The South side of Chicago has never been a great place to play original music. On any given weekend live music venues are filled with cover bands. Give the folks what they want to hear. But in recent years things have changed as several roots based bands have recently emerged with recordings of original songs. Say hello to the new roots scene and its most prominent artists: South City Revival, The Railway Gamblers, Pat Egan and the Heavy Hearts, and the Liam Durkin Band.
South City Revival is comprised of Joe Pacelli (vocals, guitar), John Quinn (lead guitar, vocals), Mike Fitzgerald (bass), José “Pino" Perez on drums, and Brendan Linnane (lead guitar, pedal steel). They recently released their first full length CD “Where There’s Smoke There’s Fire.” Their lives shows have earned a devoted following. If you like your country with a kick, check ‘em out.
https://www.southcityrevival.com/
The Railway Gamblers, based in Evergreen Park, IL are led by prolific singer/songwriter Brendan Folliard (guitar, piano, harmonica, lead vocals), who alongside Matt Fricks (lead guitar), Sean Wilmsen (drums), and Dan Kane (bass), just released their fifth recording. Their self-described “Cosmic Americana” style of homegrown music has been attracting fans for several years.
https://railwaygamblers.com/home
If you like your music with the volume turned up, look no further than Pat Egan and the Heavy Hearts.“Folk rock with 70s guitar swagger,” according to their Facebook page. Check out their 2019 release Love and Disruption." According to their Facebook page their recording was interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. Hopefully things will resume and a new release will follow soon.
Liam Durkin is a familiar performer to those who frequent Irish pubs on the south side of town. His powerful vocals and impressive guitar work is evident at his live performances. The Liam Durkin Band just released “Behind the Wheel,” and he is currently supporting its release with a busy touring schedule.
http://www.liamdurkin.com/home.html
It appears the restrictions placed on live music venues are finally easing. Check out these bands and show some support for these bands.
