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.
Tuesday, August 27th
Leon Lewis-Nicol Quartet
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
The Leon Lewis-Nicol Quartet offers a relaxed evening of jazz that showcases the group’s smooth sound and musicality.
Wednesday, August 28th
Vine Street Syncopators
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
Jazz Jam
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 10 p.m.
Thursday, August 29th
American Happy Hour featuring José Augusti
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
Kick off your evening with a laid-back Americana Happy Hour featuring the soulful sounds of José Augusti. With his rich vocals and captivating guitar work, Augusti creates the perfect atmosphere for unwinding with friends and enjoying some great tunes.
Mac Sabbath with Tejon Street Corner Thieves, Spaceman Bob
► The Castle Theatre // $25 // 7:30 p.m.
Prepare for a surreal experience with Mac Sabbath, the fast-food themed Black Sabbath parody band known for their outrageous costumes and satirical performances. Blending heavy metal with a critique of modern fast-food culture, their show is as thought-provoking as it is entertaining. Joining them are the rowdy outlaw-bluegrass group Tejon Street Corner Thieves and the eclectic Spaceman Bob, making this a night of unforgettable and offbeat musical performances.
Friday, August 30th
Jay Ferguson Trio
► Rose Bowl Tavern // free // 5 p.m.
The K-Tels with The Murder Hornets
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 8 p.m.
Candlelight Serenade: Symphony Edition
► The Lake House in Crystal Lake Park // $25 per boat / $10 per person patio-only // 8:30 p.m.
Enjoy a magical evening on Crystal Lake with the Champaign-Urbana Symphony Orchestra’s “Candlelight Serenade: Symphony Edition.” As you paddle around the lake in a candlelit boat, a symphony quartet will serenade you from the Lakeside Deck, creating a twinkly, romantic ambiance under the stars. This unique experience, presented in partnership with Urbana Park District and the City of Urbana Arts and Culture Program, also offers patio seating for those who prefer to enjoy the concert from the comfort of the Lake House patio.
EDITOR’S PICK: Badflower with DES ROCS
► Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater // $9 to $45 // 7 p.m.
Catch Badflower at the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater for a night of intense, emotionally charged rock. Known for their raw lyrics and electrifying stage presence, Badflower is a must-see for fans of alternative rock. Joining them is DES ROCS, a dynamic artist whose powerful performance style and gritty sound perfectly complement the evening. If you love rock music, this event promises to be an unforgettable experience, full of energy and passion.
REZN with Edna
► The Loose Cobra // $10 // 8 p.m.
Daisy Chain
► Jazz Up Front // $8 to $10 // 8 p.m.
Daisy Chain offers a soulful blend of jazz and blues, creating an intimate and captivating evening at Jazz Up Front in Bloomington.
Saturday, August 31st
PBS
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 3 p.m.
Eli Young Band and Easton Corbin
► Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater // $25 to $55 // 7 p.m.
Get ready for an unforgettable night of country music as the Eli Young Band and Easton Corbin take the stage at the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater. With chart-topping hits and award-winning performances, the Eli Young Band delivers a high-energy show that resonates with both die-hard country fans and new listeners alike..
The Sweet Nothings
► Jazz Up Front // $10 cover // 8 p.m.
The Boat Drunks
► Rose Bowl Tavern // $15 // 8 p.m.
Set sail for a night of tropical rock with The Boat Drunks, a band that brings the laid-back, island vibes straight to the heart of Illinois. Known for their Jimmy Buffett-inspired tunes and lively performances, The Boat Drunks create an atmosphere that’s perfect for anyone looking to escape to a musical paradise. Join them at Rose Bowl Tavern for a fun-filled evening that will have you swaying to the rhythm of the islands, drink in hand.
EDITOR’S PICK: Pass Down Magazine Release Show
► The Canopy Club // $5 to $10 // 8 p.m.
Celebrate the latest issue of Pass Down Magazine with a night of indie music featuring Free Joel, Manifest West, and Footballhead. Hosted at The Canopy Club, this release show is a must-attend event for fans of the local music scene, offering a perfect blend of new sounds and vibrant community energy. Don’t miss this opportunity to support local artists and the growing influence of Pass Down Magazine.
Cypher Saturday
► The Canopy Club // $10 // 10 p.m.
Experience the pulse of Champaign-Urbana’s hip-hop scene at Cypher Saturday, where local talent takes the stage for an electrifying night of rap battles, DJ sets, and live performances. This event is a cornerstone of the hip-hop community, bringing together artists who are passionate about showcasing the best of underground hip-hop. Join the crowd at The Canopy Club and witness the raw energy and creativity that makes this monthly event a must-attend for hip-hop and music lovers alike.
Sunday, September 1st
Sunday Wine Down with Billy Galt
► Alto Vineyards // free // 2 p.m.
Relax and unwind at Alto Vineyards with the soulful blues of Billy Galt. A seasoned guitarist and vocalist, Galt has been a staple in the blues scene since 1980, sharing the stage with legends like Homesick James, Sonny Boy Williamson Jr., and Shirley King, the daughter of the iconic B.B. King. Enjoy an afternoon of fine wine and authentic blues music in a serene vineyard setting — perfect for winding down your weekend.