Chicago-based Fascinator erupts with moments of explosive power and passages of airy space powered by honest vocals and lyrics that grapple with personal politics and loss in a divided universe.

The Chicago trio is influenced by the exposed-livewire power of various indie Midwest guitar bands and the thick cloaks of noise found billowing through classic shoegaze songs. Singer Erik Uppenberg’s lyrics explore the gouging, isolating forces of prejudice, objectification, and ableism in music and culture among other themes affecting identity and the heart.

Fascinator was founded in 2022 by friends and neighbors Jarrett Dapier and Erik Uppenberg. The two bonded over favorite music – a bond that grew as they began writing music together. Adding Ed Jaffe on bass in 2023 brought a heft and cohering force to the band that led quickly to writing their first 4 songs.

After hearing early demos, drummer and composer Matt Walker (The Smashing Pumpkins, Filter, Cupcakes, Morrissey, Garbage, of1000faces) signed on to produce and mix the band’s first EP. In November 2023, Fascinator recorded what would become the Trust Falls EP with Walker and engineer Scott Tallarida at Trigger Chicago across one single, brutal afternoon.

In 2024, Fascinator released the product of that session: the Trust Falls EP. On it, the band explores the contrast between bursts of distortion and powerful, unexpected rhythms in four songs that feature vast sonic range and thoughtful, personal storytelling.

4th Point is an American alternative rock band from the Chicago area. In 2011, the band formed with the hope of creating honest music that they believe in. Influenced by the sounds and styles of artists like Switchfoot and Skillet, 4th Point brings passion to their performances through endless energy, sincerity, and crowd interaction. The band’s relatable lyrics and upbeat music are undeniable on the stage and reflected in their three full-length albums. 4th Point has shared the stage with national touring artists Switchfoot, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus, Red, Big Daddy Weave, ISLANDER, NF, Colton Dixon, and many more.

Additionally, 4th Point has performed at several Christian Festival Association (CFA) festivals including Big Ticket Festival (Gaylord, MI), Lifest (Oshkosh, WI), Unity Christian Music Festival (Muskegon, MI), and Sonshine Festival (Somerset, WI). Band members: Matt Ellis Bryce Knight Bradley Kus Joe Valliquette

Born amidst the chaos of quarantine, Fin Talbot is a unique blend of Chicago’s grit and Dublin’s charm. Started by Sean Fagan and joined by Dan Glines and his brother John, their indie rock landscape is shaped by influences ranging from ’70s glam rock to early 2000s indie rock. As they continue to evolve and grow, be on the lookout for new releases and shows.

A band that bloomed from a dark and damp basement in Chicago… BloomSwitch is a 3 piece band composed of Bing Labog (Vocals/Guitars), Chris Mall (Bass) and Kris Cocjin (Drums). With their combined love for different genres of music, – blues, rock, funk, hip-hop and disco – out came a sound that is both unique and unusual.