Smile Politely

The Overture: April 22-28

Derrick Philips
In this image, four members of a band are posing against a playful backdrop featuring a repeated pattern of tiger faces. From left to right: the first person is standing with a casual stance, wearing a plaid blazer over a graphic t-shirt and sporting a slight smile. The second person, sitting down, exudes cool in a yellow button-up shirt and tan jacket, complemented by a fedora and orange-tinted round sunglasses. The third individual, standing, makes a statement with a distinctive polka-dotted shirt and thick-rimmed glasses, while a hat adds a touch of style. The fourth person stands out with an elegant look, wearing a textured purple top with a voluminous black fur accessory draped over one shoulder, completing a look that balances glam with an indie vibe. The quartet presents a mix of personal styles, from eclectic to sophisticated, hinting at a creative and vibrant group dynamic.
The Claudettes on Facebook

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, April 22nd

Joan Hickey Trio ft. Ethan Phillion

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.

A black and white photo captures a musician performing in a record store. The artist, wearing a cap and a casual outfit with a guitar strapped on, sings into the microphone, with focus and emotion evident in his posture. The audience, an attentive and diverse group of individuals, some with discernible smiles, stand among the racks of records, their attention drawn to the performer. The image, with its grainy texture and candid feel, offers a glimpse into an intimate live music scene, resonating with the charm of a bygone era.
Jake Ewald of Slaughter Beach, Dog on Instagram

Slaughter Beach, Dog (Solo) with Erin Rae

► Independent Media Center // $25 // 7 p.m.

Join Jake Ewald, the heart and soul behind Slaughter Beach, Dog, as he delivers a solo performance that dives deep into personal storytelling and evocative songwriting. Accompanied by the ethereal sounds of Erin Rae, this evening promises an intimate exploration of indie music that resonates with heartfelt honesty and lyrical depth.

Parkland Jazz Combo Spring Concert

► Parkland College // Free // 7 p.m.

Head to Parkland College for an evening of classic and contemporary jazz. The performance takes place at the Second Stage Theatre and features music by Horace Silver, Antonio Carlos Jobim, Cal Tjader, Paul Freedman, and more.

The Urbana Hootenanny

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 8 p.m.

Tuesday, April 23rd

Brad Wheeler Fusioney Band

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.

A person is taking a selfie from a high angle, capturing their upper body and face. They are wearing a whimsical, multicolored knitted hat with protruding horn-like features and a white T-shirt with a vivid, flame-like design. The background features what appears to be the textured, corrugated surface of a green tunnel, adding a sense of depth and a pop of color to the image.
Godly the Ruler on Instagram

EDITOR’S PICK: Godly the Ruler with Ocean Child, Sitrus Sol, and Venus Overdrive 

► The Canopy Club // $15 to $25 // 7 p.m.

Experience STATE-OF-THE-ARTS at The Canopy Club in Urbana, IL, headlined by the dynamic Godly the Ruler, featuring their innovative blend of punk, rock, and electronic hip hop. The event unfolds Tuesday night with sets from Ocean Child, Sitrus Sol, and Venus Overdrive. Hosted by AI@UIUC in collaboration with jam.town and B[U]ILT, this charity fundraiser supports B[U]ILT’s mission to empower minority computer scientists, with all proceeds helping to provide application fee waivers for students from underrepresented backgrounds applying to CS@Illinois.

Wednesday, April 24th

In this dynamic photo, two musicians are captured mid-performance, passionately immersed in their craft. The musician on the left, with long hair obscuring part of his face, strikes an intense pose as he plays a white electric guitar, his body leaned forward in a moment of fervor. On the right, another musician is bent over a drum set, focusing intently as he plays the bass guitar, both members dressed in dark attire that reflects the serious and energetic atmosphere of their performance. They are onstage, illuminated against a dark background that contrasts with the vitality and movement suggested by their postures and expressions.
Meth by Rawb Danger

Meth, Dreamwell and Thotcrime

► The Space // $10 // 8 p.m.

Dive into a night of high-energy and emotive music as Meth, Dreamwell, and Thotcrime take the stage with their signature styles of hardcore and punk. Known for their raw power and visceral live shows, Meth delivers a gripping blend of chaotic rhythms and searing vocals that leave audiences breathless. Dreamwell contrasts with their melodic hardcore, weaving complex emotions into each track that resonate deeply. Thotcrime adds a digital hardcore twist, merging aggressive sounds with electronic beats for a set that is both anarchic and engaging. Expect a relentless barrage of sound that challenges the senses and pushes the boundaries of punk.

Vine Street Syncopators

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.

The Ghost Inside with Paleface Swiss and special guests

► The Castle Theatre // $31.50 // 7 p.m.

Thursday, April 25th

Photo of eight people singing in a bar against the background of a red and wood stage. One blonde woman is at a single microphone and the others are grouped around two other microphones.
L to R: Stephen Burdsall, Francesco Console, Frida Guerra, Kathryn King, Lauren Zimmerman, Maya Cornejo, Kyle Widener, Christopher Commiso; Photo by Hayley Stachniak

Krannert Center Uncorked: Fugitive Songs with Illinois Lyric Theatre

► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // Free // 5 p.m.

Head to the KCPA for a unique evening with “Fugitive Songs,” a captivating contemporary musical theatre piece presented by Illinois Lyric Theatre. This free event starts at 5 p.m. and explores the poignant journeys of America’s runaways, weaving together their stories of hope, escape, and self-discovery. Experience the emotional depth and musical artistry that Illinois Lyric Theatre brings to this powerful portrayal of seeking freedom and new beginnings.

Chachi

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.

Relax at the Americana Happy Hour featuring Chachi, where local folklore meets melodic storytelling in the friendly confines of Rose Bowl Tavern.

Through Fire with Keith Wallen and Messer

► The Castle Theatre // $20 // 7 p.m.

Friday, April 26th

Jay Ferguson Trio

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.

Live Thru Wednesday

► Riggs Brewing Company // tips in bucket // 6 p.m.

A Concert by the Parkland Jazz Ensemble

► Parkland Community College // Free // 7 p.m.

Mid-October

► Huber’s West End // Free // 7 p.m.

A young man stares coldly at the camera while wearing a dark jacket over a white t-shirt against a dark backdrop. There is a patch on one sleeve of the jacket.
Matt Maeson on Facebook

Matt Maeson

► The Canopy Club // SOLD OUT // 8 p.m.

Known for his introspective lyrics and raw vocal power, Maeson’s performance promises to be an intimate journey through heartrending stories and haunting tunes. With his guitar in hand and a voice that echoes with both vulnerability and strength, he is set to transform the stage into a profound emotional experience that resonates with his audience. The audience will be moved by the soulful intensity of his music, which expertly blends melancholy with a rebellious spirit.

Young Eyes with Harpe and Dumbed Down

► Loose Cobra // $10 Donation in the bucket // 8 p.m.

The rock band Young Eyes from Cincinnati will electrify the Loose Cobra this Friday, taking the stage at 8 p.m. They’re joined by local favorites Harpe and Dumbed Down for an eagerly awaited show, marking the venue’s first heavy weekend session in a long time. Please contribute with a suggested donation of $10 to support the touring artists — just look for the glowing orange bucket.

Corduroy

► Cowboy Monkey // Free // 8 p.m.

Nathan Graham on YouTube

Prairie Rivers Network “Save the Trees” featuring Nathan Graham with Merry Travelers

► Rose Bowl Tavern // $15 to $20 // 8:30 p.m.

The Prairie Rivers Network is hosting a “Save Our Trees” benefit concert at the Rose Bowl Tavern in Urbana, IL, featuring Nathan Graham from Chicago, and Merry Travelers from Urbana. 100% of the proceeds will support the Prairie Rivers Network’s initiatives against herbicide pollution. Nathan Graham, known for blending South Side Blues with Nashville Americana, will perform his soulful and introspective music, contributing to the evening’s goal of community building and raising awareness about environmental issues.

Bristle with Sisser and Decadents

► The Space // $10 // 9 p.m.

Wrap up your evening with an electrifying performance by Bristle, joined by Sisser and Decadents, as they fuse rock with experimental music to create a distinctive sonic experience. Each band brings a unique flair, promising a dynamic showcase filled with intense rhythms and innovative melodies.

Saturday, April 27th

New Orleans Jazz Machine

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 3 p.m.

Josh Holland Band

► Huber’s // Free // 7:30 p.m.

4 members of The Claudettes standing in a hallway. One is laughing and the other three are smiling.
The Claudettes

EDITOR’S PICK: The Claudettes w/ J’Lyn Hope

► Rose Bowl Tavern // $15 // 8 p.m.

Experience the vibrant energy of The Claudettes, a band known for their fusion of blues, jazz, and soul with a punk-rock energy that captivates audiences. Band member Johnny Iguana, who not only electrifies with his keyboard performances but also contributes as a composer on the original score for the hit Hulu series, The Bear, brings a unique depth to their music. Don’t miss a live performance where the sheer force of their sound and Iguana’s compelling compositions create an unforgettable musical experience.

Morgan Wade with Alex Dezen

► The Castle Theatre // SOLD OUT // 8 p.m.

Ethan Scott

► Cowboy Monkey // Free // 8 p.m.

Dead on a Sunday with The Funeral Portrait and NITE

► The Canopy Club // $15 to $20 // 10:30 p.m.

Sunday, April 28th

University of Illinois Symphony Orchestra and Choirs

► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // $4 to $10 // 3 p.m.

Join the University of Illinois Symphony Orchestra and Choirs for an afternoon of classical music excellence, showcasing a diverse repertoire.

Pete Shungu playing trumpet wearing a green shirt
Afro D & Global Soundwave’s Facebook event page

Party for Reproductive Justice

► Rose Bowl Tavern // Donations appreciated // 3 p.m.

Head to Rose Bowl Tavern the Party for Reproductive Justice, capping off UCRJ Week 2024. The event features an impressive lineup, including Paul Kotheimer, Amasong, Haki N Dem, New Souls, Afro D & Friends, and Emily the Band, with special MC Callie from Mix 94.3 hosting from 3 p.m to 5:30 p.m. Proceeds from the pay-what-you-can entry and raffle will benefit Elevated Access and Midwest Access Coalition, supporting reproductive justice efforts.

No Strings Attached Jazz Night (UIUC A Cappella)

► The Canopy Club // $8 to $15 // 5 p.m.

A band is performing onstage with many different colored lights shining down on them.
Derrick Philips

Power of Dusk, with Contracharge and Subversion

► Community Center for the Arts // $10 Cover // 6 p.m.

End your week with some in-your-face punk music from local titans of punk Power of Dusk, Contracharge, and Subversion, who are set to deliver a powerful blend of hardcore and punk music in an engaging live performance.

Music Editor

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