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, August 5th
The Urbana Hootenanny
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 8 p.m.
Katy Kirby with Mei Semones and Fiona Kimble
► Gallery Art Bar // $17 // 6 p.m.
Experience an evening of evocative indie-folk music at the Gallery Art Bar with singer-songwriter Katy Kirby, whose music blends introspective lyrics with gentle, yet compelling melodies. Raised in Texas and now based in Nashville, Kirby’s music draws on her unique upbringing and personal journey, creating a sound that resonates with authenticity and emotional depth. Sharing the stage with talented artists Mei Semones and Fiona Kimble, this concert promises to be a moving and intimate experience.
Tuesday, August 6th
EDITOR’S PICK: Christopher Paul Stelling
► Rose Bowl Tavern // $12-$15 // 7 p.m.
Christopher Paul Stelling is a masterful singer-songwriter and virtuosic fingerstyle guitarist whose music draws from the deep well of American roots traditions, blending elements of folk, blues, and country. His performances are known for their raw intensity and poetic storytelling, delivered with a passion that resonates deeply with audiences. Stelling’s intricate guitar work and soul-stirring lyrics promise an unforgettable evening of music that speaks to both the heart and the mind.
Wednesday, August 7th
Ben Taylor & Friends
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
Ben Taylor & Friends is a trio featuring veteran C-U musicians Ben Taylor on bass, Jay Ferguson on drums, and Brazilian guitarist Beto Rodrigues. They deliver a vibrant mix of classic jazz and Latin music, blending smooth rhythms with South American flair for a lively evening at the Rose Bowl Tavern..
Old 97’s with John Buffalo
► The Castle Theatre // $27 // 7:30 p.m.
Experience the Old 97’s, the legendary alt-country band that has left an indelible mark on the genre with their energetic blend of rock and country. Known for their hit “Champaign, Illinois,” which they once performed on The Tonight Show, the band brings their dynamic stage presence and infectious tunes to The Castle Theatre. Joining them is John Buffalo, an indie singer-songwriter whose electronic compositions offer a deeply personal and eclectic sound.
Jazz Jam
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 10 p.m.
Thursday, August 8th
Mid-October
► Cowboy Monkey // free // 7 p.m.
Abby Posner
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
Abby Posner brings her eclectic mix of folk, blues, and indie music to Rose Bowl Tavern, creating a dynamic and soulful Americana-themed happy hour. Her versatile sound and engaging performance style promise an energetic start to your evening.
Prairie Sharks
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 7:30 p.m.
Living Colour with Special Guests the Urge
► Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater // $9 to $50 // 7 p.m.
Living Colour, the iconic rock band known for their groundbreaking fusion of rock, funk, and metal, will bring their energetic performance to the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater. Accompanied by special guests the Urge, whose dynamic mix of punk, ska, and alternative rock promises to complement the evening, this concert offers a powerful showcase of genre-defying music.
Friday, August 9th
Prairie Crossroads Blues Fest
► Bunny’s Tavern // Free (Donations Welcome) // August 9th, 4:30 p.m. and August 10th, 3:30 p.m.
The 2024 Prairie Crossroads Blues Fest at Bunny’s Tavern in Urbana features two days of local, regional, and national blues talent. Friday’s lineup includes a Blues Jam hosted by The Painkillers Blues Band and a set by the Keith Harden Band. Saturday’s schedule offers performances by Rory Book and The Volumes, The Wise Guys, Cobalt Blues Band, and headliner Funky Mojo Daddy. Donations are encouraged to support the Blues in the Schools Education Fund.
Friday Night Live
► Downtown Champaign // free // 6 p.m.
Experience the heart of Champaign’s vibrant music scene at Friday Night Live, a free community event showcasing a diverse lineup of local bands and performers. Enjoy an eclectic mix of musical styles as downtown Champaign transforms into a lively, open-air concert venue, perfect for a summer evening with friends and family.
Modern Drugs with The Blank Stairs and Retro Via
► Rose Bowl Tavern // $10 cover // 8 p.m.
Modern Drugs, The Blank Stairs, and Retro Via deliver an evening of diverse sounds at Rose Bowl Tavern, blending alternative, indie, and post-punk influences. This lineup offers a dynamic mix of styles and energy, making for a night of fresh and engaging live music.
EDITOR’S PICK: Neongravel, Panc8s, and Jakebot
► Gallery Art Bar // free // 9 p.m.
Celebrate the release of Neongravel’s debut album Alpha Charlie Echo with a night of experimental music at Gallery Art Bar. The evening kicks off with Neongravel’s unique steel pedal guitar sound at 9 p.m., followed by Panc8s at 10 p.m., and a late-night DJ set from Jakebot at 11 p.m. The event also features a special themed cocktail, the “Neon Cosmo,” adding to the immersive experience of this one-of-a-kind musical showcase.
Blues Traveler with Big Head Todd and The Monsters
► Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater // $35 to $99 // 7 p.m.
Blues Traveler and Big Head Todd and The Monsters bring their classic rock sounds to the Devon Lakeshore Amphitheater for an evening of live music. Expect a night filled with familiar hits and solid performances from these well-established bands. This event offers a relaxed setting to enjoy timeless rock tunes by the lakeside.
Dexter O’Neal & Funk Yard
► Jazz Up Front // $10 cover // 8 p.m.
Saturday, August 10th
99 Proof
► Alto Vineyards // $5 // 7 p.m.
Relax with a glass of wine and live music by 99 Proof at Alto Vineyards, part of their Music at the Vines series.
Nfinite Soul
► Jazz Up Front // $10 cover // 8 p.m.
Nfinite Soul brings their smooth R&B and soul sounds to Jazz Up Front for an intimate evening of music.
Tractor Kings with The Dirty Feathers and Colonel James Presents
► Rose Bowl Tavern // $15 suggested donation // 8 p.m.
Enjoy a diverse lineup of local rock at Rose Bowl Tavern featuring the Americana-infused sounds of Tractor Kings, the high-energy rock of The Dirty Feathers, and the eclectic tunes of Colonel James Presents. This night promises a range of musical styles, from heartfelt melodies to raw, electrifying performances, showcasing the vibrant talent of the local music scene. Perfect for fans looking to experience a variety of rock genres in one evening.
Sunday, August 11th
Occasional Cajun Band
► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 4 p.m.
The Occasional Cajun Band delivers lively Cajun and zydeco tunes at Rose Bowl Tavern, creating a festive Sunday afternoon.
Sunday Wine Down w/ Kalesa Band
► Alto Vineyards // free // 2 p.m.
Wind down your weekend with the soothing sounds of Kalesa Band at Alto Vineyards, paired with excellent wine and a beautiful setting.