Since mid-2008, Chicago’s Bitter Wigs have been committed to carving out the tightest, loudest, rock grooves imaginable. Their dynamic stage performances have garnered them a large cult following around the city, even without the release of an “official” recording. “The Wigs” harbor roots steeped in early 70’s punk simplicity, but always with an eye fixed on the future. Their first studio recording will be available in early 2010. Some of the test versions of those recordings can be heard here now, with the final versions being posted after the album is released. Enjoy.

Kradakis is a metal band from the South side of Chicago.  Made up of Patrick Manthey, Ronnie DiCola, Fred Full, Mike Madrigal and Vanessa Victory, these guys bring a traditional sound of old school metal with a modern day style, sort of Maiden meets Mastodon. You ll enjoy for sure.

The Bumpus Hounds are a Punk Rock Trio from Chicago, that consists of brothers Pete and Mike Vercillo, and Mike Webb. The band takes many elements of influence from earlier bands in their hometown on what was deemed “The Chicago Sound.” Aggressive and melodic music, with smart, tounge-in-cheek lyrics and no-nonsense attitude. The songs are high energy with a very honest and straight-forward delivery. They have a 10 song CD that they released themselves, and a slew of new songs that arer played live all around Chicago. They take their music and craft seriously; without taking themselves too seriously.

We like to play!

Krayola was a supergroup formed by Chicago musical legends in the 1980’s. But all original members of this group left town for good or got a mean case of the deads. Safety is no accident!

But one summer day, while playing with the ducks in the Chinatown Park, grade school best friends Amanda, Ben, Brett and Jim came upon a mysterious shoe box. Inside the shoebox? A notebook filled with incredible songs! Four loosie cigarettes! And a roll of nickels!

Not wasting any time, the four friends began smoking the wet cigarinos. Between puffs, Brett slipped the roll of nickels in his jean pockets; everyone saw, but nobody said anything.

After clearing their throats, the four friends took turns singing the songs to each other. “Wow!” said a passing police officer.

What happened next is southloop history!

In conclusion, Krayolas is a very talented band that has been trying very hard for years to write new songs that might make the original Krayolas proud. Generous souls that they are, most Krayola shows are fundrazors. Come support local music. Listen to The Crayons.

(Postscript – Brett fell under the influence of marriage and became a Hawaiian mailman. Curtis stepped in to fill guitar. Curtis was chosen because of his high compatibility with the Krayola online dating profile. His similarity percentage was 67%: majority.)