Smile Politely

The Overture: April 29 – May 5

Derrick Philips
A girl with long brown hair wearing a cowboy hat and a denim jacket with a guitar in her lap looking at the camera.
Kelsey Waldon 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 29th

The Urbana Hootenanny

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

Tuesday, April 30th

Tom Grassman Band

► Rose Bowl Tavern // Tips in bucket // 7 p.m.

An orchestra is arranged on a large stage with musicians seated in a semi-circle formation, each holding their respective instruments such as violins, violas, cellos, and double basses. The stage has a warm wooden floor and walls, with the back wall featuring vertical wooden panels, creating an acoustic setting. The musicians are spaced apart, which may indicate a performance adhering to physical distancing measures.
University of Illinois Philharmonia Orchestra on Facebook

University of Illinois Philharmonia Orchestra and Illini Strings

► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // Tickets: $4 to $10 // 7:30 p.m./

The KCPA presents the University of Illinois Philharmonia Orchestra and Illini Strings for an evening of classical mastery under the batons of conductors Matthew Christopher Shepard and Hannah Reitz. Featuring virtuoso violinist Salley Koo, the concert will showcase the diverse compositions of Samuel Coleridge Taylor, Benjamin Britten, Gioachino Rossini, and Reena Esmail, delivering a rich tapestry of musical heritage and innovation..

Wednesday, May 1st

A man is seen in the foreground playing a saxophone, his focus intent upon the instrument. He is wearing a dark blazer over a formal ensemble, suggesting a jazz or formal music event setting. In the background, another person, slightly out of focus, appears to be seated at a drum set, hinting at a band or ensemble performance. The lighting is subdued with a spotlight effect, which typically indicates a stage or a performance venue environment.
Dr Reginald Lewis on Instagram

Reginald Lewis & Friends

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

Jazz Jam

► Rose Bowl Tavern // Tips in bucket // 10 p.m.

Illinois Wind Symphony

► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // Tickets: $4 to $10 // 7:30 p.m.

Experience the dynamic and vibrant sounds of the Illinois Wind Symphony, led by conductor Kevin M. Geraldi with Julian Bliss as the featured soloist. The program includes Nkeiru Okoye’s “Voices Shouting Out,” John Mackey’s “Divine Mischief,” and Zhou Tian’s “Sinfonia,”

Thursday, May 2nd

John & Julie Pennell

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

Enjoy Americana Happy Hour at Rose Bowl tavern this week featuring John and Julie Pennell, known for their soulful harmonies and masterful string work.

Woman holding a guitar in the back of a car completely upholstered in leather.
Kelsey Waldon on Facebook

EDITOR’S PICK: Kelsey Waldon wsg Hannah Juanita

► Rose Bowl Tavern // $12 to $15 // 8 p.m.

Kelsey Waldon returns to the Rose Bowl Tavern on Thursday, May 2nd, 2024, showcasing her unique blend of country music influenced by the legendary voices that have shaped her career. The event features an opening performance by Hannah Juanita. Kesley is one of the favorites at Rose Bowl Tavern, so I advise you get your tickets and get there early for a good seat.

Friday, May 3rd

Illinois Superstate Concert Band Festival

► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // Free // 7 a.m.

Taking place on Friday May 3rd and Saturday, May 4th, the 50th annual Illinois SuperState Concert Band Festival, hosted by the University of Illinois Bands, showcases exceptional musical talents from middle school, junior high, and high school bands across Illinois. Scheduled from 7 a.m., the festival features performances from 28 bands selected through a rigorous evaluation process, attracting students, educators, and music enthusiasts to the University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign campus. More information is available on the University of Illinois Bands website.

Django Wrangle

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

Billy Galt

► Huber’s West End Store // Free // 7 p.m.

A man is on a stage with red currtains in the background playing guitar and performing for the audience.
Brian Krumm on Facebook 03

EDITOR’S PICK: Brian Krumm with Big Daddy Pride

► Gallery Art Bar // Free // 8 p.m.

Join Brian Krumm and Big Daddy Pride at the Gallery Art Bar for an evening where Krumm’s narrative-driven Americana blends with the eclectic and roots-influenced sounds of Big Daddy Pride, offering a unique musical experience in a casual setting.

A glam rock singer and glam rock guitarist performing flamboyantly onstage.
Steel Panther by Alex Drumming

Steel Panther with Stitched Up Heart

► The Castle Theatre // Tickets: $32.50 // 8 p.m.

Steel Panther, the hilarious glam metal parody act, brings their over-the-top theatrics and infectious riffs to The Castle Theatre. Prepare for a night of raucous laughter and headbanging as they share the stage with the hard-rocking female quartet Stitched Up Heart.

Still Shine

► Rose Bowl Tavern // No Cover // 8:30 p.m.

The beloved tent at the Rose Bowl Tavern is back, and helping usher in its return is Still Shine, the acclaimed roots and bluegrass band blending tight harmonies with mandolin, harmonica, banjo, and more for an upbeat, energetic performance. Experience their live show and original music with no cover charge, under the Rose Bowl Tent!

DIY Show: Unseen Forces, Die (Chicago) and Brain Sex

► C4Arts Center // $10 // 9 p.m.

Saturday, May 4th

Three individuals are standing in front of a white wall. All are dressed in black t-shirts. The individual in the center appears to be a woman with tattoos on her arms and stomach. The individual on the left has his arms crossed, while the one on the right has his arms folded. The photo is in black and white.
Sweetmelk on Facebook

Perimeter Road Music Festival

► Parkland College // Free // noon

Parkland College presents the free, family-friendly Perimeter Road Music Festival 2024 on Saturday, May 4th from noon to 6pm at the Student Union Parking Lot. Enjoy live performances from a diverse lineup of bands, and food from favorite vendors. Here’s the schedule:

  • Modern Drugs: Noon
  • Haki n Dem: 1 p.m.
  • Tessa Turner: 2 p.m.
  • Sweetmelk: 3 p.m.
  • Manifest West: 4 p.m.
  • Union Avenue: 5 p.m.

2024 CU Tango Music Festival

► Various Venues // Free // 2:45 p.m.

Explore the passionate world of tango music through live performances and workshops at this city-wide music festival. Click here for a full schedule including locations.

PBS

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

Leighton Ewers

► Riggs Taproom // Free // 5 p.m.

A black and white photo with a man with short-cropped hair wearing a denim shirt playing guitar while sitting down at a diner.
Matthew Curry on Facebook

Matthew Curry Band

► Downtown Bloomington Museum // Free // 5 p.m.

Matthew Curry headlines the free, all-ages Saturdays on the Square event on May 4th at the Downtown Bloomington Museum, with special guest DJ Ketuzi opening up the festivities. This outdoor concert series, produced in partnership with The Castle Theatre, Pantagraph Media, and the City of Bloomington, offers live music, food trucks, and alcoholic beverages.

Anika Emily and Jake Fava

► Huber’s West End Store // Free // 7 p.m.

DIY Show: J.U.G., Adieux (Kankakee), Yap Trap, TBD

► C4Arts Center // $10 // 7 p.m..

The B-Sides!!

► Alto Valley Vineyards // Free // 7 p.m.

A man with short hair and a black t-shirt and jeans playing guitar while he sits on a log. In the distance you see a field with a few trees.
Dan Hubbard on Facebook

Dan Hubbard

► Yellow and Company // Free // 7 p.m.

Join the celebration at Yellow & Co.’s grand opening at their new location in Mahomet on route 150, featuring a live performance by acclaimed singer-songwriter Dan Hubbard. The event, free to the public, will start at 7 p.m. and offer a full cash bar. Experience an evening filled with heartfelt Americana music in a vibrant new venue.

A band is positioned in front of their instruments and equipment on a stage. The stage is adorned with plants and string lights, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. In the background, a brick building with a large window is visible, and a sign that reads “Toyota” hangs prominently. The drum set in the foreground features a logo on the bass drum that reads “C3”. The image captures the anticipation of a performance, with the stage set and ready for the musicians.
Rory Book and the Volumes on Facebook

Tractor Kings with Rory Book & The Volumes and Brad Handsome

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

A triple bill featuring a mix of alt-country, indie rock, and singer-songwriter performances, ideal for fans of eclectic musical styles. This mix of bands will have you movin’, groovin’ and swayin’ to some tasty tunes.

Sunday, May 5th

Concert by the Parkland Guitar Ensemble

► Parkland College // Free // 2 p.m.

Andy & Virginia

► Alto Valley Vineyards // Free // 2 p.m.

A Joint Concert by the Parkland Orchestra, Wind Ensemble, and Concert Band

► Parkland College // Free // 3 p.m.

Academy High Rock Band Showcase

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

Three individuals on a stage set against a black background. The person on the left is dressed in a black suit. The individual in the middle, wearing a black t-shirt, has a white shoe flying above their head. The person on the right is attired in a black polo shirt. The stage is illuminated by white spotlights, casting a dramatic light on the scene.
Terminus Victor on Facebook

Terminus Victor, Vaudevileins and Stomatopod

► The Space // $7 cover // 6 p.m.

Join us at The Space for an engaging night of music featuring Terminus Victor, Vaudevileins, and Stomatopod. An early event, with minimal cover,, showcases a diverse array of sounds from the punchy post-punk of Terminus Victor to the melodic rock of Vaudevileins, and Stomatopod’s unique mix of psychedelic and grunge influences. Prepare for an evening where innovative rock music and intense performances take center stage.

Grupo Afirmativo

► Rose Bowl Tavern // Tips in bucket // 7 p.m.

Grupo Afirmativo is a Sirreño band from Champaign, Illinois, specializing in guitar-based folk music from northern Mexico, deeply influenced by polka rhythms. They bring a slice of authentic Latin music to the Rose Bowl Tavern stage for an immersive experience of vibrant rhythms and captivating melodies.

8 people with microphones all singing on a stage with a black background. There is a symbol in the top rigtht that says "no-co", which stands for the a capella group's name, "No Comment"
UIUC No Comment on Facebook

Rock & Roe – Battle of the Bands Fundraiser

► The Canopy Club // Tickets: $10 ADV / $12 DOS // 7 p.m.

This Battle of the Bands fundraiser takes place in the Red Room. This fundraising event features performances by Jenicka + Sara, The Meantime, Adam Atrix, and UIUC No Comment. The proceeds support the Midwest Access Coalition.

Los Straitjackets with Wasted Major

► The Castle Theatre // Tickets: $25 ADV / $30 DOS // 7:30 p.m.

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