Monday, August 13, 2012

The Post-Lolla Show You Should Have Seen

While Lollapalooza brings the famous and not so famous bands in to Chicago in droves, the after party to be at was at the Subterranean. Saturday night of August 4th, the small yet mighty Wicker Park bar/music venue showcased three bands. Ballroom Boxer by way of Akron, Ohio has a style similar The Gaslight Anthem with subtle hints of Arcade Fire. According to their Facebook page they are, "...what you get when you drop the Great Gatsby, Johnnie Walker & fireworks on the Fourth into a blender." Their set was enjoyable and fun to dance to. 



The next band up was Sybris. With a rockin' female singer, Angela Mullenhour, this band created a wave of sound that encapsuled the slightly more crowded Subterranean. The atmospheric tones emanating from guitarist Phil Naumann were captivating. The shy, yet talented guitarist never once looked at the crowd, but his presence was unmistakable and imperative to the band. The bassist, Shawn Podgurski, was the comic relief that the band desperately needed as he was the only one who seemed comfortable interacting with the audience (although he could stand to take a few bass lessons.)

Before Meeting Peter Hook in My Photos by

(Photo taken from band's myspace)


Closing the night, was the Big Pink. The Big Pink has been one of my favorite bands since their debut three years ago. I have always made it a point to see them when they come to Chicago. "A Brief History of Love", their debut album, was a revelation. Seeing them play it live was even better than hearing the recording. Their performance at the Subterranean was less than stellar, and here's why. There is no doubt that the band is moving with the times and has added a house music/DJ vibe to the set, and this was disheartening. I was a fan of them being a band. You know, the old drums, bass, guitar, and singing. This time around they were not the familiar band I have grown to love. Milo Cordell, the patchman and DJ took the stage with a small gracious wave, clad with a Chicago flat-brimmed hat. Robbie Furze grabbed his guitar, and the new drummer, Victoria Jean Smith, was eating an apple. Really?? An apple? You couldn't have eaten that thing in the past three hours when you were back stage? You had to take that thing with you? Not very rock and roll to me at all. That aside, she has some serious drum chops. They mixed their songs on stage adding out of key sounds and effects that just bothered me. I wanted to hear "Velvet" played straight, as that song is so pure. But alas, the integrity was gone. Robbie worked the crowd like a true frontman, taking on a new rapper-like persona  sans guitar. It was great to see them in such a small venue, but next time, I hope they stick to what made them in the first place. 

Signed, 

A loving fan












Monday, July 9, 2012

Salvage One - Not Your Average Store

Arts Entertainment ventured to the warehouse district of Chicago to check out Salvage One, a store that sells everything old that is new again. If you're a fan of nostalgia or are looking for that old time piece for your home that you haven't found anywhere else - look no further. Salvage One is more than likely to have it. 

It is difficult to explain this store other than a brick building that houses all things old and recovered. From sinks, to vintage ovens, to full service bars that can be moved to your home, Salvage One is an eclectic warehouse with things you never knew you needed. If you are in the market for some perfect finishing touches to your place, check this place out. 

The vast space with three total floors is available to rent out for parties, weddings, and special events. It is truly a unique venue that will set your party apart from others. 












Friday, June 22, 2012

Don't Press Send - Round Table with Chuck Swirsky

We had another great round table discussion talking all things Bulls, Lebron, and play-offs with the Bulls' Play-by-Play man himself, Chuck Swirsky.

Make sure to visit www.ArtsEntertainment.com to hear the interview and to watch musical performances. 








Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Arts Entertainment Does Lichtenstein

Arts Entertainment made a visit to The Art Institute of Chicago to see the Roy Lichtenstein exhibit. When we arrived we were stunned by how many pieces there were. Not only does the exhibit feature some of his most famous works, but also sculpture, installation art, and sketches from his personal sketchbook. 








Thursday, May 17, 2012

The Studebaker and Playhouse Theaters

Little known fact, The Fine Arts Building of Chicago houses some of the city's oldest theatres. They are not functioning just yet, but we thought we'd let you have sneak peek of them. Imagine- it's 1925, can you imagine all of the greats that have played these venues. These theaters ooze personality and history. Some say they are even haunted.... you decide.


Here is a snapshot of the Studebaker Theatre. 



Here is the view from the rafters of the Playhouse Theatre.

More to come soon! 

Stay on the lookout, and remember to visit www.ArtsEntertainment.com.

Thursday, October 6, 2011

Around the Coyote

The Flat Iron Arts Building in Chicago, IL held their annual 3-day open studio event, Around the Coyote.


Here are some pictures from the event.













Friday, July 22, 2011

Lang Lang at the Chicago Cultural Center

On July 8th international piano superstar, Lang Lang, gave a concert for children and classical music enthusiasts at the Chicago Cultural Center.


Lang Lang's foundation, The Lang Lang International Music Foundation, has set out to educate and inspire the young generation of budding classical music artists.



He shared the stage with three of his most gifted students, Anna Larsen, who played Sonata No. 2, II, by Sergei Prokofiev and her own composition, Prelude. Charlie Lui played Etude No. 10, by Mortiz Moszkowski and Prelude & Fugue No. 10 in E minor, by J.S. Bach. Derek Wang played Polonaise Op. 53, "Heroic," by Frederick Chopin. All of the kids displayed their musical talent and certainly impressed the audience.

Lang Lang then took the stage with President & CEO of Ravinia, Welz Kauffman, and the three young musicians to take questions from the audience.


After the Q&A session Lang Lang performed a solo piece.


After being swarmed by fans Lang Lang granted Arts Entertainment an exclusive interview that can be seen at www.ArtsEntertainment.com and www.ArtsEntertainment.asia.