The Overture is a rundown of live music and performances happening in and around Champaign-Urbana each week. All of the information is as accurate as we can publish; however, all shows and performances are subject to change at any time. Thank you for understanding.
Did we miss something this week? Have a show coming up you think we should know about? Email us at [email protected] with the details.
Monday, January 22nd
The Jaybirds
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5:30 p.m.
The Jaybirds bring their dynamic bluegrass sound to Rose Bowl Tavern. Known for their energetic performances, this group promises a toe-tapping evening.
The Urbana Hootenanny
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 8 p.m.
The Urbana Hootenanny offers a vibrant mix of folk and acoustic music, making for an engaging evening at the Rose Bowl Tavern.
Tuesday, January 23rd
TromBari
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
TromBari, known for their unique blend of jazz and brass music, will be set to deliver an evening of dynamic rhythms and soulful melodies, perfect for jazz enthusiasts.
JOSEPH with Sister
► The Castle Theatre // $30.00-$130.00 // 7:30 p.m.
Indie folk band JOSEPH, accompanied by the harmonious Sister, is set to enchant the audience at The Castle Theatre. Their performance is expected to be a heartfelt journey through indie folk music, showcasing their impeccable vocal harmonies.
Wednesday, January 24th
Vine Street Syncopators
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
The Vine Street Syncopators bring their lively jazz tunes to the Rose Bowl Tavern.
J.Y.N. (Just Your Name) with Bittersweet Live
► The Canopy Club // $12 to $15 // 8 p.m.
J.Y.N. is fronted by Jin Lee, a Korean-American singer-songwriter, producer and multi-instrumentalist from Chicago, known for his single “Hard to Love Reflections”, which he created in his bedroom at age 17.
United States Air Force Band
► Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts // free (see details) // 7:30 p.m.
The United States Air Force Band promises a patriotic and inspiring musical showcase at the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts.
Thursday, January 25th
Americana Happy Hour ft. Jake & Mikayla
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
Experience a soothing evening with Jake & Mikayla at the Americana Happy Hour. Their folk and Americana tunes are perfect for a relaxed atmosphere.
Editor’s Pick: A Journey Through Neoclassical Soundscapes with Shannon Hayden
► Illini Courtyard Cafe // free // 7 p.m.
Experience the innovative fusion of classical and modern music as Shannon Hayden, a Central Illinois native, performs at the Illini Courtyard Cafe on January 25th. This University of Illinois School of Music presentation will highlight Hayden’s unique blend of string arrangements and electronic experimentation, showcasing her virtuosity in creating a captivating musical narrative.
Mary Chapin Carpenter and Shawn Colvin
► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // $10 to $100 // 7:30 p.m.
Join two of the most acclaimed singer-songwriters of their generation, Mary Chapin Carpenter and Shawn Colvin, for an intimate evening of music and stories at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to see these two Grammy-winning artists perform together on stage, sharing songs from their vast catalogs and their friendship.
Spafford
► The Castle Theatre // $25.00 // 8:00 p.m.
Spafford is a jam band that blends rock, funk, jazz, reggae, and electro-pop to create a unique musical experience. Their improvisational style is fun for audience members and band members alike.
Manifest West with S’appelle
► The Canopy Club // $10 to $12 // 9 p.m.
Manifest West is set to play The Canopy Club to celebrate the debut of their new 7-track EP, I Just Feel Nothing at All, during a captivating live performance on Thursday evening. The night begins with S’appelle as the opening act, promising an evening filled with fresh tracks.
Friday, January 26th
Chip Stephens Organ Trio
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
The Chip Stephens Organ Trio, known for their jazz excellence, will perform at the Rose Bowl Tavern. Their music is both soulful and invigorating.
Blue Velvet Couch Series
► Gallery Art Bar // free // 7 p.m.
Dive into the heart of musical storytelling at Gallery Art Bar’s “Blue Velvet Couch Series,” launching this Friday, January 26th. Experience the emotive and diverse talents of Emily Anne, Fiona Kimble, Emily How, and Paul Kotheimer in an intimate setting, where each song becomes a personal narrative against Urbana’s rich artistic backdrop.
Bristle with The Vaudevillians
► The Space // free (reserve a spot) // 8 p.m.
Experience an electrifying night of music at The Space in Champaign, as local favorites Bristle bring their dynamic blend of power pop punk to the stage on Friday. Joining them are The Vaudevillians, promising a show filled with high-energy performances and unforgettable entertainment.
Clayton Burke Band with Hunter Peebles & The Moonlighters
► Rose Bowl Tavern // $10 to $15 suggested cover // 8:30 p.m.
Enjoy a night of country and folk with the Clayton Burke Band, joined by Hunter Peebles & The Moonlighters at the Rose Bowl Tavern.
Caleb Cook Band
► Huber’s West End Store // free // 7 p.m.
The Caleb Cook Band brings their unique country flair to Huber’s West End Store. A perfect evening for those who love heartfelt country music.
Saturday, January 27th
Dom Flemons
► Rose Bowl Tavern // $15 to $30 // 4 p.m.
Dom Flemons, known as the “American Songster,” brings his multi-instrumental genius to the Rose Bowl Tavern. His performance is a deep dive into the roots of American music.
EDITOR’S PICK: An Evening with Branford Marsalis
► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // $10 to $90 // 7:30 p.m.
Branford Marsalis, a legendary figure in jazz, offers an evening of extraordinary music at Krannert Center. His saxophone mastery is simply unparalleled.
Terminus Victor with Rory Book & the Volumes and Gonzo Diablo
► Rose Bowl Tavern // $10 cover // 8:30 p.m.
Terminus Victor, along with Rory Book & the Volumes and Gonzo Diablo, promises an electrifying rock experience at the Rose Bowl Tavern. T-Vic will be playing songs off their brand new album, Everending as well as older tunes.
Anika Emily and Jake Fava
► Huber’s West End Store // free // 7 p.m.
Anika Emily and Jake Fava offer a cozy acoustic evening at Huber’s West End Store. Their performance is a blend of soulful vocals and beautiful guitar work.
Sunday, January 28th
Church Street Ramblers
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 4 p.m.
The Church Street Ramblers bring their traditional folk and bluegrass music to the Rose Bowl Tavern for a delightful Sunday afternoon.
Forebeat
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5:30 p.m.
James Mauck’s Forebeat offers a unique fusion of music and rhythm that will enthrall as well as entertain.