Smile Politely

The Overture: January 16-21

Derrick Philips
This is a photo of a band on stage. The band consists of six members, each holding a different instrument. The instruments include a guitar, a saxophone, a trumpet, a trombone, a bass guitar, and a drum set. The band members are standing in front of a brick wall with green stage lights shining down on them. The band members are wearing casual clothing, with one member wearing a Mastodon t-shirt.
Afro D and the Global Soundwaves 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.

Tuesday, January 16th

Jose Gobbo holding a guitar looking over his left shoulder, wearing headphones
Jose Gobbo’s website

Jose Gobbo Trio

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
Experience the innovative jazz of Jose Gobbo, a Brazilian guitarist celebrated for his unique blend of modern jazz and Brazilian elements. Enjoy a night at the Rose Bowl Tavern filled with sophisticated rhythms, melodic improvisation, and a trio known for their engaging interplay.

This is a photo of a person playing an acoustic guitar on a stage. The person is wearing a black t-shirt with a graphic on it. The guitar is a light wood color with a red pickguard. The background is a stage with red and blue lighting. There is a microphone in front of the person.
Tom Grassman on Facebook

Tom Grassman Band

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 8 p.m.
The Tom Grassman Band, known for their rock-and-roll party music, brings a high-energy performance to the Rose Bowl Tavern. With a history of electrifying Illinois with their dance-floor hits, they promise a night of unforgettable rock infused with infectious grooves.

Electric Tuesdays

► The Canopy Club // $10 to $12 // 8 p.m.
Electric Tuesdays at The Canopy Club are a local favorite, featuring a dynamic mix of electronic and dance music. 

Wednesday, January 17th

I woman in a maroon shirt holding an upright bass, looking to her right and smiling. There is an old white building with arched windows in the back
Emma Taylor

Emma Taylor Quintet

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
Led by the multifaceted musician Emma Taylor, the Emma Taylor Quintet showcases a unique jazz experience at the Rose Bowl Tavern. They blend classic jazz standards with a contemporary twist, promising an evening that resonates with both jazz purists and modern enthusiasts.

Thursday, January 18th

Americana Happy Hour ft. Backyard BBQ Band (Acoustic)

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
The Backyard BBQ Band brings a cozy, acoustic Americana experience to Rose Bowl Tavern’s Americana Happy Hour. Immerse yourself in an evening of soulful music and laid-back vibes, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the essence of Americana tunes.

A person is sitting at a drum set on a stage. They are dressed in a black t-shirt and are holding drumsticks. The drum set is silver and there are guitars and microphones in the background. The image is black and white.
Ian Shepherd on Facebook

Ian Shepherd & Friends

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 8 p.m.
Ian Shepherd & Friends bring their unique blend of folk and indie music to the Rose Bowl Tavern. 

Live in the Lounge: Jonathan Schneider Classical Harp

► Houlihan’s // free // 6 p.m.
Jonathan Schneider brings the elegant sounds of classical harp to Houlihan’s Lounge. This serene and beautiful performance is a perfect way to enjoy a relaxed evening with a touch of sophistication.

Friday, January 19th

Jeff Hegelsen playing trumpet
Jeff Hegelsen on Facebook

Jeff Helgesen & Friends

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 5 p.m.
Jeff Helgesen & Friends are set to deliver a jazz performance filled with rich improvisation and dynamic interplay at the Rose Bowl Tavern. A great choice for jazz aficionados seeking a lively start to their weekend.

The setting is indoors with wooden walls adorned with string lights that cast a warm glow. A person is playing the piano; their attire consists of a patterned sweater and a beanie. The piano is black, and sheet music rests upon it. There are red roses intertwined with green leaves decorating the area around the piano. A microphone on a stand is positioned near the player. The overall ambiance is cozy and inviting, with a sense of warmth emanating from the scene. The person’s posture suggests they are deeply engaged in playing the piano. The patterned sweater and beanie give a casual and comfortable appearance. The roses add a touch of elegance and color to the scene. The microphone suggests a performance or recording might be taking place. The string lights and wooden walls contribute to a rustic and homely atmosphere. The image captures a moment of music and creativity in a charming and intimate setting.
Alex Bragg

EDITOR’S PICK: Big Daddy Pride & The East Side Five with Jenni Stark, Keith Hall & The Creepin’ Grass

► Rose Bowl Tavern // $10 to $15 suggested donation // 8:30 p.m.
Big Daddy Pride & The East Side Five bring their psychedelic Americana and  R&B influences, promising a unique musical experience, blending their Pink Floydian guitars with New Orleans-era R&B. Their performance at the Rose Bowl Tavern, featuring their eclectic “Snake Jazz” style and featuring opening sets from Jenni Stark, Keith Hall & The Creepin’ Grass, this event offers a diverse and captivating night of music.

Main playing guitar on a dimly lit stage with a drummer behind him
Blues Deacons on Facebook

The Blues Deacons

► Huber’s West End Store // free // 7 p.m.
The Blues Deacons at Huber’s West End Store offer a bluesy, soulful performance. Their deep grooves and passionate playing make for an evening of authentic blues music.

Chris Janson

► Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts // $47 to $89 // 7:30 p.m.
Join country music star Chris Janson for a night of hit songs and high energy at the Bloomington Center for the Performing Arts. Don’t miss this chance to see the singer of “Buy Me a Boat” and “Fix a Drink” live on stage.

A person is standing next to a vintage pickup truck, painted in turquoise and white, parked on a gravel road. The individual is strumming a guitar and is dressed in blue jeans, a white shirt, and an open patterned button-down shirt. They are also wearing brown boots. The surrounding landscape consists of grassy fields stretching out to the horizon under an expansive sky. The scene evokes a sense of tranquility and freedom.
Sass on Facebook

Sass

► Pour Bros Craft Taproom // free // 8 p.m.
The incomparable Sass brings her booming voice and soulful tunes to Pour Bros. Craft Taproom in Champaign for your Friday evening listening pleasure.

Catseye

► Pipa’s Pub // free // 8 p.m.
Catseye takes the stage at Pipa’s Pub with their energetic rock and roll performance. 

Saturday, January 20th

All-Illinois Junior Band

► Krannert Center for the Performing Arts // free // 3:00 p.m.
Experience the talent of the All-Illinois Junior Band at the Krannert Center for the Performing Arts.

String Area Showcase

► Recital Hall, Smith Memorial Hall // free // 7:30 p.m.
The String Area Showcase at Smith Memorial Hall presents an evening of exquisite string performances. 

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

EDITOR’S PICK: Afro D & The Global Soundwaves

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 3 p.m.
Celebrate Afro D’s birthday with Afro D & The Global Soundwaves, a 6-piece socially-conscious band known for blending hip hop, jazz, funk, and soul. This all-ages event at The Rose Bowl Tavern offers a fun-filled afternoon with live music, art activities for kids, and a vibrant atmosphere that bridges generational musical tastes.

Twang

► The Castle Theater // $20 // 7 p.m.
Join Twang, a local music duo, for an unforgettable night of live music at The Castle Theatre. Tickets are just $20, and all proceeds will directly benefit Habitat for Humanity of McLean County & ReStore, helping build homes for families right here in our community. Don’t miss this opportunity to enjoy fantastic music while supporting a meaningful local cause!

Jake and Jackson on Facebook

Jake and Jackson

► Huber’s West End Store // free // 7 p.m.
This father/son duo bright the laid-back tunes from the 70s all the way up to current pop or country, also playing originals inspired by their influences.

Darker than Blue DJ Crew

► Gallery Art Bar // free // 8 p.m.
The Darker than Blue DJ Crew brings their signature soulful and groove-heavy sets to the Gallery Art Bar, offering an evening of contemporary beats in a relaxed, artistic atmosphere. This event is perfect for those seeking a blend of soul and modern rhythms in a vibrant setting.

A band is playing on a stage in a bar. There are five people on the stage, all dressed in casual clothing. The person on the left is playing a guitar, the person in the middle is playing a banjo, the person on the right is playing a guitar, and the person on the far right is playing a drum set. The stage is decorated with Christmas lights and flowers.
Chachi and the Bandidos on Facebook

Chachi & The Bandidos

► Rose Bowl Tavern // $10 suggested cover // 9 p.m.
Chachi & The Bandidos promise a vibrant mix of genres at the Rose Bowl Tavern, blending country classics with soul and rock n’ roll. 

Sunday, January 21st

Four musicians are performing outdoors. The first musician on the left is wearing an orange polo shirt and white shorts, playing a guitar. Next to him, a person in a black shirt and dark pants is playing a keyboard. The third musician is in a light-colored long sleeve shirt and dark pants, holding an electric guitar. The last musician on the right wears a black t-shirt with white graphics and jeans, also playing a guitar. They are standing on pavement in front of a building with glass windows, with two large speakers placed on the ground in front of them. Behind them, there’s some equipment including amplifiers. The scene is set outdoors, giving a sense of a live music performance.
Riders of the Golden Maize on Facebook

Riders of the Golden Maize

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 3 p.m.
Riders of the Golden Maize at the Rose Bowl Tavern present an afternoon of classic country and Americana music. Their authentic sound and storytelling through music are sure to resonate with fans of traditional country tunes.

Jim Pryor Trio

► The Urbana Free Library // free // 2 p.m.
The Jim Pryor Trio brings a soothing jazz performance to The Urbana Free Library. Their melodic interpretations of jazz standards provide a relaxing and enjoyable Sunday afternoon experience.

Nick’s Country Jam

► Rose Bowl Tavern // tips in bucket // 6 p.m.
Join the lively atmosphere at the Rose Bowl Tavern with Nick’s Country Jam. This event features a blend of country hits and local favorites, creating a perfect setting for country music enthusiasts.

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