A Thousand Horses at The Windy City Smokeout

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I had recently had a fortunate opportunity to sit down with the next huge band in country music. A Thousand Horses is the antidote for all of the "sounds the same" pop country out there that is turning a lot of people away from the genre.  Imagine if the original Lynyrd Skynyrd were to come back to life and hop on stage in 2015, I feel it would resemble A Thousand Horses.  

Here is some of my interview from the Windy City Smokeout on July 10, 2015.  

Kelly: Okay they just had a kickass performance and now I get a chance to chat with them and I have a few questions for you guys, of course. Now I know a couple of you originally met in South Carolina correct?

Hobby: Yeah 

Kelly: And some are from Georgia, could you guys tell me how like the whole dynamic started and how you guys originally formed

Hobby: Yeah Bill and I grew up together in South Carolina, Graham is his cousin 

(Kelly: OK!) so I've known Graham as long as I've known Bill (Kelly: Family!) so family connection here. And when we formed the band in 2010 is where we met Zach.

Kelly: So that's when you joined

Zach: Yeah they moved to Nashville right out of high school actually all three of these guys, and they met me just wandering the streets of Atlanta.

Hobby: Yeah just asking for change, said his name was Zach Brown...

Zach: (Jokingly) Can I be in your band guys?

Hobby: Yep and he just hasn't left yet, we never even told him yes!

Kelly: So he's just still hanging around! So you guys are on one of my favorite labels of course. you signed to Big Machine Republic Nashville. and it is such a prestigious and well respected label, I mean what was it like when you got the call and they were like "hey we're going to sign you guys!"

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Zach: That was beyond our wildest dreams, it was crazy, we initially set out to make the album ourselves. We scrounged together a few thousand bucks and we figure we could sell maybe 2,000 copies of this thing, we can pay for it. Then we can do that over the course of the year, So we brought it over to Republic...

Kelly: Ok so your first single Smoke went number one. that has to be such an incredible feeling, but when you guys found out it, were you like "holy shit our first single just went #1?!" tell me about it...

Hobby: I mean that is every artist's and songwriter' dream is to have a number 1. We've been dreaming about this since we started this band and every band we've been in. It was pretty incredible when we got the call, I'll never forget we were in Boston. we were playing with a bunch of buddies of ours and we got the call that it was going number one, so we all just threw a big party and celebrated. We are still pinching ourselves like holy crap we did it! we got a number one

Kelly: So surreal 

Hobby: its very surreal, its been awesome, we're pretty grateful for it, its been a long road and for what we are doing its been awesome.

Kelly: So your sound your style is so cool so unique, I mean I love the overall vibe, I want to talk about how you see yourselves as being different for other artists of country music. How would you describe your style and your sound and why do you stand out?

Zach: I think its hard to say, we've always tried to be true to ourselves and just be real and make the music that we like. you know do our thing. its hard to say exactly what makes us different. We are hoping that people come to our show and see something there. that's A Thousand Horses right there.

Kelly: It such a unique sound and it is different from anything else going on in Nashville right now. It's why a lot of people are drawn to it, its why I'm drawn to it. So you obviously have something very special going on but its nice to hear how the artist thinks his work sets him apart.

Graham: Yeah I mean we lean a little bit more to the rock side but we love the country part of it.

Hobby: We kind of do what we do. we are on the road all the time so that we can draw from music. from rock to country, RNB to Hip-hop to soul. we were raised around that stuff. so everything that we do musically I getting subconsciously more inspiration. But its just..

Kelly: Its A Thousand Horses. that's it end of story. 

Band: Yeah!

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Lollapalooza 101

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Hey all!!  Lollapalooza is this weekend and if you're like me, and planning on rocking out in Grant Park for 3 days, you're gonna need some tips, tricks, and a survival guide.  Read below, and don't forget to share your favevtips and tricks with me!!

Getting Ready:

Make sure to look your best while protecting your assets.  I always use a tinted moisturizer with a bit of shimmer. (Full coverage foundation is TOO much for the heat.)  My fave is Laura Mercier Illuminating Tinted Moisturizer with SPF 20.  It gives you a great festival glow, a bit of coverage, and good protection so you can party in the sun!

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Always wear some head gear.  What screams festival-goer more than some awesome cranium accessories?  PLUS, if it's windy, or the weather is inclement, it will keep your hair secure and out of your face.  Fedoras or wide brimmed hats are a NO-GO for the same reason, if it's windy you'll lose it... plus you'll annoy all the people standing behind you.  

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Shoes.  For the love of God, NO heels people.  And no open toed shoes or sandals, especially flip-flops.  We all know that Lolla can get muddy, and if you're wearing flip flops they will constantly get sucked off your feet.  And your feet will look like you've been on Survivor if you wear sandals of any type.  Wear comfy boots or comfy gym shoes.  PERIOD.  Converse or combat/cowboy boots are not only going to keep you feet happy, but you'll stay clean, protected, and look stylish too.  

Bags:  Do not bring any type of bag you have to carry.  Belt bags or Cross body bags are life savers for festivals.  You want your arms free for jumping, dancing, and carrying multiple beers for you and your friends.  Belt bags are not only functional, but these Gabby Fringe bags from 84 Rockwell SCREAM festival.  My favorite cross body bag right now is my new Coach Rhyder cross body in pebble leather.  

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84 Rockwell Gabby Fringe

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Coach Rhyder Cross body

DURING LOLLAPALOOZA:

Lolla Cashless- Did you know you can link your Lolla wristband to your debit card/credit card?  You can pay for all of your food, booze, and merchandise just with a tap of your band. Brilliant! To activate, click here.  

Phone chargers-  The only thing worse than having no cell service while at Lolla, is having a dead phone.  Keep that from happening with these handy little portable chargers that can fit in any pocket or purse.  Urban Outfitters 

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Got lost??: Download the app Glympse. Glympse is a fast, free, and simple way to share your location in real time with the people you trust. So this way you can find the friends you were with if you get lost, or find the friends you're supposed to meet up with easily.  

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GETTING HOME and POST LOLLA:

Surge Protector:  Uber is ALWAYS the way to go, but sometimes the surge pricing, especially after a huge festival or event, can be astronomical.  Surge Protector finds locations close to you with lower surge pricing, and helps call an Uber close to those spots.  Genius! 

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Walk!!!  Always my choice.... thankfully I live close.  But walking home from Grant Park is usually a great way to wind down after the craziness AND get in a bit of exercise after a day filled with food and a ton of drinks.  

Hydrate:  Drink a ton of water throughout the day as well as benefit from drinks like Ginger tea and coconut water to help combat hangovers and keep you ready to rock for the next day!!

Austin: City...Limitless

The excitement I felt when I found out my spontaneous travel destination was Austin, was palpable.  It's as if Time Out New York Magazine and Booking.com knew that Austin, Texas was my spirit animal.  If you know my brand, Eat Travel Rock, at all; you're aware that I love to combine food and music...and of course travel, in any situation.  Well this was the ultimate trifecta.  Good times were about to be had...by one.  

I have traveled solo many times...for quick work trips.  I have never traveled on a solo vacation before, and I must say... I was pumped.  No one other that myself dictating when and where to go, what to see, what to eat.  The decision making began the evening before my flight when I actually found out that Austin was my destination.  I immediately went on the Booking Now app on my iPhone and began to search.  The ease and functionality was superior to ANY travel app I'd ever used.  Since Booking Now is for travel less than 48 hrs out,  I was a bit worried that desirable accommodations might not be readily available.  Incorrect.  The most luxurious hotels in town, as well as unique and boutique hotels were easy to find...and more importantly, affordable.  Many of the hotels even had discounts that were just for Booking.com and Booking Now customers.  I booked a gorgeous room at the JW Mariott in a matter of a minute and I was all set.  Ready to wing it in Austin!

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My view of the Colorado River from my JW Mariott room

When I arrived in Austin, and after I got settled into my glorious city center accommodations with a stunning view of the Colorado River... I got my game face on.  Fortunately, Time Out New York Magazine and Booking.com wanted me to explore the musical culture of the Live Music Capital of the World.  This was going to be fun, to say the least.  My first challenge was to "bear hug the unknown", and seek out a local record shop...one that is hidden or known only to locals.  I decided to walk down South Congress, or as the locals call it, SoCo.  I didn't let the 100 degree heat sway me from my mission.  I found a tiny little spot called Friends of Sound, and believe me, it was hidden.  First, I ventured off the main drag and down a little side street.  The sign said "entrance in alley"  So I walked down the alley...then around an old brick building... then around another corner. Finally, tucked away, was a vintage vinyl shop that was so perfectly and authentically Austin.  I shopped a bit and of course picked up some old school Country tunes like pre-outlaw Waylon Jennings and the Best of Johnny Cash.  I then cozied up to the manager to see if he had any great recs for where to see some live music.  Not just any live music, mind you... but my next challenge was to "scare myself silly"  and find a local gig that was well outside my musical comfort zone.  Well he and a fellow shopper gave me some great tips for where to find some great live shows that evening... shows that were not necessarily Eat Travel Rock friendly.  

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Friend of Sound Records

Later, I ventured out for my first ever solo "night out on the town".  It was great.  Amidst the hustle and bustle of buzzing 6th street in downtown Austin, I hardly felt alone.  The vibe was electric, and music was pouring out of every doorway and corridor. I was headed toward the Red Eyed Fly and it reached me before I reached it.  The music was LOUD... and joyfully angry sounding.  I asked the door guy to fill me in and he said the Death Metal show on the outside patio was $10.  SOLD!! Now, I'm usually very non-discriminating when it comes to Rock music.  I love it all.  But death metal has always been an enigma to me.  How can you even understand what they're saying with all that grunting and barking into the mic??? Plus it just seemed...scary! Well, I let go of all that and head banged with the best of them...with a Lone Star beer in hand.  The crowd seemed friendly and no one seemed to mind that I only had 15 tattoos instead of 50.  After a while, even though the music was starting to make my head hurt, I could see why people gravitated toward the overall vibe.  Death Metal will not likely be filling my iPod soon, but it was sure fun for 30 minutes.  

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Death Metal band at Red Eyed Fly

Next up, I wanted to venture even farther from 6th Street, and "abandon my compass".  I needed to find a Rock bar that was in a part of town unknown to me.  I found this tiny little run down club called Beer Land.  It was definitely off the beaten path and looked right up my alley (no pun intended).  They had a surfer-esque garage band on stage and they were totally my taste.  A cross between the Ventures and Green Day.  As I cozied up to my 2nd tall-boy of Lone Star, I sat back and realized how fortunate I was to be experiencing something so magical.  Not even 24 hrs before, I didn't even know I'd be in Austin.  Now here I am, sippin' on a cold one, and soaking up one of the coolest musical scenes on the planet.  Bless your heart Rock N' Roll.  

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Surfer-rock band at Beer Land

My final challenge was to find an iconic spot in town where a part of musical history occurred.  After some research, it became clear where I needed to visit.  Arlyn Studios is a place where music history has been made; over and over again.  This recording studio is not only the home studio of Willie Nelson, but many of my all-time favorites have recorded here: Waylon Jennings, Sublime, Neil Young, Snoop Dogg, Gary Clark Jr., Phish, and Merle Haggard, just to name a few.  Their history is rich, but even more impressive is what the music is made with/on.  Arlyn Studios possesses one of the few Neve recording consoles in existence.  If you saw Dave Grohl's documentary, Sound City, you would know the level of prestige and mystique this conveys.  Not only do they have a Neve console, but it is a Neve/API hybrid and the only one like it in the world.  As the gracious owner of Arlyn, Lisa Fletcher, explained to me..."It's like the Bentley and Rolls Royce of sound boards coming together."  I was lucky enough to have Lisa give me an after hours tour of the entire studio.  I couldn't get over the musical history that was in my presence.  She even let me "play" with the Neve console.  To touch the boards where some of the most significant albums in music history were made, was surreal. I could actually feel the pulse of all the sounds that have been flowing through that studio for decades.  It was an experience that will last a lifetime.  

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Me getting to touch history at Arlyn Studios

After all of my musical challenges were completed... it was time to EAT!! You didn't think I'd forget the food, did you?!  Here is a run down of some of my favorite Austin meals. Many of these recommendations came from locals as well as  Time Out Magazine Austin.  Lonesome Dove Western Bistro was first.  Wow.  Chef Tim Love's latest adventure in on point.  The menu is eclectic and represented by almost every animal species on earth... from duck to rattlesnake.  The food was outstanding, and since I was solo, they let me do a tasting of several of the dishes.  I would definitely say the best piece of fried catfish I'd ever had.  The staff was overly accommodating and friendly.  It was my happy place.  

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Foie Gras Ice Cream Lollipop at Lonesome Dove 

Next up was to satisfy my taco craving.  You can't go to Texas without filling up on this Tex-mex staple.  Torchy's Tacos was ALL i'd been hearing about and it was a must.  I took an Uber to this little trailer park lot and there was Torchy's. A cute little food trailer in a dusty parking lot surrounded by red picnic tables.  I actually had a fried avocado taco...my life will NEVER be the same.  It was taco heaven...in a trailer park.  

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Finally, I had my last meal at Odd Duck.  I could not hear enough about this James Beard Award nominated hot spot.  I also heard their brunch was spectacular, so that's what I went with.  Everything they serve is locally sourced and sustainable.  If you don't believe me, in the most serendipitous fashion, they sat me at the bar right next to Farmer Chris, who is actually the chicken farmer from whom they directly source their eggs.  My egg education is now on a loftier level... and the dishes I enjoyed at Odd Duck were next level.  It was one of those authentic experiences that can't be described, only felt.  I knew I was in a special place, away from the tourists and the hustle, where I could feel the true sense of this remarkable city.  My last bite and breath of Southern Texas before heading back to Chicago.  

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Needless to say, traveling solo may be my new favorite thing.  Not only was I able to learn so much more about Austin, its music, and its culture, but I was able to learn more about myself.  My sense of adventure is alive and well, and people and places (and music) that once seemed foreign or intimidating, are now welcomed and appreciated.  I'm so grateful for this quick journey, and even though i'm back in Chicago, in my comfort zone...Austin is already calling me back. 

History at My Fingertips- Arlyn Studios

Music history and nostalgia is almost as important to me as the music itself.  Fortunately, Austin has such a rich and diverse music history, the city pulsates with it.  One of my tasks to accomplish over my stay, given to me by Time Out New York Magazine and Booking.com, was to find a spot where something notable in music history occurred.  After doing some research, I discovered there was no better place for me to experience than Arlyn Studios.

Here's a small list of some of my favorite musicians who have recorded at Arlyn...Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Neil Young, Bonnie Raitt, Jennifer Nettles, The Toadies, Snoop Dogg, Ray Charles, Phish, and Sublime.  Some other biggies include:  Wilco, Eli Young Band, Lorde, Merle Haggard, Les Paul, Gary Clark Jr., Coldplay, and Buddy Guy. Not a shabby line up.  

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Recognize this bad boy??

Arlyn Studios also boasts a one-of-a-kind vintage Neve console.  If you've ever seen Dave Grohl's documentary, Sound City, you would know that the Neve console is the holy grail of all mixing/recording consoles.  They are rare and have been out of production for decades.  Records from some of the world's most acclaimed artists such as, Nirvana (Nevermind), Neil Young, Fleetwood Mac (Rumors), and Tom Petty, were recorded on a similar console.  Arlyn's is actually a Neve and API hybrid... the only one like it in the world.  

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Neve/API hybrid boards at Arlyn Studios

I was fortunate enough to get a tour from the current owner, Lisa Fletcher, whose husband/co-owner is also Willie Nelson's nephew.  Her graciousness was only exceeded by her music knowledge.  After she poured me a Sunday-Funday cocktail, we began our tour.  First stop was the control room... and the Neve console.

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Touching history

Seeing this board was surreal; as I was looking at a piece of equipment that some of my favorite artists of all time, recorded their masterpieces on.  Sublime's entire 1996 self titled album was recorded on this board.  Unreal.  Not to mention some of Waylon's later works, Willie's current works, and dozens of others, many of whom are mentioned above.  

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I got a full history of the studio, as it has been transformed over the years from an opera house, to a recording studio, to a restaurant (part of it was), and finally was re-launched in 2012 to get back to its authentic heart and soul.  I absolutely cannot wait to come back and visit and see Arlyn Studios in action... see some tracks being laid down.  Hmmmm Austin City Limits is right around the corner... time to plan my next trip!!

Austin's Underground Music Scene

I'm thrilled to get back to my music roots.  For so long, I feel I've only been writing about, and posting about food... which of course, I love.  Yet music is my truest and oldest passion.  Time Out New York Magazine and Booking.com must know this, because they wanted my Austin adventures to be centered around this fine city's musical culture.  

Since Austin is the Live Music Capital of the World, I was given some interesting challenges to fulfill.  One was to "Scare Myself Silly", and in this case, to find some live music that is very out of my comfort zone.  My comfort zone of music is basically ANYTHING 90's as well as Country, Alternative, and Classic Rock.  So when I walked past the Red Eyed Fly and heard the sweet sound of a drummer losing his mind on his kit... I knew I had to check it out.  I asked the door guy what the deal was and he said, "Well the heavy punk show on the inside is free and the "metal" show outside is a $10 cover."  I quickly responded..."I want both!!" So I paid the $10, walked in and grabbed a can of Lone Star beer. (My drink of choice the entire weekend)  Now, let me explain.  There's a lot of "metal-ish music" I don't mind.  I like Disturbed, old school Soundgarden, Filter, maybe even some Pantera.  But this was full on growling Death Metal with all the band members' long hair whipping around in circles in perfect unison.  Everyone in the small crowd was also head banging... which of course I love to do too, especially during the "rock-out" part in Bohemian Rhapsody (cue Wayne and Garth).  The music was not exactly my cup of tea (especially since the lead singer was only growling and grunting into the mic), but it was a BLAST.  Stepping out of my comfort zone is usually rewarding, and this was no exception.  

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Death Metal and head banging at the Red Eyed Fly

I then was told I needed to "abandon my compass" and find a rock bar in a part of town I'm unfamiliar with.  Well that's pretty much all of Austin since this is only my second visit.  Yet I knew for this challenge, I wanted to get away from the tourist droves on 6th Street and venture off the beaten path.  I was walking up and down some darker streets and came across a little dive bar called Beer Land that was dark, old, and grimy, just how I like 'em.  I heard the familiar sounds of actual rock music... not too heavy, not too soft... it was the Goldilocks of rock.  I paid the cover to hear what the door guy called "garage rock".   After listening for a few minutes, with another Lone Star in hand of course, I would categorize it as Acid Surfer Garage Rock.  Some punk influence with heavy surfer guitar riffs.  Think The Ventures meets Green Day.  It was great, and I was in my happy place.  I think abandoning my compass will be my new thing, as that's how you discover life's most interesting finds.  

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Surfer rock at Beer Land

Stay tuned for my next adventure that I'll post about tomorrow!!  

A Traveler's Dream Come True

Traveling is my lifeblood.  It makes my world go 'round and 'round.  Sometimes the only thing sweeter than travel is...spontaneous travel.  Sometimes packing your bag on a whim and not even knowing where your journey will take you, is the most exciting adventure of all.

 I was fortunate enough to be chosen by Time Out New York Magazine and Booking.com to be one of their travel bloggers who will Wing It and jet out the door on a moment's notice to a destination that was unknown until about 12 hours before my departure.  All I had to arm myself with was my Booking.com app and my Booking Now app.  The excitement of it all thrilled me, and once I saw how incredibly easy it was to book a luxury hotel for a great price the day before my trip, any tiny feelings of uncertainty were immediately gone.  

Using the Booking Now app (for travel within 48 hrs) was a piece of cake.  Here I am, less than 24 hours later, in my gorgeous hotel room at the JW Mariott in downtown Austin.  I chose this location because it's very close to all of the neighborhoods that make up Austin's hot and bustling music scene.  I'm here to find the best, the quirkiest, the most historic, and the most authentic parts of Austin's lifeblood... music.  

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On the plane just a few hours after I found out I was going to Austin

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The view of the Colorado River from my JW Mariott room I booked with Booking Now

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So impressed with my spontaneous hotel room!

Immediately after checking in, I walked on down Congress to South Congress... or SoCo as the locals call it.  I found a tiny little record shop off the main drag, called Friends Of Sound, that was only accessible by the alley and then it was even tucked around behind a building.  I was mesmerized by all the vintage and used vinyl... I immediately went to the country section to see if they had any of the good stuff... did they ever?!  I picked up The Best of Johnny Cash, some pre-outlaw Waylon Jennings, and some Boston for good rock n' roll measure.  I starting talking to the manager and a local musician who happened to be shopping for some Miles Davis, and they gave me some great recs for some local live music.  Some of it is definitely outside of my comfort zone ( which is rock, alternative, country) but I figured... when in Austin, do as the locals do.  

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Luckily I was able to find it!!

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Inside the awesome Friends Of Sound Vinyl Shop

I'm about to head out on the town in search of some unique live music in the Live Music Capital of the World.  Check back tomorrow, because I can't wait to share the vibes and rhythms of Austin with you.  

Seattle- Exceeding All Expectations

I didn't necessarily think that my first visit to Seattle would qualify this city as one of my favorites.  Maybe Forbes was on to something when it voted Seattle, just this month, as the #2 Coolest City In America.  I will not dispute this ranking as Seattle was so much more than I expected, and yes, the cool just oozed out of it's pores.  

The first thing I noticed, even from the airplane window, was the mind-blowing topography.  It was something out of a dream.  As I decended I could see how the green was almost blinding while the rolling hills were only overcome by the sprawling backdrop of the Cascade Mountains.  The soundtrack of the trip was me saying on repeat, "This is SO pretty.... Oh my God, this is SO gorgeous!"  It was surreal to me that Seattle residents had the privilege of waking up each morning with heaven as their view.  

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I know what you're saying....Slow down Kelly!!  Isn't Seattle known for their gloomy and depressing weather.  Yes... they have a shitty rep for it.  But the city must have been prepared for my arrival and knew how depressed I was with the Chicago's lackluster summer, as she dialed one up for me.  Four straight days of 85 degree and sunny weather.  Which made exploring many of Seattle's massive lakes (Lake Washington, Lake Sammamish) by boat, all the more enjoyable.  Yet Seattle residents and Washingtonians alike don't mind the negative press regarding the weather...this way they get to keep their gem well preserved and close to the chest. 

As a foodie, I was impressed with the vast amount of good eats. Since I'm trying to eat less meat, Seattle is THE spot for me. The abundance of fresh seafood is almost incomparable...for obvious reasons. My absolute favorite spot was Pike Place Market.   This is the go-to for locals, tourists, and chefs alike who want seafood that was caught 5 minutes ago.  My pick of the day was a big cup full of so fresh and so clean Dungeness crab cocktail. Pure, delicious, and only $12. 

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As a music lover, and more importantly 1990's alternative rock music (and grunge) lover, Seattle offered up the EMP Museum. This was everything a person who appreciates music could ask for. I spent the most time in the hall of guitar history and in the Nirvana exhibit. The Nirvana exhibit was surreal as the amount of rare artifacts they had on display which belonged the tragic trio was incredible. Plus they incorporated digital exhibits which showcased many of the other grunge bands who were responsible for creating the "Seattle Sound". 

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All in all, my Seattle trip epitomized the ultimate Eat Travel Rock experience, as I consumed copius amounts of some of the world's most delectable seafood while learning more about the music scene that captivated the world for over a decade over 20 years ago. Clearly Seattle has found it's way to make a name for itself on the world stage again by being voted one of our "Coolest Cities". Well deserved Seattle, well deserved.  

Seattle Sound 2014

It's finally happening.  I am finally going to the birthplace of my favorite music...after 20 years of thinking about it.  Seattle is the Mecca and founding city of most of alternative rock... namely "Grunge".  Even though most of these artists hate the term, "grunge"  it is how it's been classified.  Pearl Jam, Nirvana, Alice in Chains, Soundgarden, etc.  They all began here, and these bands helped shape my life and were instrumental in the formation for my appreciation of modern rock.  It also happens to be the birthplace of my boyfriend, hence the trip.  I've come to grips with the fact that I'm sure the music scene has changed since 1992, but I would love to see some remnants of that vibe.  Even though I missed out on the early days of when Mother Love Bone still existed, Layne Stayley was just becoming known for his tortured vocals, and the movie Singles was all the rage... there must be a highway of nostalgia still in play... or the ability to witness new burgeoning bands who aim to make it big on the scene.  Any local or underground rock clubs I should visit?  Regardless, just being in the presence of where all of this went down will be excitement enough for me.

Summer Concert Preview- Eat Travel Rock's Picks

Ok everyone.  Time for MY picks of the shows I am most excited about over the next couple months.  They are ALL over the place.  So listen up!

Phish- (July 18-20)  Calm down everyone.  I know, I know.  I have avoided this mega tour since 1995.  And today, it's finally happening.  I have always enjoyed Phish's studio albums, especially in high school and college.  I have been super anti-jam band basically because I lack patience and don't wanna hear a 18 min song.  But I have relented, and thanks to a free ticket, I WILL be attending a show this weekend at Northerly Island.  It's all happening folks...

Down With Webster- (July 24th) Subterranean in Wicker Park.  My favorite Canadian band (and also besties) are back in town.  I am SO excited for this venue, mainly because it won't let in their usual under 21 screaming girl fans.  These 6 guys are so talented and their style covers hip-hop to rock to pop.  They are awesome to listen to and not bad to look at.  They give Avril Lavigne and Justin Bieber a run for their money at all the Canadian music award shows, and sell out shows to thousands of screaming fans in the Great White North...Yet are still under the radar in the US.  So get in while you can and see them up close and personal... because they are going to be HUGE here soon.  Mark my words.  

Panic! At The Disco-  (July 25th) Northerly Island-  If you're unfamiliar with Brendon Urie (lead singer) and how hilarious this man is, you're missing out.  Check out his Vine videos.  But more importantly, the band rocks.  Their newest album (Too Weird to Live, Too Rare to Die) is a hit, especially with tracks like Miss Jackson and Vegas Lights, and Far Too Young to Die.  It's more electro-pop than their past albums, and if you like Fall out Boy you'll love Panic! as they're the cooler, sexier, bad-boy LA version of the Chicago band.  

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers (Aug 23rd) United Center-  Honestly, I can't... Can't being to explain how FUCKING PUMPED I AM FOR THIS!!!!  Out of the hundreds of shows I've been to in my life... Tom Petty may be number ONE.  Dead serious, can't top it.  I've never heard such badass guitar riffs and instruments fill an arena more than when I've been at a Tom Petty concert.  He's a legend... so is his guitarist Mike Campbell.  Case closed.  

Zac Brown Band (Sept. 13th) Wrigley Field- I know, y'all were wondering where the country music was on my list.  Fear not.  ZBB is my favorite modern day country artist.  Part Southern Rock, part jam band, part bluegrass, ALL hardcore talent.   Zac has some of the strongest vocals in the biz and he can shred the shit out of an acoustic geetar.  Whether you're a "country" fan or not, you will not be disappointed seeing this Georgia crew tear up the Friendly Confines.  

The Rolling Stones: Need I Say More?? (2013)

It has been an unacceptable amount of time since I have last shared with you. Plus, what kind of music blogger would I be if I didn't fill you in on one of my most life changing musical experiences? On May 28, 2013 I had the honor of seeing The Rolling Stones, arguably the world's greatest band, in concert. It was a total fluke. I was sitting at Dublin's Bar with my singer/songwriter friend from Nashville, Jesse Rice, when I got the call from my friend, Aggie: "Kel! I have 2 extra ($600) Stones tickets, I'm picking you up in an hour!" Jesse and I couldn't believe our luck...especially since we're both intensely devoted fans. Was this really happening? Were we really about to see Mick, Ronnie, Keith, and Charlie... live (and alive) and in concert? This was just too much. We showed up 2 songs into the 3 hour set...during my favorite Stones track, Paint it Black. My level of elation was clearly visible. I ran to my seat and my heart was pumping while I was jumping up and down like a school kid... with a mile-wide smile plastered across my face. Jesse was in utter disbelief. He never thought he'd get to the the Stones live... needless to say we were both the epitome of giddiness.

Fascination is an understatement. To see in person, a band that has accomplished so much; a band who has cultivated and forever changed the very foundation of rock and roll, gave me noticeable goosebumps. Fascination also describes my attitude toward the ability the band still has, after 50 years, to just fucking rock out. Jagger was floating and hopping around the stage as if he were a 20 year old athlete. Ronnie Wood was more cut up that guys my age who work out every day. Keith Richards, even though he looked as if he was about to decompose on stage, killed it on his guitar. No one can do with a guitar what Keith Richards can do, and so effortlessly. He makes some of the most simple riffs seem so complex and gut wrenching. As Jesse, a guitarist himself, said, "He gets so much out of so little." All four of them were hard core rock stars, through and through.

As far as vocals are concerned: I was much more impressed than I initially believed I would be. I've heard several live renditions of "Sympathy For The Devil" over the years and I've always been, not only disappointed with Jagger's vocals, but with the vocal arrangement as well. But to my pleasant surprise, his vocals on EVERY song other than "Sympathy" were incredible. Literally have not changed since the studio recordings. "Sympathy" was still an unfortunate let-down, as it's one of my favorites and I really hoped it would have been closer to the original. But hey, you can't always get what you want....

Some of the key moments from the set list included, a transcendent performance of "Wild Horses", the groovy "Miss You", and the United Center shaking, "Honky Tonk Women". My favorite performance, by far, was "Gimme Shelter"... it was just so mesmerizing....the intro guitar and the "ooh oooohhhss" were palpable through my entire body.... and don't even get me started with the endless wailing verses "War, Children... it's just a shot away;" all the screams and howls were perfectly orchestrated and executed.

So after this show I was rating it one of the top 5 shows I've been to in my life, maybe even top 3. But I kept saying... it just would've been even cooler if we were closer... or got to meet them. Wellllllllllllll my friends...... Here's a fun tangent. Let's just say I have 3 rock idols; Eddie Vedder, Mick Jagger, and John Fogerty. The fact that I've become friends with Eddie over the last couple years has almost been too much to comprehend. I surely didn't think I'd have encounters with my 2 other rock god idols... especially since, well, they're kinda old. So much to my surprise, while I was just sitting ON a booth at Studio Paris, May 29th, I see the unmistakable face and tiny frame of Mick Jagger walking toward me... and sits...DIRECTLY NEXT TO ME. Pardon the expression, but I pretty much shit my pants. I'm not one for EVER interrupting a celebrity and I think asking for fan pics is super gay... I am VERY "anti". But this was MICK FUCKING JAGGER. Fortunately, he saw me first and smiled. I told him I loved his show and that it was basically life-changing. He was very pleased and asked my name, shook my hand ,and gave me a hug. Then in his adorable London accent, asked if I wanted some champagne. Ummm, yes please!!! He poured me the glass himself and we "cheersed" each other. It was one hell of a moment... and the sweetest champagne I've ever tasted.

Get Your Shine On (2013)

There is no better opportunity for me to write a blog than when I'm able to combine all of my favorite things into one event.  Turns out, 2 weeks ago was the epitome of eating, traveling, and rocking out... all rolled into one incredible 4 day trip.   Actually, the traveling began when my best Nashvillian friend, Nanci, asked me to drive with her from Music City USA to Los Angeles.... of course, the spontaneous lunatic in me said..."Hell Yes!"  We made our way from Nashville, through Memphis where we got to eat some of their famous BBQ and pay an obligatory visit to Graceland.  Stayin in Dallas and Fort Worth Texas was probably some of the most fun I've had in years.  Witnessing real life cowboy honky-tonks and learning to two-step were experiences I'll take with me to the end of my days.  Yet the craziness began while we're driving through New Mexico and I get a phone call from the manager of Florida Georgia Line, "Hey Kelly... ummm can you be in Cancun the day after tomorrow? We really need you for the lead in our new music video- BK said to call you asap."  So I hauled ass to Phoenix so I could hop a plane home to Chicago, so I could fly down to Cancun.  It was a whirlwind but was the best hasty decision I've ever made.  Turns out my good friends, Tyler Hubbard and Brian Kelley (BK) of the smash hit Country Music duo Florida Georgia Line were filming the video for their big new single, "Get Your Shine On".  I was beyond flattered they wanted me to be BK's "video girlfriend" and one hell of a trip ensued.  I arrived on Monday at the Hard Rock Hotel in Cancun to find the entire hotel flooded with pictures and posters of FGL and their upcoming mega-concert on the beach.  Turns out, the band and over 50 person crew from all over the US and Mexico dominated the entire hotel that week.

Video shoot Days 1 & 2: These were no ordinary days in paradise.  Usually waking up at 5:00 is pretty much the worst thing that can happen to me... yet when it's accompanied by a beautiful sunrise, breakfast chilaquiles, and country music blasting at the pool....it wasn't so bad ;).  My fellow video chick, Estephania (Tyler's " video girlfriend"), and I got to watch the boys finish their first shoot... where their whole band was actually performing IN the Hard Rock pool.  It was surreal to actually watch the making of a huge production music video... let alone being a part of it.  The scenes over the next couple days included... The 4 of us playing pool, flying across the ocean on waverunners, partying at a swim-up bar, frolicking on the beach with Mexican wrestling midgets (yes, I'm serious), cruising through the jungle and through town in an old army Jeep, and diving into clear pools and caves in the Cenotes.  One of my favorites was BK chasing me on the beach in Tulum and trying to take pics of me with an old fashioned camera.  There may or may not have been an on-camera smooch as well.  Let's just say trying to act "romantic" with a crew of 40 people watching you is much more glamorous than it sounds!  The down side of all of the was that craft services was the most delicious authentic buffet of regional Mexican specialties...yet whenever I was about to load up my plate I got some interesting "looks" from my stylists and the directors as my wardrobe consisted of nothing more than a bikini, and that I should probably be indulging in the veggie platter instead.  Nevertheless... I would sneak some Empanadas con jamon y queso... and proceed to "suck it in" for the rest of the shoot.

The wrap party was bitter-sweet as we knew our time in Cancun was winding down.  Yet we still had some party left in us.  The entire crew and band bid adieu to the Hard Rock by consuming massive amounts of Tequila while head-banging to a Mexican hard rock cover band.  It was a blast and probably one of the best nights I can (somewhat)  remember.  The video will be released within the next week and I CANNOT WAIT for everyone to see it!  It will truly be an epic music video and will go down in my history books as one of my coolest life experiences and the time I got to Eat, Travel, and Rock Out Mexican/Country style!

Joe's-A-Palooza (2012)

This last weekend at Joe's Bar was like this year's second Lollapalooza.  It was an over-the-top smorgasbord of interwoven and overlapping acts and concerts.  Let's just say I am STILL worn out!  The most wonderful aspect was that even though not every show was AT Joe's Bar...Joe's was still a huge part of everything that was going on.

Here's how the craziness began: November 29th witnessed a mass immigration of country artists to our fair city of Chicago.  They were scattered everywhere... from State Street to Weed Street.  My first stop along this musical journey was the House of Blues for The Florida Georgia Line, Love and Theft, and Jake Owen concerts.  Love and Theft's Eric and Stephen are good friends, along with Eric's beautiful wife, Emily, so we watched the rapid fire shows from the artist's balcony.  Unfortunately, I had missed Florida Georgia Line's energetic performance at Joe's in September, so it was amazing to finally see them live.  It's incredible to see the reaction the crowd has every time "Cruise" is performed.  I had to sneak out of this show early as I needed to rush over to Joe's to interview Jerrod Niemann as well as host the live streaming of his concert.  This was so cool, as this type of broadcast, using Laplive.TV, hadn't been done before at Joe's and it was a monstrous production. Over 3,000 fans around the country got to watch the show live at Joe's thanks to the live streaming.  Jerrod was thrilled to be able to "bring Joe's TO all of his fans."  You can catch the rest of our discussion/interview here. Jerrod's show was non-stop action with an entire horns section and back to back crowd pleasing hits.  He has such a wonderful demeanor and stage presence, he makes every audience member feel like a family member and an integral part of the show.  The highlight for me was his beautiful ballad, What Do You Want, which was also co-written by a dear friend, Rachel Bradshaw.  Jerrod's deep and powerful voice had the audience captivated for the duration of the show but that song was on a whole different level.

The next day, Friday, was truly epic.  If you were at Joe's, you witnessed the intensity first hand.  Once again, I ventured to House of Blues for the 2nd performance of Florida Georgia Line, Love and Theft, and Jake Owen.  After the show I had to round up the troops and help get all the boys over to Joe's so they could support their friend, Chase Rice, who was performing his first sold out show.  Chase is an interesting guy.  On the outside, he seems to be a tall, handsome, ummm jock?  But he's got so much more going on than that.  This guy has done it all, and all by the young age of 27.  We had a really fun interview... you can watch it here.  When Chase took the stage, he really rocked it... of course, the ladies were ecstatic, but he really was pulling the guys in too... as they could all relate to his "fun time"  music.  Chase called up buddy Stephen Barker Liles (Love and Theft) to jam with him for one song, yet the "piece de resistance" was during the encore performance.  Chase sneaked off stage and was scrambling upstairs to gather all his fellow songwriters and performers for one last colossal track.  He grabbed Brian Kelley and Tyler Hubbard of Florida Georgia Line, and Jesse Rice (co-writer).  They are the conglomeration responsible for the current number one song in country, Cruise.  No one  at Joe's had ever seen a crowd go so crazy before... especially during the last chorus of "In this brand new Chevy with a lift kit... would look a HELL OF A LOT BETTER WITH YOU UP IN IT!"

Fortunately, for those of you who missed any of these shows, you can be confident all of the artists will be back in 2013.  There's already an incredible line up that's in place for January and February.  Check it out here and hope to see y'all soon at a show soon!! Stay tuned... I'm going to tell you about my last crazy trip to Nashville and review Florida Georgia Line's new chart topping album, Here's to the Good Times.