# Beat Map: Your Ultimate Chicago Music Guide for July 2024

## Podcast Episode Description

In this vibrant episode of Beat Map, your trusted Chicago music compass delivers an insider's guide to the city's most exciting shows and hidden gems for mid-July 2024. Host Beat Map shares their passionate exploration of Chicago's diverse music scene while providing comprehensive coverage of upcoming concerts, festivals, and under-the-radar performances.

The episode kicks off with an in-depth preview of the Windy City Smokeout, highlighting Old Dominion and Dylan Gossett's performances on Friday, July 11th, with ticket information and venue details outside the United Center. Listeners receive expert recommendations for the weekend's most promising shows, including Cosmo Sheldrake's luminous indie pop at Park West, Diggy Graves' energetic alt-punk set at Cobra Lounge, and the impressive Sunday lineup featuring Jon Pardi and Riley Green.

For indie music enthusiasts, Beat Map spotlights the can't-miss Built to Spill and Yo La Tengo concert at The Salt Shed—named the host's "venue pick of the week" for its exceptional acoustics and unique converted salt storage building architecture. The episode explores what makes this venue a "juggernaut of energy" with unparalleled sound quality.

Local music fans will appreciate the detailed coverage of Chicago's homegrown talent, including Lester Rey's Latin soul fusion, Ganser's cathartic art-punk performance at Kilbourn Park, and Natalie Bergman's haunting vocals at The Hideout. Beat Map also shares personal mid-July music rituals, including Thursday jazz sessions at The Green Mill, Sunday blues at Buddy Guy's Legends, and the community-centered Square Roots Festival in Lincoln Square.

The episode provides valuable insights into upcoming festival announcements, including ARC Music Festival's anticipated 2025 lineup reveal, while offering practical tips for navigating the free Rockin' in the Park concert series and securing tickets for Mali Wilson's genre-bending show at Epiphany Center for the Arts.

True to Beat Map's underground expertise, listeners discover how to find Chicago's secret music scenes—from basement laundromat DJ sets to Nolita-style loft parties—with specific advice on following venues like Cole's Bar and The Hideout's back room. The host reveals their strategies for discovering last-minute shows through Do312, Songkick, personal music connections, and social media monitoring.

Whether you're a Chicago native or visiting music lover, this episode delivers an authentic, comprehensive guide to experiencing the city's legendary and emerging music scenes throughout July 2024, with actionable information to plan your perfect musical adventure.

Subscribe for weekly updates on Chicago's most exciting shows and visit inceptionpoint.ai for exclusive content, artist profiles, and a definitive gig calendar curated by Beat Map.

#ChicagoMusic #WindyCitySmokeout #LiveMusicChicago #ChicagoConcerts #MusicPodcast #LocalMusic #ChicagoEvents #JulyEvents #MusicGuide #ChicagoNightlife

# Chicago Beat Map: Your Essential Guide to Live Music July 11-17

## Navigating Chicago's Vibrant Live Music Scene with Your Personal Guide, Beat Map

In the latest episode of Chicago Beat Map, your peculiar but trusty guide takes you on an immersive journey through the Windy City's dynamic live music landscape. From highly anticipated comebacks to underground sensations, this comprehensive episode provides everything music lovers need to plan an unforgettable week of live performances across Chicago's diverse venues.

## Headline Acts You Can't Miss

The episode spotlights several must-see performances, including **Alabama Shakes'** long-awaited return to Chicago at **The Salt Shed Outdoors** on Tuesday, July 15. Music enthusiasts are advised to secure tickets quickly as this electric performance is expected to sell out.

For world music aficionados, the legendary **Ebo Taylor & Pat Thomas** bring authentic Ghanaian highlife rhythms to **Thalia Hall** on July 15, while indie music fans will want to experience **Tamino's** hauntingly beautiful performance at the same venue on July 13.

## Local Legends and Rising Stars

The episode doesn't just focus on mainstream acts. Beat Map expertly highlights Chicago's thriving local music scene, recommending:

- **Jake La Botz** and **the Mekons** at **FitzGerald's** in Berwyn for authentic rootsy Chicago sounds
- **Natalie Bergman's** ethereal folk set at **The Hideout** on July 13
- **Diggy Graves** at the **Cobra Lounge** for those seeking edgier, new-school sounds
- Homegrown talents like **Sincere Engineer** and **Lester Rey** at the **Square Roots Festival**

## Venue Spotlight: The Salt Shed

This week's featured venue is **The Salt Shed**, praised for its exceptional acoustics, energetic atmosphere, and unique riverside location. The episode describes it as a place where "Chicago's soul is amplified," making it a must-visit destination for serious music fans.

## Free and Family-Friendly Options

Budget-conscious listeners will appreciate the coverage of no-cost events including:

- **Giddings Plaza** in Lincoln Square for the Summer Concert Series (July 17, 6-8:30 pm)
- **Grant Park's Spirit of Music Garden** for Sunday SummerDance sessions featuring country line dancing, cumbia, and jitterbug with live bands
- **Square Roots Festival** in Lincoln Square from July 12-14

## Insider Tips and Secret Spots

What sets this podcast apart is Beat Map's insider knowledge of Chicago's hidden musical treasures. Listeners receive exclusive recommendations for:

- Late-night jam sessions at **Garcia's Chicago**
- The secret jazz room above the **Green Mill**
- Surprise DJ sets at **Outset**
- Monday open-mic nights at **Cole's Bar** to discover emerging songwriters

## Resources for Music Discovery

The episode concludes with valuable resources for staying updated on Chicago's ever-evolving music scene, including **Songkick**, **Do312**, and the city's **Department of Cultural Affairs** page. Listeners are encouraged to subscribe for future episodes and visit **inceptionpoint.ai** for artist profiles, venue walkthroughs, and deeper explorations of Chicago's musical subculture.

Whether you're a longtime Chicago resident or just visiting, this episode of Chicago Beat Map provides an invaluable roadmap to experiencing the city's rich musical tapestry from July 11

# Beat Map: Navigating Chicago's Vibrant Music Scene This Week

## Episode Description

In this energetic episode of Beat Map, your quirky, tireless guide to Chicago's music scene takes you on a comprehensive tour of the city's most exciting upcoming performances. From major festivals to intimate neighborhood venues, this episode maps out every must-see musical moment across the Windy City for the week ahead.

## Festival Highlights

Discover everything you need to know about the **Windy City Smokeout** (July 10-13) as it transforms the United Center parking lot into a country music and BBQ paradise. Get the inside scoop on headliners Kane Brown, Old Dominion, Jon Pardi, Bailey Zimmerman, and Megan Moroney, plus practical details on tickets starting at $90 per day.

For indie and alternative rock fans, the episode provides a detailed look at the **Square Roots Festival** (July 11-13) in Lincoln Square. Learn about the impressive lineup featuring Calexico, Mekons, Ted Leo & The Pharmacists, Alejandro Escovedo, Heartless Bastards, and The Lone Bellow, with over 50 acts across four stages. Discover how your $10 suggested donation supports local music and art scholarships.

## Free and Budget-Friendly Options

The episode highlights the best no-cost music experiences in Chicago, including the **Live on the Lake concert series** at Navy Pier's Beer Garden on July 11th (4:30-10:00 PM), offering a diverse sampling of local talent against the stunning backdrop of Lake Michigan.

## Venue Spotlight: The Hideout

Get an insider's perspective on this week's featured venue—The Hideout—a cherished wood-paneled sanctuary hosting everything from country to experimental music. Learn about upcoming performances from Jake La Botz and Natalie Bergman, with practical information about the $20 cover and cash-only policy.

## Local Scene Deep Dive

Explore Chicago's vibrant local music ecosystem with recommendations for jazz guitarist Kenny Reichert at Winter's Jazz Club and Oyeme's modern Latin grooves at Cole's Bar. The episode also reveals weekly rituals worth incorporating into your schedule, including Reggae Gold Thursdays at The Burlington and the Summer Concert Series at Giddings Plaza.

## Hidden Gems and Insider Tips

Uncover secret performance spaces like the back room at Bookclub and the jazz den at Brudders, plus strategies for discovering impromptu performances throughout the city. Get expert advice on tracking last-minute shows using apps like Songkick and Do312, and why sometimes the best approach is simply exploring neighborhood venues.

## Festival Planning Strategies

Benefit from practical tips for maximizing your festival experience at both Windy City Smokeout and Square Roots, including set time management, food options, and essential preparation advice. Plus, a spotlight on the upcoming Out of Space festival in Skokie (July 18-20) featuring Rodrigo y Gabriela and Bully.

---

This episode of Beat Map delivers the perfect combination of enthusiastic music recommendations, practical information, and insider knowledge to help music lovers of all tastes navigate Chicago's dynamic sonic landscape this week.

# Chicago's Beat Map: Your Ultimate Guide to This Week's Live Music Treasures

## Discover the Pulse of Chicago's Music Scene with Beat Map

In the latest episode of Beat Map's Chicago music guide, your host takes you on a comprehensive journey through the city's vibrant live music landscape. As a seasoned explorer of Chicago's rhythm-filled corners, Beat Map delivers insider knowledge on everything from high-profile concerts to hidden musical gems that make the Windy City one of America's premier music destinations.

## This Week's Must-See Shows and Venues

The episode highlights an impressive array of performances across Chicago's diverse venues. While the city still buzzes from Tyler, The Creator's recent United Center performances, attention now turns to these upcoming highlights:

- **Navy Pier's Live on the Lake!** - This free weekend concert series continues through September at the lakefront Beer Garden, featuring both local Chicago talent and national touring acts against the iconic skyline backdrop.

- **Garcia's Chicago** - The legendary Preservation Hall Jazz Band brings authentic New Orleans sounds to this intimate venue, with additional performances by Sabertooth, Elijah Fox, Fareed Haque, and Trouble Ahead throughout the week.

- **Epiphany Center for the Arts** - The architecturally stunning Sanctuary space hosts Mali Wilson Live on Friday and Saturday (doors 5 PM, show 7:30 PM, $50 general admission), followed by the late-night Dead Funk Summit with Joe Marcinek on Friday at midnight ($25 presale).

## Weekly Rituals and Local Favorites

The episode provides valuable information on recurring events perfect for planning your musical week:

- **Rockin' in the Park** - This free Thursday concert series at Rosemont's Parkway Bank Park features tribute bands, food vendors, and ends with musical fireworks displays.

- **Rising Local Artists** - Beat Map spotlights experimental cellist Lia Kohl, genre-blending ensemble Funkadesi at Evanston's SPACE, soul-infused Shinyribs at FitzGerald's in Berwyn, and Jackson & the Janks at The Hideout.

## Off-the-Beaten-Path Recommendations

For those seeking authentic Chicago music experiences, Beat Map shares personal circuit favorites:

- **Open Mic Nights** - Subterranean's welcoming stage for emerging talent
- **Late-Night Jazz** - The intimate Hungry Brain featuring experimental artists like Lia Kohl
- **Underground Gems** - No.9's funky showcases with acts like Basura Boyz and Tombz

## Festival Season Planning

The episode offers practical festival advice with upcoming highlights at The Salt Shed (featuring Greensky Bluegrass) and the culturally rich Argyle Street Market block party, complete with insider tips on festival preparation.

## Secret Spots and Insider Information

What sets this podcast apart is Beat Map's exclusive knowledge of Chicago's truly hidden music scene:

- The surprise performances at Cole's back room
- Unexpected jazz nights at Dave & Buster's
- Under-the-radar DJ sessions at Outset

## Finding Last-Minute Shows

Beat Map concludes with valuable resources for spontaneous music lovers, including digital platforms like Songkick and Do312, while emphasizing the unmatched value of personal connections with venue staff and local musicians.

For weekly Chicago music recommendations and deeper explorations of the local scene, listeners are encouraged to subscribe to the podcast and visit inceptionpoint.ai for exclusive content.

*Keywords: Chicago live music, concert guide, Navy Pier concerts,

# Chicago's Ultimate Live Music Guide: Navigating July's Hottest Concerts with Beat Map

## Your Personal Tour Through Chicago's Vibrant Music Scene This Week

Welcome to Beat Map's insider guide to Chicago's electric live music landscape! This comprehensive episode takes you on a journey through the city's most exciting upcoming concerts, hidden venues, and can't-miss performances happening right now in the Windy City.

Our host, Beat Map, brings years of experience exploring Chicago's diverse music ecosystem—from legendary jazz clubs to underground indie shows tucked between skyscrapers—delivering personalized recommendations for music lovers of all tastes.

## This Week's Must-See Concerts (July 2-5)

The episode highlights several standout performances happening this week:

- **July 2**: Nas collaborates with the Chicago Philharmonic at Ravinia for a unique fusion of classic hip-hop and orchestral arrangements
- **July 3**: Catch Lipticism's record release show at The Empty Bottle showcasing innovative electronic pop
- **July 3**: Experience an epic late-night disco party at Metro featuring Horse Meat Disco and Optimo spinning until 4 a.m.
- **July 5**: Don't miss genre-defying artist Ezra Furman at Thalia Hall performing from the new album "Goodbye Small Head"

## Iconic Chicago Venues Worth Exploring

Beat Map shares passionate insights about beloved Chicago music institutions:

- **The Hideout**: A historic venue housed in a former Prohibition-era speakeasy where punk, alt-country, and indie scenes converge
- **The Empty Bottle**: A West Town treasure offering affordable drinks, intimate performances, and a perfect mix of local talents and touring acts
- **Thalia Hall**: A premier venue showcasing Chicago's homegrown artists alongside national performers

## Rising Local Artists to Watch

The episode spotlights several Chicago-based musicians making waves:

- **Mia Joy**: Performing soulful, introspective songwriting at Sleeping Village
- **Lipticism**: Pushing boundaries in the electronic pop scene with innovative sounds

## Weekly Music Rituals for Chicago Residents

Beat Map reveals favorite recurring music events:

- **Summer Concert Series at Giddings Plaza**: Free Thursday evening concerts from 6-8:30 p.m. in Lincoln Square (note: no show July 3)
- **Navy Pier's "Live on the Lake!"**: Weekend performances in the beer garden combining stunning lake views with excellent live music

## Upcoming Festival Highlights

Looking ahead to Chicago's festival season:

- **Taste of Chicago** (September 5-7 at Grant Park):
- Friday: Lupe Fiasco headlines
- Saturday: JoJo delivers powerful vocal performances
- Sunday: Elvis Crespo brings vibrant Latin music

## Hidden Gems and Secret Shows

Discover off-the-radar music experiences:

- A speakeasy-style jazz bar near Wicker Park offering intimate performances
- Underground basement shows at Sleeping Village featuring tomorrow's breakout artists

## Finding Last-Minute Concerts

Beat Map shares trusted resources for spontaneous music adventures:

- WTTW's live music newsletter
- Songkick's Chicago calendar (featuring over 2,000 upcoming shows)
- Insider tips from local DJs, venue owners, and street performers
- Exploring Western Avenue and Logan Square for flyers and impromptu performances

Whether you're a longtime Chicago resident or visiting the city, this episode provides the ultimate roadmap to experiencing Chicago's legendary music scene like a true insider.

# Chicago's Sonic Landscape: Your Ultimate Guide to This Week's Music Scene

## Exploring Chicago's Musical Heartbeat with Beat Map

Welcome to the latest episode of Beat Map, your definitive insider guide to navigating Chicago's vibrant and diverse music scene. In this comprehensive episode, your host—Chicago's self-proclaimed "walking, talking human setlist"—delivers an expertly curated roadmap to the city's must-see performances, hidden gems, and emerging artists that deserve your immediate attention.

## This Week's Can't-Miss Performances (July 2-5)

The episode kicks off with an exceptional highlight: **Nas performing with the Chicago Philharmonic at Ravinia on July 2**. This rare fusion of classic hip-hop with orchestral arrangements promises to transform tracks like "N.Y. State of Mind" into something truly transcendent. Listeners are advised to secure tickets immediately for this high-demand cultural event.

For those planning their midweek music excursions, Beat Map outlines a strategic two-venue crawl on July 3:
- **The Empty Bottle**: Catch Lipticism's experimental pop release show
- **Metro**: Experience an immersive all-building disco celebration featuring Horse Meat Disco
- **Smart Bar** (located beneath Metro): For after-midnight dancing that continues until dawn

The weekend lineup on July 5 offers multiple pathways through Chicago's eclectic soundscape:
- **Schubas**: Indie folk enthusiasts should prioritize Smut and Villagerrr in this acoustically intimate setting
- **Sleeping Village**: Local favorites Ganser and Christy Costello share a split bill
- **Thalia Hall**: The episode's "venue pick of the week" hosts genre-defying Ezra Furman, with special mention of the venue's exceptional acoustics and architectural charm

## Spotlight on Local Talent

The episode dedicates significant attention to **Mia Joy**, a rising Chicago artist performing at Sleeping Village on July 5. Her distinctive blend of ambient textures with Chicago's soulful traditions marks her as an essential artist to follow in the local scene.

## Weekly Music Rituals Worth Adopting

Beat Map shares insider knowledge about recurring free events that form the backbone of Chicago's music community:
- **Giddings Plaza Summer Concert Series**: Thursday evenings in Lincoln Square (6-8:30pm) featuring emerging local musicians (returning July 11)
- **Live on the Lake**: Sunday performances at Navy Pier's Beer Garden, combining waterfront views with diverse musical discoveries

## Festival Preview

Looking ahead, the episode builds anticipation for **Taste of Chicago** in September at Grant Park, highlighting its free admission policy and confirmed performances by hometown heroes like Lupe Fiasco and JoJo across multiple genres.

## Hidden Venue Gems

For listeners seeking less conventional music experiences, Beat Map recommends:
- **The Hideout**: A converted house in an industrial area featuring eclectic programming from alt-country to punk
- **Epiphany Center for the Arts**: An architectural standout hosting midnight funk sessions and experimental jazz performances

## Insider Tips for Finding Last-Minute Shows

The episode concludes with practical strategies for discovering under-the-radar performances:
- Regularly monitoring venue calendars (especially The Empty Bottle, Thalia Hall, and the Salt Shed)
- Subscribing to local newsletters like Daily Chicagoan
- Cultivating a network of music-obsessed contacts
- Utilizing social media to discover artist pop-ups and secret performances

Beat Map invites listeners to subscribe for weekly

# Beat Map's Chicago Music Guide: Your Ultimate Sonic Adventure Through the Windy City

## Discover Chicago's Vibrant Music Scene with Your Personal Local Guide

In this captivating episode of Beat Map's Chicago Music Guide, your host—a lifelong Chicago local and passionate music enthusiast—takes you on an immersive journey through the city's dynamic music landscape. Beat Map serves as your personal sonic scout, revealing everything from hidden blues jams in tucked-away alleys to electrifying mainstage performances that define Chicago's diverse musical identity.

## This Week's Must-See Concerts & Events (June 29 - July 6)

The episode highlights an exciting lineup of performances across various genres:

- **Dave Matthews Band** at Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island
- **Chris Stapleton** bringing soulful Americana to Credit Union 1 Amphitheatre (June 29)
- R&B legends **Al Green and The O'Jays** at Ravinia Festival (June 29)
- Synth pioneers **Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark** with Walt Disco at Riviera Theatre (July 2)
- Latin rock sensations **Hombres G and Los Enanitos Verdes** at Allstate Arena (July 3)
- Local standouts **Buscabulla** at Lincoln Hall (June 30)
- Groove collective **Soulphonetics** at Osito's Tap (July 1)

## Hidden Gems & Local Favorites

Beat Map shares insider knowledge about Chicago's most authentic music venues:

- **The Hideout** - A tucked-away treasure with a welcoming atmosphere
- **The Empty Bottle** - This week's spotlight venue featuring indie heaven, affordable drinks, and an open-format night (July 1)
- **Epiphany Center for the Arts** - Where stained glass meets dance floor, hosting **Luciano Antonio's** Brazilian jazz collective (July 6)

## Weekly Music Rituals Worth Experiencing

Discover the host's personal music routines that define authentic Chicago experiences:

- Blues Fridays at Epiphany (July 4 features Downtown Charlie Brown, 8 p.m., free admission)
- Late-night basement jazz at the legendary Green Mill
- Special events at Old Town School of Folk Music, including an exclusive Garland Jeffreys documentary screening

## Festival Season Highlights

July marks festival season in Chicago, and Beat Map provides essential guidance:

- **Lollapalooza** pre-shows and sneak peeks
- **Sounds for the Soul Day Party** at Epiphany Hall (July 5, tickets $20-30)
- **Funky Side of Brazilian Jazz** (July 6) - An outdoor courtyard experience

## Secret Spots & How to Find Last-Minute Shows

The episode reveals off-the-radar venues and resources for spontaneous music adventures:

- **Stolen Saddle** in Wrigleyville - Chicago's newest country music venue
- **Smoke & Mirrors** for post-midnight DJ sets
- Underground jazz and indie performances in neighborhood art gallery basements
- Resources like Songkick and Do312's "Tonight" tab for last-minute discoveries

## Connect with Beat Map

Stay connected with Chicago's vibrant music scene by subscribing to Beat Map's updates for personalized recommendations. For comprehensive artist profiles, local show calendars, and exclusive content, listeners are encouraged to visit inceptionpoint.ai.

This episode is essential listening for music

# Beat Map's Chicago Live Music Guide: Your Ultimate Companion for Local Sounds and Secret Shows

## Discover Chicago's Electrifying Music Scene with Your Insider Guide

In this captivating episode, Beat Map—your slightly offbeat but endlessly curious guide to Chicago's vibrant live music landscape—takes you on an immersive journey through the city's pulsating rhythms and hidden musical gems. From intimate jazz clubs to iconic venues, this comprehensive guide reveals where to experience authentic Chicago sounds this week and beyond.

## What You'll Discover in This Episode:

- **Tonight's Can't-Miss Performance**: Michael Damani brings his virtuosic blues-rock talent to Dorian's Through The Record Shop in Wicker Park, with sets at 9PM and 11PM for just a $10 cover
- **Weekly Highlights**: A curated calendar including DJ Zipgun Boogie's Sound Obsession, Dorian's Jazz Happy Hour featuring Satellite, the innovative Nick Mazzarella Trio, and Friday's Open Beats hosted by Fess Grandiose
- **Iconic Venue Spotlight**: Expert recommendations for The Salt Shed, Ravinia Festival, Thalia Hall, The Hideout, and The Empty Bottle
- **Local Artist Showcase**: Emerging musicians to add to your radar, including detailed profiles of Chicago's most promising talents
- **Festival Season Planning**: Strategic tips for navigating Chicago's summer festival circuit, from classical performances to indie showcases

## Inside Chicago's Diverse Musical Landscape

Beat Map shares personal insights gained from years of exploring Chicago's musical terrain, from historic jazz institutions to DIY basement shows. Whether you're a dedicated local or visiting music enthusiast, this episode offers practical guidance for discovering authentic performances across genres and neighborhoods.

## Hidden Gems and Last-Minute Opportunities

Learn the insider secrets to finding under-the-radar performances and spontaneous shows, including how to leverage venue social media and build connections with local musicians. Beat Map reveals the value of becoming a "regular" and building relationships within Chicago's tight-knit music community.

This episode serves as both an immediate guide to this week's best performances and a blueprint for deeper exploration of Chicago's legendary music scene. Subscribe for weekly recommendations and visit inceptionpoint.ai for exclusive artist profiles and expanded content on the city's diverse soundscape.

#ChicagoMusic #LiveMusicGuide #ChicagoNightlife #JazzInChicago #IndieMusic #LocalMusic #ChicagoVenues #MusicRecommendations #WeekendEvents #ChicagoEntertainment

# Chicago's Music Compass: Beat Map's Weekly Concert Guide

*Your one-stop audio guide to navigating Chicago's vibrant music scene with local expert Beat Map*

## Episode Highlights: Chicago's Live Music Landscape This Week

In this comprehensive episode, Chicago's beloved music scout Beat Map delivers an insider's tour through the city's most exciting concerts, venues, and emerging artists. This episode offers a perfect blend of big-name shows, hidden gems, and local talent that make Chicago's music scene unparalleled.

### Major Concerts & Must-See Shows This Week

Beat Map expertly curates the week's standout performances across Chicago's diverse venues:

* **Synthpop Legends**: Simple Minds, Modern English, and Soft Cell perform at Huntington Bank Pavilion at Northerly Island
* **Electronic Dance Party**: CamelPhat transforms Navy Pier into the ultimate weekend dance destination
* **Alt-Rock Showcase**: Jack's Mannequin and The Early November headline The Salt Shed's outdoor Fairgrounds
* **Electronic Innovation**: TOKiMONSTA brings cosmic beats to Outset
* **Garage Rock Revival**: The Spits keep things authentically raucous at The Empty Bottle
* **New Orleans Jazz**: Preservation Hall Jazz Band swings through Garcia's Chicago
* **Americana Storytelling**: Steve Earle performs at both the Vic Theatre and Metro with local favorites Brigitte Calls Me Baby

### Venue Spotlight: Chicago's Musical Landmarks

The episode features detailed insights into Chicago's most beloved music venues:

* **The Metro**: Beat Map's pick of the week, known for sticky floors, world-class acts, and no pretension
* **The Hideout**: A century-old cabin hosting intimate punk shows with backyard crowds
* **Empty Bottle**: The unpolished, unpredictable home to both unknowns and future headliners
* **Thalia Hall**: A stunning converted opera house with exceptional acoustics
* **The Salt Shed**: Chicago's exciting riverfront venue hosting both indoor and outdoor events

### Local Artist Watch: Chicago's Homegrown Talent

Beat Map highlights emerging Chicago artists worth following:

* **Brigitte Calls Me Baby**: Jangle-pop group on the verge of national breakthrough
* **PANIK FLOWER**: Feedback-drenched punk act performing at Subterranean
* **Creeping Charlie**: Rising punk performers sharing the bill at Subterranean
* **Abby Hamilton**: Lyrical roots artist opening for Cole Chaney at Carol's Pub

### Weekly Music Rituals & Festival Preview

The episode outlines Beat Map's essential weekly music routines and upcoming festival highlights:

* **Wednesday Jazz Nights**: The historic Green Mill Cocktail Lounge's late-night jazz sessions
* **Thursday Open Mic**: The Hideout's breeding ground for new talent
* **Sunday Local Showcases**: Subterranean's affordable, wildly diverse local lineups
* **Lyrical Lemonade's Summer Smash**: Upcoming hip-hop festival featuring Lil Tecca, Soulja Boy, and Sexyy Red
* **Ravinia Festival**: Continuing with performances by Dispatch, John Butler, and Diana Krall

### Underground Scene & Insider Tips

Beat Map shares exclusive insights into Chicago's hidden music scene:

* **Secret Shows**: From side-door entrances at The Whistler to Gracias Maria's late-night Latin jam sessions
* **DIY Venues**: Logan Square basement shows an

# Beat Map: Your Ultimate Guide to Chicago's Music Scene This Week

## Navigating Chicago's Vibrant Soundscape with Your Trusted Music Compass

In the latest episode of Beat Map, your dedicated guide to Chicago's dynamic music landscape delivers an expertly curated rundown of must-see performances across the city. From symphony collaborations to underground post-metal, this comprehensive episode traverses every corner of Chicago's diverse musical offerings, providing listeners with insider knowledge on tickets, venues, and even strategies for last-minute entry to sold-out shows.

## This Week's Can't-Miss Concerts (June 17-23)

The episode kicks off with tonight's standout performances, including Ben Folds' special collaboration with the Chicago Symphony Orchestra at Symphony Center—a premium experience at $60 per ticket that promises to deliver exceptional musical craftsmanship. For alternative music fans, Planning For Burial brings their atmospheric post-metal sound to Subterranean in Wicker Park with an accessible $18 entry.

Looking ahead through the week, Beat Map highlights several noteworthy performances:

- **Thursday, June 19th**: Perfume Genius delivers their hauntingly beautiful melodies at The Vic
- **Friday, June 20th**: The Bug Club and Omni create an energetic double bill at The Empty Bottle
- **Saturday, June 21st**: Winnetka Music Festival begins north of the city, featuring Cold War Kids, Natasha Bedingfield, and local talents like Illiterate Light

## Major Venue Highlights & Upcoming Blockbusters

The episode doesn't neglect Chicago's arena scene, spotlighting Tyler, The Creator's two-night engagement at the United Center (June 30-July 1). With tickets starting at $75, Beat Map describes this as "the blockbuster ticket of early summer," complete with high-energy hip-hop and spectacular visuals.

## Hidden Gems & Local Venue Spotlight

In a segment dedicated to Chicago's authentic music soul, the host champions The Hideout as the "pick of the week." This unassuming venue in an industrial corridor offers an eclectic mix of alt-country and punk rock in a community-focused atmosphere with affordable drinks and legendary storytelling nights.

## Emerging Artists to Watch

Music discovery remains central to Beat Map's mission, with special attention given to rising talent Lula Asplund, who opens at Subterranean this Friday with their fresh folk-pop sound. The jazz scene receives equal consideration with a recommendation for Michael Charles, performing in the uniquely nautical setting of the Tall Ship Windy.

## Weekly Rituals & Regular Haunts

Listeners gain insight into the host's personal music discovery routine, including:
- Wednesdays at Green Mill for premium jazz improvisation
- Thursdays at Schubas Tavern's open mic for emerging talent
- Sundays at The Empty Bottle's pay-what-you-can showcases

## Festival Season Preview

The episode concludes with essential festival coverage, including the imminent Lyrical Lemonade Summer Smash at Douglass Park featuring Chance the Rapper and Lil Yachty, plus Phish's upcoming three-night residency at the United Center (July 18-20). Practical advice on hydration, weather preparation, and post-show dining options demonstrates Beat Map's commitment to the complete concert experience.

Whether you're a dedicated music enthusiast or simply looking to experience Chicago's legendary music scene, this episode of Beat Map provides the perfect balance of mainstream highlights and underground discoveries to soundtrack your week in the Windy