Stage Buzz: Waterparks, Bikini Kill, Joe Perry Project, Placebo
Bikini Kill (at Riotfest- Photo Curt Baran)
Some say the pop-punk revival is currently underway, but for Houston rockers Waterparks it never ended. Forming in 2011, the band has been leading the charge of the next wave of pop-punk groups. With their newest album, INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY, the band keeps their punk rock spirit but makes it fresh by continuing to play with their sound. To celebrate their new album, the band will play an intimate acoustic performance at Reckless Records’ Wicker Park location on Tuesday, April 18. The event is free, so make sure you get there early.
Placebo carved out its place in UK music by going against the grain. Britpop was topping the charts, yet the band, led by Brian Molko, stood out for their androgynous appearance, Molko’s distinct high vocals, and lyrics openly discussing taboo topics like mental health, drug use, and sexuality. Now a duo, the band continues pushing boundaries by unabashedly being themselves. Placebo will perform at The Salt Shed with Deep Vally and Poppy Jean Crawford on Friday, April 21 at 8 PM. Tickets are available here.
Hall of Fame guitarist Joe Perry (Aerosmith) and his retooled and reunited “Project” come to town this week at Arcada Theatre and Des Plaines Theatre – on Thursday, April 20 (Des Plaines) and Friday, April 21 (Arcada). Reviews from this tour have been excellent. Here’s a rare opportunity to see Joe in an “intimate” setting. The featured vocalist of JPP is Gary Cherone of Extreme and Van Halen. His all-star band includes Buck Johnson on (keyboards) and vocals, Jason Sutter (Cher, Chris Cornell) (drums), plus David Hull (bass). Meet and greet upgrades are available at both venues. They’ve also just released $49 balcony seats via Joe Perry’s record label.
Punk rock group Bikini Kill is often credited for pioneering the riot grrrl movement of the 90s. They led the charge with their abrasive sound and unapologetic lyrics, loudly calling out misogynists. They also created a safe space for women at hardcore shows with their girls to the front rule at their shows. Over 30 years later (led by Kathleen Hanna), their influence can still be heard in newer punk acts like Tacocat, Fea, and The Linda Lindas. The iconic band will play The Salt Shed with Chicago’s Ganser on Saturday, April 22, at 8 PM. Get tickets here.
-Ashley Perez Hollingsworth
Category: Featured, Stage Buzz
