The Week In Preview 5/24
Week Of May 24th, 2010
Monday’s, um, gone with the wind, but there’s three more days to rockin’ consider before it’s Memorial Day weekend, remember?
If you missed him back in the fall, Maxwell returns to United Center on Tuesday with Jill Scott in support. Blacksummers’night received nearly unanimous critical praise as a harsh light examining a doomed relationship, this after eight years out of the game. Despite his reserved, neo-soul demeanor, however, Maxwell’s stage show and adlibs often veer past the bawdy to the questionable and gross. Highly recommended. (@United Center with Jill Scott.)
It’s doubtful there are any tickets left for LCD Soundsystem’s cozy gig at Metro or a second night of the Glee revue at Allstate Arena, but there are some choice mid-tier acts including April Smith at Schubas. The Jersey-born songwriter and her Great Picture Show bandmates patrol the waters of Vaudeville, ’30s/’40s Hollywood juke bands, and a little of Tom Waits. It’s as if Eleni Mandell’s hosting a burlesque show where you’re the one who’ll be undressed, lyrically or otherwise. (@Schubas with Ornery Little Darlings.)
Thursday boasts Diana Ross at Chicago Theatre and Steel Pulse with Toots & The Maytals at House Of Blues, but the best pick might be the continued pursuit by Darius Rucker of Charley Pride. Even as a member of Hootie & The Blowfish, Rucker’s willingness to be the one black among whites extended beyond the band and audience to a “Sportscenter”-styled golf video — right as Tiger Woods began his ascent. (@Joe’s On Weed with Matt Kennon & Lewis Copeland, part of Chicago Bear Greg Olsen’s Shake The Lake.)
— Steve Forstneger
Category: Featured, Stage Buzz, Weekly
