Spektor treats Chicago to indie pop
She sounds like a folk singer. She looks like a folk singer. But Moscow-born indie pop singer Regina Spektor has turned classic folk on its head as a big player on the anti-folk movement. Toying with the tenets set forth by artists such as Joni Mitchell, she writes about simple moments rather than tackling the momentous. Spektor’s ever-evolving musical style has earned her recognition and recently won her a duet with Ben Folds on “The Hamilton Mixtape,” where they tackle the touching “Dear Theodosia.” See her this weekend in Chicago.
7:30 p.m. Friday, March 24, at the Chicago Theatre, 175 N. State St., Chicago. $36.50-$81.50. (312) 462-6300 or thechicagotheatre.com.
Turnspit headlines benefit show
Turnspit’s roots are firmly planted in good old Midwestern alternative rock, but on closer examination you’ll detect some pop-punk thorns among the blossoms. Brad Davis, Jason Swearingen and Dan Tinkler provide a solid base for Gillian McGhee’s gritty yet melodic lead vocals, especially on songs like “Lamplighters” and “Then You Came Along,” where she trades lines with guitarist Swearingen. Get a load of them when they headline the unique 1st Ward Events at Chop Shop with The Blind Staggers, Airstream Futures and Kodakrome. A portion of sales will benefit GirlForward , an organization that helps empower refugees in Chicago.
8:30 p.m. Friday, March 24, at 1st Ward Events at Chop Shop, 2033 W. North Ave., Chicago. $8-$10. (773) 537-4440 or chopshopchi.com.
Rock with Mr. Russia
Hard-rocking duo Mr. Russia has a reputation for intense performances,
which makes Lombard’s BrauerHouse a perfect fit. They’ll be joined by Invictus, a three-piece punk outfit out of the Western suburbs, and OUTDrejas, a Homewood-based band that embodies the high-energy rock spirit in their outrageous (get it?) live shows.
9 p.m. Friday, March 24, at BrauerHouse, 1000 N. Rohlwing Road, Lombard. $7-$10. (630) 495-2141 or brauerhouse.com.
Bon Jovi is true rock royalty, sporting sing-along anthems along with numerous awards and nominations during three decades in the spotlight. This fan favorite rolls into town with the band’s “This House Is Not for Sale” tour Sunday, March 26, with Iowa-based 35th & Taylor opening.
7:30 p.m. Sunday, March 26, at United Center, 1901 W. Madison St., Chicago. Tickets start at $19.75. (312) 455-4500 or unitedcenter.com.
