Welcome to Low-reen’s Live Blues!

 

 Summer’s here & the time is right for dancing in the streets! Got your picks & sticks? Gotta Go Jam? Want to support the local musicians & blues scene? Hear the local blues news? Then you are in the right place! Blues jams come & go, I started this list to try to keep up! If you hear of one that’s not on the list, or have a correction, please let me know. Low-reen’s Live Blues List is updated at least monthly. Call ahead: these things change minute-to-minute!! Also be sure to drop a few bucks at the establishments that hosts these jams: buy a drink – if you don’t drink, buy some food or buy your friend a drink - otherwise the jams go away.

Come Out & Play!

Low-reen

21 Comments »

Low-reen’s Live Blues List #37

Low-reen’s Live Blues List

http://LowreensLiveBlues.com

Blues Jams Chicago to Milwaukee…and then some

Issue #37

May 2012

in memory of Dirty Otis

…join a Band, not a Gang…

Join the Mailing List / Updates / Corrections / List your Jam: send to LowreensLiveBlues@gmail.com

Jam Pictures now on NEW Facebook page: search on FB for Low-reen’s Live Blues page, “like” the page to stay connected for quick updates 

~~~~~~~~~~

Clubs Off the Beaten Path

Now, didn’t you just think that there must be more to the Chicago blues scene than what you see in the Reader or in some of the guidebooks? Well ME TOO! So I started blues traveling in my own city! Here are some Chicagoland spots to check out. Some are not in the safest neighborhoods, so don’t be stupid about it. Be friendly & respectful, don’t have too much to drink, and park on the main street. Some have parking security. These clubs do a great job to create a safe atmosphere inside but be careful coming & going. Oh, and have fun!

  • Big O’s, 52nd & Halsted, Chicago, 1st Friday Tony Brown, EJ, & Louis Bryant; 2nd Friday Tommy Landis & Sexy Jamie (being remodeled: call for schedule)
  • Carolyn’s Zodiac Lounge, 1744 N Central, Chicago (773) 804-9664, Fridays Super Percy & His Soul Clique
  • For the Good Times Lounge, 5545 S Damen, Chicago (773) 737-0184, Saturday music, Sundays Killer Ray & the Bottom Dollar Band, 9.pm
  • Gene’s Playmate Lounge, 4239 W Cermak, Chicago (773) 590-9127, Sundays 9pm Willie White & friends
  • Hot City Lounge, 7432 S Racine, Chicago (773) 224-9583, Mondays 9pm Killer Ray jam, Thursdays 9:30pm JoJo Murray, Sundays 6pm Total Package with Chuck Finley
  • New ImLa Cocktail Lounge, 1116 W 51st St, Chicago (773) 285-0285, Wednesdays 8pm Grown Man & the Mississippi Raiders Band, $3 cover
  • Keynote Lounge, 1116 W 63rd St, Chicago 1st & 3rd Sundays 7:30pm Smilin’ Bobby, other Sundays Super Percy, also music on Wednesdays
  • Odyssey East (the old Rocking Horse), 9942 Torrence Ave, Chicago, Fridays 9pm-1 and Sundays 7-11pm JoJo Murray
  • Rooster’s Palace, Madison & Kilborne, Chicago (773) 678-0739, Fridays & Saturdays West Side Wes, sometimes Tail Dragger
  • Spectrum Bar & Grill, 233 S Halsted, Chicago (312) 715-0770
  • Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, Saturdays usual $10 cover
  • The Toolbox, California & Arlington, Chicago. Sometimes Tail Dragger, Grown Man
  • Vaughn’s, 6633 S Ashland Ave, Chicago (773) 931-9080
  • The Water Hole, 1400 S Western, Chicago (312) 243-7988, Wednesdays jazz 8-1130pm with Isaiah Spencer $8, Thursdays rock blues with Miles Minor no cover. Fridays blues K-Jaz 9pm-1am
  • Other Chicagoland blues clubs you may already know about: Artis’s, Blue Chicago, B.L.U.E.S., Buddy Guy’s Legends, Checkerboard, Chord on Blues, Harlem Ave Lounge, House of Blues, Kingston Mines, Lee’s Unleaded, Nick’s, Rosa’s, Smoke Daddy, Walnut Speakeasy

Special Events & News

—–”It’s 106 miles to Chicago, we got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it’s dark, and we’re wearing sunglasses” -Elwood Blues

  • February 18-August 19, The Blues: From the Heart & Soul, exhibit of private collection of Barrelhouse Chuck Goering, Lake County Discovery Museum, 27277 N Forest Preserve Rd, Wauconda, IL (847) 968-3400, www.lcfpd.org $6. Opening reception, and performance by Barrelhouse Chuck May 3 
  • April 29 & each Sunday leading up to Chicago Bluesfest Sunday Blues at Old Town School of Folk Music curated by Barry Dolins. 4/29 Billy Branch; 5/6 Fruteland Jackson, 5/13 Demetria Taylor, 5/20 Sharon Lewis, 5/27 Theo Huff, and 6/3? Rev. KM Williams www.OldTownSchool.org
  • May 18 & 19, Blues and the Spirit Symposium: Race, Gender, & the Blues, Dominican University, River Forest, IL (708) 524- 6050 www.dom.edu/blues Discount for Windy City Blues Society Members!
  • May 25, Allens Grove Blues Festival/Open Jam to benefit Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, picnic shelter at Allens Grove Park, Hwy X between Darien & Clinton, Allens Grove, WI mmoore@sharontelephone.com or (262) 882-3373, free, raffle & food for sale or bring your own food, BYOB, 7pm. Year before last we had the guitar army there, 15 players at once!!!
  • May 26, Los Jadalines MC Relay for Life benefit, several bands including Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band, Clark’s Saloon, 37895 N Sheridan Rd, Beach Park, IL (847) 662-3020, $5 donation
  • May 27, Memorial Concert for Bob Carter, S.P.A.C.E., 1245 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL, 6pm
  • Blues Week at Navy Pier, coordinated by Barry Dolins. 6/2 Demetria Taylor; 6/3 Lurrie Bell; 6/6 Reverend KM Williams; and 6/7 Deitra Farr. Chicago, IL
  • June 5, Guitar Center Battle of the Blues, Store Finals, 143 Skokie Valley Rd, Highland Park, IL. 6 finalists including Donna Herula & JB Ritchie, 7pm
  • June 8-10, Chicago Blues Fest, Grant Park, Columbus Dr & Jackson Blvd, Explore Chicago.org or WindyCityBlues.org, free, all ages, 11am-9:30pm, $20 parking or public transport. Look for the Windy City Blues Society tent & street stage on north Colombus- look on www.WindyCityBlues.org for the lineup! Looking for volunteers to help staff the booth!
  • Summer Concert Series on Waukegan Beach Steiner Pavillion, July 7 Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band, 7pm, $5
  • August 3-5, McHenry Rotary Blues, Brews, & BBQ, Peterson Park, McHenry, IL http://www.mchenryrotarybluesbrewsandbbqs.com/ 8/3 Howard & the White Boys; 8/4 Frank Bang & the Secret Stash ; 8/5 Bruce Williams Band, Geneva Red & the Roadsters, Roughhouse Blues Band, other non-blues acts
  • Candye Kane dealing with pancreatic cancer. Donations / get well wishes can be sent to: 1604 Alvarado St, Oceanside, CA 92054
  • Musicians: Windy City Blues Society stage will be giving out promo CDSs during the Chicago Blues Fest. This may be a way to get yours into the right hands! Donate whatever you desire, a handful or a box. Send an email to WindyCityBluesSociety@gmail.com 
  • Chicago Musicians: Windy City Blues Society’s Chicago Blues Challenge starts this year at the Chicago Blues Fest! Go to www.WindyCityBlues.org for details
  • Chicago Musicians: get listed on Windy City Blues Society website www.WindyCityBlues.org
  • Kenosha Musicians: want to influence the local music scene? Join Musicians Advancing and Assisting Musicians on Facebook. Next meeting 4/30 at 7pm, TG’s, 4129 7th Ave, Kenosha, WI
  • Kenosha Musicians: Join Musicians of Kenosha Directory on Facebook
  • Milwaukee Musicians: want to get heard on WMSE FM 91.7? Drop off your CD or album at 820 N Milwaukee or MSOE Krueger Hall 9am-6pm. OR mail it to WMSE, 1025 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202 attn: Music Director. Tune in weekdays 3-6pm for the Blues Drive. www.msoe.org
  • Chicago Blues Tour: a good way to go if you want to go with a group and don’t want to drive. Shuttle van between several venues, cover charges included as well as a couple drinks, poster, & CD. www.ChicagoBluesTour.com
  • Cheat You Fair, a documentary about old Maxwell Street, now available for purchase at Amazon.
  • Maxwell St links, courtesy of Professor Steve Balkin http://sites.roosevelt.edu/sbalkin/maxwell-street-webpage/
  • Kickstarter projects: you can get in on the ground floor and financially back blues projects for as little as a buck!   Beyond Beale Street, documentary about everyday life in Memphis http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/alexandrathegr8/beyond-beale-street-documentary?ref=live   True Delta, blues documentary http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/24583616/true-delta?ref=live 
  • Sean Costello Memorial Fund for Bipolar Research, focused on the needs of musicians with bipolar disorder. www.SeanCostelloFund.org
  • Health, life, & dental insurance group plans for music industry professionals available through the Blues Foundation. For more info: www.Blues.org or www.SoundHealthcare.org or call 615-256-8667

Blues Jams (call ahead, they change frequently!)

Sundays

—–”Let dat boy boogie woogie! It’s in ‘im, and it got to come out!” - John Lee Hooker

-The Alley, 210 Greenbay Rd (at Hwy 22) Highwood, IL (847) 433-0304 www.BowlHighwood.com hosts Mark Blank & B’Ro, 7-10pm

-The Blue Pig, 5036 S Packard, Cudahy, WI (414) 481-3885, host Dave Miller, 4:30-8:30pm (open jam)

-Breakwater Bar & Grill at Kenosha Yacht Club, 5130 4th Ave, Kenosha, WI (262) 652-2320, host Chris Sipos, 4-8pm (open mic)

-C&J’s Crossroads, N6444 US Hwy 12, Elkhorn, WI (262) 742-3417, host Glen Davis, 2-5pm

-Hawg Heaven, 10306 Antioch Rd, Salem, WI (262) 862-7777, host Mark Rogers, 3-7pm

-High Spirits, 12417 Antioch Rd (Rt 83), Trevor, WI (262) 862-9886, host Mark Rijke, 3-7pm (every other Sun- open electric jam)

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, 830pm, host Paddy Teglia (open mic)

-Kegler’s Pub 905 Theodore St (Rt 7 between Rt 30 & Rt 53), Crest Hill, IL (815) 722-1089, host T-Bird Huck, 9pm

-Kingston Mines, 2548 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 477-4646, www.KingstonMines.com, host Linsey Alexander 6-9pm. Charlie Love also plays on the second stage

-Lamplighter Inn Tavern & Grille, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, 8pm (1st Sun)

-Leroy’s Hot Stuff, 333 W Hwy 20, Porter, IN (219) 926-6211, 8pm-12am+

-Live 59, 16108 Rt 59, Plainfield, IL, host Big Dog Mercer, 5-9pm

-Polk Street Pub, 548 W Polk St (2 blks E of 94, 1 blk N of Taylor), Chicago, IL (224) 440-2173, www.PolkStPub.com, host yours truly Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band, no cover, 2 drink minimum, $2 cans, 25c wings, free parking at Porter Pipe at Jefferson & Polk,  under 21 OK with guardian. 4:30-8:30pm. Low-reen: 224-440-2173

-Treats Tavern, 2221 N Humboldt Blvd, Milwaukee, WI (414) 265-7054, host Harvey Westmoreland, 8pm

-Wicker Well, 1637 W North Ave, Chicago, IL (773) 276-8477

-Woodlawn Tap, 1172 E 55th St, Chicago, IL (773) 643-5516, hosts Dave Waldman, Willie Phillips, Justin O’Brien, Scott Dirks, 4-8pm

Mondays

—–”A bad rendition of you is better than a good rendition of somebody else.” - Willie Dixon

-Artis’s Lounge, 1249 E 87th St (773) 734-0491, pro jam, host Billy Branch, 10pm

-BooCoo, 1823 Church St, Evanston, IL (847) 864-8164, 7pm (last Monday)

-Buddy Guy’s Legends, 700 S Wabash, Chicago, IL (312) 427-1190, www.BuddyGuys.com, host Jimmy Burns alternating with Brother John, 9:30pm, $10 cover (free for jammers, $5 for jammer’s guests)

-Hot City Lounge, 7432 S Racine, (773) 224-9583, host Killer Ray Allison, occasionally Mz Peachez, 9pm

-Posen Pub, 14346 S Western, Posen, IL (708) 388-7335, host Smiley Tillmon, 8:30pm

-Sara’s Pub, 1567 Madison, Beloit, WI (608) 207-3139, host Dave Potter

-TG’s, 4120 7th Ave, Kenosha, WI, (262) 658-8080, www.TGsKenosha.com, host Sipos & Young, 6-10pm (open mic), all ages

-Touch of the Past, 947 Mannheim Rd, Bellwood, IL (708) 493-9236, host Cicero Blake, 9pm

-Up & Under Pub, 1216 E Brady, Milwaukee, WI (414) 276-2677, host Misha Siegfried, 9pm

-VFW, 1015 Center Ave, Janesville, WI (608) 754-4342 6:30-10pm except 2nd Monday (also check out 2nd Sunday 12-4pm concertina jam!)

Tuesdays

—–”I stone got crazy when I saw somebody run down them strings with a bottleneck. My eyes lit up like a Christmas tree and I said that I had to learn” – Muddy Waters

-Abbey Pub, 3420 W Grace, Chicago, IL (773) 478-4408, host Madman, 8pm-12

-Bay Billiards, 107 Towne Center Lane, Fox Lake, IL (847) 629-5492, host Brian Rand, 8pm

-Crossroads, 396 W Irving Park Rd, Wood Dale, IL, host Uptown Groove, 8pm (1st & 3rd Tues)

-Firehouse Pub, 18517 W Gages Lake Rd, Gages Lake, IL (847) 778-0780, alternating hosts AC Blues / Marie Martens / Bruce Williams, 8:30pm-12:30

-Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N Oakley, Chicago, IL (773) 489-5471, www.GalleryCabaret.com, host Fish & the Blue Fins, 9pm

-Harlem Ave Lounge, 3701 S Harlem Ave, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, host Tom Crivellone, (4th Tuesday)

-Keith’s, 6th Street, Racine, WI, 9pm (no other info avail)

-Mamie’s, 3300 W National, Milwaukee, WI (414) 543-1673, www.Mamies.net, host Carol Hanzel & Craig alternating with Kenny J & Stokes, 8pm-12

-Neighbor’s Social Club, 260 W Main St, Waukesha, WI, (262) 549-3910, host Robert Allen Jr Trio, 7:30-11pm

-Nite Cap Lounge, 5007 Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL (773) 282-8654, 930pm-1230am

-Saloon on Calhoun, 17000 W Capitol Drive #1, Brookfield, WI (262) 783-0222, host Rick Holmes, 9pm (open mic)

-The Vibe, 1935 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park, IL (847) 780-4815, host Ari Mintz & Phil Palumbo, 730-1030pm

Wednesdays

—– Music is so naturally united with us that we cannot be free from it even if we so desired” -Boethius

-1146 Lounge, 1146 Sheridan, Kenosha, WI (262) 552-0830, host Phil James, 10pm-1:30

-AJ’s Horsing Around, 114 E Washington St, Round Lake Park, IL, hosted by King Robinson & Bruce Williams, 8pm-12 (quarterly- next 4/18)

-Astor Hotel, 924 E Juneau, Milwaukee, WI (414) 271-4220, host Dave Miller w/ Rick Holmes, Andrew Wilson, 6-930pm

-B & B Riverfront Club, 724 Railroad St, Joliet, IL (815) 744-9511, host Big Dog Mercer, 7-11pm

-B.L.U.E.S. on Halsted, 2519 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 528-1012, www.ChicagoBluesBar.com, host Big Ray & Chicago’s Most Wanted alternating w/ Pistol Pete, 9:30pm-1:30 (1st & 3rd Wed)

-Blue Bayou Bar & Grill, 3734 N Southport, Chicago, IL (773) 871-3300, host Pete Galanis, 9:30pm-1:30am

-Bottoms Up, 1696 Thornton-Lansing Rd, Lansing, IL (708) 418-3877, www.bottomsuponline.com, host Chicago Bob, 8pm-12am

-Caroline’s Jazz Club, 401 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 221-9444, host Big O & the Night Owls Showband Big Blues Jam, 8pm-12

-Chopper’s Bar and Grill, 26375 Rt 173, Antioch, IL (847) 838-1230, open jam, 9pm

-Chord on Blues, 106 S 1st Ave, St Charles, IL (630) 513-0074, www.chordonblues.com, host Mike Hoge & Chicago Blue Dads, open jam, 8:30-11:30pm

-Chuck’s BBQ, 79th & Narraganset, Burbank, IL, host Rockin’ Johnny Band, 8-11:30pm, every 1st Wed

-Conway’s Smokin’ Bar & Grill, 2127 W Wells, Milwaukee, WI (414) 344-1262, host Big Johnson & the Thrusters, 9pm-12

-Harry’s Cafe & Place, 808 W Main St, Lake Geneva, WI (262) 248-3494, host Glenn Davis & the Cruise Control Blues Band, 8:45pm-12

-Hawg Heaven, 10306 Antioch Rd, Salem, WI (262) 862-7777, host Mark Rogers, 8pm-12

-Hilltop Bar, 25944 W Rollins Rd (E of Wilson), Ingleside, IL (847) 973-0144, host Mark Rijke, 730pm, (open mic, every other Wed)

-House of Blues Back Porch Stage, 329 N Dearborn, Chicago, IL (312) 923-2000, various hosts, 10pm, pro jam, $10 but free if dine in prior to show

-Island Tap, 112 E Cook (behind Morgan’s on Milwaukee Ave), Libertyville, IL, host Matt, 7-9:30pm (open electric?)

-Lamplighter’s, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, host Rick, 8pm-12:30 (open jam)

-Liquid Blues, 126 N Benton St, Woodstock, IL (815) 337-7254, www.LiquidBluesBar.com, 7pm-1

-Mecca Supper Club, 6666 N Northwest Hwy, Edison Park, IL (773) 775-1077, www.MeccaSupperClub.com , 9pm-1am, various hosts (open mic)

-Milwaukee’s Firehouse Pub, 2758 S 35th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 383-5300, various hosts

-Montrose Saloon, 2933 W Montrose, Chicago, IL (773) 463-7663, host John Liggitt, 8:30pm (3rd Wed- also check out bluegrass jam 2nd Wed!)

-New York Slices, 1843 2nd St, Highland Park, IL (847) 432-6979, all ages, 7-10pm

–Walnut Speakeasy, 214 Walnut Ave, Elgin, IL (847) 695-2420, www.theWalnutSpeakeasy.com (every other Wed)

-West Side Tap, 1356 Houbolt Rd, Joliet, IL (815) 741-4318, OsBand jam session, 8pm

Thursdays

—–“When you touch someone with music, they may not remember the song but they will remember the joy” -from the wall at Sharon & Michael’s

-America’s Historic Roundhouse, 205 N Broadway, Aurora, IL (630) 892-0034, open jam, 7pm

-Cali’s Grille Room & Lounge in the Midway Hotel, 1005 S Moorland,Road, Brookfield, WI (262) 786-9540, 8pm (open jam)

-Cool River Draught House, 12622- 159th St, Homer Glen, IL (708) 301-8006, www.CoolRiv.com, host Twist & the Groove Machine, 8:30pm-12:30

-Dee’s Place Chicago Soul Food, 2114 W Division, Chicago, IL (312) 348-6117  www.deesplacechicago.com , 7:30-10pm (open mic)

-Deep Blues, 5010 7th Ave, Kenosha, WI (262) 652-3595, hosts Terry James & Sweet Bev Perron, 8:30pm

-Domenico’s Italian Restaurant, 547 E Grand Ave, Beloit, WI (608) 365-9489 www.domenicos.us/ , host Glen Davis, 6:30-10:30pm

-Envy’s Pub, 3625 W 159th St (just E of I-57), Markham, IL (708) 331-5860, hosted by Little Johnny, 8-11pm

-Foss Park Golf Club, 3124 Argonne (at Green Bay Rd), North Chicago, IL (847) 689-7490 www.FossParkGolf.org , hosted by Real Deal, 8:30pm-12:30am

-Golf Farm, 2100 N Route 12, Wauconda, IL (847) 526-4000, www.Golf-Farm.com, host Brian Rothermel, 8:30pm

-Green Town Tavern, 110 S Genesee, Waukegan, IL (847) 244-1001, www.GreenTownTavern.com, host Chris Sipos, 8pm-12:15 (open mic)

-Harlem Avenue Lounge, 3701 S Harlem, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, alternating hosts, 8:30pm-12:30

-Harry’s Sports Bar, 9901 W 55th, Countryside, IL. Host Twist & the Groove Machine, 8pm-12

-Henry & Wanda’s, 501 6th St, Racine, WI (262) 632-1772, www.HenryandWandas.com, host Roy Edwards, 8pm-12am

-The Hideaway, 13404 Olde Western Ave, Blue Island, IL (708) 385-8535, host Smiley Tillmon, 8pm

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, 830pm (open mic)

-Lagniappe Creole Restaurant, 1525 W 79th, Chicago, IL (773) 994-6375 http://www.cajunjoynt.com/, host Vivian Vance Kelly & the Deuces, 7pm

-Lincoln Square Lanes, 4874 N Lincoln, Chicago, IL (773) 561-8191, hosted by Madman, 9pm-1, musicians get a free cocktail when they jam!

-Rosa’s Lounge, 3420 W Armitage, Chicago, IL (773) 342-0452, www.RosasLounge.com, host James Wheeler, 9:30pm-1:30

-Silver Lake Marina, 28836 Silver Lake Rd (hwy F east of B), Salem, WI (262) 889-8465, www.SLMwi.com, host Loose Shoes, 8pm

-Spirits, 922 Milwaukee Ave, South Milwaukee, WI (414) 762-2005, hosted by Marshall Holm, Dave Miller, 8pm

-TC Pub, 9700 S Cicero, Oak Lawn, IL (708) 425-4252, www.facebook.com/pages/T-C-Pub/ host Rev T & the Bluez Factor Revival, $1 drafts, free hot dogs

-Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, host Rainman & Real Deal, 8:30-11pm, 1st Thursday (guitar bring your own amp)

Fridays

-Bay Billiards, 107 Towne Center Lane, Fox Lake, IL (847) 587-8888, host Carter, www.BayBilliardsSportsBar.com  (open jam)

-Dwight House Pub, 35366 N Frontage Rd (off Rt 12), Fox Lake, IL (847) 973-1476, host John Linczmaier & Red Eye Express, 9:30pm-12:30 (every other Fri, open electric jam)

-Hap’s North End Tap, 83 Hankes Ave, Aurora, IL (630) 859-2945, 9pm

-Hollywood Lounge, 3303 W Bryn Mawr, Chicago, IL (773) 588-9707, www.TheHollywoodLive.com, host Big John Sanner w/ Willie T & the Blues Explosion, 9pm-2

-J Martins Tap, 81 E 34th St, Steger, IL (708) 755-5240, host Bob E Lee, 9pm-1

Saturdays

-Abel’s Restaurant, 125 Center St, Grayslake, IL (847) 548-2803, host King Robinson, 8pm (moved to 1st Sat)

-Gene’s Supper Club, 4323 N 60th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 535-7789, host Marvelous Mack & the Pressure Release Blues Band, 3:30pm

-R&R Crossing, Russell, IL, host Midnight Rider Band, 3-7pm (monthly- next 5/19)

-Uptown Tavern, 12 W Burlington Ave, Westmont, IL (630) 969-4717 www.theuptownonline.com, hosted by Mojo Mark, 8pm-1

Out of the Area Jams: check with local blues societies!

No Comments »

Low-reen’s Live Blues List #36

Low-reen’s Live Blues List

http://LowreensLiveBlues.com

Blues Jams Chicago to Milwaukee…and then some

Issue #36

April 2012

in memory of Dirty Otis

…join a Band, not a Gang…

Join the Mailing List / Updates / Corrections / List your Jam: send to LowreensLiveBlues@gmail.com

Jam Pictures now on NEW Facebook page: search on FB for Low-reen’s Live Blues page, “like” the page to stay connected for quick updates 

~~~~~~~~~~

 Clubs Off the Beaten Path

Now, didn’t you just think that there must be more to the Chicago blues scene than what you see in the Reader or in some of the guidebooks? Well ME TOO! So I started blues traveling in my own city! Here are some Chicagoland spots to check out. Some are not in the safest neighborhoods, so don’t be stupid about it. Be friendly & respectful, don’t have too much to drink, and park on the main street. Some have parking security. These clubs do a great job to create a safe atmosphere inside but be careful coming & going. Oh, and have fun!

  • Big O’s, 52nd & Halsted, Chicago, 1st Friday Tony Brown, EJ, & Louis Bryant; 2nd Friday Tommy Landis & Sexy Jamie (being remodeled: call for schedule)
  • Carolyn’s Zodiac Lounge, 1744 N Central, Chicago (773) 804-9664, Fridays Super Percy & His Soul Clique
  • For the Good Times Lounge, 5545 S Damen, Chicago (773) 737-0184, Saturday music, Sundays Killer Ray & the Bottom Dollar Band, 9.pm
  • Gene’s Playmate Lounge, 4239 W Cermak, Chicago (773) 590-9127, Sundays 9pm Willie White & friends
  • Hot City Lounge, 7432 S Racine, Chicago (773) 224-9583, Mondays 9pm Killer Ray jam, Thursdays 9:30pm JoJo Murray, Sundays 6pm Total Package with Chuck Finley
  • New ImLa Cocktail Lounge, 1116 W 51st St, Chicago (773) 285-0285, Wednesdays 8pm Grown Man & the Mississippi Raiders Band, $3 cover
  • Keynote Lounge, 1116 W 63rd St, Chicago 1st & 3rd Sundays 7:30pm Smilin’ Bobby, other Sundays Super Percy, also music on Wednesdays
  • Odyssey East (the old Rocking Horse), 9942 Torrence Ave, Chicago, Fridays 9pm-1 and Sundays 7-11pm JoJo Murray
  • Rooster’s Palace, Madison & Kilborne, Chicago (773) 678-0739, Fridays & Saturdays West Side Wes, sometimes Tail Dragger
  • Spectrum Bar & Grill, 233 S Halsted, Chicago (312) 715-0770
  • Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, Saturdays usual $10 cover
  • The Toolbox, California & Arlington, Chicago. Sometimes Tail Dragger, Grown Man
  • Vaughn’s, 6633 S Ashland Ave, Chicago (773) 931-9080
  • The Water Hole, 1400 S Western, Chicago (312) 243-7988, Wednesdays jazz 8-1130pm with Isaiah Spencer $8, Thursdays rock blues with Miles Minor no cover. Fridays blues K-Jaz 9pm-1am
  • Other Chicagoland blues clubs you may already know about: Artis’s, Blue Chicago, B.L.U.E.S., Buddy Guy’s Legends, Checkerboard, Chord on Blues, Harlem Ave Lounge, House of Blues, Kingston Mines, Lee’s Unleaded, Nick’s, Rosa’s, Smoke Daddy, Walnut Speakeasy

Special Events & News

—–”It’s 106 miles to Chicago, we got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it’s dark, and we’re wearing sunglasses” -Elwood Blues

  • Two nice articles on our friend Little Scotty who passed away in February: http://www.austinweeklynews.com/main.aspsectionID=3&SubSectionID=3&ArticleID=3599   ;   http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/ct-met-little-scotty-obit-20120217,0,4124244.story
  • February 18-August 19, The Blues: From the Heart & Soul, exhibit of private collection of Barrelhouse Chuck Goering, Lake County Discovery Museum, 27277 N Forest Preserve Rd, Wauconda, IL (847) 968-3400, www.lcfpd.org $6. Opening reception, and performance by Barrelhouse Chuck May 3 
  • April 14 & 15, Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) Awards Show, Fox Cities Performing Art Center, 400 W College Ave, Appleton, WI. Tickets http://www.foxcitiespac.com/events/wami-award-show
  • April 22,  Benefit for Al Wittek, Abbey Pub, 3420 W Grace, Chicago, IL (773) 478-4408, www.AbbeyPub.com, 2-7pm, hosted by Madman
  • April 29 & each Sunday leading up to Chicago Bluesfest Sunday Blues at Old Town School of Folk Music curated by Barry Dolins. 4/29 Billy Branch; 5/6 Fruteland Jackson, 5/13 Demetria Taylor, 5/20 Sharon Lewis, 5/27 Theo Huff, and 6/3? Rev. KM Williams www.OldTownSchool.org
  • April 29, Women in Business Helping Women in Crisis benefit, with Women of the Blues, featuring Joan Gand, Peaches Staten, Liz Mandeville, more. Viper Alley, 275 Parkway Drive, Linclonshire, IL www.emergencyfund.org or www.chicagoblueswomen.com, 3-7pm
  • May 18 & 19, Blues and the Spirit Symposium: Race, Gender, & the Blues, Dominican University, River Forest, IL (708) 524- 6050 www.dom.edu/blues Discount for Windy City Blues Society Members!
  • May 25, Allens Grove Blues Festival/Open Jam to benefit Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, picnic shelter at Allens Grove Park, Hwy X between Darien & Clinton, Allens Grove, WI mmoore@sharontelephone.com or (262) 882-3373, free, raffle & food for sale or bring your own food, BYOB, 7pm. Year before last we had the guitar army there, 15 players at once!!!
  • May 27, Memorial Concert for Bob Carter, S.P.A.C.E., 1245 Chicago Ave, Evanston, IL, 6pm
  • Blues Week at Navy Pier, coordinated by Barry Dolins. 6/2 Demetria Taylor; 6/3 Lurrie Bell; 6/6 Reverend KM Williams; and 6/7 Deitra Farr. Chicago, IL
  • Summer Concert Series on Waukegan Beach Steiner Pavillion, July 7 Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band, 7pm, $5
  • August 3-5, McHenry Rotary Blues, Brews, & BBQ, Peterson Park, McHenry, IL http://www.mchenryrotarybluesbrewsandbbqs.com/ 8/3 Howard & the White Boys; 8/4 Frank Bang & the Secret Stash ; 8/5 Bruce Williams Band, Geneva Red & the Roadsters, Roughhouse Blues Band, other non-blues acts
  • Candye Kane battling pancreatic cancer. Donations / get well wishes can be sent to: 1604 Alvarado St, Oceanside, CA 92054
  • Musicians: Windy City Blues Society stage will be giving out promo CDSs during the Chicago Blues Fest. This may be a way to get yours into the right hands! Donate whatever you desire, a handful or a box. Send an email to WindyCityBluesSociety@gmail.com 
  • Chicago Musicians: Windy City Blues Society’s Chicago Blues Challenge starts this year at the Chicago Blues Fest! Go to www.WindyCityBlues.org for details
  • Chicago Musicians: get listed on Windy City Blues Society website www.WindyCityBlues.org
  • Kenosha Musicians: want to influence the local music scene? Join Musicians Advancing and Assisting Musicians on Facebook. Next meeting 4/30 at 7pm, TG’s, 4129 7th Ave, Kenosha, WI
  • Kenosha Musicians: Join Musicians of Kenosha Directory on Facebook
  • Milwaukee Musicians: want to get heard on WMSE FM 91.7? Drop off your CD or album at 820 N Milwaukee or MSOE Krueger Hall 9am-6pm. OR mail it to WMSE, 1025 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202 attn: Music Director. Tune in weekdays 3-6pm for the Blues Drive. www.msoe.org
  • Chicago Blues Tour: a good way to go if you want to go with a group and don’t want to drive. Shuttle van between several venues, cover charges included as well as a couple drinks, poster, & CD. www.ChicagoBluesTour.com
  • Cheat You Fair, a documentary about old Maxwell Street, now available for purchase at Amazon.
  • Maxwell St links, courtesy of Professor Steve Balkin http://sites.roosevelt.edu/sbalkin/maxwell-street-webpage/
  • Kickstarter projects: you can get in on the ground floor and financially back blues projects for as little as a buck!   A Vanishing Delta & the Mississippi Blues photography project http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/juliedant/a-vanishing-delta-and-the-mississippi-blues?ref=live. Beyond Beale Street, documentary about everyday life in Memphis http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/alexandrathegr8/beyond-beale-street-documentary?ref=live
  • Sean Costello Memorial Fund for Bipolar Research, focused on the needs of musicians with bipolar disorder. www.SeanCostelloFund.org
  • Health, life, & dental insurance group plans for music industry professionals available through the Blues Foundation. For more info: www.Blues.org or www.SoundHealthcare.org or call 615-256-8667

Blues Jams (call ahead, they change frequently!)

Sundays

—–”Let dat boy boogie woogie! It’s in ‘im, and it got to come out!” - John Lee Hooker

-The Alley, 210 Greenbay Rd (at Hwy 22) Highwood, IL (847) 433-0304 www.BowlHighwood.com hosts Mark Blank & B’Ro, 7-10pm

-The Blue Pig (formerly Vnucks), 5036 S Packard, Cudahy, WI (414) 481-3885, host Dave Miller, 4:30-8:30pm (open jam)

-Breakwater Bar & Grill at Kenosha Yacht Club, 5130 4th Ave, Kenosha, WI (262) 652-2320, host Chris Sipos, 4-8pm (open mic)

-C&J’s Crossroads, N6444 US Hwy 12, Elkhorn, WI (262) 742-3417, host Glen Davis, 2-5pm

-Hawg Heaven, 10306 Antioch Rd, Salem, WI (262) 862-7777, host Mark Rogers, 3-7

-High Spirits, 12417 Antioch Rd (Rt 83), Trevor, WI (262) 862-9886, host Mark Rijke, 3-7pm (every other Sun- open electric jam)

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, 830pm, host Paddy Teglia (open mic)

-Kegler’s Pub 905 Theodore St (Rt 7 between Rt 30 & Rt 53), Crest Hill, IL (815) 722-1089, host T-Bird Huck, 9pm

-Kingston Mines, 2548 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 477-4646, www.KingstonMines.com, host Linsey Alexander 6-9pm. Charlie Love also plays on the second stage

-Lamplighter Inn Tavern & Grille, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, 8pm (1st Sun)

-Leroy’s Hot Stuff, 333 W Hwy 20, Porter, IN (219) 926-6211, 8pm-12am+

-Live 59, 16108 Rt 59, Plainfield, IL, host Big Dog Mercer, 5-9pm

-Polk Street Pub, 548 W Polk St (2 blks E of 94, 1 blk N of Taylor), Chicago, IL (224) 440-2173, www.PolkStPub.com, host yours truly Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band, no cover, 2 drink minimum, $2 cans, 25c wings, free parking at Porter Pipe at Jefferson & Polk,  under 21 OK with guardian. 4:30-8:30pm. Low-reen: 224-440-2173

-Silver Lake Marina, 28836 Silver Lake Rd (hwy F east of B), Salem, WI (262) 889-8465, www.SLMwi.com, host Loose Shoes, 8pm

-Treats Tavern, 2221 N Humboldt Blvd, Milwaukee, WI (414) 265-7054, host Harvey Westmoreland, 8pm

-Wicker Well, 1637 W North Ave, Chicago, IL (773) 276-8477

-Woodlawn Tap, 1172 E 55th St, Chicago, IL (773) 643-5516, hosts Dave Waldman, Willie Phillips, Justin O’Brien, Scott Dirks, 4-8pm

Mondays

—–”A bad rendition of you is better than a good rendition of somebody else.” - Willie Dixon

-Artis’s Lounge (yep, that’s how they spell it!), 1249 E 87th St (773) 734-0491, pro jam, host Billy Branch, 10pm

-BooCoo, 1823 Church St, Evanston, IL (847) 864-8164, 7pm (last Monday)

-Buddy Guy’s Legends, 700 S Wabash, Chicago, IL (312) 427-1190, www.BuddyGuys.com, host Jimmy Burns alternating with Brother John, 9:30pm, $10 cover (free for jammers, $5 for jammer’s guests)

-Hot City Lounge, 7432 S Racine, (773) 224-9583, host Killer Ray Allison, 9pm

-NEW on the list in April Posen Pub, 14346 S Western, Posen, IL (708) 388-7335, host Smiley Tillmon, 8:30pm

-Sara’s Pub, 1567 Madison, Beloit, WI (608) 207-3139, host Dave Potter

-TG’s, 4120 7th Ave, Kenosha, WI, (262) 658-8080, www.TGsKenosha.com, host Sipos & Young, 6-10pm (open mic), all ages

-Touch of the Past, 947 Mannheim Rd, Bellwood, IL (708) 493-9236, host Cicero Blake, 9pm

-Up & Under Pub, 1216 E Brady, Milwaukee, WI (414) 276-2677, host Misha Siegfried, 9pm

-VFW, 1015 Center Ave, Janesville, WI (608) 754-4342 6:30-10pm except 2nd Monday (also check out 2nd Sunday 12-4pm concertina jam!)

Tuesdays

—–”I stone got crazy when I saw somebody run down them strings with a bottleneck. My eyes lit up like a Christmas tree and I said that I had to learn” – Muddy Waters

-Abbey Pub, 3420 W Grace, Chicago, IL (773) 478-4408, host Madman, 8pm-12

-Bay Billiards, 107 Towne Center Lane, Fox Lake, IL (847) 629-5492, host Brian Rand, 8pm

-Crossroads, 396 W Irving Park Rd, Wood Dale, IL, host Uptown Groove, 8pm (1st & 3rd Tues)

-Firehouse Pub, 18517 W Gages Lake Rd, Gages Lake, IL (847) 778-0780, alternating hosts AC Blues / Marie Martens / Bruce Williams, 8:30pm-12:30

-Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N Oakley, Chicago, IL (773) 489-5471, www.GalleryCabaret.com, host Fish & the Blue Fins, 9pm

-Harlem Ave Lounge, 3701 S Harlem Ave, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, host Tom Crivellone, (4th Tuesday)

-Keith’s, 6th Street, Racine, WI, 9pm (no other info avail)

-Mamie’s, 3300 W National, Milwaukee, WI (414) 543-1673, www.Mamies.net, host Carol Hanzel & Craig alternating with Kenny J & Stokes, 8pm-12

-Neighbor’s Social Club, 260 W Main St, Waukesha, WI, (262) 549-3910, host Robert Allen Jr Trio, 7:30-11pm

-Nite Cap Lounge, 5007 Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL (773) 282-8654, 930pm-1230am

-Saloon on Calhoun, 17000 W Capitol Drive #1, Brookfield, WI (262) 783-0222, host Rick Holmes, 9pm (open mic)

-The Vibe, 1935 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park, IL (847) 780-4815, host Ari Mintz & Phil Palumbo, 730-1030pm

Wednesdays

—– Music is so naturally united with us that we cannot be free from it even if we so desired” -Boethius

-1146 Lounge, 1146 Sheridan, Kenosha, WI (262) 552-0830, host Phil James, 10pm-1:30

-AJ’s Horsing Around, 114 E Washington St, Round Lake Park, IL, hosted by King Robinson & Bruce Williams, 8pm-12 (quarterly- next 4/18)

-Astor Hotel, 924 E Juneau, Milwaukee, WI (414) 271-4220, host Dave Miller w/ Rick Holmes, Andrew Wilson, 6-930pm

-B & B Riverfront Club, 724 Railroad St, Joliet, IL (815) 744-9511, host Big Dog Mercer, 7-11pm

-B.L.U.E.S. on Halsted, 2519 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 528-1012, www.ChicagoBluesBar.com, host Big Ray & Chicago’s Most Wanted alternating w/ Pistol Pete, 9:30pm-1:30 (1st & 3rd Wed)

-Blue Bayou Bar & Grill, 3734 N Southport, Chicago, IL (773) 871-3300, host Pete Galanis, 9:30pm-1:30am

-Bottoms Up, 1696 Thornton-Lansing Rd, Lansing, IL (708) 418-3877, www.bottomsuponline.com, host Chicago Bob, 8pm-12am

-Caroline’s Jazz Club, 401 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 221-9444, host Big O & the Night Owls Showband Big Blues Jam, 8pm-12

-Chopper’s Bar and Grill, 26375 Rt 173, Antioch, IL (847) 838-1230, open jam, 9pm

-Chord on Blues, 106 S 1st Ave, St Charles, IL (630) 513-0074, www.chordonblues.com, host Mike Hoge & Chicago Blue Dads, open jam, 8:30-11:30pm

-Chuck’s BBQ, 79th & Narraganset, Burbank, IL, host Rockin’ Johnny Band, 8-11:30pm, every 1st Wed

-Conway’s Smokin’ Bar & Grill, 2127 W Wells, Milwaukee, WI (414) 344-1262, host Big Johnson & the Thrusters, 9pm-12

-ENDED in April until further notice Flanagan’s, 3201 Buckley Rd (at Rt 41), North Chicago, IL (847) 689-9062 www.FlanagansSportsBar.com, host yours truly Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band, 8-11:30pm, everybody plays!

-Harry’s Cafe & Place, 808 W Main St, Lake Geneva, WI (262) 248-3494, host Glenn Davis & the Cruise Control Blues Band, 8:45pm-12

-Hawg Heaven, 10306 Antioch Rd, Salem, WI (262) 862-7777, host Mark Rogers, 8pm-12

-Hilltop Bar, 25944 W Rollins Rd (E of Wilson), Ingleside, IL (847) 973-0144, host Mark Rijke, 730pm, (open mic, every other Wed)

-House of Blues Back Porch Stage, 329 N Dearborn, Chicago, IL (312) 923-2000, various hosts, 10pm, pro jam, $10 but free if dine in prior to show

-Island Tap, 112 E Cook (behind Morgan’s on Milwaukee Ave), Libertyville, IL, host Matt, 7-9:30pm (open electric?)

-Lamplighter’s, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, host Rick, 8pm-12:30 (open jam)

-Liquid Blues, 126 N Benton St, Woodstock, IL (815) 337-7254, www.LiquidBluesBar.com, 7pm-1

-Mecca Supper Club, 6666 N Northwest Hwy, Edison Park, IL (773) 775-1077, www.MeccaSupperClub.com , 9pm-1am, various hosts (open mic)

-Milwaukee’s Firehouse Pub, 2758 S 35th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 383-5300, various hosts

-Montrose Saloon, 2933 W Montrose, Chicago, IL (773) 463-7663, host John Liggitt, 8:30pm (3rd Wed- also check out bluegrass jam 2nd Wed!)

-New York Slices, 1843 2nd St, Highland Park, IL (847) 432-6979, all ages, 7-10pm

–Walnut Speakeasy, 214 Walnut Ave, Elgin, IL (847) 695-2420, www.theWalnutSpeakeasy.com (every other Wed)

-West Side Tap, 1356 Houbolt Rd, Joliet, IL (815) 741-4318, OsBand jam session, 8pm

Thursdays

—–“When you touch someone with music, they may not remember the song but they will remember the joy” -from the wall at Sharon & Michael’s

-America’s Historic Roundhouse, 205 N Broadway, Aurora, IL (630) 892-0034, www.WalterPaytonsRoundHouse.com, open jam, 7pm

-Cali’s Grille Room & Lounge in the Midway Hotel, 1005 S Moorland,Road, Brookfield, WI (262) 786-9540, 8pm (open jam)

-Cool River Draught House, 12622- 159th St, Homer Glen, IL (708) 301-8006, www.CoolRiv.com, host Twist & the Groove Machine, 8:30pm-12:30

-Dee’s Place Chicago Soul Food, 2114 W Division, Chicago, IL (312) 348-6117  www.deesplacechicago.com , 7:30-10pm (open mic)

-Deep Blues, 5010 7th Ave, Kenosha, WI (262) 652-3595, hosts Terry James & Sweet Bev Perron, 8:30pm

-Domenico’s Italian Restaurant, 547 E Grand Ave, Beloit, WI (608) 365-9489 www.domenicos.us/ , host Glen Davis, 6:30-10:30pm

-Envy’s Pub, 3625 W 159th St (just E of I-57), Markham, IL (708) 331-5860, hosted by Little Johnny, 8-11pm

-NEW in April Foss Park Golf Club, 3124 Argonne (at Green Bay Rd), North Chicago, IL (847) 689-7490 www.FossParkGolf.org , hosted by Real Deal, 8:30pm-12:30am

-Golf Farm, 2100 N Route 12, Wauconda, IL (847) 526-4000, www.Golf-Farm.com, host Brian Rothermel, 8:30pm

-Green Town Tavern, 110 S Genesee, Waukegan, IL (847) 244-1001, www.GreenTownTavern.com, host Chris Sipos, 8pm-12:15 (open mic)

-Harlem Avenue Lounge, 3701 S Harlem, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, alternating hosts, 8:30pm-12:30

-Harry’s Sports Bar, 9901 W 55th, Countryside, IL. Host Twist & the Groove Machine, 8pm-12

-Henry & Wanda’s, 501 6th St, Racine, WI (262) 632-1772, www.HenryandWandas.com, host Roy Edwards, 8pm-12am

-New on the list in April The Hideaway, 13404 Olde Western Ave, Blue Island, IL (708) 385-8535, host Smiley Tillmon, 8pm

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, 830pm (open mic)

-New on the list in April Lagniappe Creole Restaurant, 1525 W 79th, Chicago, IL (773) 994-6375 http://www.cajunjoynt.com/, host Vivian Vance Kelly & the Deuces, 7pm

-Lincoln Square Lanes, 4874 N Lincoln, Chicago, IL (773) 561-8191, hosted by Madman, 9pm-1, musicians get a free cocktail when they jam!

-Rosa’s Lounge, 3420 W Armitage, Chicago, IL (773) 342-0452, www.RosasLounge.com, host James Wheeler, 9:30pm-1:30

-Spirits, 922 Milwaukee Ave, South Milwaukee, WI (414) 762-2005, hosted by Marshall Holm, Dave Miller, 8pm

-TC Pub, 9700 S Cicero, Oak Lawn, IL (708) 425-4252, www.facebook.com/pages/T-C-Pub/ host Rev T & the Bluez Factor Revival, $1 drafts, free hot dogs

-Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, host Rainman & Real Deal, 8:30-11pm, 1st Thursday (guitar bring your own amp)

Fridays

-Bay Billiards, 107 Towne Center Lane, Fox Lake, IL (847) 587-8888, host Carter, www.BayBilliardsSportsBar.com  (open jam)

-Dwight House Pub, 35366 N Frontage Rd (off Rt 12), Fox Lake, IL (847) 973-1476, host John Linczmaier & Red Eye Express, 9:30pm-12:30 (every other Fri, open electric jam)

-Hap’s North End Tap, 83 Hankes Ave, Aurora, IL (630) 859-2945, 9pm

-Hollywood Lounge, 3303 W Bryn Mawr, Chicago, IL (773) 588-9707, www.TheHollywoodLive.com, host Big John Sanner w/ Willie T & the Blues Explosion, 9pm-2

-J Martins Tap, 81 E 34th St, Steger, IL (708) 755-5240, host Bob E Lee, 9pm-1

Saturdays

-Abel’s Restaurant, 125 Center St, Grayslake, IL (847) 548-2803, host King Robinson, 8pm (last Sat)

-Gene’s Supper Club, 4323 N 60th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 535-7789, host Marvelous Mack & the Pressure Release Blues Band, 3:30pm

-R&R Crossing, Russell, IL, host Midnight Rider Band, 3-7pm (monthly- next 4/21)

-Uptown Tavern, 12 W Burlington Ave, Westmont, IL (630) 969-4717 www.theuptownonline.com, hosted by Mojo Mark, 8pm-1

Out of the Area Jams: check with local blues societies!

No Comments »

Low-reen’s Live Blues List #35

Low-reen’s Live Blues List

http://LowreensLiveBlues.com

Blues Jams Chicago to Milwaukee…and then some

Issue #35

March 2012

in memory of Dirty Otis

…join a Band, not a Gang…

Join the Mailing List / Updates / Corrections / List your Jam: send to LowreensLiveBlues@gmail.com

Jam Pictures now on NEW Facebook page: search on FB for Low-reen’s Live Blues page, “like” the page to stay connected for quick updates 

~~~~~~~~~~

 Clubs Off the Beaten Path

Now, didn’t you just think that there must be more to the Chicago blues scene than what you see in the Reader or in some of the guidebooks? Well ME TOO! So I started blues traveling in my own city! Here are some Chicagoland spots to check out. Some are not in the safest neighborhoods, so don’t be stupid about it. Be friendly & respectful, don’t have too much to drink, and park on the main street. Some have parking security. These clubs do a great job to create a safe atmosphere inside but be careful coming & going. Oh, and have fun!

  • Big O’s, 52nd & Halsted, Chicago, 1st Friday Tony Brown, EJ, & Louis Bryant; 2nd Friday Tommy Landis & Sexy Jamie (being remodeled: call for schedule)
  • Carolyn’s Zodiac Lounge, 1744 N Central, Chicago (773) 804-9664, Fridays Super Percy & His Soul Clique
  • For the Good Times Lounge, 5545 S Damen, Chicago (773) 737-0184, Saturday music, Sundays Killer Ray & the Bottom Dollar Band, 9.pm
  • Gene’s Playmate Lounge, 4239 W Cermak, Chicago (773) 590-9127, Sundays 9pm Willie White & friends
  • Hot City Lounge, 7432 S Racine, Chicago (773) 224-9583, Mondays 9pm Killer Ray jam, Thursdays 9:30pm JoJo Murray, Sundays 6pm Total Package with Chuck Finley
  • New ImLa Cocktail Lounge, 1116 W 51st St, Chicago (773) 285-0285, Wednesdays 8pm Grown Man & the Mississippi Raiders Band, $3 cover
  • Keynote Lounge, 1116 W 63rd St, Chicago 1st & 3rd Sundays 7:30pm Smilin’ Bobby, other Sundays Super Percy, also music on Wednesdays
  • Odyssey East (the old Rocking Horse), 9942 Torrence Ave, Chicago, Fridays 9pm-1 and Sundays 7-11pm JoJo Murray
  • Rooster’s Palace, Madison & Kilborne, Chicago (773) 678-0739, Fridays & Saturdays West Side Wes, sometimes Tail Dragger
  • Spectrum Bar & Grill, 233 S Halsted, Chicago (312) 715-0770
  • Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, Saturdays usual $10 cover
  • The Toolbox, California & Arlington, Chicago. Sometimes Tail Dragger, Grown Man
  • Vaughn’s, 6633 S Ashland Ave, Chicago (773) 931-9080
  • The Water Hole, 1400 S Western, Chicago (312) 243-7988, Wednesdays jazz 8-1130pm with Isaiah Spencer $8, Thursdays rock blues with Miles Manor no cover. Fridays blues 9pm-1am
  • Other Chicagoland blues clubs you may already know about: Artis’s, Blue Chicago, B.L.U.E.S., Buddy Guy’s Legends, Checkerboard, Chord on Blues, Harlem Ave Lounge, House of Blues, Kingston Mines, Lee’s Unleaded, Nick’s, Rosa’s, Smoke Daddy, Walnut Speakeasy

Special Events & News

—–”It’s 106 miles to Chicago, we got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it’s dark, and we’re wearing sunglasses” -Elwood Blues

  • Two nice articles on our friend Little Scotty who passed away in February: http://www.austinweeklynews.com/main.aspsectionID=3&SubSectionID=3&ArticleID=3599   ;   http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/ct-met-little-scotty-obit-20120217,0,4124244.story
  • February 18-August 19, The Blues: From the Heart & Soul, exhibit of private collection of Barrelhouse Chuck Goering, Lake County Discovery Museum, 27277 N Forest Preserve Rd, Wauconda, IL (847) 968-3400, www.lcfpd.org $6. Opening reception, and performance by Barrelhouse Chuck May 3 
  • March 2, Harmonica Blow-out with JimLiban, Steve Cohen, Matthew Skoller, & Benny Rickun, Shank Hall, 1434 N Farwell, Milwaukee, WI (414) 276-7288, 8pm, $10
  • March 14-18, SxSW (South by Southwest Music Conference), Austin TX. 3000 bands in 5 days!
  • March 18, St Baldrick’s Children’s Cancer Fundraising Event with Tallan Noble Latz, Sundance Saloon, 300 Lakehurst Rd, Waukegan, IL (847) 887-0858 www.newsundance.com Noon-6pm, $10 includes lunch, bands, etc
  • March 24 & 25, Ice Meltin’ Blues Fest, Long Grove, IL. Various bands, showtimes, venues in this small town down town. Free. March 24 Donna Herula & Liz Mandeville, Blue Road Band, Jimmy Liggett; March 25 Smiling Bobby & the Downhome Blues Bag, Jimmy Liggett http://www.visitlonggrove.com/blues.html
  • April 14 & 15, Wisconsin Area Music Industry (WAMI) Awards Show, Fox Cities Performing Art Center, 400 W College Ave, Appleton, WI. Tickets http://www.foxcitiespac.com/events/wami-award-show
  • April 29 & each Sunday leading up to Chicago Bluesfest Sunday Blues at Old Town School of Folk Music curated by Barry Dolins. 4/29 Billy Branch; 5/6 Fruteland Jackson, 5/13 Demetria Taylor, 5/20 Sharon Lewis, 5/27 Theo Huff, and 6/3? Rev. KM Williams www.OldTownSchool.org
  • April 29, Women in Business Helping Women in Crisis benefit, with Women of the Blues, featuring Joan Gand, Peaches Staten, Liz Mandeville, more. Viper Alley, 275 Parkway Drive, Linclonshire, IL www.emergencyfund.org or www.chicagoblueswomen.com, 3-7pm
  • May 18 & 19, Blues and the Spirit Symposium: Race, Gender, & the Blues, Dominican University, River Forest, IL (708) 524- 6050 www.dom.edu/blues
  • May 25, Allens Grove Blues Festival/Open Jam to benefit Leukemia & Lymphoma Society, picnic shelter at Allens Grove Park, Hwy X between Darien & Clinton, Allens Grove, WI mmoore@sharontelephone.com or (262) 882-3373, free, raffle & food for sale or bring your own food, BYOB, 7pm. Year before last we had the guitar army there, 15 players at once!!!
  • Blues Week at Navy Pier, coordinated by Barry Dolins. 6/2 Demetria Taylor; 6/3 Lurrie Bell; 6/6 Reverend KM Williams; and 6/7 Deitra Farr. Chicago, IL
  • August 3-5, McHenry Rotary Blues, Brews, & BBQ, Peterson Park, McHenry, IL http://www.mchenryrotarybluesbrewsandbbqs.com/ 8/3 Howard & the White Boys; 8/4 Frank Bang & the Secret Stash ; 8/5 Bruce Williams Band, Geneva Red & the Roadsters, Roughhouse Blues Band, other non-blues acts
  • Musicians: Windy City Blues Society stage will be giving out promo CDSs during the Chicago Blues Fest. This may be a way to get yours into the right hands! Donate whatever you desire, a handful or a box. Send an email to WindyCityBluesSociety@gmail.com 
  • Chicago Musicians: Windy City Blues Society’s Chicago Blues Challenge starts this year at the Chicago Blues Fest! Go to www.WindyCityBlues.org for details
  • Chicago Musicians: get listed on Windy City Blues Society website www.WindyCityBlues.org
  • Kenosha Musicians: want to influence the local music scene? Join Musicians Advancing and Assisting Musicians on Facebook
  • Kenosha Musicians: Join Musicians of Kenosha Directory on Facebook
  • Milwaukee Musicians: want to get heard on WMSE FM 91.7? Drop off your CD or album at 820 N Milwaukee or MSOE Krueger Hall 9am-6pm. OR mail it to WMSE, 1025 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202 attn: Music Director. Tune in weekdays 3-6pm for the Blues Drive. www.msoe.org
  • Chicago Blues Tour: a good way to go if you want to go with a group and don’t want to drive. Shuttle van between several venues, cover charges included as well as a couple drinks, poster, & CD. www.ChicagoBluesTour.com
  • Cheat You Fair, a documentary about old Maxwell Street, now available for purchase at Amazon.
  • Maxwell St links, courtesy of Professor Steve Balkin http://sites.roosevelt.edu/sbalkin/maxwell-street-webpage/
  • Kickstarter projects: you can get in on the ground floor and financially back blues projects for as little as a buck!                                                                                                          **Eddie Shaw and Jackie Scott – New Album Project – End date 3/31/12 – Goal $2750
    http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/eddieshaw/blues-in-the-757                                 **We Be Kings Movie featuring Magic Slim as I Be King, Grana Louise as Lilly, Bianca Ryan as Layla, Quinn Sullivan as Dustin, Pryce Watkins as Sam, Cee Cee James as Ellen and featuring the TEARDROPS, Magic Slim’s band…
    http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/647017682/we-be-kings-movie-project
    Project end date 3/16/12 Goal $7,500
  • Sean Costello Memorial Fund for Bipolar Research, focused on the needs of musicians with bipolar disorder. www.SeanCostelloFund.org
  • Health, life, & dental insurance group plans for music industry professionals available through the Blues Foundation. For more info: www.Blues.org or www.SoundHealthcare.org or call 615-256-8667

Blues Jams (call ahead, they change frequently!)

Sundays

—–”Let dat boy boogie woogie! It’s in ‘im, and it got to come out!” - John Lee Hooker

-The Alley, 210 Greenbay Rd (at Hwy 22) Highwood, IL (847) 433-0304 www.BowlHighwood.com hosts Mark Blank & B’Ro, 7-10pm

-The Blue Pig (formerly Vnucks), 5036 S Packard, Cudahy, WI (414) 481-3885, host Dave Miller, 4:30-8:30pm (open jam)

-Breakwater Bar & Grill at Kenosha Yacht Club, 5130 4th Ave, Kenosha, WI (262) 652-2320, host Chris Sipos, 4-8pm (open mic)

-C&J’s Crossroads, N6444 US Hwy 12, Elkhorn, WI (262) 742-3417, host Glen Davis, 2-5pm

-Hawg Heaven, 10306 Antioch Rd, Salem, WI (262) 862-7777, host Mark Rogers, 6pm?

-High Spirits, 12417 Antioch Rd (Rt 83), Trevor, WI (262) 862-9886, host Mark Rijke, 3-7pm (every other Sun- open electric jam)

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, 830pm, host Paddy Teglia (open mic)

-Kegler’s Pub 905 Theodore St (Rt 7 between Rt 30 & Rt 53), Crest Hill, IL (815) 722-1089, host T-Bird Huck, 9pm

-Kingston Mines, 2548 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 477-4646, www.KingstonMines.com, host Linsey Alexander 6-9pm

-Lamplighter Inn Tavern & Grille, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, 8pm (1st Sun)

-Leroy’s Hot Stuff, 333 W Hwy 20, Porter, IN (219) 926-6211, 8pm-12am+

-Live 59, 16108 Rt 59, Plainfield, IL, host Big Dog Mercer, 5-9pm

-Polk Street Pub, 548 W Polk St (2 blks E of 94, 1 blk N of Taylor), Chicago, IL (224) 440-2173, www.PolkStPub.com, host yours truly Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band featuring Bobby Too Tuff, no cover, 2 drink minimum, $2 cans, 25c wings, free parking at Porter Pipe at Jefferson & Polk,  under 21 OK with guardian. 4:30-8:30pm. Low-reen: 224-440-2173

-Silver Lake Marina, 28836 Silver Lake Rd (hwy F east of B), Salem, WI (262) 889-8465, www.SLMwi.com, host Loose Shoes, 8pm

-Treats Tavern, 2221 N Humboldt Blvd, Milwaukee, WI (414) 265-7054, host Harvey Westmoreland, 8pm

-Wicker Well, 1637 W North Ave, Chicago, IL (773) 276-8477

-Woodlawn Tap, 1172 E 55th St, Chicago, IL (773) 643-5516, hosts Dave Waldman, Willie Phillips, Justin O’Brien, Scott Dirks, 4-8pm

Mondays

—–”A bad rendition of you is better than a good rendition of somebody else.” - Willie Dixon

-Artis’s Lounge (yep, that’s how they spell it!), 1249 E 87th St (773) 734-0491, pro jam, host Billy Branch, 10pm

-BooCoo, 1823 Church St, Evanston, IL (847) 864-8164, 7pm (last Monday)

-Buddy Guy’s Legends, 700 S Wabash, Chicago, IL (312) 427-1190, www.BuddyGuys.com, host Jimmy Burns alternating with Brother John, 9:30pm, $10 cover (free for jammers, $5 for jammer’s guests)

-Hot City Lounge, 7432 S Racine, (773) 224-9583, host Killer Ray Allison, 9pm

-Sara’s Pub, 1567 Madison, Beloit, WI (608) 207-3139, host Dave Potter

-TG’s, 4120 7th Ave, Kenosha, WI, (262) 658-8080, www.TGsKenosha.com, host Sipos & Young, 6-10pm (open mic), all ages

-Touch of the Past, 947 Mannheim Rd, Bellwood, IL (708) 493-9236, host Cicero Blake, 9pm

-Up & Under Pub, 1216 E Brady, Milwaukee, WI (414) 276-2677, host Misha Siegfried, 9pm

-VFW, 1015 Center Ave, Janesville, WI (608) 754-4342 6:30-10pm except 2nd Monday (also check out 2nd Sunday 12-4pm concertina jam!)

Tuesdays

—–”I stone got crazy when I saw somebody run down them strings with a bottleneck. My eyes lit up like a Christmas tree and I said that I had to learn” – Muddy Waters

-Abbey Pub, 3420 W Grace, Chicago, IL (773) 478-4408, host Madman, 8pm-12

-Bay Billiards, 107 Towne Center Lane, Fox Lake, IL (847) 629-5492, host Brian Rand, 8pm

-Crossroads, 396 W Irving Park Rd, Wood Dale, IL, host Uptown Groove, 8pm (1st & 3rd Tues)

-Firehouse Pub, 18517 W Gages Lake Rd, Gages Lake, IL (847) 778-0780, host AC Blues / Marie Martens, 8:30pm-12:30

-Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N Oakley, Chicago, IL (773) 489-5471, www.GalleryCabaret.com, host Fish & the Blue Fins, 9pm

-Harlem Ave Lounge, 3701 S Harlem Ave, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, host Tom Crivellone, (4th Tuesday)

-Keith’s, 6th Street, Racine, WI, 9pm (no other info avail)

-Mamie’s, 3300 W National, Milwaukee, WI (414) 543-1673, www.Mamies.net, host Carol Hanzel & Craig alternating with Kenny J & Stokes, 8pm-12

-Neighbor’s Social Club, 260 W Main St, Waukesha, WI, (262) 549-3910, host Robert Allen Jr Trio, 7:30-11pm

-Nite Cap Lounge, 5007 Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL (773) 282-8654, 930pm-1230am

-Saloon on Calhoun, 17000 W Capitol Drive #1, Brookfield, WI (262) 783-0222, host Rick Holmes, 9pm (open mic)

-DONE IN MARCH Sky Box Sports Bar, 3601 W Harrison, Chicago, IL (872) 600-3228, hosted by Lil’ Harvey & Mack, 8pm-12am

-The Vibe, 1935 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park, IL (847) 780-4815, host Ari Mintz & Phil Palumbo, 730-1030pm

Wednesdays

—– Music is so naturally united with us that we cannot be free from it even if we so desired” -Boethius

-1146 Lounge, 1146 Sheridan, Kenosha, WI (262) 552-0830, host Phil James, 10pm-1:30

-Astor Hotel, 924 E Juneau, Milwaukee, WI (414) 271-4220, host Dave Miller w/ Rick Holmes, Andrew Wilson, 6-930pm

-B & B Riverfront Club, 724 Railroad St, Joliet, IL (815) 744-9511, host Big Dog Mercer, 7-11pm

-B.L.U.E.S. on Halsted, 2519 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 528-1012, www.ChicagoBluesBar.com, host Big Ray & Chicago’s Most Wanted alternating w/ Pistol Pete, 9:30pm-1:30 (1st & 3rd Wed)

-Blue Bayou Bar & Grill, 3734 N Southport, Chicago, IL (773) 871-3300, host Pete Galanis, 9:30pm-1:30am

-Bottoms Up, 1696 Thornton-Lansing Rd, Lansing, IL (708) 418-3877, www.bottomsuponline.com, host Chicago Bob, 8pm-12am

-Caroline’s Jazz Club, 401 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 221-9444, host Big O & the Night Owls Showband Big Blues Jam, 8pm-12

-Chopper’s Bar and Grill, 26375 Rt 173, Antioch, IL (847) 838-1230, open jam, 9pm

-Chord on Blues, 106 S 1st Ave, St Charles, IL (630) 513-0074, www.chordonblues.com, host Mike Hoge & Chicago Blue Dads, open jam, 8:30-11:30pm

-Chuck’s BBQ, 79th & Narraganset, Burbank, IL, host Rockin’ Johnny Band, 8-11:30pm, every 1st Wed

-Conway’s Smokin’ Bar & Grill, 2127 W Wells, Milwaukee, WI (414) 344-1262, host Big Johnson & the Thrusters, 9pm-12

-Moved to Wed starting in March, ***now weekly starting April 4***: Flanagan’s, 3201 Buckley Rd (at Rt 41), North Chicago, IL (847) 689-9062 www.FlanagansSportsBar.com, host yours truly Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band, 8-11:30pm, everybody plays! $5 cover for non-jammers

-Harry’s Cafe & Place, 808 W Main St, Lake Geneva, WI (262) 248-3494, host Glenn Davis & the Cruise Control Blues Band, 8:45pm-12

-Hilltop Bar, 25944 W Rollins Rd (E of Wilson), Ingleside, IL (847) 973-0144, host Mark Rijke, 730pm, (open mic, every other Wed)

-House of Blues Back Porch Stage, 329 N Dearborn, Chicago, IL (312) 923-2000, various hosts, 10pm, pro jam, $10 but free if dine in prior to show

-Island Tap, 112 E Cook (behind Morgan’s on Milwaukee Ave), Libertyville, IL, host Matt, 7-9:30pm (open electric?)

-Lamplighter’s, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, host Rick, 8pm-12:30 (open jam)

-Liquid Blues, 126 N Benton St, Woodstock, IL (815) 337-7254, www.LiquidBluesBar.com, 7pm-1

-Mecca Supper Club, 6666 N Northwest Hwy, Edison Park, IL (773) 775-1077, www.MeccaSupperClub.com , 9pm-1am, various hosts (open mic)

-Milwaukee’s Firehouse Pub, 2758 S 35th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 383-5300, various hosts

-Montrose Saloon, 2933 W Montrose, Chicago, IL (773) 463-7663, host John Liggitt, 8:30pm (3rd Wed- also check out bluegrass jam 2nd Wed!)

-New York Slices, 1843 2nd St, Highland Park, IL (847) 432-6979, all ages, 7-10pm

–Walnut Speakeasy, 214 Walnut Ave, Elgin, IL (847) 695-2420, www.theWalnutSpeakeasy.com (every other Wed)

-West Side Tap, 1356 Houbolt Rd, Joliet, IL (815) 741-4318, OsBand jam session, 8pm

Thursdays

—–“When you touch someone with music, they may not remember the song but they will remember the joy” -from the wall at Sharon & Michael’s

-America’s Historic Roundhouse, 205 N Broadway, Aurora, IL (630) 892-0034, www.WalterPaytonsRoundHouse.com, open jam, 7pm

-Cali’s Grille Room & Lounge in the Midway Hotel, 1005 S Moorland,Road, Brookfield, WI (262) 786-9540, 8pm (open jam)

-Cool River Draught House, 12622- 159th St, Homer Glen, IL (708) 301-8006, www.CoolRiv.com, host Twist & the Groove Machine, 8:30pm-12:30

-Dee’s Place Chicago Soul Food, 2114 W Division, Chicago, IL (312) 348-6117  www.deesplacechicago.com , 7:30-10pm (open mic)

-Domenico’s Italian Restaurant, 547 E Grand Ave, Beloit, WI (608) 365-9489 www.domenicos.us/ , host Glen Davis, 6:30-10:30pm

-Envy’s Pub, 3625 W 159th St (just E of I-57), Markham, IL (708) 331-5860, hosted by Little Johnny, 8-11pm

-Golf Farm, 2100 N Route 12, Wauconda, IL (847) 526-4000, www.Golf-Farm.com, host Brian Rothermel, 8:30pm

-Green Town Tavern, 110 S Genesee, Waukegan, IL (847) 244-1001, www.GreenTownTavern.com, host Chris Sipos, 8pm-12:15 (open mic)

-Harlem Avenue Lounge, 3701 S Harlem, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, alternating hosts, 8:30pm-12:30

-Harry’s Sports Bar, 9901 W 55th, Countryside, IL. Host Twist & the Groove Machine, 8pm-12

-Henry & Wanda’s, 501 6th St, Racine, WI (262) 632-1772, www.HenryandWandas.com, host Roy Edwards, 8pm-12am

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, 830pm (open mic)

-Lincoln Square Lanes, 4874 N Lincoln, Chicago, IL (773) 561-8191, hosted by Madman, 9pm-1, musicians get a free cocktail when they jam!

-Rosa’s Lounge, 3420 W Armitage, Chicago, IL (773) 342-0452, www.RosasLounge.com, host James Wheeler, 9:30pm-1:30

-Spirits, 922 Milwaukee Ave, South Milwaukee, WI (414) 762-2005, hosted by Marshall Holm, Dave Miller, 8pm

-TC Pub, 9700 S Cicero, Oak Lawn, IL (708) 425-4252, www.facebook.com/pages/T-C-Pub/ host Rev T & the Bluez Factor Revival, $1 drafts, free hot dogs

-Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, host Rainman & Real Deal, 8:30-11pm, 1st Thursday (guitar bring your own amp)

Fridays

-Bay Billiards, 107 Towne Center Lane, Fox Lake, IL (847) 587-8888, host Carter, www.BayBilliardsSportsBar.com  (open jam)

-Dwight House Pub, 35366 N Frontage Rd (off Rt 12), Fox Lake, IL (847) 973-1476, host John Linczmaier & Red Eye Express, 9:30pm-12:30 (every other Fri, open electric jam)

-Hap’s North End Tap, 83 Hankes Ave, Aurora, IL (630) 859-2945, 9pm

-Hollywood Lounge, 3303 W Bryn Mawr, Chicago, IL (773) 588-9707, www.TheHollywoodLive.com, host Big John Sanner w/ Willie T & the Blues Explosion, 9pm-2

-J Martins Tap, 81 E 34th St, Steger, IL (708) 755-5240, host Bob E Lee, 9pm-1

Saturdays

-Abel’s Restaurant, 125 Center St, Grayslake, IL (847) 548-2803, host King Robinson, 8pm (last Sat)

-Gene’s Supper Club, 4323 N 60th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 535-7789, host Marvelous Mack & the Pressure Release Blues Band, 3:30pm

-R&R Crossing, Russell, IL, host Midnight Rider Band, 3-7pm (monthly- next 3/24)

-Uptown Tavern, 12 W Burlington Ave, Westmont, IL (630) 969-4717 www.theuptownonline.com, hosted by Mojo Mark, 8pm-1 (next 3/10 with special guest Jimmy Burns)

Out of the Area Jams: check with local blues societies!

No Comments »

Low-reen’s Live Blues List #34

Low-reen’s Live Blues List

http://LowreensLiveBlues.com

Blues Jams Chicago to Milwaukee…and then some

Issue #34

February 2012

in memory of Dirty Otis

…join a Band, not a Gang…

Join the Mailing List / Updates / Corrections / List your Jam: send to LowreensLiveBlues@gmail.com

Jam Pictures now on NEW Facebook page: search on FB for Low-reen’s Live Blues page, “like” the page to stay connected for quick updates 

~~~~~~~~~~

 Clubs Off the Beaten Path

Now, didn’t you just think that there must be more to the Chicago blues scene than what you see in the Reader or in some of the guidebooks? Well ME TOO! So I started blues traveling in my own city! Here are some Chicagoland spots to check out. Some are not in the safest neighborhoods, so don’t be stupid about it. Be friendly & respectful, don’t have too much to drink, and park on the main street. Some have parking security. These clubs do a great job to create a safe atmosphere inside but be careful coming & going. Oh, and have fun!

  • Big O’s, 52nd & Halsted, Chicago, 1st Friday Tony Brown, EJ, & Louis Bryant; 2nd Friday Tommy Landis & Sexy Jamie (being remodeled: call for schedule)
  • Carolyn’s Zodiac Lounge, 1744 N Central, Chicago (773) 804-9664, Fridays Super Percy & His Soul Clique
  • For the Good Times Lounge, 5545 S Damen, Chicago (773) 737-0184, Saturday music, Sundays Killer Ray & the Bottom Dollar Band, 9.pm
  • Gene’s Playmate Lounge, 4239 W Cermak, Chicago (773) 590-9127, Sundays 9pm Willie White & friends
  • Hot City Lounge, 7432 S Racine, Chicago (773) 224-9583, Mondays 9pm Killer Ray jam, Thursdays 9:30pm JoJo Murray, Sundays 6pm Total Package with Chuck Finley
  • New ImLa Cocktail Lounge, 1116 W 51st St, Chicago (773) 285-0285, Wednesdays 8pm Grown Man & the Mississippi Raiders Band, $3 cover
  • Keynote Lounge, 1116 W 63rd St, Chicago 1st & 3rd Sundays 7:30pm Smilin’ Bobby, other Sundays Super Percy, also music on Wednesdays
  • Odyssey East (the old Rocking Horse), 9942 Torrence Ave, Chicago, Fridays 9pm-1 and Sundays 7-11pm JoJo Murray
  • Rooster’s Palace, Madison & Kilborne, Chicago (773) 678-0739, Fridays & Saturdays West Side Wes, sometimes Tail Dragger
  • Spectrum Bar & Grill, 233 S Halsted, Chicago (312) 715-0770
  • Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, Saturdays usual $10 cover
  • The Toolbox, California & Arlington, Chicago. Sometimes Tail Dragger, Grown Man
  • Vaughn’s, 6633 S Ashland Ave, Chicago (773) 931-9080
  • The Water Hole, 1400 S Western, Chicago (312) 243-7988, Wednesdays jazz 8-1130pm with Isaiah Spencer $8, Thursdays rock blues with Miles Manor no cover. Fridays Mary Lane & the No Static Blues Band 9pm-1am $5.
  • Other Chicagoland blues clubs you may already know about: Artis’s, Blue Chicago, B.L.U.E.S., Buddy Guy’s Legends, Checkerboard, Chord on Blues, Harlem Ave Lounge, House of Blues, Kingston Mines, Lee’s Unleaded, Nick’s, Rosa’s, Smoke Daddy, Walnut Speakeasy

Special Events & News

—–”It’s 106 miles to Chicago, we got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it’s dark, and we’re wearing sunglasses” -Elwood Blues

  • February 14, Chicago blues man Clarence “Little Scotty” Scott funeral services Tuesday at Holy Rock Missionary Baptist Church, 5854 S Morgan, Chicago (773) 471-0300, 930-1030am viewing and 1030-1130am services. Then burial at Mount Hope Cemetery, 11500 S Fairfield, Chicago (708) 371-2818. In lieu of flowers, the family is requesting donations to assist with funeral costs. Donations can be made to Callahan Funeral Home, Attention Clarence Scott Fund, 7030 S Halsted, Chicago 60621, (773) 723-4401 Ms Bias for credit card payments. Sunday 2/12 blues jam at Polk St Pub in honor of Little Scotty, 548 W Polk, 5-9pm. We will be passing a hat to add to the Clarence Scott fund. Park free at Porter Pipe at Polk & Jefferson
  • Two nice articles on Little Scotty: http://www.austinweeklynews.com/main.asp?SectionID=3&SubSectionID=3&ArticleID=3599      ————————————http://www.chicagotribune.com/news/local/ct-met-little-scotty-obit-20120217,0,4124244.story
  • 2012 International Blues Challenge update: Windy City Blues Society’s Chicago Blues Challenge band winner Pistol Pete and solo/duo winners Liz Mandeville & Donna Herula all made it to the semi-finals! Great effort!
  • February 12, 24, 26 Benefits for Bryan Lee the Braille Blues Daddy who recently had back surgery. See http://www.reverendraven.com/home/bryan_lee_benefits for details. Feb 26 Smiling Moose in Newton. If you can’t go but want to make a donation: send to Brian Kumbalek, PO box 9453,  Metairie, LA 70055 or paypal BrailleBluesDaddy@yahoo.com
  • February 10-12, 52nd Annual University of Chicago Folk Festival, Mandel Hall, 1131 E 57th, Chicago, IL. http://uofcfolk.org/index.html Billy Boy Arnold performs Friday & Sunday, workshops: harp with Joe Filisko and blues guitar with Billy Flynn on Saturday. Tickets $25 or $55 pass
  • February 18-August 19, The Blues: From the Heart & Soul, exhibit of private collection of Barrelhouse Chuck Goering, Lake County Discovery Museum, 27277 N Forest Preserve Rd, Wauconda, IL (847) 968-3400, www.lcfpd.org $6. Opening reception, and performance by Barrelhouse Chuck May 3 
  • February 24, UIC Blues Cabaret, UIC Forum, Roosevelt & Halsted, Chicago, IL. $25 ticket includes awesome soul food buffet. Toronzo Cannon opens for Nellie “Tiger” Travis
  • March 2, Harmonica Blow-out with JimLiban, Steve Cohen, Matthew Skoller, & Benny Rickun, Shank Hall, 1434 N Farwell, Milwaukee, WI (414) 276-7288, 8pm, $10
  • April 29, Women in Business Helping Women in Crisis benefit, with Women of the Blues, featuring Joan Gand, Peaches Staten, Liz Mandeville, more. Viper Alley, 275 Parkway Drive, Linclonshire, IL www.emergencyfund.org or www.chicagoblueswomen.com, 3-7pm
  • May 18 & 19, Blues and the Spirit Symposium: Race, Gender, & the Blues, Dominican University, River Forest, IL (708) 524- 6050 www.dom.edu/blues
  • Chicago Musicians: interested in playing at Chicago Blues Fest on the Windy City Blues Society stage either for a set or as part of the Chicago Blues Challenge competition? Spots are very limited, go to www.WindyCityBlues.org for details. Also accepting CD donations- a handful or a box!- for distribution at the fest
  • Chicago Musicians: get listed on Windy City Blues Society website www.WindyCityBlues.org
  • Kenosha Musicians: want to influence the local music scene? Join Musicians Advancing and Assisting Musicians on Facebook
  • Kenosha Musicians: Join Musicians of Kenosha Directory on Facebook
  • Milwaukee Musicians: want to get heard on WMSE FM 91.7? Drop off your CD or album at 820 N Milwaukee or MSOE Krueger Hall 9am-6pm. OR mail it to WMSE, 1025 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202 attn: Music Director. Tune in weekdays 3-6pm for the Blues Drive. www.msoe.org
  • Chicago Blues Tour: a good way to go if you want to go with a group and don’t want to drive. Shuttle van between several venues, cover charges included as well as a couple drinks, poster, & CD. www.ChicagoBluesTour.com
  • Cheat You Fair, a documentary about old Maxwell Street, now available for purchase at Amazon.
  • Get in on THIS! Movie We Be Kings scheduled to begin shooting soon is looking for backers. To star Magic Slim & Grana Louise! Go to Kickstarter at http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/647017682/we-be-kings?ref=category and back this project with as little as a five-spot!
  • Sean Costello Memorial Fund for Bipolar Research, focused on the needs of musicians with bipolar disorder. www.SeanCostelloFund.org
  • Health, life, & dental insurance group plans for music industry professionals available through the Blues Foundation. For more info: www.Blues.org or www.SoundHealthcare.org or call 615-256-8667

Blues Jams (call ahead, they change frequently!)

Sundays

—–”Let dat boy boogie woogie! It’s in ‘im, and it got to come out!” - John Lee Hooker

-The Alley, 210 Greenbay Rd (at Hwy 22) Highwood, IL (847) 433-0304 www.BowlHighwood.com hosts Mark Blank & B’Ro, 7-10pm

-The Blue Pig (formerly Vnucks), 5036 S Packard, Cudahy, WI (414) 481-3885, host Dave Miller, 4:30-8:30pm (open jam)

-Breakwater Bar & Grill at Kenosha Yacht Club, 5130 4th Ave, Kenosha, WI (262) 652-2320, host Chris Sipos, 4-8pm (open mic)

-C&J’s Crossroads, N6444 US Hwy 12, Elkhorn, WI (262) 742-3417, host Glen Davis, 2-5pm

-Hawg Heaven, 10306 Antioch Rd, Salem, WI (262) 862-7777, host Mark Rogers, 6pm?

-High Spirits, 12417 Antioch Rd (Rt 83), Trevor, WI (262) 862-9886, host Mark Rijke, 3-7pm (every other Sun- open electric jam)

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, 830pm, host Paddy Teglia (open mic)

-Kegler’s Pub 905 Theodore St (Rt 7 between Rt 30 & Rt 53), Crest Hill, IL (815) 722-1089, host T-Bird Huck, 9pm

-Kingston Mines, 2548 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 477-4646, www.KingstonMines.com, host Linsey Alexander 6-9pm

-Lamplighter Inn Tavern & Grille, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, 8pm (1st Sun)

-Leroy’s Hot Stuff, 333 W Hwy 20, Porter, IN (219) 926-6211, 8pm-12am+

-New in Feb Live 59, 16108 Rt 59, Plainfield, IL, host Big Dog Mercer, 5-9pm

-Polk Street Pub, 548 W Polk St (2 blks E of 94, 1 blk N of Taylor), Chicago, IL (224) 440-2173, www.PolkStPub.com, host yours truly Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band, no cover, 2 drink minimum, $2 cans, 25c wings, free parking at Porter Pipe at Jefferson & Polk,  under 21 OK with guardian. 5-9pm. Come on out to celebrate DC’s birthday 2/12! Low-reen: 224-440-2173

-Silver Lake Marina, 28836 Silver Lake Rd (hwy F east of B), Salem, WI (262) 889-8465, www.SLMwi.com, host Loose Shoes, 8pm

-Treats Tavern, 2221 N Humboldt Blvd, Milwaukee, WI (414) 265-7054, host Harvey Westmoreland, 8pm

-Wicker Well, 1637 W North Ave, Chicago, IL (773) 276-8477

-Woodlawn Tap, 1172 E 55th St, Chicago, IL (773) 643-5516, hosts Dave Waldman, Willie Phillips, Justin O’Brien, Scott Dirks, 4-8pm

Mondays

—–”A bad rendition of you is better than a good rendition of somebody else.” - Willie Dixon

-Artis’s Lounge (yep, that’s how they spell it!), 1249 E 87th St (773) 734-0491, pro jam, host Billy Branch, 10pm

-BooCoo, 1823 Church St, Evanston, IL (847) 864-8164, 7pm (last Monday)

-Buddy Guy’s Legends, 700 S Wabash, Chicago, IL (312) 427-1190, www.BuddyGuys.com, host Jimmy Burns alternating with Brother John, 9:30pm, $10 cover (free for jammers, $5 for jammer’s guests)

-Jam done as of Feb Checkerboard Lounge, 5201 S Harper, Chicago, IL (773) 684-1472, www.CheckerBoardHydePark.com, host Killer Ray, 9pm, $5 cover

-New in Feb Hot City Lounge, 7432 S Racine, (773) 224-9583, host Killer Ray Allison, 9pm

-Sara’s Pub, 1567 Madison, Beloit, WI (608) 207-3139, host Dave Potter

-TG’s, 4120 7th Ave, Kenosha, WI, (262) 658-8080, www.TGsKenosha.com, host Sipos & Young, 6-10pm (open mic), all ages

-Up & Under Pub, 1216 E Brady, Milwaukee, WI (414) 276-2677, host Misha Siegfried, 9pm

Tuesdays

—–”I stone got crazy when I saw somebody run down them strings with a bottleneck. My eyes lit up like a Christmas tree and I said that I had to learn” – Muddy Waters

-Abbey Pub, 3420 W Grace, Chicago, IL (773) 478-4408, host Madman, 8pm-12

-Bay Billiards, 107 Towne Center Lane, Fox Lake, IL (847) 629-5492, host Brian Rand, 8pm

-NEW in Feb Crossroads, 396 W Irving Park Rd, Wood Dale, IL, host Uptown Groove, 8pm (1st & 3rd Tues)

-NEW starting Feb 21 Firehouse Pub, 18517 W Gages Lake Rd, Gages Lake, IL (847) 778-0780, host AC Blues, 8:30pm-12:30

-Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N Oakley, Chicago, IL (773) 489-5471, www.GalleryCabaret.com, host Fish & the Blue Fins, 9pm

-Harlem Ave Lounge, 3701 S Harlem Ave, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, host Tom Crivellone, (4th Tuesday)

-Keith’s, 6th Street, Racine, WI, 9pm (no other info avail)

-Mamie’s, 3300 W National, Milwaukee, WI (414) 543-1673, www.Mamies.net, host Carol Hanzel & Craig alternating with Kenny J & Stokes, 8pm-12

-Neighbor’s Social Club, 260 W Main St, Waukesha, WI, (262) 549-3910, host Robert Allen Jr Trio, 7:30-11pm

-Nite Cap Lounge, 5007 Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL (773) 282-8654, 930pm-1230am

-Saloon on Calhoun, 17000 W Capitol Drive #1, Brookfield, WI (262) 783-0222, host Rick Holmes, 9pm (open mic)

-Sky Box Sports Bar, 3601 W Harrison, Chicago, IL (872) 600-3228, hosted by Lil’ Harvey & Mack, 8pm-12am

-The Vibe, 1935 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park, IL (847) 780-4815, host Ari Mintz & Phil Palumbo, 730-1030pm

Wednesdays

—– Music is so naturally united with us that we cannot be free from it even if we so desired” -Boethius

-1146 Lounge, 1146 Sheridan, Kenosha, WI (262) 552-0830, host Phil James, 10pm-1:30

-Astor Hotel, 924 E Juneau, Milwaukee, WI (414) 271-4220, host Dve Miller w/ Rick Holmes, Andrew Wilson, 6-930pm

-B & B Riverfront Club, 724 Railroad St, Joliet, IL (815) 744-9511, host Big Dog Mercer, 7-11pm

-B.L.U.E.S. on Halsted, 2519 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 528-1012, www.ChicagoBluesBar.com, host Big Ray & Chicago’s Most Wanted alternating w/ Pistol Pete, 9:30pm-1:30 (1st & 3rd Wed)

-Blue Bayou Bar & Grill, 3734 N Southport, Chicago, IL (773) 871-3300, host Pete Galanis, 9:30pm-1:30am

-Bottoms Up, 1696 Thornton-Lansing Rd, Lansing, IL (708) 418-3877, www.bottomsuponline.com, host Chicago Bob, 8pm-12am

-Caroline’s Jazz Club, 401 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 221-9444, host Big O & the Night Owls Showband Big Blues Jam, 8pm-12

-Chopper’s Bar and Grill, 26375 Rt 173, Antioch, IL (847) 838-1230, open jam, 9pm

-Chord on Blues, 106 S 1st Ave, St Charles, IL (630) 513-0074, www.chordonblues.com, host Mike Hoge & Chicago Blue Dads, open jam, 8:30-11:30pm

-Chuck’s BBQ, 79th & Narraganset, Burbank, IL, host Rockin’ Johnny Band, 8-11:30pm, every 1st Wed

-Conway’s Smokin’ Bar & Grill, 2127 W Wells, Milwaukee, WI (414) 344-1262, host Big Johnson & the Thrusters, 9pm-12

-Harry’s Cafe & Place, 808 W Main St, Lake Geneva, WI (262) 248-3494, host Glenn Davis & the Cruise Control Blues Band, 8:45pm-12

-Hilltop Bar, 25944 W Rollins Rd (E of Wilson), Ingleside, IL (847) 973-0144, host Mark Rijke, 730pm, (open mic)

-House of Blues Back Porch Stage, 329 N Dearborn, Chicago, IL (312) 923-2000, various hosts, 10pm, pro jam, $10 but free if dine in prior to show

-Island Tap, 112 E Cook (behind Morgan’s on Milwaukee Ave), Libertyville, IL, host Matt, 7-9:30pm (open electric?)

-Lamplighter’s, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, host Rick, 8pm-12:30 (open jam)

-Liquid Blues, 126 N Benton St, Woodstock, IL (815) 337-7254, www.LiquidBluesBar.com, 7pm-1

-Mecca Supper Club, 6666 N Northwest Hwy, Edison Park, IL (773) 775-1077, www.MeccaSupperClub.com , 9pm-1am, various hosts (open mic)

-Milwaukee’s Firehouse Pub, 2758 S 35th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 383-5300, various hosts

-Montrose Saloon, 2933 W Montrose, Chicago, IL (773) 463-7663, host John Liggitt, 8:30pm (3rd Wed- also check out bluegrass jam 2nd Wed!)

-New York Slices, 1843 2nd St, Highland Park, IL (847) 432-6979, all ages, 7-10pm

–Walnut Speakeasy, 214 Walnut Ave, Elgin, IL (847) 695-2420, www.theWalnutSpeakeasy.com (every other Wed)

-West Side Tap, 1356 Houbolt Rd, Joliet, IL (815) 741-4318, OsBand jam session, 8pm

Thursdays

—–“When you touch someone with music, they may not remember the song but they will remember the joy” -from the wall at Sharon & Michael’s

-America’s Historic Roundhouse, 205 N Broadway, Aurora, IL (630) 892-0034, www.WalterPaytonsRoundHouse.com, open jam, 7pm

-Cali’s Grille Room & Lounge in the Midway Hotel, 1005 S Moorland,Road, Brookfield, WI (262) 786-9540, 8pm (open jam)

-Cool River Draught House, 12622- 159th St, Homer Glen, IL (708) 301-8006, www.CoolRiv.com, host Twist & the Groove Machine, 8:30pm-12:30

-Dee’s Place Chicago Soul Food, 2114 W Division, Chicago, IL (312) 348-6117  www.deesplacechicago.com , 7:30-10pm (open mic)

-Envy’s Pub, 3625 W 159th St (just E of I-57), Markham, IL (708) 331-5860, hosted by Little Johnny, 8-11pm

-Golf Farm, 2100 N Route 12, Wauconda, IL (847) 526-4000, www.Golf-Farm.com, host Brian Rothermel, 8:30pm

-Green Town Tavern, 110 S Genesee, Waukegan, IL (847) 244-1001, www.GreenTownTavern.com, host Chris Sipos, 8pm-12:15 (open mic)

-Harlem Avenue Lounge, 3701 S Harlem, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, alternating hosts, 8:30pm-12:30

-Harry’s Sports Bar, 9901 W 55th, Countryside, IL. Host Twist & the Groove Machine, 8pm-12

-Henry & Wanda’s, 501 6th St, Racine, WI (262) 632-1772, www.HenryandWandas.com, host Roy Edwards, 8pm-12am

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, 830pm (open mic)

-Lincoln Square Lanes, 4874 N Lincoln, Chicago, IL (773) 561-8191, hosted by Madman, 9pm-1, musicians get a free cocktail when they jam!

-Rosa’s Lounge, 3420 W Armitage, Chicago, IL (773) 342-0452, www.RosasLounge.com, host James Wheeler, 9:30pm-1:30

-Spirits, 922 Milwaukee Ave, South Milwaukee, WI (414) 762-2005, hosted by Marshall Holm, Dave Miller, 8pm

-TC Pub, 9700 S Cicero, Oak Lawn, IL (708) 425-4252, www.facebook.com/pages/T-C-Pub/ host Rev T & the Bluez Factor Revival, $1 drafts, free hot dogs

-Change in Feb: Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, host Rainman & Real Deal, 8:30-11pm, 1st Thursday (guitar bring your own amp)

Fridays

-Bay Billiards, 107 Towne Center Lane, Fox Lake, IL (847) 587-8888, host Carter, www.BayBilliardsSportsBar.com  (open jam)

-Dwight House Pub, 35366 N Frontage Rd (off Rt 12), Fox Lake, IL (847) 973-1476, host John Linczmaier & Red Eye Express, 9:30pm-12:30 (every other Fri, open electric jam)

-Flanagan’s, 3201 Buckley Rd (at Rt 41), North Chicago, IL (847) 689-9062 www.FlanagansSportsBar.com, host yours truly Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band, 9:30pm-1:30am, everybody plays! (next Feb 24)

-Hap’s North End Tap, 83 Hankes Ave, Aurora, IL (630) 859-2945, 9pm

-Hollywood Lounge, 3303 W Bryn Mawr, Chicago, IL (773) 588-9707, www.TheHollywoodLive.com, host Big John Sanner w/ Willie T & the Blues Explosion, 9pm-2

-J Martins Tap, 81 E 34th St, Steger, IL (708) 755-5240, host Bob E Lee, 9pm-1

Saturdays

-Abel’s Restaurant, 125 Center St, Grayslake, IL (847) 548-2803, host King Robinson, 8pm (last Sat)

-Gene’s Supper Club, 4323 N 60th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 535-7789, host Marvelous Mack & the Pressure Release Blues Band, 3:30pm

-R&R Crossing, Russell, IL, host Midnight Rider Band, 3-7pm (monthly- next 2/25)

-Uptown Tavern, 12 W Burlington Ave, Westmont, IL (630) 969-4717 www.theuptownonline.com, hosted by Mojo Mark, 8pm-1 (next 3/10 with special guest Jimmy Burns)

Out of the Area Jams: sorry, really no way to keep this updated- check local blues societies!

No Comments »

Low-reen’s Live Blues List #33

Low-reen’s Live Blues List

http://LowreensLiveBlues.com

Blues Jams Chicago to Milwaukee…and then some

Issue #33

January 2012

in memory of Dirty Otis

…join a Band, not a Gang…

Join the Mailing List / Updates / Corrections / List your Jam: send to LowreensLiveBlues@gmail.com

Jam Pictures now on NEW Facebook page: search on FB for Low-reen’s Live Blues page, “like” the page to stay connected for quick updates 

~~~~~~~~~~

 Clubs Off the Beaten Path

Now, didn’t you just think that there must be more to the Chicago blues scene than what you see in the Reader or in some of the guidebooks? Well ME TOO! So I started blues traveling in my own city! Here are some Chicagoland spots to check out. Some are not in the safest neighborhoods, so don’t be stupid about it. Be friendly & respectful, don’t have too much to drink, and park on the main street. Some have parking security. These clubs do a great job to create a safe atmosphere inside but be careful coming & going. Oh, and have fun!

  • Big O’s, 52nd & Halsted, 1st Friday Tony Brown, EJ, & Louis Bryant; 2nd Friday Tommy Landis & Sexy Jamie (being remodeled: call for schedule)
  • Carolyn’s Zodiac Lounge, 1744 N Central (773) 804-9664, Fridays Super Percy & His Soul Clique
  • For the Good Times Lounge, 5545 S Damen (773) 737-0184, Saturday, Sundays Killer Ray & the Bottom Dollar Band, 9.pm
  • Gene’s Playmate Lounge, 4239 W Cermak, (773) 590-9127, Sundays
  • Hot City Lounge, 7432 S Racine, (773) 224-9583, Thursdays 9:30pm JoJo Murray and Sundays 6pm Total Package with Chuck Finley
  • New ImLa Cocktail Lounge, 1116 W 51st St (773) 285-0285, Wednesdays 8pm Grown Man & the Mississippi Raiders Band, $3 cover
  • Keynote Lounge, 1116 W 63rd St, 1st & 3rd Sundays 7:30pm Smilin’ Bobby, other Sundays Super Percy, also music on Wednesdays
  • Rooster’s Palace, Madison & Kilborne, (773) 678-0739, Fridays & Saturdays West Side Wes, sometimes Tail Dragger
  • Spectrum Bar & Grill, 233 S Halsted (312) 715-0770
  • Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, Saturdays usual $10 cover
  • Vaughn’s, 6633 S Ashland Ave (773) 931-9080
  • The Water Hole, 1400 S Western (312) 243-7988, Live music Thurs-Sun. Every Friday Mary Lane & the No Static Band 9pm-1am. Saturdays K Jazz & the K1 Band. Cover.
  • Other Chicagoland blues clubs you probably already know about: Artis’s, Blue Chicago, B.L.U.E.S., Buddy Guy’s Legends, Checkerboard, Chord on Blues, Harlem Ave Lounge, House of Blues, Kingston Mines, Lee’s Unleaded, Nick’s, Rosa’s, Smoke Daddy, Walnut Speakeasy

Special Events & News

—–”It’s 106 miles to Chicago, we got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it’s dark, and we’re wearing sunglasses” -Elwood Blues

  • January 25, Little Scotty in critical care at UIC
  • Windy City Blues Society’s 2011 Chicago Blues Challenge update! WCBS financially supports the winners in going to Memphis to compete in the 2012 International Blues Challenge. Categories: Band, Solo/Duo, Youth. Congratulations to solo / duo winners Liz Mandeville & Donna Herula and band winner Pistol Pete, who go to IBC in Memphis to represent Chicago! Also congratulations for best CD to Nigel Mack. More info at www.WindyCityBlues.org See Jan 13 fundraiser info next listing.
  • January 13, CBC Fundraiser with Pistol Pete, Liz Mandeville & Donna Herula, Harlem Ave Lounge,  3701 S Harlem Ave, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, 9pm
  • January 27, Benefit Jam for the ARK in Northbrook, the Alley, 210 Greenbay Rd (at Hwy 22) Highwood, IL (847) 433-0304 www.BowlHighwood.com, 7:30pm-3am, hosted by Barry Rossen & Doug James, $5 donation, silent auction & raffle
  • January 30, Benefit for Bryan Lee the Braille Blues Daddy who recently had back surgery, Sara’s Pub, 1567 S Madison Rd, Beloit, WI (608) 207- 3139, features Reverend Raven, Dave Potter, Dave Woods, Steve Dougherty, Danny Moore, others, 7pm. Other benefits scheduled for Feb 12, 24, 26, see http://www.reverendraven.com/home/bryan_lee_benefits for details
  • Chicago Musicians: interested in playing at Chicago Blues Fest on the Windy City Blues Society stage either for a set or as part of the Chicago Blues Challenge competition? Spots are very limited, go to www.WindyCityBlues.org for details. Also accepting CD donations- a handful or a box!- for distribution at the fest
  • Chicago Musicians: get listed on Windy City Blues Society website www.WindyCityBlues.org
  • Kenosha Musicians: want to influence the local music scene? Join Musicians Advancing and Assisting Musicians on Facebook
  • Kenosha Musicians: Join Musicians of Kenosha Directory on Facebook
  • Milwaukee Musicians: want to get heard on WMSE FM 91.7? Drop off your CD or album at 820 N Milwaukee or MSOE Krueger Hall 9am-6pm. OR mail it to WMSE, 1025 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202 attn: Music Director. Tune in weekdays 3-6pm for the Blues Drive. www.msoe.org
  • Chicago Blues Tour: a good way to go if you want to go with a group and don’t want to drive. Shuttle van between several venues, cover charges included as well as a couple drinks, poster, & CD. www.ChicagoBluesTour.com
  • February 10-12, 52nd Annual University of Chicago Folk Festival, Mandel Hall, 1131 E 57th, Chicago, IL. http://uofcfolk.org/index.html Billy Boy Arnold performs Friday & Sunday, workshops: harp with Joe Filisko and blues guitar with Billy Flynn on Saturday. Tickets $25 or $55 pass
  • February 18-August 19, The Blues: From the Heart & Soul, exhibit of private collection of Barrelhouse Chuck Goering, Lake County Discovery Museum, 27277 N Forest Preserve Rd, Wauconda, IL (847) 968-3400, www.LakeCountyDiscoveryMuseum.org  $6
  • Cheat You Fair, a documentary about old Maxwell Street, now available for purchase at Amazon.
  • Get in on THIS! Movie We Be Kings scheduled to begin shooting soon is looking for backers. To star Magic Slim & Grana Louise! Go to Kickstarter at http://www.kickstarter.com/projects/647017682/we-be-kings?ref=category and back this project with as little as a five-spot!
  • Sean Costello Memorial Fund for Bipolar Research, focused on the needs of musicians with bipolar disorder. www.SeanCostelloFund.org
  • Health, life, & dental insurance group plans for music industry professionals available through the Blues Foundation. For more info: www.Blues.org or www.SoundHealthcare.org or call 615-256-8667

Blues Jams (call ahead, they change frequently!)

Sundays

—–”Let dat boy boogie woogie! It’s in ‘im, and it got to come out!” - John Lee Hooker

-The Alley, 210 Greenbay Rd (at Hwy 22) Highwood, IL (847) 433-0304 www.BowlHighwood.com hosts Mark Blank & B’Ro, 7-10pm

-Breakwater Bar & Grill at Kenosha Yacht Club, 5130 4th Ave, Kenosha, WI (262) 652-2320, host Chris Sipos, 4-8pm (open mic)

-C&J’s Crossroads, N6444 US Hwy 12, Elkhorn, WI (262) 742-3417, host Glen Davis, 2-5pm

-Hawg Heaven, 10306 Antioch Rd, Salem, WI (262) 862-7777, host Mark Rogers

-High Spirits, 12417 Antioch Rd (Rt 83), Trevor, WI (262) 862-9886, host Mark Rijke, 3-7pm (every other Sun- open electric jam)

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, 830pm, host Paddy Teglia (open mic)

-Kegler’s Pub 905 Theodore St (Rt 7 between Rt 30 & Rt 53), Crest Hill, IL (815) 722-1089, host T-Bird Huck, 9pm

-Kingston Mines, 2548 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 477-4646, www.KingstonMines.com, host Linsey Alexander 6-9pm

-Lamplighter Inn Tavern & Grille, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, 8pm (1st Sun)

-Leroy’s Hot Stuff, 333 W Hwy 20, Porter, IN (219) 926-6211, 8pm-12am+

-Polk Street Pub, 548 W Polk St (2 blks E of 94, 1 blk N of Taylor), Chicago, IL (224) 440-2173, www.PolkStPub.com, host yours truly Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band featuring Maxwell St legends Little Scotty & Bobby Too Tuff, no cover, 2 drink minimum, $2 cans, 25c wings, free parking at Porter Pipe at Jefferson & Polk,  under 21 OK with guardian. 5-9pm. Come on out to celebrate Tony Brown’s birthday 1/8 and Low-reen’s birthday Jan 29! Low-reen: 224-440-2173

-Silver Lake Marina, 28836 Silver Lake Rd (hwy F east of B), Salem, WI (262) 889-8465, www.SLMwi.com, host Loose Shoes, 8pm

-Wicker Well, 1637 W North Ave, Chicago, IL (773) 276-8477

-Woodlawn Tap, 1172 E 55th St, Chicago, IL (773) 643-5516, hosts Dave Waldman, Willie Phillips, Justin O’Brien, Scott Dirks, 4-8pm

Mondays

—–”A bad rendition of you is better than a good rendition of somebody else.” - Willie Dixon

-Artis’s Lounge (yep, that’s how they spell it!), 1249 E 87th St (773) 734-0491, pro jam, host Billy Branch, 10pm

-BooCoo, 1823 Church St, Evanston, IL (847) 864-8164, 7pm (last Monday)

-Buddy Guy’s Legends, 700 S Wabash, Chicago, IL (312) 427-1190, www.BuddyGuys.com, host Jimmy Burns alternating with Brother John, 9:30pm, $10 cover (free for jammers, $5 for jammer’s guests)

-Checkerboard Lounge (back to Mondays), 5201 S Harper, Chicago, IL (773) 684-1472, www.CheckerBoardHydePark.com, host Killer Ray, 9pm, $5 cover

-Sara’s Pub, 1567 Madison, Beloit, WI (608) 207-3139, host Dave Potter

-TG’s, 4120 7th Ave, Kenosha, WI, (262) 658-8080, www.TGsKenosha.com, host Sipos & Young, 6-10pm (open mic), all ages

-Up & Under Pub, 1216 E Brady, Milwaukee, WI (414) 276-2677, 9pm

Tuesdays

—–”I stone got crazy when I saw somebody run down them strings with a bottleneck. My eyes lit up like a Christmas tree and I said that I had to learn” – Muddy Waters

-Abbey Pub, 3420 W Grace, Chicago, IL (773) 478-4408, host Madman, 8pm-12

-Bay Billiards, 107 Towne Center Lane, Fox Lake, IL (847) 629-5492, host Brian Rand, 8pm

-Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N Oakley, Chicago, IL (773) 489-5471, www.GalleryCabaret.com, host Fish & the Blue Fins, 9pm

-Harlem Ave Lounge, 3701 S Harlem Ave, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, host Tom Crivellone, (4th Tuesday)

-Keith’s, 6th Street, Racine, WI, 9pm (no other info avail)

-Lonie Walker’s Underground Wonder Bar, 10 E Walton, Chicago, IL (312) 266-7761, www.UndergroundWonderBar.com, host Lorna Boston, 11:30pm-3:30am (pro jam, jazz & blues), $8

-Mamie’s, 3300 W National, Milwaukee, WI (414) 543-1673, www.Mamies.net, host Carol Hanzel & Craig alternating with Kenny J & Stokes, 8pm-12

-Neighbor’s Social Club, 260 W Main St, Waukesha, WI, (262) 549-3910, host Robert Allen Jr Trio, 7:30-11pm

-Nite Cap Lounge, 5007 Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL (773) 282-8654, 930pm-1230am

-Sky Box Sports Bar, 3601 W Harrison, Chicago, IL (872) 600-3228, hosted by Lil’ Harvey & Mack, 8pm-12am

-The Vibe, 1935 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park, IL (847) 780-4815, host Ari Mintz & Phil Palumbo, 730-1030pm

Wednesdays

—– Music is so naturally united with us that we cannot be free from it even if we so desired” -Boethius

-1146 Lounge, 1146 Sheridan, Kenosha, WI (262) 552-0830, host Phil James, 10pm-1:30

-B & B Riverfront Club, 724 Railroad St, Joliet, IL (815) 744-9511, host Big Dog Mercer, 7-11pm

-B.L.U.E.S. on Halsted, 2519 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 528-1012, www.ChicagoBluesBar.com, host Big Ray & Chicago’s Most Wanted alternating w/ Pistol Pete, 9:30pm-1:30 (1st & 3rd Wed)

-Blue Bayou Bar & Grill, 3734 N Southport, Chicago, IL (773) 871-3300, host Pete Galanis, 9:30pm-1:30am

-Bottoms Up, 1696 Thornton-Lansing Rd, Lansing, IL (708) 418-3877, www.bottomsuponline.com, host Chicago Bob, 8pm-12am

-Caroline’s Jazz Club, 401 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 221-9444, host Big O & the Night Owls Showband Big Blues Jam, 8pm-12

-Chopper’s Bar and Grill, 26375 Rt 173, Antioch, IL (847) 838-1230, open jam, 9pm

-Chord on Blues, 106 S 1st Ave, St Charles, IL (630) 513-0074, www.chordonblues.com, host Mike Hoge & Chicago Blue Dads, open jam, 8:30-11:30pm

-Chuck’s BBQ, 79th & Narraganset, Burbank, IL, host Rockin’ Johnny Band, 8-11:30pm, every 1st Wed

-Conway’s Smokin’ Bar & Grill, 2127 W Wells, Milwaukee, WI (414) 344-1262, host Big Johnson & the Thrusters, 9pm-12

-Harry’s Cafe & Place, 808 W Main St, Lake Geneva, WI (262) 248-3494, host Glenn Davis & the Cruise Control Blues Band, 8:45pm-12

-Hilltop Bar, 25944 W Rollins Rd (E of Wilson), Ingleside, IL (847) 973-0144, host Mark Rijke, 730pm, (open mic)

-House of Blues Back Porch Stage, 329 N Dearborn, Chicago, IL (312) 923-2000, various hosts, 10pm, pro jam

-Lamplighter’s, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, host Rick, 8pm-12:30 (open jam)

-Liquid Blues, 126 N Benton St, Woodstock, IL (815) 337-7254, www.LiquidBluesBar.com, 7pm-1

-Mecca Supper Club, 6666 N Northwest Hwy, Edison Park, IL (773) 775-1077, www.MeccaSupperClub.com , 9pm-1am, various hosts (open mic)

-Milwaukee’s Firehouse Pub, 2758 S 35th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 383-5300, various hosts

-Montrose Saloon, 2933 W Montrose, Chicago, IL (773) 463-7663, host John Liggitt, 8:30pm (3rd Wed- also check out bluegrass jam 2nd Wed!)

-New York Slices, 1843 2nd St, Highland Park, IL (847) 432-6979, all ages, 7-10pm

–Walnut Speakeasy, 214 Walnut Ave, Elgin, IL (847) 695-2420, www.theWalnutSpeakeasy.com (every other Wed)

-West Side Tap, 1356 Houbolt Rd, Joliet, IL (815) 741-4318, OsBand jam session, 8pm

Thursdays

—–“When you touch someone with music, they may not remember the song but they will remember the joy” -from the wall at Sharon & Michael’s

-America’s Historic Roundhouse, 205 N Broadway, Aurora, IL (630) 892-0034, www.WalterPaytonsRoundHouse.com, open jam, 7pm

-Cool River Draught House, 12622- 159th St, Homer Glen, IL (708) 301-8006, www.CoolRiv.com, host Twist & the Groove Machine, 8:30pm-12:30

-Dee’s Place Chicago Soul Food, 2114 W Division, Chicago, IL (312) 348-6117  www.deesplacechicago.com , 7:30-10pm (open mic)

-Envy’s Pub, 3625 W 159th St (just E of I-57), Markham, IL (708) 331-5860, hosted by Little Johnny, 8-11pm

-Golf Farm, 2100 N Route 12, Wauconda, IL (847) 526-4000, www.Golf-Farm.com, host Brian Rothermel, 8:30pm

-Green Town Tavern, 110 S Genesee, Waukegan, IL (847) 244-1001, www.GreenTownTavern.com, host Chris Sipos, 8pm-12:15 (open mic)

-Harlem Avenue Lounge, 3701 S Harlem, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, alternating hosts, 8:30pm-12:30

-Harry’s Sports Bar, 9901 W 55th, Countryside, IL. Host Twist & the Groove Machine, 8pm-12

-Henry & Wanda’s, 501 6th St, Racine, WI (262) 632-1772, www.HenryandWandas.com, host Roy Edwards, 8pm-12am

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, 830pm (open mic)

-Lincoln Square Lanes, 4874 N Lincoln, Chicago, IL (773) 561-8191, hosted by Madman, 9pm-1, musicians get a free cocktail when they jam!

-Rosa’s Lounge, 3420 W Armitage, Chicago, IL (773) 342-0452, www.RosasLounge.com, host James Wheeler, 9:30pm-1:30

-Spirits, 922 Milwaukee Ave, South Milwaukee, WI (414) 762-2005, hosted by Marshall Holm

-TC Pub, 9700 S Cicero, Oak Lawn, IL (708) 425-4252, www.facebook.com/pages/T-C-Pub/ host Rev T & the Bluez Factor Revival, $1 drafts, free hot dogs

-Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, host Rainman & Real Deal, 8:30-11pm (guitar bring your own amp)

Fridays

-Bay Billiards, 107 Towne Center Lane, Fox Lake, IL (847) 587-8888, host Carter, www.BayBilliardsSportsBar.com  (open jam)

-Dwight House Pub, 35366 N Frontage Rd (off Rt 12), Fox Lake, IL (847) 973-1476, host John Linczmaier & Red Eye Express, 9:30pm-12:30 (every other Fri, open electric jam)

-Flanagan’s, 3201 Buckley Rd (at Rt 41), North Chicago, IL (847) 689-9062 www.FlanagansSportsBar.com, host yours truly Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band, 9:30pm-1:30am, everybody plays! (Jan 27)

-Hap’s North End Tap, 83 Hankes Ave, Aurora, IL (630) 859-2945, 9pm

-Hollywood Lounge, 3303 W Bryn Mawr, Chicago, IL (773) 588-9707, www.TheHollywoodLive.com, host Big John Sanner w/ Willie T & the Blues Explosion, 9pm-2

-J Martins Tap, 81 E 34th St, Steger, IL (708) 755-5240, host Bob E Lee, 9pm-1

Saturdays

-Abel’s Restaurant, 125 Center St, Grayslake, IL (847) 548-2803, host King Robinson, 8pm (last Sat)

-Gene’s Supper Club, 4323 N 60th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 535-7789, host Marvelous Mack & the Pressure Release Blues Band, 3:30pm

-R&R Crossing, Russell, IL, host AC Blues or Mark Rikje, 4-8pm (monthly- next Jan 28)

Out of the Area Jams: sorry, really no way to keep this updated- check local blues societies!

No Comments »

Low-reen’s Live Blues List #32

Low-reen’s Live Blues List

http://LowreensLiveBlues.com

Blues Jams Chicago to Milwaukee…and then some

Issue #32

December 2011

in memory of Dirty Otis

…join a Band, not a Gang…

Join the Mailing List / Updates / Corrections / List your Jam: send to LowreensLiveBlues@gmail.com

Jam Pictures now on NEW Facebook page: search on FB for Low-reen’s Live Blues page, “like” the page to stay connected for quick updates 

~~~~~~~~~~

 Clubs Off the Beaten Path

Now, didn’t you just think that there must be more to the Chicago blues scene than what you see in the Reader or in some of the guidebooks? Well ME TOO! So I started blues traveling in my own city! Here are some Chicagoland spots to check out. Some are not in the safest neighborhoods, so don’t be stupid about it. Be friendly & respectful, don’t have too much to drink, and park on the main street. Some have parking security. These clubs do a great job to create a safe atmosphere inside but be careful coming & going. Oh, and have fun!

  • Big O’s, 52nd & Halsted, 1st Friday Tony Brown, EJ, & Louis Bryant; 2nd Friday Tommy Landis & Sexy Jamie (being remodeled: call for schedule)
  • Carolyn’s Zodiac Lounge, 1744 N Central (773) 804-9664
  • For the Good Times Lounge, 5545 S Damen (773) 737-0184, Saturday, Sundays Killer Ray & the Bottom Dollar Band, 9.pm
  • Gene’s Playmate Lounge, 4239 W Cermak, (773) 590-9127, Sundays
  • Hot City Lounge, 7432 S Racine, (773) 224-9583, Thursdays 9:30pm JoJo Murray and Sundays 6pm Total Package with Chuck Finley
  • New ImLa Cocktail Lounge, 1116 W 51st St (773) 285-0285, Wednesdays 8pm Grown Man & the Mississippi Raiders Band, $3 cover
  • Keynote Lounge, 1116 W 63rd St, 1st & 3rd Sundays 7:30pm Smilin’ Bobby, other Sundays Super Percy, also music on Wednesdays
  • Rooster’s Palace, Madison & Kilborne, (773) 678-0739, Fridays & Saturdays West Side Wes, sometimes Tail Dragger
  • Spectrum Bar & Grill, 233 S Halsted (312) 715-0770
  • Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, Saturdays usual $10 cover
  • Vaughn’s, 6633 S Ashland Ave (773) 931-9080
  • The Water Hole, 1400 S Western (312) 243-7988, Live music Thurs-Sun. Every Friday Mary Lane & the No Static Band 9pm-1am. Saturdays K Jazz & the K1 Band. Sundays Little Scotty. Cover.
  • Other Chicagoland blues clubs you probably already know about: Artis’s, Blue Chicago, B.L.U.E.S., Buddy Guy’s Legends, Checkerboard, Chord on Blues, Harlem Ave Lounge, House of Blues, Kingston Mines, Lee’s Unleaded, Nick’s, Rosa’s, Smoke Daddy, Walnut Speakeasy

Special Events & News

—–”It’s 106 miles to Chicago, we got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it’s dark, and we’re wearing sunglasses” -Elwood Blues

  • Windy City Blues Society’s 2011 Chicago Blues Challenge update! WCBS financially supports the winners in going to Memphis to compete in the 2012 International Blues Challenge. Categories: Band, Solo/Duo, Youth. Congratulations to solo / duo winners Liz Mandeville & Donna Herula and band winner Pistol Pete, who go to IBC in Memphis to represent Chicago! Also congratulations for best CD to Nigel Mack. More info at www.WindyCityBlues.org See Jan 13 fundraiser info.
  • December 12, Musicians Advancing & Assisting Musicians Holiday Potluck & Jam, 7-11:30pm, Deep Blues, 5001 7th Ave, Kenosha, WI (262) 652-3595
  • December 13, A Celebration of the Life of the Legendary Hubert Sumlin with Bob Margolin, Fizgerald’s, 6615 Roosevelt Rd, Berwyn, IL (708) 788-2118, 7pm, donation requested
  • December 28, Housewreckin’ Blues Jam Holiday Edition, AJ’s Horsin’ Around, 114 E Washington, Round Lake Park, IL (847) 546-3314, hosted by King Robinson & Bruce Williams, 8pm
  • January 13, CBC Fundraiser with Pistol Pete, Liz Mandeville & Donna Herula, Harlem Ave Lounge,  3701 S Harlem Ave, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, 9pm.
  • Milwaukee Musicians: want to get heard on WMSE FM 91.7? Drop off your CD or album at 820 N Milwaukee or MSOE Krueger Hall 9am-6pm. OR mail it to WMSE, 1025 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202 attn: Music Director. Tune in weekdays 3-6pm for the Blues Drive. www.msoe.org
  • February 18-August 19, The Blues: From the Heart & Soul, exhibit of private collection of Barrelhouse Chuck Goering, Lake County Discovery Museum, 27277 N Forest Preserve Rd, Wauconda, IL (847) 968-3400, www.LakeCountyDiscoveryMuseum.org  $6
  • Cheat You Fair, a documentary about old Maxwell Street, now available for purchase at Amazon.
  • Sean Costello Memorial Fund for Bipolar Research, focused on the needs of musicians with bipolar disorder. www.SeanCostelloFund.org
  • Health, life, & dental insurance group plans for music industry professionals available through the Blues Foundation. For more info: www.Blues.org or www.SoundHealthcare.org or call 615-256-8667

Blues Jams (call ahead, they change frequently!)

Sundays

—–”Let dat boy boogie woogie! It’s in ‘im, and it got to come out!” - John Lee Hooker

-The Alley, 210 Greenbay Rd (at Hwy 22) Highwood, IL (847) 433-0304 www.BowlHighwood.com hosts Mark Blank & B’Ro, 7-10pm

-Breakwater Bar & Grill at Kenosha Yacht Club, 5130 4th Ave, Kenosha, WI (262) 652-2320, host Chris Sipos, 4-8pm (open mic)

-C&J’s Crossroads, N6444 US Hwy 12, Elkhorn, WI (262) 742-3417, host Glen Davis, 2-5pm

-High Spirits, 12417 Antioch Rd (Rt 83), Trevor, WI (262) 862-9886, host Mark Rijke, 3-7pm (every other Sun- open electric jam)

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044 (open mic)

-Kegler’s Pub 905 Theodore St (Rt 7 between Rt 30 & Rt 53), Crest Hill, IL (815) 722-1089, host T-Bird Huck, 9pm

-Kingston Mines, 2548 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 477-4646, www.KingstonMines.com, host Linsey Alexander 6-9pm

-Lamplighter Inn Tavern & Grille, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, 8pm (1st Sun)

-Leroy’s Hot Stuff, 333 W Hwy 20, Porter, IN (219) 926-6211, 8pm-12am+

-Polk Street Pub, 548 W Polk St (2 blks E of 94, 1 blk N of Taylor), Chicago, IL (224) 440-2173, www.PolkStPub.com, host yours truly Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band featuring Maxwell St legends Little Scotty & Bobby Too Tuff, no cover, 2 drink minimum, $2 cans, 25c wings, free parking at Porter Pipe at Jefferson & Polk,  under 21 OK with guardian. Working around Da Bears schedule: Dec 4, 4:30-8:30; Dec 11, 6-10pm; Dec 18, 2-6pm; Dec 25 & Jan 1, no jam. Jan 8, 5-9pm. Call me if you are confused: 224-440-2173

-Silver Lake Marina, 28836 Silver Lake Rd (hwy F east of B), Salem, WI (262) 889-8465, www.SLMwi.com, host Loose Shoes, 8pm

-Wicker Well, 1637 W North Ave, Chicago, IL (773) 276-8477

-Woodlawn Tap, 1172 E 55th St, Chicago, IL (773) 643-5516, hosts Dave Waldman, Willie Phillips, Justin O’Brien, Scott Dirks, 4-8pm

Mondays

—–”A bad rendition of you is better than a good rendition of somebody else.” - Willie Dixon

-Artis’s Lounge (yep, that’s how they spell it!), 1249 E 87th St (773) 734-0491, pro jam, host Billy Branch, 10pm

-BooCoo, 1823 Church St, Evanston, IL (847) 864-8164, 7pm (last Monday)

-Buddy Guy’s Legends, 700 S Wabash, Chicago, IL (312) 427-1190, www.BuddyGuys.com, host Jimmy Burns alternating with Brother John, 9:30pm, $10 cover (free for jammers, $5 for jammer’s guests)

-Checkerboard Lounge (back to Mondays), 5201 S Harper, Chicago, IL (773) 684-1472, www.CheckerBoardHydePark.com, host Killer Ray, 9pm, $5 cover

-Sara’s Pub, 1567 Madison, Beloit, WI (608) 207-3139, host Dave Potter

-TG’s, 4120 7th Ave, Kenosha, WI, (262) 658-8080, www.TGsKenosha.com, host Sipos & Young, 6-10pm (open mic), all ages

-Up & Under Pub, 1216 E Brady, Milwaukee, WI (414) 276-2677, 9pm

Tuesdays

—–”I stone got crazy when I saw somebody run down them strings with a bottleneck. My eyes lit up like a Christmas tree and I said that I had to learn” – Muddy Waters

-Bay Billiards, 107 Towne Center Lane, Fox Lake, IL (847) 629-5492, host Brian Rand, 8pm

-Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N Oakley, Chicago, IL (773) 489-5471, www.GalleryCabaret.com, host Fish & the Blue Fins, 9pm

-Harlem Ave Lounge, 3701 S Harlem Ave, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, host Tom Crivellone, (4th Tuesday)

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, host Pred Petrovic (open acoustic jam)

-Firehouse Pub, 18517 Gages Lake Rd, Gages Lake, IL. Host Al Sjoholm. Dec 13 & 20, 8pm-midnight, Dec 17 6-10pm

-Lonie Walker’s Underground Wonder Bar, 10 E Walton, Chicago, IL (312) 266-7761, www.UndergroundWonderBar.com, host Lorna Boston, 11:30pm-3:30am (pro jam, jazz & blues), $8

-Mamie’s, 3300 W National, Milwaukee, WI (414) 543-1673, www.Mamies.net, host Carol Hanzel & Craig alternating with Kenny J & Stokes, 8pm-12

-Neighbor’s Social Club, 260 W Main St, Waukesha, WI, (262) 549-3910, host Robert Allen Jr Trio, 7:30-11pm

-Nite Cap Lounge, 5007 Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL (773) 282-8654, 930pm-1230am

-Sky Box Sports Bar, 3601 W Harrison, Chicago, IL (872) 600-3228, hosted by Lil’ Harvey & Mack, 8pm-12am

-The Vibe, 1935 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park, IL (847) 780-4815, host Ari Mintz & Phil Palumbo, 730-1030pm

Wednesdays

—– Music is so naturally united with us that we cannot be free from it even if we so desired” -Boethius

-1146 Lounge, 1146 Sheridan, Kenosha, WI (262) 552-0830, host Phil James, 10pm-1:30

-B & B Riverfront Club, 724 Railroad St, Joliet, IL (815) 744-9511, host Big Dog Mercer, 7-11pm

-B.L.U.E.S. on Halsted, 2519 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 528-1012, www.ChicagoBluesBar.com, host Big Ray & Chicago’s Most Wanted alternating w/ Pistol Pete, 9:30pm-1:30 (1st & 3rd Wed)

-Blue Bayou Bar & Grill, 3734 N Southport, Chicago, IL (773) 871-3300, host Pete Galanis, 9:30pm-1:30am

-Bottoms Up, 1696 Thornton-Lansing Rd, Lansing, IL (708) 418-3877, www.bottomsuponline.com, host Chicago Bob, 8pm-12am

-Caroline’s Jazz Club, 401 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 221-9444, host Big O & the Night Owls Showband Big Blues Jam, 8pm-12

-Chopper’s Bar and Grill, 26375 Rt 173, Antioch, IL (847) 838-1230, open jam, 9pm

-Chord on Blues, 106 S 1st Ave, St Charles, IL (630) 513-0074, www.chordonblues.com, host Mike Hoge & Chicago Blue Dads, open jam, 8:30-11:30pm

-Chuck’s BBQ, 79th & Narraganset, Burbank, IL, host Rockin’ Johnny Band, 8-11:30pm, every 1st Wed

-Conway’s Smokin’ Bar & Grill, 2127 W Wells, Milwaukee, WI (414) 344-1262, host Big Johnson & the Thrusters, 9pm-12

-Harry’s Cafe & Place, 808 W Main St, Lake Geneva, WI (262) 248-3494, host Glenn Davis & the Cruise Control Blues Band, 8:45pm-12

-Hilltop Bar, 25944 W Rollins Rd (E of Wilson), Ingleside, IL (847) 973-0144, host Mark Rijke, 730pm, (open mic)

-House of Blues Back Porch Stage, 329 N Dearborn, Chicago, IL (312) 923-2000, various hosts, 10pm, pro jam

-Lamplighter’s, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, host Rick, 8pm-12:30 (open jam)

-Liquid Blues, 126 N Benton St, Woodstock, IL (815) 337-7254, www.LiquidBluesBar.com, 7pm-1

-Mecca Supper Club, 6666 N Northwest Hwy, Edison Park, IL (773) 775-1077, www.MeccaSupperClub.com , 9pm-1am, various hosts (open mic)

-Milwaukee’s Firehouse Pub, 2758 S 35th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 383-5300, various hosts

-Montrose Saloon, 2933 W Montrose, Chicago, IL (773) 463-7663, host John Liggitt, 8:30pm (3rd Wed- also check out bluegrass jam 2nd Wed!)

-New York Slices, 1843 2nd St, Highland Park, IL (847) 432-6979, all ages, 7-10pm

–Walnut Speakeasy, 214 Walnut Ave, Elgin, IL (847) 695-2420, www.theWalnutSpeakeasy.com (every other Wed)

-West Side Tap, 1356 Houbolt Rd, Joliet, IL (815) 741-4318, OsBand jam session, 8pm

Thursdays

—–“When you touch someone with music, they may not remember the song but they will remember the joy” -from the wall at Sharon & Michael’s

-America’s Historic Roundhouse, 205 N Broadway, Aurora, IL (630) 892-0034, www.WalterPaytonsRoundHouse.com, open jam, 7pm

-Cool River Draught House, 12622- 159th St, Homer Glen, IL (708) 301-8006, www.CoolRiv.com, host Twist & the Groove Machine, 8:30pm-12:30

-Dee’s Place Chicago Soul Food, 2114 W Division, Chicago, IL (312) 348-6117  www.deesplacechicago.com , 7:30-10pm (open mic)

-Envy’s Pub, 3625 W 159th St (just E of I-57), Markham, IL (708) 331-5860, hosted by Little Johnny, 8-11pm

-Golf Farm, 2100 N Route 12, Wauconda, IL (847) 526-4000, www.Golf-Farm.com, host Brian Rothermel, 8:30pm

-Green Town Tavern, 110 S Genesee, Waukegan, IL (847) 244-1001, www.GreenTownTavern.com, host Chris Sipos, 8pm-12:15 (open mic)

-Harlem Avenue Lounge, 3701 S Harlem, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, alternating hosts, 8:30pm-12:30

-Henry & Wanda’s, 501 6th St, Racine, WI (262) 632-1772, www.HenryandWandas.com, host Roy Edwards, 8pm-12am

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, 9pm (open mic)

-Rosa’s Lounge, 3420 W Armitage, Chicago, IL (773) 342-0452, www.RosasLounge.com, host James Wheeler, 9:30pm-1:30

-Spirits, 922 Milwaukee Ave, South Milwaukee, WI (414) 762-2005, hosted by Marshall Holm

-TC Pub, 9700 S Cicero, Oak Lawn, IL (708) 425-4252, www.facebook.com/pages/T-C-Pub/ host Rev T & the Bluez Factor Revival, $1 drafts, free hot dogs

-Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, host Rainman & Real Deal, 8:30-11pm (guitar bring your own amp)

-Zachary’s, 5368 N Milwaukee, Chicago, IL (773) 792-0933, host Madman Blues Band, 9pm-1

Fridays

-Bay Billiards, 107 Towne Center Lane, Fox Lake, IL (847) 587-8888, host Carter, www.BayBilliardsSportsBar.com  (open jam)

-Dwight House Pub, 35366 N Frontage Rd (off Rt 12), Fox Lake, IL (847) 973-1476, host John Linczmaier & Red Eye Express, 9:30pm-12:30 (every other Fri, open electric jam)

-Hap’s North End Tap, 83 Hankes Ave, Aurora, IL (630) 859-2945, 9pm

-Hollywood Lounge, 3303 W Bryn Mawr, Chicago, IL (773) 588-9707, www.TheHollywoodLive.com, host Big John Sanner w/ Willie T & the Blues Explosion, 9pm-2

-J Martins Tap, 81 E 34th St, Steger, IL (708) 755-5240, host Bob E Lee, 9pm-1

Saturdays

-Abel’s Restaurant, 125 Center St, Grayslake, IL (847) 548-2803, host King Robinson, 8pm (last Sat)

-Gene’s Supper Club, 4323 N 60th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 535-7789, host Marvelous Mack & the Pressure Release Blues Band, 3:30pm

-R&R Crossing, Russell, IL, host AC Blues, 4-8pm (monthly)

Out of the Area Jams: sorry, really no way to keep this updated- check local blues societies!

No Comments »

Low-reen’s Live Blues List #31

Low-reen’s Live Blues List

http://LowreensLiveBlues.com

Blues Jams Chicago to Milwaukee…and then some

Issue #31

November 2011

in memory of Dirty Otis

…join a Band, not a Gang…

Join the Mailing List / Updates / Corrections / List your Jam: send to LowreensLiveBlues@gmail.com

Jam Pictures now on www.Facebook.com/LowreensLiveBlues 

~~~~~~~~~~

 Clubs Off the Beaten Path

Now, didn’t you just think that there must be more to the Chicago blues scene than what you see in the Reader or in some of the guidebooks? Well ME TOO! So I started blues traveling in my own city! Here are some Chicagoland spots to check out. Some are not in the safest neighborhoods, so don’t be stupid about it. Be friendly & respectful, don’t have too much to drink, and park on the main street. Some have parking security. These clubs do a great job to create a safe atmosphere inside but be careful coming & going. Oh, and have fun!

  • Big O’s, 52nd & Halsted, 1st Friday Tony Brown, EJ, & Louis Bryant; 2nd Friday Tommy Landis & Sexy Jamie
  • Carolyn’s Zodiac Lounge, 1744 N Central (773) 804-9664
  • For the Good Times Lounge, 5545 S Damen (773) 737-0184, Saturday, Sundays Killer Ray & the Bottom Dollar Band, 9.pm
  • Gene’s Playmate Lounge, 4239 W Cermak, (773) 590-9127, Sundays
  • Hot City Lounge, 7432 S Racine, (773) 224-9583, Thursdays 9:30pm JoJo Murray and Sundays 6pm Total Package with Chuck Finley
  • New ImLa Cocktail Lounge, 1116 W 51st St (773) 285-0285, Wednesdays 8pm Grown Man & the Mississippi Raiders Band, $3 cover
  • Keynote Lounge, 1116 W 63rd St, 1st & 3rd Sundays 7:30pm Smilin’ Bobby, other Sundays Super Percy, also music on Wednesdays
  • Rooster’s Palace, Madison & Kilborne, (773) 678-0739, Fridays & Saturdays West Side Wes, sometimes Tail Dragger
  • Spectrum Bar & Grill, 233 S Halsted (312) 715-0770
  • Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, Saturdays usual $10 cover
  • Vaughn’s, 6633 S Ashland Ave (773) 931-9080
  • The Water Hole, 1400 S Western (312) 243-7988, Live music Thurs-Sun. Every Friday Mary Lane & the No Static Band 9pm-1am. Saturdays K Jazz & the K1 Band. Sundays Little Scotty. Cover.
  • Other Chicagoland blues clubs you probably already know about: Artis’s, Blue Chicago, B.L.U.E.S., Buddy Guy’s Legends, Checkerboard, Chord on Blues, Harlem Ave Lounge, House of Blues, Kingston Mines, Lee’s Unleaded, Nick’s, Rosa’s, Smoke Daddy, Walnut Speakeasy

Special Events & News

—–”It’s 106 miles to Chicago, we got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it’s dark, and we’re wearing sunglasses” -Elwood Blues

  • Windy City Blues Society’s 2011 Chicago Blues Challenge! WCBS financially supports the winners in going to Memphis to compete in the 2012 International Blues Challenge. Categories: Band, Solo/Duo, Youth. Round 1 Band: Oct 2 at Harlem Ave Lounge. Congratulations to Nigel Mack & JB Richie, who move to the finals! Round 2 Band: Oct 23 at Checkerboard Lounge. Congratulations to Pistol Pete & Will Jacobs who move to the finals! Round 3 Youth CANCELLED due to lack of entrants. Round 4  Solo / Duo: Nov 10 at Rosa’s Lounge. Congratulations to Liz Mandeville & Donna Herula, Electric Blues Duo, and Anthony Moser & Nick Skilnick who move to the finals! Finals:  Nov 13, 7:30pm at Buddy Guy’s Legends with Will Jacobs, JB Richie, Nigel Mack, Pistol Pete, and wildcards Charlie Love and Danny & the Devils, plus solo / duo acts Anthony Moser & Nick Skilnick, Electric Blues Duo, and Liz Mandeville & Donna Herula. Congratulations to solo / duo winners Liz Mandeville & Donna Herula and band winner Pistol Pete, who go to IBC in Memphis to represent Chicago! More info at www.WindyCityBlues.org
  • Milwaukee Musicians: want to get heard on WMSE FM 91.7? Drop off your CD or album at 820 N Milwaukee or MSOE Krueger Hall 9am-6pm. OR mail it to WMSE, 1025 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202 attn: Music Director. Tune in weekdays 3-6pm for the Blues Drive. www.msoe.org
  • Jammin’ Away the Blues, an event for awareness & prevention of teen suicide, sponsored by Windy City Blues Society & Mental Health America- Illinois. Headliner Little Ed & the Blues Imperials, with Renee & the Blue Notes and Dan Baron. Buddy Guy’s Legends, 700 S Wabash, Chicago, IL (312) 427-1190, 6:30-10pm. To purchase tickets: http://tinyurl.com/3dzk85c Looking for a few volunteers! Email to LowreensLiveBlues@gMail.com
  • November 30, Benefit for Jim O’Nealblues historian, Living Blues founder, Mississippi Blues Trail. To assist with medical and other expenses. At Buddy Guy’s Legends, 700 S Wabash, Chicago, IL (312) 427-1190
  • Cheat You Fair, a documentary about old Maxwell Street, now available for purchase at Amazon.
  • December 3, Brother’s Rising MC Toys for Tots benefit, Puerto Rican Society, 150 S Sheridan Rd, Waukegan, IL (847) 662-1459  , noon-midnight, $10 donation or $10 toy, free beer, live music all day, 1:30-2:30pm Low-reen’s Maxwell St Market Blues Band
  • Sean Costello Memorial Fund for Bipolar Research, focused on the needs of musicians with bipolar disorder. www.SeanCostelloFund.org
  • Health, life, & dental insurance group plans for music industry professionals available through the Blues Foundation. For more info: www.Blues.org or www.SoundHealthcare.org or call 615-256-8667

Blues Jams (call ahead, they change frequently!)

Sundays

—–”Let dat boy boogie woogie! It’s in ‘im, and it got to come out!” - John Lee Hooker

-The Alley, 210 Greenbay Rd (at Hwy 22) Highwood, IL (847) 433-0304 www.BowlHighwood.com hosts Mark Blank & B’Ro, 7-10pm

-Breakwater Bar & Grill at Kenosha Yacht Club, 5130 4th Ave, Kenosha, WI (262) 652-2320, host Chris Sipos, 4-8pm (open mic)

-C&J’s Crossroads, N6444 US Hwy 12, Elkhorn, WI (262) 742-3417, host Glen Davis, 2-5pm

-Gene’s Lanes & Lounge, 6315 W Fon du Lac Ave, Milwaukee, WI (414) 393-3359, host Marvelous Mack & the Pressure Release Blues Band, 7pm

-High Spirits, 12417 Antioch Rd (Rt 83), Trevor, WI (262) 862-9886, host Mark Rijke, 3-7pm (every other Sun- open electric jam)

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044 (open mic)

-Kegler’s Pub 905 Theodore St (Rt 7 between Rt 30 & Rt 53), Crest Hill, IL (815) 722-1089, host T-Bird Huck, 9pm

-Kingston Mines, 2548 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 477-4646, www.KingstonMines.com, host Linsey Alexander 6-9pm

-Lamplighter Inn Tavern & Grille, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, 8pm (last Sun)

-Leroy’s Hot Stuff, 333 W Hwy 20, Porter, IN (219) 926-6211, 8pm-12am

-Maxwell St Market Blues Jam, @ I Sachs or I Weinberg Hosiery, both at Roosevelt & Des Plaines, Chicago, IL, 10:30AM to 2pm, host yours truly Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band, all ages, everyone plays, park free behind I Sachs (enter off Jefferson), weather permitting (above 55 & not raining) 224-440-2173

-Polk Street Pub, 548 W Polk St (2 blks E of 94, 1 blk N of Taylor), Chicago, IL (224) 440-2173, www.PolkStPub.com, host yours truly Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band featuring Maxwell St legends Little Scotty & Bobby Too Tuff, no cover, 2 drink minimum, $2 cans, 25c wings, free parking at Porter Pipe at Jefferson & Polk, usually 4-8pm but Nov 20 moved to 6-10pm to accomodate Da Bears, under 21 OK with guardian.

-Silver Lake Marina, 28836 Silver Lake Rd (hwy F east of B), Salem, WI (262) 889-8465, www.SLMwi.com, host Loose Shoes, 8pm

-Wicker Well, 1637 W North Ave, Chicago, IL (773) 276-8477

-Woodlawn Tap, 1172 E 55th St, Chicago, IL (773) 643-5516, hosts Dave Waldman, Willie Phillips, Justin O’Brien, Scott Dirks, 4-8pm

Mondays

—–”A bad rendition of you is better than a good rendition of somebody else.” - Willie Dixon

-Artis’s Lounge (yep, that’s how they spell it!), 1249 E 87th St (773) 734-0491, pro jam, host Billy Branch, 10pm

-BooCoo, 1823 Church St, Evanston, IL (847) 864-8164, 7pm (last Monday)

-Buddy Guy’s Legends, 700 S Wabash, Chicago, IL (312) 427-1190, www.BuddyGuys.com, host Jimmy Burns alternating with Brother John, 9:30pm, $10 cover (free for jammers, $5 for jammer’s guests)

-Checkerboard Lounge (back to Mondays), 5201 S Harper, Chicago, IL (773) 684-1472, www.CheckerBoardHydePark.com, host Killer Ray, 9pm, $5 cover

-Sara’s Pub, 1567 Madison, Beloit, WI (608) 207-3139, host Dave Potter

-Suds O’Hanahan’s Irish Pub, 435 E Grand Ave, Beloit, WI, www.SudsOHanahans.com, host Dave Potter & the Alley Kings, 7pm.

-TG’s, 4120 7th Ave, Kenosha, WI, (262) 658-8080, www.TGsKenosha.com, host Sipos & Young, 6-10pm (open mic), all ages

-Up & Under Pub, 1216 E Brady, Milwaukee, WI (414) 276-2677, 9pm

Tuesdays

—–”I stone got crazy when I saw somebody run down them strings with a bottleneck. My eyes lit up like a Christmas tree and I said that I had to learn” – Muddy Waters

-Bay Billiards, 107 Towne Center Lane, Fox Lake, IL (847) 629-5492, host Brian Rand, 8pm

-Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N Oakley, Chicago, IL (773) 489-5471, www.GalleryCabaret.com, host Fish & the Blue Fins, 9pm

-Harlem Ave Lounge, 3701 S Harlem Ave, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, host Tom Crivellone, (4th Tuesday)

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, host Pred Petrovic (open acoustic jam)

-Lonie Walker’s Underground Wonder Bar, 10 E Walton, Chicago, IL (312) 266-7761, www.UndergroundWonderBar.com, host Lorna Boston, 11:30pm-3:30am (pro jam, jazz & blues), $8

-Mamie’s, 3300 W National, Milwaukee, WI (414) 543-1673, www.Mamies.net, host Carol Hanzel & Craig alternating with Kenny J & Stokes, 8pm-12

-Neighbor’s Social Club, 260 W Main St, Waukesha, WI, (262) 549-3910, host Robert Allen Jr Trio, 7:30-11pm

-Nite Cap Lounge, 5007 Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL (773) 282-8654, 930pm-1230am

-Sky Box Sports Bar, 3601 W Harrison, Chicago, IL (872) 600-3228, hosted by Lil’ Harvey & Mack, 8pm-12am

-The Vibe, 1935 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park, IL (847) 780-4815, host Ari Mintz & Phil Palumbo, 730-1030pm

Wednesdays

—– Music is so naturally united with us that we cannot be free from it even if we so desired” -Boethius

-1146 Lounge, 1146 Sheridan, Kenosha, WI (262) 552-0830, host Phil James, 10pm-1:30

-B & B Riverfront Club, 724 Railroad St, Joliet, IL (815) 744-9511, host Big Dog Mercer, 7-11pm

-B.L.U.E.S. on Halsted, 2519 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 528-1012, www.ChicagoBluesBar.com, host Big Ray & Chicago’s Most Wanted alternating w/ Pistol Pete, 9:30pm-1:30 (1st & 3rd Wed)

-Blue Bayou Bar & Grill, 3734 N Southport, Chicago, IL (773) 871-3300, host Pete Galanis, 9:30pm-1:30am

-Bottoms Up, 1696 Thornton-Lansing Rd, Lansing, IL (708) 418-3877, www.bottomsuponline.com, host Chicago Bob, 8pm-12am

-Caroline’s Jazz Club, 401 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 221-9444, host Big O & the Night Owls Showband Big Blues Jam, 8pm-12

-Chopper’s Bar and Grill, 26375 Rt 173, Antioch, IL (847) 838-1230, open jam, 9pm

-Chord on Blues, 106 S 1st Ave, St Charles, IL (630) 513-0074, www.chordonblues.com, host Mike Hoge & Chicago Blue Dads, open jam, 8:30-11:30pm

-Chuck’s BBQ, 79th & Narraganset, Burbank, IL, host Rockin’ Johnny Band, 8-11:30pm, every 1st Wed

-Conway’s Smokin’ Bar & Grill, 2127 W Wells, Milwaukee, WI (414) 344-1262, host Big Johnson & the Thrusters, 9pm-12

-Harry’s Cafe & Place, 808 W Main St, Lake Geneva, WI (262) 248-3494, host Glenn Davis & the Cruise Control Blues Band, 8:45pm-12

-Hilltop Bar, 25944 W Rollins Rd (E of Wilson), Ingleside, IL (847) 973-0144, host Mark Rijke, 730pm, (open mic)

-House of Blues Back Porch Stage, 329 N Dearborn, Chicago, IL (312) 923-2000, host Billy Branch, 10pm (monthly- call ahead)

-Lamplighter’s, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, host Rick, 8pm-12:30 (open jam)

-Liquid Blues, 126 N Benton St, Woodstock, IL (815) 337-7254, www.LiquidBluesBar.com, 7pm-1

-Mecca Supper Club, 6666 N Northwest Hwy, Edison Park, IL (773) 775-1077, www.MeccaSupperClub.com , 9pm-1am, various hosts (open mic)

-Milwaukee’s Firehouse Pub, 2758 S 35th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 383-5300, various hosts

-Montrose Saloon, 2933 W Montrose, Chicago, IL (773) 463-7663, host John Liggitt, 8:30pm (3rd Wed)

-New York Slices, 1843 2nd St, Highland Park, IL (847) 432-6979, all ages, 7-10pm

–Walnut Speakeasy, 214 Walnut Ave, Elgin, IL (847) 695-2420, www.theWalnutSpeakeasy.com (every other Wed)

-West Side Tap, 1356 Houbolt Rd, Joliet, IL (815) 741-4318, OsBand jam session, 8pm

Thursdays

—–“When you touch someone with music, they may not remember the song but they will remember the joy” -from the wall at Sharon & Michael’s

-America’s Historic Roundhouse, 205 N Broadway, Aurora, IL (630) 892-0034, www.WalterPaytonsRoundHouse.com, open jam, 7pm

-Cool River Draught House, 12622- 159th St, Homer Glen, IL (708) 301-8006, www.CoolRiv.com, host Twist & the Groove Machine, 8:30pm-12:30

-Dee’s Place Chicago Soul Food, 2114 W Division, Chicago, IL (312) 348-6117  www.deesplacechicago.com , 7:30-10pm (open mic)

-Envy’s Pub, 3625 W 159th St (just E of I-57), Markham, IL (708) 331-5860, hosted by Little Johnny, 8-11pm

-Golf Farm, 2100 N Route 12, Wauconda, IL (847) 526-4000, www.Golf-Farm.com, host Brian Rothermel, 8:30pm

-Green Town Tavern, 110 S Genesee, Waukegan, IL (847) 244-1001, www.GreenTownTavern.com, host Chris Sipos, 8pm-12:15 (open mic)

-Harlem Avenue Lounge, 3701 S Harlem, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, alternating hosts, 8:30pm-12:30

-Henry & Wanda’s, 501 6th St, Racine, WI (262) 632-1772, www.HenryandWandas.com, host Roy Edwards, 8pm-12am

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, 9pm (open mic)

-Rosa’s Lounge, 3420 W Armitage, Chicago, IL (773) 342-0452, www.RosasLounge.com, host James Wheeler, 9:30pm-1:30

-Spirits, 922 Milwaukee Ave, South Milwaukee, WI (414) 762-2005, hosted by Marshall Holm

-TC Pub, 9700 S Cicero, Oak Lawn, IL (708) 425-4252, www.facebook.com/pages/T-C-Pub/ host Rev T & the Bluez Factor Revival, $1 drafts, free hot dogs

-Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, host Rainman & Real Deal, 8:30-11pm (guitar bring your own amp)

-Zachary’s, 5368 N Milwaukee, Chicago, IL (773) 792-0933, host Madman Blues Band, 9pm-1

Fridays

-Bay Billiards, 107 Towne Center Lane, Fox Lake, IL (847) 587-8888, host Carter, www.BayBilliardsSportsBar.com  (open jam)

-Dwight House Pub, 35366 N Frontage Rd (off Rt 12), Fox Lake, IL (847) 973-1476, host John Linczmaier & Red Eye Express, 9:30pm-12:30 (every other Fri, open electric jam)

-Hap’s North End Tap, 83 Hankes Ave, Aurora, IL (630) 859-2945, 9pm

-Hollywood Lounge, 3303 W Bryn Mawr, Chicago, IL (773) 588-9707, www.TheHollywoodLive.com, host Big John Sanner w/ Willie T & the Blues Explosion, 9pm-2

-J Martins Tap, 81 E 34th St, Steger, IL (708) 755-5240, host Bob E Lee, 9pm-1

Saturdays

-Abel’s Restaurant, 125 Center St, Grayslake, IL (847) 548-2803, host King Robinson, 8pm (last Sat)

-Gene’s Supper Club, 4323 N 60th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 535-7789, host Marvelous Mack & the Pressure Release Blues Band, 3:30pm

-R&R Crossing, Russell, IL, host AC Blues, 4-8pm (monthly- next Nov 12)

Out of the Area Jams: sorry, really no way to keep this updated- check local blues societies!

No Comments »

Low-reen’s Live Blues List #30

Low-reen’s Live Blues List

http://LowreensLiveBlues.com

Blues Jams Chicago to Milwaukee…and then some

Issue #30

October 2011

in memory of Dirty Otis

…join a Band, not a Gang…

Join the Mailing List / Updates / Corrections / List your Jam: send to LowreensLiveBlues@gmail.com

Jam Pictures now on www.Facebook.com/LowreensLiveBlues 

~~~~~~~~~~

 Clubs Off the Beaten Path

Now, didn’t you just think that there must be more to the Chicago blues scene than what you see in the Reader or in some of the guidebooks? Well ME TOO! So I started blues traveling in my own city! Here are some Chicagoland spots to check out. Some are not in the safest neighborhoods, so don’t be stupid about it. Be friendly & respectful, don’t have too much to drink, and park on the main street. Some have parking security. These clubs do a great job to create a safe atmosphere inside but be careful coming & going. Oh, and have fun!

  • Big O’s, 52nd & Halsted, 1st Friday Tony Brown, EJ, & Louis Bryant; 2nd Friday Tommy Landis & Sexy Jamie
  • Carolyn’s Zodiac Lounge, 1744 N Central (773) 804-9664
  • For the Good Times Lounge, 5545 S Damen (773) 737-0184, Saturday, Sundays Killer Ray & the Bottom Dollar Band, 9.pm
  • Gene’s Playmate Lounge, 4239 W Cermak, (773) 590-9127, Sundays
  • Hot City Lounge, 7432 S Racine, (773) 224-9583, Thursdays 9:30pm JoJo Murray and Sundays 6pm Total Package with Chuck Finley
  • New ImLa Cocktail Lounge, 1116 W 51st St (773) 285-0285, Wednesdays 8pm Grown Man & the Mississippi Raiders Band, $3 cover
  • Keynote Lounge, 1116 W 63rd St, 1st & 3rd Sundays 7:30pm Smilin’ Bobby, other Sundays Super Percy, also music on Wednesdays
  • Rooster’s Palace, Madison & Kilborne, (773) 678-0739, Fridays & Saturdays West Side Wes, sometimes Tail Dragger
  • Spectrum Bar & Grill, 233 S Halsted (312) 715-0770
  • Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, Saturdays usual $10 cover
  • Vaughn’s, 6633 S Ashland Ave (773) 931-9080
  • The Water Hole, 1400 S Western (312) 243-7988, Live music Thurs-Sun. Every Friday Mary Lane & the No Static Band 9pm-1am. Saturdays K Jazz & the K1 Band. Sundays Little Scotty. Cover.
  • Other Chicagoland blues clubs you probably already know about: Artis’s, Blue Chicago, B.L.U.E.S., Buddy Guy’s Legends, Checkerboard, Chord on Blues, Harlem Ave Lounge, House of Blues, Kingston Mines, Lee’s Unleaded, Nick’s, Rosa’s, Smoke Daddy, Walnut Speakeasy

Special Events & News

—–”It’s 106 miles to Chicago, we got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it’s dark, and we’re wearing sunglasses” -Elwood Blues

  • Windy City Blues Society now accepting applications for the 2011 Chicago Blues Challenge! Deadlines extended. WCBS financially supports the winners in going to Memphis to compete in the 2012 International Blues Challenge. Categories: Band, Solo/Duo, Youth. Round 1 Band: Oct 2 at Harlem Ave Lounge, 6pm. Congratulations to Nigel Mack & JB Richie, who move to the finals! Round 2 Band: Oct 23 at Checkerboard Lounge, 6pm. Congratulations to Pistol Pete & Will Jacobs who move to the finals!Round 3 Youth CANCELLED due to lack of entrants: was Oct 29 at Colombia College Concert Hall . Round 4  Solo / Duo: Nov 10 at Rosa’s Lounge, 9pm. Finals:  Nov 13 at Buddy Guy’s Legends. More info & applications available at www.WindyCityBlues.org
  • Milwaukee Musicians: want to get heard on WMSE FM 91.7? Drop off your CD or album at 820 N Milwaukee or MSOE Krueger Hall 9am-6pm. OR mail it to WMSE, 1025 N Broadway, Milwaukee, WI 53202 attn: Music Director. Tune in weekdays 3-6pm for the Blues Drive. www.msoe.org
  • October 1, Moose’s Annual Rib Cook-off, Zion Moose Lodge, 41517 N Sheridan Rd, Zion, IL, jam hosted by AC Blues, 1-4pm
  • October 1, Taildragger’s Annual Birthday Bash, Toolbox Lounge, 824 S California, 10pm
  • October 3, Billy Branch Birthday Bash at the Monday jam, Artis’s Lounge, 1249 E 87th St (773) 734-0491, 10pm
  • October 5, Big Bill Broonzy: a Chicago Story book talk and musical performance, author Bob Riesman (I Feel So Good: the Life & Times of Big Bill Broonzy, U of C Press, 2011) and musician Chris Walz (instructor & dept chair, Old Town School of Folk Music), Lake Forest College Center for Chicago Programs, in Johnson Science Center (prominent round glass building), 555 N Sheridan, Lake Forest, IL, (847) 234-3100. 7:30pm, free 
  • October 19, tribute to and benefit for David “Honeyboy” Edwards Fund for the Blues, an evening of music, films, & stories, Buddy Guy’s Legends, 700 S Wabash, Chicago, IL (312) 427-1190, $20 /$75, 9pm. Looking for a few volunteers! Email to LowreensLiveBlues@gMail.com
  • October 22, House Concert with Roy Bookbinder, home of Richard Kronenberg, Evanston, IL 7:30pm, $20 to artist, BYOB, for more info: robylon@hotmail.com
  • October 27, Blues Blast Music Awards, Buddy Guy’s Legends, 700 S Wabash, Chicago, IL, 6pm, $30, Nick Moss, Eddie Turner, Gina Sicilia, MANY more! www.thebluesblast.com
  • October 27, 9pm and October 30, 3am, broadcast of Cheat You Fair, a documentary about old Maxwell Street, WTTW Channel 11. Also available for purchase at Amazon.
  • December 3, Brother’s Rising MC Toys for Tots benefit, Puerto Rican Society, 150 S Sheridan Rd, Waukegan, IL (847) 662-1459  , noon-midnight, $10 donation or $10 toy, free beer, live music all day, 1:30-2:30pm Low-reen’s Maxwell St Market Blues Band
  • Health, life, & dental insurance group plans for music industry professionals available through the Blues Foundation. For more info: www.Blues.org or www.SoundHealthcare.org or call 615-256-8667

Blues Jams (call ahead, they change frequently!)

Sundays

—–”Let dat boy boogie woogie! It’s in ‘im, and it got to come out!” - John Lee Hooker

-Breakwater Bar & Grill at Kenosha Yacht Club, 5130 4th Ave, Kenosha, WI (262) 652-2320, hosted by Chris Sipos, 4-8pm (open mic)

-C&J’s Crossroads, N6444 US Hwy 12, Elkhorn, WI (262) 742-3417, 2-5pm

-Gene’s Lanes & Lounge, 6315 W Fon du Lac Ave, Milwaukee, WI (414) 393-3359, host Marvelous Mack & the Pressure Release Blues Band, 7pm

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044 (open mic)

-Kegler’s Pub 905 Theodore St (Rt 7 between Rt 30 & Rt 53), Crest Hill, IL (815) 722-1089, host T-Bird Huck, 9pm

-Kingston Mines, 2548 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 477-4646, www.KingstonMines.com, host Linsey Alexander 6-9pm

-Lamplighter Inn Tavern & Grille, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, 8pm (last Sun)

-Leroy’s Hot Stuff, 333 W Hwy 20, Porter, IN (219) 926-6211, 8pm-12am

-Maxwell St Market Blues Jam, @ I Sachs or I Weinberg Hosiery, both at Roosevelt & Des Plaines, Chicago, IL, 10:30AM to 2pm, host yours truly Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band, all ages, everyone plays, park free behind I Sachs (enter off Jefferson), weather permitting (above 60 & not raining) 224-440-2173

-Polk Street Pub, 548 W Polk St (2 blks E of 94, 1 blk N of Taylor), Chicago, IL (224) 440-2173, www.PolkStPub.com, host yours truly Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band featuring Maxwell St legends Little Scotty & Bobby Too Tuff, no cover, 2 drink minimum, $2 cans, 25c wings, free parking at Porter Pipe at Jefferson & Polk, 4-8pm, under 21 OK with guardian.

-Silver Lake Marina, 28836 Silver Lake Rd (hwy F east of B), Salem, WI (262) 889-8465, www.SLMwi.com, host Loose Shoes, 8pm

-Wicker Well, 1637 W North Ave, Chicago, IL (773) 276-8477

-Woodlawn Tap, 1172 E 55th St, Chicago, IL (773) 643-5516, hosts Dave Waldman, Willie Phillips, Justin O’Brien, Scott Dirks, 4-8pm

Mondays

—–”A bad rendition of you is better than a good rendition of somebody else.” - Willie Dixon

-Artis’s Lounge (yep, that’s how they spell it!), 1249 E 87th St (773) 734-0491, pro jam, host Billy Branch, 10pm

-BooCoo, 1823 Church St, Evanston, IL (847) 864-8164, 7pm (last Monday)

-Buddy Guy’s Legends, 700 S Wabash, Chicago, IL (312) 427-1190, www.BuddyGuys.com, host Jimmy Burns alternating with Brother John, 9:30pm, $10 cover (free for jammers, $5 for jammer’s guests)

-Sara’s Pub, 1567 Madison, Beloit, WI (608) 207-3139, host Glen Davis

-Suds O’Hanahan’s Irish Pub, 435 E Grand Ave, Beloit, WI, www.SudsOHanahans.com, host Dave Potter & the Alley Kings, 7pm.

-TG’s, 4120 7th Ave, Kenosha, WI, (262) 658-8080, www.TGsKenosha.com, host Sipos & Young, 6-10pm (open mic), all ages

-Up & Under Pub, 1216 E Brady, Milwaukee, WI (414) 276-2677, 9pm

Tuesdays

—–”I stone got crazy when I saw somebody run down them strings with a bottleneck. My eyes lit up like a Christmas tree and I said that I had to learn” – Muddy Waters

-Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N Oakley, Chicago, IL (773) 489-5471, www.GalleryCabaret.com, host Fish & the Blue Fins, 9pm

-Harlem Ave Lounge, 3701 S Harlem Ave, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, host Tom Crivellone, (4th Tuesday)

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, host Pred Petrovic (open acoustic jam)

-Lonie Walker’s Underground Wonder Bar, 10 E Walton, Chicago, IL (312) 266-7761, www.UndergroundWonderBar.com, host Lorna Boston, 11:30pm-3:30am (pro jam, jazz & blues), $8

-Mamie’s, 3300 W National, Milwaukee, WI (414) 543-1673, www.Mamies.net, host Carol Hanzel & Craig alternating with Kenny J & Stokes, 8pm-12

-Neighbor’s Social Club, 260 W Main St, Waukesha, WI, (262) 549-3910, host Robert Allen Jr Trio, 7:30-11pm

-Nite Cap Lounge, 5007 Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL (773) 282-8654, 930pm-1230am

-Sky Box Sports Bar, 3601 W Harrison, Chicago, IL (872) 600-3228, hosted by Lil’ Harvey & Mack, 8pm-12am

-The Vibe, 1935 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park, IL (847) 780-4815, host Ari Mintz & Phil Palumbo, 730-1030pm

Wednesdays

—– Music is so naturally united with us that we cannot be free from it even if we so desired” -Boethius

-1146 Lounge, 1146 Sheridan, Kenosha, WI (262) 552-0830, host Phil James, 10pm-1:30

-B & B Riverfront Club, 724 Railroad St, Joliet, IL (815) 744-9511, host Big Dog Mercer, 7-11pm

-B.L.U.E.S. on Halsted, 2519 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 528-1012, www.ChicagoBluesBar.com, host Big Ray & Chicago’s Most Wanted alternating w/ Pistol Pete, 9:30pm-1:30 (1st & 3rd Wed)

-Blue Bayou Bar & Grill, 3734 N Southport, Chicago, IL (773) 871-3300, host Pete Galanis, 9:30pm-1:30am

-Bottoms Up, 1696 Thornton-Lansing Rd, Lansing, IL (708) 418-3877, www.bottomsuponline.com, host Chicago Bob, 8pm-12am

-Caroline’s Jazz Club, 401 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 221-9444, host Big O & the Night Owls Showband Big Blues Jam, 8pm-12

-Checkerboard Lounge, 5201 S Harper, Chicago, IL (773) 684-1472, www.CheckerBoardHydePark.com, host Killer Ray, 8pm

-Chopper’s Bar and Grill, 26375 Rt 173, Antioch, IL (847) 838-1230, open jam, 9pm

-Chord on Blues, 106 S 1st Ave, St Charles, IL (630) 513-0074, www.chordonblues.com, host Mike Hoge & Chicago Blue Dads, open jam, 8:30-11:30pm

-Chuck’s BBQ, 79th & Narraganset, Burbank, IL, host Rockin’ Johnny Band, 8-11:30pm, every 1st Wed

-Conway’s Smokin’ Bar & Grill, 2127 W Wells, Milwaukee, WI (414) 344-1262, host Big Johnson & the Thrusters, 9pm-12

-Harry’s Cafe & Place, 808 W Main St, Lake Geneva, WI (262) 248-3494, host Glenn Davis & the Cruise Control Blues Band, 8:45pm-12

-Hilltop Bar, 25944 W Rollins Rd (E of Wilson), Ingleside, IL (847) 973-0144, host Mark Rijke, 730pm, (open mic)

-Lamplighter’s, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, host Rick, 8pm-12:30 (open jam)

-Liquid Blues, 126 N Benton St, Woodstock, IL (815) 337-7254, www.LiquidBluesBar.com, 7pm-1

-Mecca Supper Club, 6666 N Northwest Hwy, Edison Park, IL (773) 775-1077, www.MeccaSupperClub.com , 9pm-1am, various hosts (open mic)

-Milwaukee’s Firehouse Pub, 2758 S 35th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 383-5300, various hosts

-Montrose Saloon, 2933 W Montrose, Chicago, IL (773) 463-7663, host John Liggitt (3rd Wed)

-New York Slices, 1843 2nd St, Highland Park, IL (847) 432-6979, all ages, 7-10pm

–Walnut Speakeasy, 214 Walnut Ave, Elgin, IL (847) 695-2420, www.theWalnutSpeakeasy.com (every other Wed)

-West Side Tap, 1356 Houbolt Rd, Joliet, IL (815) 741-4318, OsBand jam session, 8pm

Thursdays

—–“When you touch someone with music, they may not remember the song but they will remember the joy” -from the wall at Sharon & Michael’s

-America’s Historic Roundhouse, 205 N Broadway, Aurora, IL (630) 892-0034, www.WalterPaytonsRoundHouse.com, open jam, 7pm

-Cool River Draught House, 12622- 159th St, Homer Glen, IL (708) 301-8006, www.CoolRiv.com, host Twist & the Groove Machine, 8:30pm-12:30

-Dee’s Place Chicago Soul Food, 2114 W Division, Chicago, IL (312) 348-6117  www.deesplacechicago.com , 7:30-10pm (open mic)

-Envy’s Pub, 3625 W 159th St (just E of I-57), Markham, IL (708) 331-5860, hosted by Little Johnny, 8-11pm

-Golf Farm, 2100 N Route 12, Wauconda, IL (847) 526-4000, www.Golf-Farm.com, host Brian Rothermel, 8:30pm

-Green Town Tavern, 110 S Genesee, Waukegan, IL (847) 244-1001, www.GreenTownTavern.com, host Chris Sipos, 8pm-12:15 (open mic)

-Harlem Avenue Lounge, 3701 S Harlem, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, alternating hosts, 8:30pm-12:30

-Henry & Wanda’s, 501 6th St, Racine, WI (262) 632-1772, www.HenryandWandas.com, host Roy Edwards, 8pm-12am

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, 9pm (open mic)

-Rosa’s Lounge, 3420 W Armitage, Chicago, IL (773) 342-0452, www.RosasLounge.com, host James Wheeler, 9:30pm-1:30

-Spirits, 922 Milwaukee Ave, South Milwaukee, WI (414) 762-2005, hosted by Marshall Holm

-TC Pub, 9700 S Cicero, Oak Lawn, IL (708) 425-4252, www.facebook.com/pages/T-C-Pub/ host Rev T & the Bluez Factor Revival, $1 drafts, free hot dogs

-Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, host Rainman & Real Deal, 8:30-11pm (guitar bring your own amp)

-Zachary’s, 5368 N Milwaukee, Chicago, IL (773) 792-0933, host Madman Blues Band, 9pm-1

Fridays

-Bay Billiards, 107 Towne Center Lane, Fox Lake, IL (847) 587-8888, host Carter, www.BayBilliardsSportsBar.com  (open jam)

-Dwight House Pub, 35366 N Frontage Rd (off Rt 12), Fox Lake, IL (847) 973-1476, host John Linczmaier & Red Eye Express, 9:30pm-12:30 (every other Fri, open electric jam)

-Hap’s North End Tap, 83 Hankes Ave, Aurora, IL (630) 859-2945, 9pm

-Hollywood Lounge, 3303 W Bryn Mawr, Chicago, IL (773) 588-9707, www.TheHollywoodLive.com, host Big John Sanner w/ Willie T & the Blues Explosion, 9pm-2

-J Martins Tap, 81 E 34th St, Steger, IL (708) 755-5240, host Bob E Lee, 9pm-1

-Keeper’s, Chicago (sorry- no other info available)

-Screamin’ Mimi’s, 2717 60th St, Kenosha, WI (262) 654-8837, host Larry Wimmer (open jam)

Saturdays

-Abel’s Restaurant, 125 Center St, Grayslake, IL (847) 548-2803, host King Robinson, 8pm (last Sat)

-Gene’s Supper Club, 4323 N 60th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 535-7789, host Marvelous Mack & the Pressure Release Blues Band, 3:30pm

-R&R Crossing, Russell, IL, host AC Blues, 4-8pm (intermittent: call ahead- next Oct 8)

Out of the Area Jams: sorry, really no way to keep this updated- check local blues societies!

No Comments »

Low-reen’s Live Blues List #29

Low-reen’s Live Blues List

http://LowreensLiveBlues.com

Blues Jams Chicago to Milwaukee…and then some

Issue #29

September 2011

in memory of Dirty Otis

…join a Band, not a Gang…

Join the Mailing List / Updates / Corrections / List your Jam: send to LowreensLiveBlues@gmail.com

Jam Pictures now on www.Facebook.com/LowreensLiveBlues 

~~~~~~~~~~

A heartfelt good-bye to David “Honeyboy” Edwards

 June 28, 1915 – August 29, 2011

~~~~~~~~~~

HEY! If you are here for the Paramount Blues Fest ticket give-away, scroll down some

 

~~~~~~~~~~

NEW NEW NEW NEW NEW NEW NEW NEW NEW NEW Clubs Off the Beaten Path

Now, didn’t you just think that there must be more to the Chicago blues scene than what you see in the Reader or in some of the guidebooks? Well ME TOO! So I started blues traveling in my own city! Here are some Chicagoland spots to check out. Some are not in the safest neighborhoods, so don’t be stupid about it. Be friendly & respectful, don’t have too much to drink, and park on the main street. Some have parking security. These clubs do a great job to create a safe atmosphere inside but be careful coming & going. Oh, and have fun!

  • Big O’s, 52nd & Halsted, 1st Friday Tony Brown, EJ, & Louis Bryant; 2nd Friday Tommy Landis & Sexy Jamie
  • Carolyn’s Zodiac Lounge, 1744 N Central (773) 804-9664
  • For the Good Times Lounge, 5545 S Damen (773) 737-0184, Saturday, Sundays 8pm
  • Gene’s Playmate Lounge, 4239 W Cermak, (773) 590-9127, Sundays
  • Hot City Lounge, 7432 S Racine, (773) 224-9583, Thursdays 9:30pm JoJo Murray and Sundays 6pm Total Package with Chuck Finley
  • New ImLa Cocktail Lounge, 1116 W 51st St (773) 285-0285, Wednesdays 8pm Grown Man & the Mississippi Raiders Band
  • Keynote Lounge, 1116 W 63rd St, 1st & 3rd Sundays 7:30pm Smilin’ Bobby, other Sundays Super Percy, also music on Wednesdays
  • Rooster’s Palace, Madison & Kilborne, (773) 678-0739, Fridays & Saturdays West Side Wes, sometimes Tail Dragger
  • Spectrum Bar & Grill, 233 S Halsted (312) 715-0770
  • Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, Saturdays, usual $10 cover
  • Vaughn’s, 6633 S Ashland Ave (773) 931-9080, October 8 The Crenshaw MS Wild Game Party, 3pm-3am. Tickets $20 adv, $30 door. Bobby Soul & his Revue, all entertainers invited
  • The Water Hole, 1400 S Western (312) 243-7988, just had grand re-opening in late August
  • Other Chicagoland blues clubs you probably already know about: Artis’s, Blue Chicago, B.L.U.E.S., Buddy Guy’s Legends, Checkerboard, Chord on Blues, Harlem Ave Lounge, House of Blues, Kingston Mines, Lee’s Unleaded, Nick’s, Rosa’s, Smoke Daddy, Walnut Speakeasy

Special Events & News

—–”It’s 106 miles to Chicago, we got a full tank of gas, half a pack of cigarettes, it’s dark, and we’re wearing sunglasses” -Elwood Blues

  • Windy City Blues Society now accepting applications for the 2011 Chicago Blues Challenge! WCBS supports the winners in going to Memphis to compete in the 2012 International Blues Challenge. More info available at www.WindyCityBlues.org
  • September 4  AC Blues Jam at R&R Crossing Outdoor Blues, Bikes, & Steak Cook-out, Russell Rd E of 94, Russell, IL, 3-7pm, no cover, food for purchase
  • September 16 & 17, Paramount Blues Festival, Lime Kiln Park, Grafton, WI. www.GraftonBlues.org Featuring Reverend Raven, Smokin’ Joe Kubek, Michael Burks, Lurrie Bell. Tics $10 Fri, $20 adv/$25 door Sat. Low-reen’s Live Blues Ticket Give-Away: First Responders daily over Labor Day weekend will receive a free pair of Friday tickets. E-mail to LowreensLiveBlues@gmail.com with “Paramount” in the subject line.
  • September 26, Musicians Assisting & Advancing Musicians meeting, Break Water Bar & Grill, 5130 4th Ave, Kenosha,WI 7-9pm
  • September 5, End of Summer Jam at North Beach Oasis, 100 Kewaunee St, Racine, WI (from Hwy 20: N on Main, E on Barker) (262) 412-5154, www.NorthBeachOasis.com, 1-9pm
  • Health, life, & dental insurance group plans for music industry professionals available through the Blues Foundation. For more info: www.Blues.org or www.SoundHealthcare.org or call 615-256-8667

Blues Jams (call ahead, they change frequently!)

Sundays

—–”Let dat boy boogie woogie! It’s in ‘im, and it got to come out!” - John Lee Hooker

-Broken Spokes Roadhouse, Hwy 14, Darien, WI (262) 882-5400, host Glenn Davis, 1pm

-Gene’s Lanes & Lounge, 6315 W Fon du Lac Ave, Milwaukee, WI (414) 393-3359, host Marvelous Mack & the Pressure Release Blues Band, 7pm

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044 (open mic)

-KC’s Cabin, 308 Rt 173, Spring Grove, IL (815) 675-2205, hosted by Mark Rikje, 2pm every other Sunday, outside

-Kegler’s Pub (formerly the Field House) 905 Theodore St (Rt 7 between Rt 30 & Rt 53), Crest Hill, IL (815) 722-1089, host T-Bird Huck, 9pm

-Kingston Mines, 2548 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 477-4646, www.KingstonMines.com, host Linsey Alexander 6-9pm

-Lamplighter Inn Tavern & Grille, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, 8pm (last Sun)

-Leroy’s Hot Stuff, 333 W Hwy 20, Porter, IN (219) 926-6211, 8pm-12am

-Lighthouse Bistro / Kenosha Yacht Club, 5130 4th Ave, Kenosha, WI (262) 652-2320, hosted by Chris Sipos, 3-7pm (open mic)

-Maxwell St Market Blues Jam, returning 9/11 to I Sachs, 637 W Roosevelt at Des Plaines, Chicago, IL, 10:30AM to 2pm, host yours truly Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band, all ages, everyone plays

-New Checkerboard Lounge, 5201 S Harper, Chicago, IL (773) 684-1472, www.CheckerBoardHydePark.com, 8pm, $5 cover

-Polk Street Pub resumes 9/11, on the back patio!, 548 W Polk St (2 blks E of 94, 1 blk N of Taylor), Chicago, IL (312) 786-1142, www.PolkStPub.com, host yours truly Low-reen & the Maxwell St Market Blues Band featuring Maxwell St legends Little Scotty & Bobby Too Tuff, no cover, 2 drink minimum, $2 cans, 25c wings, free parking at Porter Pipe at Jefferson & Polk, 4-8pm, under 21 OK with guardian.

-Silver Lake Marina, 28836 Silver Lake Rd (hwy F east of B), Salem, WI (262) 889-8465, SLMwi.com, host Loose Shoes, 8pm

-Wicker Well, 1637 W North Ave, Chicago, IL (773) 276-8477

-Woodlawn Tap, 1172 E 55th St, Chicago, IL (773) 643-5516, hosts Dave Waldman, Willie Phillips, Justin O’Brien, Scott Dirks, 4-8pm

Mondays

—–”A bad rendition of you is better than a good rendition of somebody else.” - Willie Dixon

-BooCoo, 1823 Church St, Evanston, IL (847) 864-8164, 7pm (last Monday)

-Buddy Guy’s Legends, 700 S Wabash, Chicago, IL (312) 427-1190, www.BuddyGuys.com, host Jimmy Burns alternating with Brother John, 9:30pm, $10 cover (free for jammers, $5 for jammer’s guests)

-New Checkerboard Lounge, 5201 S Harper, Chicago, IL (773) 684-1472, www.CheckerBoardHydePark.com, 8pm, $5 cover

-Suds O’Hanahan’s Irish Pub, 435 E Grand Ave, Beloit, WI, www.SudsOHanahans.com, host Dave Potter & the Alley Kings, 7pm.

-TG’s, 4120 7th Ave, Kenosha, WI, (262) 658-8080, www.TGsKenosha.com, host Sipos & Young, 6-10pm (open mic), all ages

Tuesdays

—–”I stone got crazy when I saw somebody run down them strings with a bottleneck. My eyes lit up like a Christmas tree and I said that I had to learn” – Muddy Waters

-Gallery Cabaret, 2020 N Oakley, Chicago, IL (773) 489-5471, www.GalleryCabaret.com, host Fish & the Blue Fins, 9pm

-Harlem Ave Lounge, 3701 S Harlem Ave, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, host Tom Crivellone, (4th Tuesday)

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, host Pred Petrovic (open acoustic jam)

-Lonie Walker’s Underground Wonder Bar, 10 E Walton, Chicago, IL (312) 266-7761, www.UndergroundWonderBar.com, host Lorna Boston, 11:30pm-3:30am (pro jam, jazz & blues), $8

-Mamie’s, 3300 W National, Milwaukee, WI (414) 543-1673, www.Mamies.net, host Carol Hanzel alternating with Kenny J & Stokes, 8pm-12

-Neighbor’s Social Club, 260 W Main St, Waukesha, WI, (262) 549-3910, host Robert Allen Jr Trio, 7:30-11pm

-Nite Cap Lounge, 5007 Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL (773) 282-8654, 930pm-1230am

-The Vibe at 1935, 1935 Sheridan Rd, Highland Park, IL (847) 780-4815, host Billy Bob Shaffer, 730-1030pm

Wednesdays

—– Music is so naturally united with us that we cannot be free from it even if we so desired” -Boethius

-1146 Lounge, 1146 Sheridan, Kenosha, WI (262) 552-0830, host Phil James, 10pm-1:30

-B.L.U.E.S. on Halsted, 2519 N Halsted, Chicago, IL (773) 528-1012, www.ChicagoBluesBar.com, host Big Ray & Chicago’s Most Wanted alternating w/ Pistol Pete, 9:30pm-1:30 (1st & 3rd Wed)

-Blue Bayou Bar & Grill, 3734 N Southport, Chicago, IL (773) 871-3300, host Pete Galanis, 9:30pm-1:30am

-Bottoms Up, 1696 Thornton-Lansing Rd, Lansing, IL (708) 418-3877, www.bottomsuponline.com, host Chicago Bob, 8pm-12am

-Caroline’s Jazz Club, 401 S 2nd St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 221-9444, host Big O & the Night Owls Showband Big Blues Jam, 8pm-12

-Chopper’s Bar and Grill, 26375 Rt 173, Antioch, IL (847) 838-1230, open jam, 9pm

-Chord on Blues, 106 S 1st Ave, St Charles, IL (630) 513-0074, www.chordonblues.com, host Mike Hoge & Chicago Blue Dads, open jam, 8:30-11:30pm

-Chuck’s BBQ, 79th & Narraganset, Burbank, IL, host Rockin’ Johnny Band, 8-11:30pm, every 1st Wed except Feb moved to 2/16 due to blizzard

-Conway’s Smokin’ Bar & Grill, 2127 W Wells, Milwaukee, WI (414) 344-1262, host Big Johnson & the Thrusters, 9pm-12

-Harry’s Cafe & Place, 808 W Main St, Lake Geneva, WI (262) 248-3494, host Glenn Davis & the Cruise Control Blues Band, 8:45pm-12

-Hilltop Bar, 25944 W Rollins Rd (E of Wilson), Ingleside, IL (847) 973-0144, host Mark Rijke, 730pm, (open mic)

-Lamplighter’s, 60 N Bothwell St, Paletine, IL (847) 991-2420, www.lamplighters.com, host Rick, 8pm-12:30 (open jam)

-Liquid Blues, 126 N Benton St, Woodstock, IL (815) 337-7254, www.LiquidBluesBar.com, 7pm-1

-Montrose Saloon, 2933 W Montrose, Chicago, IL (773) 463-7663, host John Liggitt (3rd Wed)

-New York Slices, 1843 2nd St, Highland Park, IL (847) 432-6979, all ages, 7-10pm

-North Beach Oasis, 100 Kewaunee St, Racine, WI (from Hwy 20: N on Main, E on Barker) (262) 412-5154, www.NorthBeachOasis.com, hosted by Gary Lekus & friends, 6-9pm

–Walnut Speakeasy, 214 Walnut Ave, Elgin, IL (847) 695-2420, www.thewalnutspeakeasy.com (every other Wed)

-West Side Tap, 1356 Houbolt Rd, Joliet, IL (815) 741-4318, OsBand jam session 8pm

Thursdays

—–“When you touch someone with music, they may not remember the song but they will remember the joy” -from the wall at Sharon & Michael’s

-America’s Historic Roundhouse, 205 N Broadway, Aurora, IL (630) 892-0034, www.WalterPaytonsRoundHouse.com, open jam, 7pm

-Cool River Draught House, 12622- 159th St, Homer Glen, IL (708) 301-8006, www.CoolRiv.com, host Twist & the Groove Machine, 8:30pm-12:30

-Envy’s Pub, 3625 W 159th St (just E of I-57), Markham, IL (708) 331-5860, hosted by Little Johnny, 8-11pm

-Golf Farm, 2100 N Route 12, Wauconda, IL (847) 526-4000, www.golf-farm.com, host Brian Rothermel, 8:30pm, $3 Italian Beef w/ cheese & coleslaw

-Green Town Tavern, 110 S Genesee, Waukegan, IL (847) 244-1001, www.GreenTownTavern.com, host Chris Sipos, 8pm-12:15 (open mic)

-Harlem Avenue Lounge, 3701 S Harlem, Berwyn, IL (708) 484-3610, www.HarlemAvenueLounge.com, alternating hosts, 8:30pm-12:30

-Henry & Wanda’s, 501 6th St, Racine, WI (262) 632-1772, www.HenryandWandas.com, host Roy Edwards, 8pm-12am

-Irish Mill, 26592 N Rt 83, Mundelein, IL (847) 566-7044, 9pm (open mic)

-Legendary Wooden Nickel, 327 Waukegan, Highwood, IL (847) 266-0550, host John Juul, 8:30-11pm

-Rosa’s Lounge, 3420 W Armitage, Chicago, IL (773) 342-0452, www.RosasLounge.com, host James Wheeler, 9:30pm-1:30

-Screamin’ Mimi’s, 2717 60th St, Kenosha, WI (262) 654-8837, host Phil James (2nd guitar bring your own amp)

-TC Pub, 9700 S Cicero, Oak Lawn, IL (708) 425-4252, www.facebook.com/pages/T-C-Pub/ host Rev T & the Bluez Factor Revival, $1 drafts, free hot dogs

-Toby’s Tavern, 1949 Greenbay Rd, North Chicago, IL (847) 689-4742, host Rainman & Real Deal, 8:30-11pm (guitar bring your own amp)

-Zachary’s, 5368 N Milwaukee, Chicago, IL (773) 792-0933, host Madman Blues Band, 9pm-1

Fridays

-Dwight House Pub, 35366 N Frontage Rd (off Rt 12), Fox Lake, IL (847) 973-1476, host John Linczmaier & Red Eye Express, 9:30pm-12:30 (every other Fri, open electric jam)

-Hap’s North End Tap, 83 Hankes Ave, Aurora, IL (630) 859-2945, 9pm

-Hollywood Lounge, 3303 W Bryn Mawr, Chicago, IL (773) 588-9707, www.TheHollywoodLive.com, host Big John Sanner w/ Willie T & the Blues Explosion, 9pm-2

-J Martins Tap, 81 E 34th St, Steger, IL (708) 755-5240, host Bob E Lee, 9pm-1

Saturdays

-Abel’s Restaurant, 125 Center St, Grayslake, IL (847) 548-2803, host King Robinson, 8pm (last Sat)

-Adam’s Roadhouse Sportsbar & Grill, 301 Milwaukee Ave, Buffalo Grove, IL, hosted by Wait for Baba, 8pm-1am on the patio, open mic

-Gene’s Supper Club, 4323 N 60th St, Milwaukee, WI (414) 535-7789, host Marvelous Mack & the Pressure Release Blues Band, 3:30pm

-R&R Crossing, Russell, IL, host AC Blues, 4-8pm (intermittent: call ahead- next Sept 4)

Out of the Area Jams: sorry, really no way to keep this updated- check local blues societies!

No Comments »

WP Login