Germ Ripper has been a mainstay of the Chicago punk rock scene for the past 20 years. He has always been able to interject his irrelevant humor into his performances as the frontman of The Rotten Fruits and Modern Day Rippers. Now on his own, he’s come to take the comedy world by storm and take no prisoners.
a cinematic musical experience based in Milwaukee WI. Ambient rock riffs ebb and flow to smashing crescendo, accompanied by a live video score presented by Stephen Anderson.
The conception of Voimaton (VOI‧ma‧tOn) began immediately following the demise of Narcotic in 2016, whose lineup included Dave and Pat. While the project had no official name, and despite numerous false-starts throughout 2017 and 2018, Henry (ex-Sable Beldam) was welcomed into the fold in November 2018 to help bring Voimaton into the physical realm, solidifying the trio.
Playing B side wedding covers. 80’s dance tunes with some yacht rock mixed in.
KING ROPES
King Ropes, an experimental garage band from Bozeman, Montana, effortlessly couples the inventiveness of The Pixies and the alternative country twang of Wilco with remarkable results. Psychedelic hard country shoe gaze garage roots rock, ya know?
One hears an eclectic range of influences at work, from The Velvet Underground to Willie Nelson, The Swans to Kurt Vile and Flaming Lips, Beck to Built to Spill, X to Kraftwerk.
ALL FOR HELLBORN
Tim Engelhardt – Vocals
Eric Lauder – Guitar
Erik Partin – Guitar
Rian Staber – Bass
Mike Jurysta – Drums
COFFIN ROT
With their authentic, no frills approach, Portland, Oregon’s Coffin Rot sound as if torn straight from the grave of the early ‘90s. Grisly minded, old school death metal, inspired by gore, torture, serial killers, cannibalism and surgery, the four tracks here bludgeon with a visceral, grotesque savagery sure to appeal to fans of Autopsy, Morta Skuld, and early Cannibal Corpse. Coffin Rot is: Hayden Johnson – Vocals Tre Guertner – Guitars/Bass Derek Johnson – Drums
Kevin Kellam has been performing comedy since he was told to not bring up inappropriate topics at the family dinner as a kid. Due to his unique role on air with Q101 Radio in Chicago, his comedy has been the warm-up act for the biggest names in alternative music like Twenty-One Pilots, Papa Roach, Panic! At the Disco, and many more. In 2015, he hosted and produced the web series ‘FOURSTAR STAND UPS’ with JBTV Productions. It featured comics who went on to ‘Saturday Night Live’, ‘CONAN’ and more. He just taped his first special at The Lincoln Hall titled, “Kevin and Hell” and it will be released soon!
I am a television personality, stand-up comic, writer and producer based out of Chicago. Those are a lot of labels, which suggests either A) I am a prodigious talent, or B) I’m not really excellent at any of those things. I really have no idea at this point.
As a TV guy, I’m the sports anchor for Chicago’s top rated AM newscast, The WGN Morning News. I was also a host of the ABC primetime show Shaq Vs, filled in for Reege a few times on “LIVE With Regis and Kelly,” and have auditioned to host about a half dozen hugely successful network shows, each time acing the audition, but ultimately learning I was not “the right fit, tonally.”
As a stand-up, I perform all over Chicago and the Midwest, headlining clubs like Zanies and the Laugh Factory. And as a writer and producer, I’ve optioned a handful of show ideas to be developed. I’m hoping at least one of them gets a pilot order so I can build an IMDB page.
I have a wife that I like an awful lot, and a dog that’s way more interesting than your kid.
ScribeCash, the multitalented, California-bread female emcee, singer, and director premiered her video “Never Breaking Up” feat. TreVante on BET’s 106 & Park. Soon after, she then aired the video for her single “Get on My Level” feat. Eric Bellinger. Igniting the fire that is her rough edge with refreshing beauty, she lays bars similar to the likes of her predecessors with a unique flare of west coast flavor.After opening up for Kid Ink, Eric Bellinger, Derek Luh, Sammy Wilk, Futuristic and many more, Scribe headlined her first national tour. Recently, Scribe released her project “99+1” and the lead single also titled “99+1” peaked at #34 on the iTunes charts. In June of 2017 Scribe started a video series “Road To One Million” where she’s been dropping a new song and music video every month in pursuit to hit one million views on one video. This young performer is just beginning her trip to the top. Keep waiting at the edge of your seat to see what she does next.
Just some friendly neighbor kids, playing silly tunes.
Imagine The Moldy Peaches and The B-52s listening to the Shaggs ?
WEIRD PAUL PETROSKEY
Weird Paul Petroskey is one good lookin’ S.O.B. But, more importantly, he writes the damn catchiest songs. Paul began releasing his own cassettes in the late 80’s. In 1991, Homestead Records released “Lo Fidelity, Hi Anxiety”, Paul’s cult classic CD. Since then, Paul has released many more albums of fun indie-pop, including his latest (and 33rd), LIT AF!
The Science Fair has been playing with this line up for a little over 3 years. Their music can be described as the things you loved about 80’s synth-pop that has been modernized and turned up all the way. With Motown quality bass and drums, crossed with the ambient attack of the guitars, the science fair can make you want to rage as much as it makes you want to dance.
Chicago band made up of three night staff workers who met working at The Second City. With soulful and powerful vocals contributed by Gideon Reddic, alongside the classical and blues based roots of John Love (Piano/Keyboard) and Jake Stopar (Guitar/BassRock
Based out of Orange County, CA, Eureka sound is a 6-piece band that contains a potent mixture of conscious reggae with musical elements of jazz.
Eureka’s music attempts to illuminate minds that have been lead astray by blind leaders, leaders who have neglected the solemn matters of the world: justice, mercy, and faithfulness. Liberation from the golden pillars/false idols begins with sound; for those who are blind cannot see, but they can listen.
Eureka Sound has been performing locally throughout Southern California since late 2014. The band has performed at venues such as House of Blues, Saint Rocke, Gallagher’s Pub, San Pedro Brewing Company, N.O.S. Event Center – High Times Magazine Cannabis Cup 2016, as well as a live acoustic performance on KCSB 91.9 FM, etc, and have been humbled to share the stage with artists such as John’s Brown Body, Iya Terra, Ital Vibes, Dubbest, True Press, etc.
Josh Heinrichs is a stalwart in the American and worldwide reggae community. Beginning his own reggae band, Jah Roots, in Springfield, Missouri in 2001 as well as forming his own record label, GanJah Records with his wife, Kaytee. Josh wrote and recorded 5 albums with his former band, Jah Roots, and gained a loyal independent following via Myspace and a tireless touring schedule from 2005-2009.
Since leaving Jah Roots in 2009 to pursue a solo career, Josh has released a #1 Billboard Reggae album(Good Vibes 2016) & several other Billboard top 10 debuting albums. As a solo artist, Josh has toured the entire USA coast to coast multiple times & has been a part of many tours & has shared the stage with many headline acts including Bob Marley’s children (Ziggy, Stephen & Damian), Rebelution, Ben Harper, SOJA, The Wailers, 311, Slightly Stoopid and many more. Josh has also made numerous appearances at music festivals all over the USA, Guam & Hawaii including 4 appearances at the largest Reggae festival in USA, California Roots, where in 2016 he also filmed his first live concert video which can be seen on youtube. Josh has also performed for the island nations of Hawaii & Guam multiple times to thousands of screaming fans singing along to every word. With all these accolades, years of touring and constantly promoting positive Reggae music through out the world, Josh’s form of Reggae music and message remain a constant driving force behind the current reggae scene, worldwide.
A new project from Justin and Jimmy from Blue Dream
BUCK-O-NINE
Buck-O-Nine has been playing it’s unique brand of ska-punk since early 1992. Since then the band has released five studio albums, toured much of the world, and continues to play shows in and around North America.
Inspired by the brooding, slant rhymes of Smino, Kiraly Payne’s unique skillset — and sound — is perhaps the city’s best-kept secret. It’s been a minute since KP dropped a project, sharing singles over the the last two years, one with fellow artist SONNY (“It Is What It Is”). Whether you’re bumping wavy, bar-heavy cuts like “Freez” or electro-infused bops in “You Need Me” and “Back Down,” consider the BLUEPRINT show as a return to form for the eclectic MC — whose long-awaited debut album looms closer each day.
Manasseh Croft known as “Manasseh” was born and raised on the south side of Chicago. He has always possessed the gift of music which started with his mother, whom herself was a vocalist. He is currently working as a background vocalist, vocal/session coach and songwriter – in which lends his assistance and talents to local singers and rappers. He has performed at a number of venues and is a favorite/regular performer with Sofar Sounds. In June of 2018, Manasseh founded Dope Tunes Productions LLC. The artist centered company focuses on assisting creatives with starting and finishing their respective projects. Manasseh is slowly but surely becoming the “go-to guy” for session and vocal coaching and arranging. His album “Monochromatic Dream” is slated to be released Summer of 2020. Artists that Manasseh has worked with: Enyar Wax Roof Nayo Nayo Jalen Anthony Ami Johari Noelle Elton Aura Andrew Bedows Burns Twins Demetruis LA Vangogh Hurley Mower Bella Bahhs Eleven SheepMan Nosidam Synesthesia Daniel Lamar
“Phamous Mockingband aims to recreate the energy, feels, jams and intricate catalog of the jam legends Phish. These seasoned musicians bring their love for music and Phish together to form a unique take on the songs. Their deep improvisational jams, experimental ideas and creative transitions really set this group apart from your typical tribute act.”
I am that cheeseburger you thought about eating when the tears subsided after your older brother smashed your parakeet against the wall, broke its beak off, moved the dresser out to see that Tom was dead and threatened to murder you if you didn’t go tell mommy and daddy that the bird flew into the ceiling fan. Fuck you. Ya killed the bird and we’re playing.
Formed in 2010, Serial Hawk is a crushingly heavy three piece from Seattle, Washington. They bring a massive wall of sound that will bring you to your knees. Punishing riffs with destructive tone, a band that truly needs to be experienced live.
With riffs and lyrics as bleak and crushing as a Michigan winter, Blackened Doom outfit Temple of the Fuzz Witch bring a unique take on the genre. The Detroit three piece blend multiple styles and influences into a sound completely their own.
oux “/ɒ/” is a band from Chicago, IL. formed by indigo finamore (they/them) and manae solara vaughn (she/her) in early 2018. as a duo, they self-released their debut “honeymood” ep in 2019 and re-released 2020 via chillwavve records. in 2021 they were joined by arya woody (bass, they/he). oux is releasing their debut LP, “necronym”, in 2025.
vita cleveland (she/they), as well as alaska jules (she/her) previously played drums for oux and contributed greatly to the band.
Dyscarnate have long been flying the flag for UK death metal all over the world. Having toured across Australia, Europe, Indonesia, USA, Canade, Israel, Russia and more, the three piece powerhouse’s dominance is now spreading even further around the globe following the critically acclaimed album ‘With All Their Might’. Three men, one purpose, one sound.
Industrial band MissFit Toys was founded by Virus Suriv in Orlando, FL in 2008, began performing live in 2011, and released their first EP on February 11th, 2012. The band continues to evolve and ascend to this very day, integrating new sounds and styles into the music and growing their numbers of fans at each show with high energy performance and intense stage atmosphere.
In the pocket with nuanced, reflective bars or riding atop sunny, soulful bounce, Sacramento-born, Berkeley-bred Caleborate’s sharp, deft flow, gripping narratives, and charismatic, infectious energy paints a vivid portrait of life as a Northern Californian 20-something.
Lauded by Pigeons & Planes as “smart, introspective hip hop” and deemed “one of the most promising spitters out right now” by XXL, the 25-year-old carefully assembles a kaleidoscoping mosaic of love and heartbreak, weed smoke and college loans, family ties and simmering ambitions, triumph and loss – from the cinematic vistas of the Oakland hills to visceral childhood memories.
COCK SPARRER are widely considered to be one of the most influential Street Punk bands in history. 2017 sees them celebrate their 45th Anniversary.
The thing about Sparrer is that they’re not just a band. They are childhood friends and have been making a noise since they got together way back in 1972. They were playing, drinking, going to football and generally making a nuisance of themselves when the late 1970s punk scene started in London. Finally it seemed that there were hundreds of likeminded people with the same attitude.
However, the boys were from the wrong side of town and didn’t quite fit in with the ‘art school’ scene – they were more at home on the terraces wearing jeans and Dr Martens boots than being fashion victims in bondage trousers. They’ve always done things the way they wanted to. As Punk ended up with its own set of rules they were always on the outside as they just didn’t buy into it.
Despite being courted by Sex Pistols manager Malcolm McLaren (who they turned away for not buying a round of drinks), early tours with the Small Faces, Thin Lizzy, Motorhead, Slade amongst others and a record deal with Decca, the ‘music industry’ just wasn’t ready for Cock Sparrer.
British music paper SOUNDS sums it up perfectly in a live review from April 1978:
“Musically and visually, the Cock Sparrer crew are just about as motley and uncouth as its possible for a band to project. Imagine five collectively imageless Cockneys with hair length varying from skinhead to Woody Roller, wearing clothes that looked they pool from the jumble sales, and singing about how East End life is tough but fun…(they)…create a good time sound that occasionally approximates to the original spirit of Slade.”
When the Oi! Scene started in 1980 the band found themselves on a number of compilation albums and a new breed of fans discovered them. This was Punk from the streets and Sparrer and their fans just seemed to fit in. 1983 saw the release of the bands first official album, the seminal SHOCK TROOPS which today is a certified classic and regularly features in the ‘most influential punk album ever’ polls.
Never having got (or needed) the critical acclaim they deserved from the music press the band went largely unnoticed by the masses. However, this brought them cult status amongst those that mattered; the real punk fans and the band have kept that spirit alive for the past 45 years.
1992 saw the resurgence of the band to a level that they never expected. Many new bands had come along and all cited Cock Sparrer as an influence or “the Godfathers of Street Punk”. What followed was the ability to go anywhere in the world, any night of the week and play to packed venues all singing their hearts out.
Rarely do a band get the reaction that these guys do. A Cock Sparrer show is an event. It’s like cup final day. A family singalong. Theirs is a career in reverse, they’re bigger now than they ever were. Regularly headlining all the major punk festivals in Europe and occasionally hitting the US to headline events such as Punk Rock Bowling and Riot Fest.
2017 see’s the band release “FOREVER”, their first album since 2007s Lars Frederiksen (Rancid) produced album HERE WE STAND.
Cock Sparrer – 45 years on, still five blokes in a pub, five mates having a laugh, more than just a band.
Dashboard Confessional is an American rock band from Boca Raton, Florida, led by singer-songwriter Chris Carrabba. The name of the band is derived from the song “The Sharp Hint of New Tears” off their debut album, The Swiss Army Romance.
Chris Carrabba: Guitar
Scott Schoenbeck: Bass
Armon Jay: Guitar
Chris Kamrada: Drums
Jack Butler‘s Jones is a powerful combination of contemporary lyrics and arrangements with the raw, dangerous, but comforting fell of old school Chicago blues.
Honest-to-goodness, bonafide, doggone, Ohtucky/Kentio, pretty-dang-decent, original, unadulterated, Rocknrollin,’ Bluegrassin’, Old Timin’, Honkytonkin’, Western Swingin’, Country Blues music from the Ohio River Valley, written and led by Joe Macheret.
The songs are stories of travelling, love, temptation, heartbreak, family, banjo pickin’ tobacco spittin’ women, gas station sushi, and so much more…
We’ve released a handful of self recorded demos and two studio albums, the Free Showers EP in 2014 and American Dreams, which came out in May 2018 to very positive reception.
“”…the song order throughout the album is like a well thought out mix-tape playlist. Throughout the album, Joe’s Truck Stop displays humor, insight, taste, and skill. Songs like “Blues for Two” and “One More Night” will take you to the era when country music’s stories felt timeless. Enjoy the humor in “Banjo Pickin’, Tobacco Spittin’ Gal” and “Knockin’ Boots”, and get lost in the love stories told in “Moon Sang” and “One More Night.”
– CincyMusic
Ross Hollow has moved around the country, planting musical roots in New Mexico, North Carolina’s blue ridge mountains, New Hampshire’s upper valley, and now Indianapolis. From Americana music rooted in the south west, to folk music of the Appalachian mountains, his music represents place as much as sound. His original music draws from many old and new artists such as Brandi Carlile, Woody Guthrie, Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, Shakey Graves, Bon Iver, and friends up the hollers of Western North Carolina. Ross Hollow’s music takes you on a journey through roads, deserts, forests and thoughts.
Juniper Douglas is a collaborative music and visual performance group with over 30 contributors collected and grown out of the Twin Cities in northern Minnesota. They released their album Error To Introspection via Subaquatic Records Sept 21st. Error To Introspection includes a story boarded visualization, a completed story-line performance, as well as media updates on characters involved. They are on what they call an “Endless Tour” in their converted school bus throughout the United States, planning on setting up small residencies in many towns they visit. Juniper Douglas is committed to bringing connections to communities outside of the regular circuit that most bands approach performance with.
Daydream Review (Elijah Montez) creates dreamy psych pop. His music takes a sonically nostalgic quality, as he weaves classically psychedelic pop sounds à la 1967 Beatles with a synthpop sensibility. After cutting his teeth in the live music capital of the world—Austin—as Laissez Faire Cassette, Montez rebranded as Daydream Review in the advent of his move to Pilsen, Chicago. “Montage” b/w “Then and There” was released shortly after in September 2018, marking a departure from the DeMarcoesque riffs of 2017’s Golden Summer EP into a phase of greater experimentation. Live, Montez is joined by Zac Bron (Breether) on synths and rhythm guitar, Eric Black (Big Blood) on drums, and Jackson Davis on bass. Daydream Review aims to release an LP in 2019.
The members of Big Fucking Idiots met while they were all individually trying to mug the same guy in an alley off Lincoln Avenue. Not only did they hit it off, their mugging target became a bandmate. Rhythmic and sonic discomfort not unlike a Chicago subway station during rush hour.