the sounds that inhabit the song. Current members include Angela James, Sam Cantor, Elizabeth Moen, Matt Gold, Ryan Norris, Kelsey Wild, Raul Cotaquispe, Nolan Chin, Gus Martini, and Chris Salveter (Judson Claiborne) among others
Listening, talking, weeping, dancing, and laughing are all encouraged from the audience
Cat Merkle is a pop singer-songwriter based in Chicago, IL. Drawing inspiration from artists like Amy Winehouse, Lizzy McAlpine, and Lake Street Dive, Cat’s musical style ranges from loud and dramatic to intimate and heartfelt. She developed as a vocalist largely through musical theater. Although she entered college as a well-developed singer, she made a conscious effort to redevelop her singing style. She spent all of her college years singing in bands, writing songs, and finding a voice that could best deliver the songs she wanted to create as a musical artist.
The band has been gigging since the fall of 2024 at classic Chicago venues such as Martyrs’, Cubby Bear, Burlington Bar, Reggies Chicago, Underground Lounge, Lilly’s, and Cafe Mustache.
Brian Kaiser, is a self-taught multi-instrumentalist from the Chicagoland area and one of the recording producers of the group. He has played the bass since the second grade and has been in bands since the age of 11. Attending Northwestern University to study Learning and Organizational Change and to play tight end on the football team, Brian graduated in 2022 while also winning Mayfest’s Battle of the Bands to play on the main stage for Dillo Day. He also produces his own music and is a mixing/mastering engineer for various Chicago artists. Brian met Cat through a mutual friend and it was musical chemistry at first sight! Brian co-wrote and produced Cat’s second single, ‘feeling you’ which solidified their musical partnership.
Scott has played music his whole life, participating in jazz ensembles, quartets, acapella groups (with Cat), rock bands, and all other musical endeavors he can find. He’s a drummer at heart but has played guitar, bass, and keyboard in past musical projects. Scott grew up in Boston before moving to Seattle after college, and recently moved to Chicago in 2024.
Iris Blue is an Indie Rock band based out of Chicago IL. Iris Blue combines catchy riffs, tasty drums, and melancholic melodies to create the perfect blend between a fun and pessimistic sonic.
Elaine Golden is a Chicago based stand-up comedian and writer, known for her mix of bubbly charm, quick wit, and storytelling. She performs around the country and notable Chicago venues, including Zanies, the Laugh Factory, and the Lincoln Lodge.
Since starting stand up in 2017, Elaine has become a well-loved and trusted performer. She’s headlined shows around the country, performed with Don’t Tell, and opened for headliners Dan Donohue and Hannah Jones, at their invitation.
As a writer, Elaine created and co-wrote the comedy musical Rat City, which was voted second runner up for best musical in the Chicago Reader in 2023. She debuted her first solo show, Golden Girls: Intergenerational House Party at the 2024 Fillet of Solo Festival.
Prior to her comedy career, Elaine completed a fellowship in economics at Princeton. She’s now traded spreadsheets for the stage and uses her sharp, analytical mind and endearing personality to make people laugh.
Currently, Elaine produces Lavender Laugh Lounge, a monthly show in Chicago featuring women and LGBTQ comedians.
School of Rock Lemont is the community hub for music education, proudly serving kids and adults across Lemont and surrounding areas like Lockport, Bolingbrook, and Darien. As a convenient after-school destination for students in the 113A District, including those from Lemont High school and Old Quarry Middle School, we make it easy to fit music into a busy schedule. Our commitment to performance means you’ll see our student bands rocking on stage at local venues like Heroes West Lemont, Tailgaters Bolingbrook, Embers in Lockport, The Forge, and others. Our students also perform at community-based events, including Taste of Bolingbrook, various parades, Fall festivals, Taste of Lockport, and many more.
