FAERIE DREAM
Chicago Faerie Punk 🧚
BOY DETECTIVE
Hey, Everybody! We’re The Boy Detective from southeastern Michigan!
Ska Punk for the uninitiated
THE IMPOSSIBLES
The Austin, TX-based pop-ska band The Impossibles originally comprised singers/guitarists Rory Phillips and Gabe Hascall, bassist Craig Tweedy, and drummer Pat Elliott. Debuting in 1997 with a self-titled LP (later re-released on Fueled By Ramen Records), the group returned the following year with an EP, Back For The Attack, before disbanding, as members of the band wanted to go to college.
Phillips stuck with music, however, and started The Stereo with Jamie Woolford (formerly of Animal Chin) in 1999. The posthumous Anthology, featuring material recorded back around when they formed in 1994, was released in spring 1999 as well. After a two-year hiatus, things randomly fell back together and the band reunited, issuing Return in the summer of 2000. The EP 4_Song_Brick_Bomb appeared the following spring. Following the band’s permanent dissolution at the end of that year, Phillips and Hascall went on to form the indie rock outfit Slowreader together.
In June of 2012, ten years and one week after their last show, The Impossibles played a reunion at the Mohawk in Austin, TX with Santiago “Jimmy” Vela (of The Sword and Recover) on drums followed by an appearance at Austin’s Fun Fun Fun Fest in November 2013.
They’ll return to the stage again in September 2026 at the Supernova Ska Festival in Hampton, Virginia.
TIDAL VOLUME
Tidal Volume is the belligerent love child of singer-songwriter/guitarist Zach Sullentrup and keyboard player Will Minard. Known for their dynamic brand of emotional pop-rock and their always charismatic, usually comedic live shows, Tidal Volume has set the pace for whatever it’s currently doing since the band formed in St. Louis in 2010.
Are they microscopic arena rockers? Are they antithetical indie-poppers? What is punk? Who cares? Tidal Volume has played with Peach Pit, Andrew McMahon in the Wilderness, Silversun Pickups, Ludo, Cold War Kids, Mt. Joy, The Happy Fits, Jukebox The Ghost, MisterWives, and many more.
New album Bedroom Blackout, featuring Mike Caraffa on drums and Tom O’Connor on bass, coming spring 2026.
GEDDY TREZAK BAND
Geddy Trezak is a pop rock artist from Hobart, Indiana. He offers a vintage sound designed and packaged for modern ears, and his music is something the world has been missing out on. He is a multi-instrumentalist and has been recording projects in his home ever since he was a teenager. He has released his first album independently and plans to release a follow up within the next year.
His career began to take shape when he was 14 when he was introduced to and learned how to record his own songs. He wears his influences on his sleeve and includes many nods to British Invasion, power pop, psychedelic, and a slew of other odds and ends from all sides of the musical spectrum. By 2020, he had formed his own band, Geddy Trezak Band, and ever since then he has been winning over crowds as an opening band and playing up to 3 hour sets around his home town. In early 2025 he released his first album Demolition and recently played shows in Chicago.
Geddy Trezak currently attends Columbia College Chicago studying Audio Arts and plans to finish out his schooling. With an album under his belt he’s keeping the experience and knowledge he has gained in mind as he writes and records his next project. Trezak has hopes of touring one day either under his own name or with a headliner and is on his way to becoming a name in the music world.
RUNDOWN
Rundown is an alternative rock band based in Chicago, Illinois, recognized for a sound blending folk, indie, and country through a garage rock, “rowdy” style. Active in the Midwest underground for over a decade, they are preparing their first record for release in Fall 2025.
POINT OF REALIZATION
Singer/Songwriter/Creator Album “Year of 11” on all major streaming platforms!!!
DINASTY SHADREALM
UNSIGNED UNDERGROUND HIP HOP ARTIST FROM THE CHICAGOLAND AREA
SMOOCH WALLACE
Music Artist, Actor, Comedian, Brand Ambassador, Entrepreneur
JONNY UNCTH
Jonny Untch is a musician based out of Illinois. He works as a session musician and plays with several bands and artists across the US. He also works as a band director and music teacher.
“So Here We Are Again” was Untch’s debut album, followed up by his sophomore release “Eleven” in 2023.
REVERSE PATHOGEN
a band from the states
DEZI
Hypnotic, defiant, and wildly unpredictable, DEZI’s moody brand of alt-pop comes from embracing every aspect of her singular identity. “My whole life is about riding the in-between,” says the LA-based singer/songwriter/producer. “I’m Cuban American, I’m bisexual, I’m very femme but also very masc. For a long time, I felt like I had to choose which parts of myself to show, but now I’ve stopped trying to be some sort of perfect package.” Building on the success of a string of viral hits, including “rage” and “Chaos Mode,” DEZI’s latest body of work is the sound of an artist pushing against all confines, and ultimately creating a thrilling new space within the pop world.
YUNG TRENCH
Yung Trench creates modern melodic rap with real emotion and a cinematic sound—music that feels like a scene, not just a song.
$AM
VELVET DAYDREAM
A band well known for bringing back the “classic rock show.” Chock-full of retro 70s-inspired style, Kaeden Keys (guitar, vocals), Ryder King (guitar, vocals), Jude Pfanstiel (bass, vocals), and Nick Schwartz (drums, vocals), are restoring a style of music that has been dwindling over the past 30 years: rock and roll. This vintage style of showmanship isn’t just for the stage, as it can be heard on their 2023 self-titled debut album The Velvet Daydream. The band partnered with experts in the art of recording, using holy grails of equipment once used on records from Foreigner, Julian Lennon and Dream Theater.
Authentic to the bone, the band opted to record the album on 1/2 inch tape and preserve the old school rock and roll feeling. They are shooting for the big time, and with good reason.
BASTIAN STEVEN
Hailing from the vibrant city of Amsterdam, Bastian Steven is an R&B/Soul-Pop singer-
songwriter whose music bridges hearts and minds. With a warm voice and deeply personal
lyrics, he explores the beauty and complexity of life, love, and human connection.
Armed with a master’s degree in social science, Bastian dives into the intricacies of human behavior, using his music as a bridge to connect people in an increasingly digital and polarized world. His songs are invitations to dance and to slow down, to feel, and to
reconnect. Honest, hopeful, and full of soul.
From Soulful Beginnings to a Global Stage Bastian’s musical roots lie in Arnhem’s iconic venue Dollars LIVE, where he went from bartender to frontman, captivating audiences every Saturday night. His journey continued as the lead singer of Dear Mr. Man, with whom he released two albums, supported renowned Dutch acts such as KANE and De Dijk, and even featured in a national TV commercial.
As a solo artist, Bastian has found his truest voice. Combining soul, modern R&B, Pop, and storytelling into a sound that feels both familiar and fresh. After his debut EP Disconnected: Wave One, Bastian challenged himself to release a new single every month for a full year. A creative journey that showcased his versatility and dedication. Songs like “Trail of Happiness” and “Freedom & Fireworks” resonated deeply with listeners, and earned placements in several popular Spotify playlists.
A New Album in 2026
2026 marks a new chapter for Bastian with the release of his upcoming album ‘Say Cheers To The People You Love’ produced together with Jasper Zuidervaart. Together with an all-star line-up of dutch musicians, including Maarten Kooymans (Komodo), Sven Figee
(Hammond), Timothy Banchet (Benjamin Herman), and Lorijn von Piekartz (MAAN, Jett
Rebel). He has created a rich and timeless soundscape that feels both intimate and universal.
His recent singles, including “Reason” and “What I Wouldn’t Give”, celebrate life, love, and the pursuit of connection. “What I Wouldn’t Give” reflects on a world full of contrasts — joy and sorrow, beauty and chaos — and asks: what if we could start over, with only the best values leading the way?
Bastian’s long-awaited new album will be released in March 2026, marking the start of an
uplifting club tour across the Netherlands. In July 2026, he will bring the new record to the U.S. with shows in Illinois, Indiana, and Michigan. For this special run, Bastian will unite a powerhouse band of Dutch and American musicians — promising performances driven by emotion, groove, and genuine connection!
AROTTENBIT
8-bit Sludge Techno
THE WACO BROTHERS
Shaking off the plague days like a snake sheds its skin the WACO BROTHERS stumble out of the empty, burning desert with a fierce thirst and an epic new album: THE MEN THAT GOD FORGOT. It’s the first collection of original WACO tunes since 2016’s GOING DOWN IN HISTORY and comes to you viatheir own label Plenty Tuff Records.
The Waco Brothers got together in Chicago in the mid-90s; battle weary punk musicians who wanted nothing more than to play classic country covers for free beer in their adopted home city. Their residencies at bars like the Wrigleyville Tap and Augenblick became legendary for the sheer volume, speed and energy they brought to this task.
After an early & particularly deranged appearance at SXSW Rolling Stone dubbed the Wacos “Clash meets Cash” and they unleashed a fistful of ferocious albums and endlessly entertaining live gigs that defined the Insurgent Country movement.
Every night is still Friday night for the WACO BROTHERS but these new songs lace that reckless exuberance with a more sober awareness of the tsunami of cynical corruption & materialism that infects our everyday existence. BEST THAT MONEY CAN BUY rips its verses from what’s left of honest journalismwhile IN THE DARK provides a requiem for functioning democracy AND boasts the best twin-lead guitar solo since Thin Lizzy. The album ends with NOWHERE TO RUN a deceptively gentle dance number (inspired by a night on the Outlaw Country Cruise where the Wacos backed up their hero Lee “Scratch” Perry) that presents the struggle for social and economic justice as neverending. GEORGE WALKS WITH JESUS is a song about George Jones walking with Jesus.
GHOST DAYS
DARKSOFT
Darksoft is a songwriter and producer who creates dreamy indie rock rooted in dream pop and shoegaze traditions. DIY and self-produced, Darksoft songs blend lush melodic progressions, 80s/90s alternative rock undertones, and understated vocals. All parts are written and recorded by hand in a home studio in Maine using real instruments — including drums, guitars, bass, percussion, and outboard synthesizers.
Lyrically, Darksoft weaves through sayings that explore universal truths and philosophical themes, giving his music an introspective and existential edge. Darksoft is a solo recording project often supported by a full band for live shows. The newest album, Everydayness (2026), continues this approach with jangly guitars, repeating motifs, and reflective songwriting centered on the rhythms of daily life.
Previous releases include Rationalism (2025), Relativism (2024), and Grayscale (2023), released with Spirit Goth Records. The album Beigeification (2023) delivers a postmodern blend of surfy sounds and muted moods, self-released through Look Up Records with tapes printed by 2060 Records.
Earlier records include Cryo (2022), which received national college radio attention and saw the track “Looking Backward” featured on Spotify’s Indie Fresh Finds playlist. The albums Meltdown (2020) and Brain (2018) explore themes of digital futurism and watery introspection, blending computer-age anxiety with raw human emotion.
In recent years, Darksoft has toured the Northeast, West Coast, and Pacific Northwest, building a growing audience through live shows and streaming platforms. Over the years, Darksoft has been featured by outlets including The Big Takeover and Down East Magazine.
Darksoft also produces his own music videos using vintage cameras and practical effects, extending the project’s DIY aesthetic into a broader multimedia experience. Watch on YouTube.
BLACK GUY FAWKES
Black Guy Fawkes emerges as a magnetic force in the realm of Folk Singer-Songwriters, having been deeply rooted in the DIY music scene throughout his upbringing. With a unique and captivating sound, he weaves together the threads of heartfelt folk music and the raw, energetic spirit of punk to create a truly memorable experience for his listeners; Sharing stages with the likes of Frank Turner, Laura Jane Grace, Violent Femmes, Dave Hause, Bad Cop / Bad Cop, and many more.
Drawing inspiration from an eclectic mix of renowned artists, Black Guy Fawkes pays homage to the likes of Frank Turner, Bob Dylan, and Against Me! while simultaneously infusing his own authentic voice into each song. This fusion of influences allows him to transcend musical boundaries, bridging the gap between the introspective nature of folk and the unapologetic rebellion of punk.
ALEJANDRO ARANDA
Alejandro Aranda (f/k/a Scarypoolparty) has moved through many transformative phases in his career. From being rocketed from playing bars and backyards to sold-out headline tours and massive festival stages, Alejandro lived in near-constant motion after his infamous appearance on the seventeenth season of American Idol. At the same time, Alejandro experienced widespread critical acclaim following the release of three back-to-back albums (Exit Form, Los Angeles LP, and Doom Hologram) that reflected a wide array of musical influences and racked up tens of millions of streams. On the heels of his ‘The Acoustic Tour’ in 2021, Alejandro released his ambitious album, The Act of Forgiveness. The 21-track double album-featured twelve songs with Emmy Award and Tony Award-winning composer Rob Mathes’ orchestral arrangements, which proved Alejandro was a true “renaissance artist” (Alternative Press). This release led to Alejandro being tapped as direct support on X Ambassadors’ The Beautiful Liar tour. After being separated from the chaos of the road for a few years, Alejandro prepares for the release of his new single “Pieces.” This long-awaited record shows a softer side to Alejandro, with the main riff having started out as his daily hand exercise on guitar. Alejandro prepares for his next phase of his career, returning to the name he first used when he set out on his musical journey.
RUMBLEHAWK
Rumblehawk is an emerging Chicago-based punk and underground metal band,, which held its first live show in February 2026. They are active in the local Chicago underground scene, frequently playing venues such as Delilah’s.
RUMKICKS
Rumkicks (Korean: 럼킥스) is a punk rock band from Seoul, South Korea, formed in 2018 by Jeong Yeawon and bassist Choi Seun. Rumkicks. Yeawon of Rumkicks performs at Boojik in Gwangju, Korea, 11 February 2023.
GUTTURAL
~Hail the new era of Metal Music~ Welcome to Guttural
PSYTHON
Heavy ass psych metal from Chicago
RIOT DOGS
THE VENEMOUS PINKS
Whether you’re looking for the slick musicianship of shredding guitars, pounding bass and thunderous drums or the oft-inspiring message of a band capable of bringing generations of punk rockers together the Venomous Pinks are very much what the present and future look like. These ladies will rock your world in every room of the house, clear out to the parking lot. While their energetic stage performance exhibits a “work hard and play harder” mentality, this tight, punchy three-piece’s unapologetic style will ravage your ears with their mix of punk, rock and metal. Produced by Cameron Webb (Motörhead, Social Distortion, NOFX) with their album ‘Vita Mors’ and major tours with bands like Dead Kennedys, Less Than Jake, and The Bouncing Souls, they seem destined to erupt on a global scale sooner than later.
SCHOOL OF ROCK (PARK RIDGE)
Musicians Made Here… We perform to teach – Bass Drums Keys Vocals Guitar Song Writing
FRANK ZUMMO
📕Frank Zummo “UNBREAKABLE RHYTHM: My Journey Through Music, Wellness, and Mental Strength” with Jason Pettigrew (BOOK OUT NOW)
REALMS OF DEATH
Realms of Death is a Death metal inspired crossover band.
JANKY LIMO
For more than a decade and hundreds of shows, the current members of Janky Limo have been throwing parties and solidifying their sound. Blues, Rock, Funk, Reggae and Bluegrass all combine to make Janky Limo fans move their feet. With its roots planted by Indiana party outfit “The All Good Things Band”, Janky Limo branches out into more original territory without losing the respect they have for the audience to hear the songs they know and love. A casual listener might not even notice Janky Limo weaving their catchy original music into a show with classics by Paul Simon or The Talking Heads or Phil Collins. Come check out a show and see why folks are lining up to take a ride with Janky Limo!
Janky Limo is part fancy, part funky and always a good time! You’ll hear the songs you know, songs you think you know and songs you’ll want to get to know better. Like the jukebox at Burt Reynolds’ house.
THRIFT STORE HALO
Formed in 1994 by bassist/lead vocalist/songwriter Frank Gradishar and drummer Scott Proce, and joined by Cory Hance (ex- Box-O-Cars and The Cells) in 2022, Chicago indie pop-rock stalwarts, Thrift Store Halo (“TSH”), could easily be compared to local contemporaries such as Material Issue, Fig Dish, Local H or Urge Overkill, as well as more well-known acts such as Suede, Teenage Fanclub, Sugar, The Wallflowers, Gin Blossoms and Velvet Crush. The common thread among all: well-crafted, hook-heavy, radio-friendly, guitar pop-rock buzzing with loud, crunchy riffs, big drums and earnest, yet unpretentious lyrics and vocals.
The band’s 1998 LP, “World Gone Mad” received strong local radio and press and featured the tracks ‘If I Go’ and ‘Crashing In’ which featured on hit 90s TV shows (the former featured on Smallville and Pensacola Wings of Gold while the latter appeared on Party of Five.) Several placements on MTV shows followed, as did a runner up finish in the Disc Makers Best Unsigned Bands of 1998 contest. The resulting traction almost netted a coveted “big deal” with A&M offshoot, Almo Sounds (Garbage, The Pulsars). But, when the deal went south, Gradishar and Proce took an extended hiatus to, as the pair jokes, “earn money from real jobs to pay off the self-funded recording of the record and numerous bar tabs” at a slew of Chicago’s top venues the band frequently played in 90s.
In 2012, the band was invited to play a one-off support slot for the Rock ‘N’ Roll Hall of Fame members and former British Invasion chart-toppers, The Zombies, before slipping away again until a full reunion was mounted in 2016. Since then TSH has released four “EPs”, a “double A-side” single, a surprise Christmas track, and contributed tracks to the Pop Aid benefit CDs (Kool Kat Musik) – all with the loyal backing of venerable Chicago indie label and publisher, Pravda Records.
The band’s songs have charted over 650 times on various indie radio charts, including 40+ total weeks in the Radio Indie Alliance Overall Top 75, and have been played on over 125 radio stations around the world. In total, TSH songs have been streamed over 487,000 on Spotify and in total, the band has amassed approximately 500,000 streams across all platforms as of 3/1/2026.
DECRESCENT
Black Metal from the Midwest
UNHOLY ALTAR
Formed in 2021 in Philadeplhia, Pennsylvania, raw black metal quintet Unholy Altar is a prime example of ritualistic chaos compelled by nature. You can feel their obvious love for the second wave Norwegian bands.
EXPO’76
After more than a dozen years as an entity, Expo’76 rolls on — impossibly fresh in each performance, their reputation as the Chicago area’s most reliably potent and unpredictable cover band firmly established. Their secret all along has simply been remaining true to themselves, playing the music they want to play. Their set list is a far-flung assortment of hits, forgotten classics and deep cuts, that careens effortlessly across all genres and politely sidesteps old warhorses.
When singer/guitarist Dag Juhlin (Poi Dog Pondering, Sunshine Boys) put out a call to his longtime friends, keyboardist Kenny Goodman (The Service, New Duncan Imperials) drummer John Carpender (Outronaut, The Real Pretenders) and bassist Ralph Baumel (The Real Pretenders) in 2009, his only guideline was that the band just focused on being great, and that the rest would take care of itself. It worked. Expo’76 began their monthly residency at Simon’s Tavern in Chicago in early 2010, and within a few months the room was packed out and they were on the cover of The Chicago Sun Times arts section.
Along the way, they’ve played hundreds of gigs beyond that residency: street fairs, dances, weddings, private parties, swanky fundraisers and more, in every possible setting. They’ve been joined onstage by notable singers and assorted show folk like Robert Cornelius, Kelly Hogan, Joel Murray, Syd Straw, Frank Orrall, Michael McDermott, Jack McGee, and an up and coming singer from Evanston named Eddie Vedder.
Being bolstered by the ferocious and rightly in-demand Total Pro Horns means the Expo’76 catalog has even more depth and power, and the Pros wholly share the band’s irreverent but musically razor-sharp approach to performance.
A night of Expo’76 is an unforgettable experience: songs that unlock memories or invite further exploration, performances that dazzle, and overflowing good vibes, delivered with a generous serving of world class banter. There’s no one else like them.
TOM KENNY & THE HI-SEAS
Tom Kenny & the Hi-Seas is a high energy 12 piece band “RocknSoul” party band.
Performing songs from artist such as Chuck Berry, Sam Cooke,The Shangri-Las, The Righteous Brothers, Gary US Bonds, the band has gained a reputation for raucous live performances in venues from Los Angeles to Atlanta to Tijuana, Mexico.
HOT STOVE JIMMY
Hot Stove Jimmy formed in the early 90s ska movement and released their second cd Salute in 1996. This is perhaps their best release and it was pumped out only a year after their 1995 release called Take Your Time.
SOVIET SHISKA
SOVIET SHIKSA is the amalgamation of late nights watching horror movies, apathetic stand up routines and an ever evolving roster of personal heroes that may or may not be dead already. Screams fill your ears while gasoline and sweat permeate the air. Evoking thoughts of murder, wet dreams, and an overwhelming sense of doom.
SOVIET SHIKSA is a Southern Gothic Terror. Pure and simple.
DGNR8ERS
OUX
“oux is the project of multi-instrumentalists, singer-songwriters, and producers indigo finamore and manae solara vaughn…you could call their music “experimental pop,” but that hardly does justice to the profusion of genres and ideas they weave into their songs. four years in the making, oux’s debut full-length, “necronym”, balances prickly idiosyncrasies with sleek earworms, and unraveling its layers is part of the fun.” – jamie ludwig, chicago reader
as a duo, they self-released their “honeymood” EP in 2019 which was re-released in 2020 via chillwavve records. in 2021, bassist arya woody and drummer vita cleveland joined oux. in 2022, vita departed on hiatus and alaska jules (she/her) drummed from 2022-2024 and contributed to necronym before vita returned in 2025. on necronym, oux etches hyper-personal lyricism into maximalist productions indicative of the chaos that boils under the narratives of reason, etching their names into a hypnagogic tryst that relishes in the depths of death and renewal.
DJ PHILIP DE LA MORA
Philip De La Mora, a Chicago based event organizer and dj for over 15 years with a love of the classic synth and new wave sound of the 80s. A past resident of the iconic Exit Bar on North Ave. among other Chicago Alternative clubs and bars. Always staying within the New Wave, Dark Wave, Alternative Ebm and the like genres.
GUACAMAYO
GELATINOUS CUBE AND THE AMBIGUOUS WRECKS
Gelatinous Cube and the Ambiguous Wrecks have unleashed our debut record! We recommend listening to it on full volume on repeat until your ears start bleeding.
WILD ZERO
Wild Zero is a DIY alternative/rock band based in Chicago, IL, often characterized by a high-energy, gritty sound reminiscent of punk and rock-and-roll. They are active in the local scene, playing venues like Cole’s Bar and Cubby Bear, with upcoming performances scheduled in early 2026.
MELLOW HONEY
Embrace the psychonautic cerebrum-space pioneers, Mellow Honey! Tune out the dreary noise of the fluorine-powered mind campaign cast upon you by the pressure of the elite. Join us in our exposition of human nature, the endless cycle of the work routine, and the modern day emotional anesthesia.
SOVIET SHIKSA
SOVIET SHIKSA is the amalgamation of late nights watching horror movies, apathetic stand up routines and an ever evolving roster of personal heroes that may or may not be dead already. Screams fill your ears while gasoline and sweat permeate the air. Evoking thoughts of murder, wet dreams, and an overwhelming sense of doom.
SOVIET SHIKSA is a Southern Gothic Terror. Pure and simple.
T. L. WILLIAMS
Multi-hyphenate star T. L. Williams has been quietly and steadily building his legacy with a catalogue spanning over a decade. Williams began his career as a musician and producer, creating records for Chicago Hip-Hop titans such as Rhymefest, Syleena Johnson, & Twista, His 2015 hit, Gettin Mo Money Than You, reached #1 in Adult contemporary radio markets in several countries including the US and UK. Starting in 2016, TL began touring regularly with notable festival performances including SXSW, the Martha’s Vineyard Film Festival, & Symphony Sound, receiving praise from Grammy-winners such as j. Ivy, Cody Chestnutt & filmmaker John Singleton. Williams followed that up with a recurring musician role on the hit TV Show Empire, a string of critically-acclaimed albums and growing production credits including Raheem Davaughn and Keyshia Cole. 2023 Saw the release of his 7th LP Self Care, including hits like the red-hot remake of James Brown’s The Boss. Adding to an independent catalogue worthy of its classic status with over 7 million streams and counting.
STEEL WOLF
Steel Wolf are Lithuanian-American recording artists
from Long Island, New York. Described as playing “music
to incite a riot”, Steel Wolf took their name from
Lithuanian folklore in 1982 and is still active today. Aside
from archetypal venues, they have performed annually at
the NYC Marathon and the north east Lithuanian camp,
Giraite. Their releases not only contain music with “bar
brawl-ready song titles” but also tracks like “Himnas 2010”
– a version of the Lithuanian National Anthem. As Long
Island Good Times magazine put it “Steel Wolf blends punk
anachronisms with Lithuanian mythology.”
KICKED BY A HAND
Kicked By A Hand is queer ska punk from Midwest, U.S.A. The ensemble being the size of Streetlight Manifesto, music akin to Less Than Jake, and yet lyrics somewhere between emo, pop punk, and Homestar Runner. Originally a solo project, Kicked By A Hand has quickly grown in size and following after the release of RJ Ramanauskas’ debut album Thanks To Friends Of Friends (available on stream and CD). Having made a home in Bridgeport and expanding north to The Cubby Bear, and back south at HAZ Studios, and now Reggies, the spread of LGBTQ friendly ska is ever expanding. New originals and new covers coming out constantly during live performances. Featured on WXAV radio, The Ska Show with Beefy, and Dissonant Waves on YouTube. Enough talking, let’s get to rocking with Kicked By A Hand!!!
STEELY DANE
Reelin’ in the Years, Do it Again, Peg, Aja,…all the hits and deep cuts. Winner of multiple awards for best tribute band, Steely Dane is dedicated to not only faithfully reproducing the Steely Dan and Donald Fagen songbook, but to bringing an energetic live-show experience to the crowd. Some of the Midwest’s best jazz and rock musicians have banded together around their passion for Steely Dan music, playing in the same configuration as the Steely Dan touring band including a four-piece horn section and two background singers. Shows consist of hits and deep cuts and sometimes even complete albums and are sure to have you out of your seats singing along.
RAMBLEWOOD
Ramblewood is an indie folk musician based in the heart of Ohio. Drawing inspiration from the scenic countryside and the vibrant music scene of the Midwest, Ramblewood’s music is a mix of heartfelt lyrics, intricate guitar work, and soulful vocals. Growing up in a small town, Ramblewood’s love for music began at an early age. His passion for playing the guitar led him to explore a variety of genres, from blues to bluegrass, before settling on the rootsy sound of folk music. With a voice that is both soothing and powerful, Ramblewood’s music is a reflection of his own life experiences. His lyrics are honest and introspective, exploring themes of love, loss, and the human condition. Whether he’s singing about the joy of a summer day or the pain of lost love, Ramblewood’s music is always authentic and relatable. Ramblewood is poised to make a name for himself in the world of indie folk music. His music is a reminder that sometimes the simplest things in life – a beautiful melody, a well-crafted lyric, and a voice that speaks from the heart – are all that is needed to create something truly special.
LIFE RIGHT NOW
Life Right Now is a Billboard-charting band known for the single Wolfpack. Blending intensity with atmosphere, the band enters a new chapter with “Midnight City,” out January 30th.
TIFFANY GOUCHE
Tiffany Gouché is an Inglewood-based R&B singer, songwriter, and producer known for her soulful, “do-it-yourself” approach, having performed with a live band at venues like the Ace Hotel New Orleans and in Atlanta.
LEON LEWIS-NICOL
A native of Sierra Leone, Leon Lewis-Nicol is a jazz pianist whose musical inspiration, compositions and improvisational voice are deeply rooted in his West African Heritage and Christian beliefs.
ABSTRACT SOUNDS
Abstract Sounds is a 6-piece Alternative Jazz Fusion band from Cleveland, OH. Led by saxophonist Jevaughn Bogard. The band formed in late 2021 from a collection of jazz and dance music lovers.Abstract Sounds mixes deep harmony and dance. If you like a power house horn section this is for you
ALYSSA BERNAL BAND
Born and raised in San Antonio, Texas. Discovered by Pharrell Williams in 2010 and signed to Star Trak/Interscope Records. Toured with Lifehouse/Kris Allen in 2011 & performed with Jason Derulo at the AMA’s pre-show in 2012. Independent Artist since 2013.
SINE
SINE’s music style dubbed, “electronic boom”, “ mixes beats, industrial noise, sub-bass, and synths into a dark, lush blend, while their live shows combine synths, drumming, and vocals into a powerful, female-fronted performance that both entertains and empowers.
CURSE MACKEY
CURSE MACKEY is an Austin, Texas-based darkwave industrial artist known for his solo work, and with Pigface, My Life with the Thrill Kill Kult, and Clan of Xymox. A distinct voice in the post-industrial world, his live set is an energetic and cinematic must-see for fans of dark electronic music.
LYRIC AND THE NEW BAND
The New Band is a groove band out of Blue Island that stands by 3 structural pillars; Improvisation, fun & connection. There is an equal passion for detail, creativity and spontaneity within the music; playing LIVE, The New Band is instructed to IMPROVISE ALL SOLO SECTIONS… this means every time you see the NEW BAND, you hear NEW MUSIC.
I HATE PEOPLE
BOB SEGER & THE SILVER BULLET BAND (NIGHT MOVES)
Night Moves is the ninth studio album by American rock singer-songwriter Bob Seger, released on October 22, 1976, by Capitol Records. It is his first studio album to credit his backing band, the Silver Bullet Band, although they only perform on five of the nine songs on the album; the other four feature backing by the Muscle Shoals Rhythm Section.
JOHN CALE “PARIS 1919”
Paris 1919 is the third solo studio album by the Welsh musician John Cale, released on 25 February 1973 by Reprise Records. Musicians including Lowell George of Little Feat and Wilton Felder performed on the album. It was produced by Chris Thomas.
LASH OUT
Chaotic Milwaukee Punk. Great music for bad people.
Jayke Orvis – guitar and vocals
Kay Jones -vocals
Chris Ellis – bass
Cody Lamb – drums
LEVEE DISTRICT
Built from Chicago’s musical heritage, LEVEE DISTRICT is power pop crying out from a city of writers, fighters, lovers, and Malort.
STAR TRUCKER
High octane classic rock built for the open road. Fueled by grit, groove, and guitar tones. Based out of Cedar Rapids Iowa. The band consists of Davis Coover and Evan Stock on electric guitars, Zakk Buch on bass guitar, and Greg Taylor on drums.
MATT KEEN & HIS BAND
Chicagoland’s premier guitarist and songwriter blends soulful rock with classic blues influences, and is a prominent figure in the midwest music and festival scene.
IUIO
ONE WITH THE RIVERBED
One with the Riverbed is a five-piece post-metal band from Kalamazoo, Michigan.
BIMBO ROCOCO
noisestar, alpha female, follicular angel of death
ROCCO DESGRES
Rocco Desgres is a Queer musician from Chicago, Illinois, exploring the lo-fi sounds
of the 80s on analog synthesizers. With soaring falsetto vocals, pulsating electron dance beats, and live analog synthesizers. Their two Studio Records, “The Very Very Best of Rocco Desgres” followed by “Rocco Desgres Now in Five Exciting New Flavors!”, are high-energy synth pop songs recorded exclusively on analog synthesizers. Their live electronic sound has classic inspirations from Depeche Mode, O.M.D., and Italo Disco, and modern inspirations such as Holy Wire, Dutch Experts, and Odor Eater. Rocco Desgres has collaborated with many artists such as Recent History, Moving Day, Translucent Industry, and Cosmic Duct Tape. They have been dazzling audiences with their high-energy performances at the best venues in Chicago, most notably, Coles Bar, The Burlington Bar, and the Fallin’ Log. The pulsating electronic dance music and captivating high-energy performance of Rocco Desgres always give audiences an unforgettable experience.
SOUTHSIDE OCCUPATIONAL ACADEMY POLAR PLUNGE
Southside Occupational Academy is proud to support Special Olympics Illinois through participation in the Special Olympics Illinois Polar Plunge, a major public fundraising event that supports year-round Special Olympics programming.
All Southside students participate in Special Olympics events throughout the year, including alpine skiing, snowshoeing, basketball, volleyball, soccer, flag football, and more. Funding from events like the Polar Plunge helps cover uniforms, equipment, transportation, and competition fees—ensuring these opportunities remain available at no cost to families.
TOOTHPICK
SOUTH BEND REAL HC
THE BEST BAND IN THE WORLD
THE DOOMSTOMPERS
Punk-Rocksteady from Queens, NY
JOKER’S REPUBLIC
Ska Punk POWER TRIO from North NJ
Punkerton Records Artist
RUNAWAY RICOCHET
1 cup of ska
5 grams of punk
3 tablespoons of emo (midwest)
and a pinch of progressive jazz fusion
Minneapolis, MN
JOSH BLACK
With over 500k followers on TikTok and millions of views across social media, Josh Black has quickly become one of comedy’s sharpest voices. His viral sketches and stand-up clips have earned him a growing audience. Josh has recently moved from Nashville TN to Chicago.
OZ NOY TRIO
“It’s Jazz. It just doesn’t sound like it.”
This is how virtuoso guitarist Oz Noy describes his intoxicating blend of jazz, funk, rock, blues, and r&b.
Born in Israel, Oz Noy started his professional career at the age of 13 playing jazz, blues, pop, and rock music. By age 24, he was one of the most established studio guitar players in the country.
Since his 1996 arrival in New York, Oz has made a huge impact on the international music scene. His unique and intoxicating style has broken all the rules of instrumental guitar music by focusing on the groove.
ROMAN CANDLE
Hailing from the desert underground of Las Vegas, Piper Ferrari, Jonas Vece, Sergio Lopez ,and Alex Dupuis form one of the most emotionally raw and compelling new voices in modern screamo. What began as a creative spark between Piper and Jonas has evolved into a fully realized four-piece, blending serrated aggression with vulnerable lyricism and a deep sense of place within the current hardcore landscape.
After announcing themselves with the breakout EP Discount Fireworks, Roman Candle spent
the next few years refining their sound and expanding their reach. Their recent run of
singles—“Fire In the Night Sky Forever,” “This Band Has Led Me To Places I Wouldn’t Go
With a Gun,” and “Nothing Is Original”—showcases the band’s sharpened emotional focus
and their ability to balance chaos with clarity. In January 2026, they released “Can We Watch Something Happy?”, a powerful track rooted in Piper’s personal experiences, further
solidifying the band’s reputation for striking, unfiltered storytelling.
Onstage, the band operates with total commitment. Piper’s commanding vocal presence,
Jonas’s tense and dynamic guitar work, Nico’s driving low end, and Bryson’s explosive
percussion combine into a live experience that feels both communal and cathartic. Their
sold-out Las Vegas show in October 2025 served as a defining moment—evidence of a band
whose hometown support has swelled alongside their national attention.
With new music underway and a full-length album on the horizon, Roman Candle stands firmly at the forefront of a new generation of screamo artists—raw, intentional, and resonant in a way that cuts straight to the bone.
SPIRITWORLD
“With, Helldorado, the third installment of SPIRITWORLD’s death-
western trifecta, chief hombre Stu Folsom takes the listener deeper
into a world where the hot desert sun beats down on his singular
vision of the American West as a gateway to hell. “It’s a different
album than the past two,” says Folsom, of the thematic and sonic
journey that began with the Las Vegas band’s 2020’s Pagan
Rhythms LP and continued with 2022’s Deathwestern. Now, the
story rides on in a cloud of dust and a spray of blood with his latest
offering. Helldorado blasts the Mojave-born bloodlust and
stomping, tomahawk riffs SPIRITWORLD won their brutal, horrific
vision of the old west with while riding straight into macabre
Americana
CAM MARTIN
I’m letters in your soup
NICK BROWER
Cellist/songwriter based in Chicago.
NEW FOUND POWER
Five-piece Crossover/Thrash band from Chicago.
SKINLAB
Our new single ‘Flesh Wounds’ is OUT NOW!!
SCHOOL DRUGS
New Jersey hardcore punk
EXTINCTION EARTH
Extinction Earth progressive metal band
SILK & NIGHTWIND
Frequently called “Chicago’s best kept secret”, Silk and NightWind prides itself on the fulfillment of its mission statement…”music people have heard in a way that they have never heard it, and music people have never heard. Being a collaboration of singer/songwriters and producers, Silk and NightWind have abandoned the desire to just “cover music” but to interpret the popular songs of various era’s and present their own creativity thru their own original songs and arrangements. Their genre? “Contemporary Soul, House and Jazz Pop”.
Nuff said.