Arts & Entertainment
Chicago-Area Live Music Recommendations for Aug. 20-26
Case Oats (Credit: Braeden Long)
Each Wednesday, WTTW News producer Josh Terry presents must-see live music shows from indie rock to jazz, country, hip-hop and more.
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Thursday, August 21:
Ben Lamar Gay, Ugochi & A.S.E, more at Austin Town Hall. Free.
The Old Town School of Folk Music has been putting on shows with the Chicago Park District called “Future Folk Fest.” This one features a local jazz mainstay and more.
Blue Earth Sound at California Clipper. Free.
The new jazz project from Spun Out’s James Weir will bring stellar vibes and a dance party to Humboldt Park around 9 p.m.
Friday, August 22:
Case Oats, TV Buddha at Hideout. Tickets.
Chicago’s most charming folk rock band is finally putting out their debut album Friday. Celebrate with main songwriter Casey Gomez Walker, drummer Spencer Tweedy and several other excellent local players in Bucktown.
Bongripper, Pinebender, Cuss at Empty Bottle. Tickets.
Chicago’s instrumental doom metal mainstays play two shows in Ukrainian Village this weekend. This is Night 1.
Teddy and the Rough Riders at Judson and Moore. Tickets.
One of Nashville’s most smokin’ country bands plays the Avondale Distillery’s late-night honky tonk party.
Maren Morris, Miya Folick at Ravinia. Tickets.
One of the most likable country stars makes a stop in Highland Park.
Saturday, August 23:
Ratboys, Good Looks, Motel Breakfast, Nathan Graham, more at Thalia Hall. Free.
This all-building, all-day, free concert is happening in Pilsen.
Bongripper, Pinebender, Varaha at Empty Bottle. Tickets.
Chicago’s instrumental doom metal mainstays play two shows in Ukrainian Village this weekend. This is Night 2.
Milou Moon, Lane Beckstrom at Hideout. Tickets.
Emily McGill is from Chicago but is based in Australia. This homecoming show features an excellent opener, too.
Monday, August 25:
Paper Jam, National Photo Committee, Jason Shapiro at the Hideout. Tickets.
The Texas headliners only formed in October 2024, but they already have a debut album of charming jangle-pop.
