On the Stereo, February 2025

I've been listening to some tunes by Chicago's Horsegirl. They play what I suppose would be called indie rock with its lo-fi aesthetics that are gussied up a bit with some great melodic vocals. Their latest album, Phonetics On and On, came out a few days ago and I find that I really like "Switch Over". It has a vague Pavement vibe and reminds me a bit of "Box Elder".

They play in Madison at the High Noon Saloon on 4 August.

Also from Chicago are Cabeza De Chivo and their tropical psychedelia. I cannot find any studio recordings but check out this live set from the Cactus Club in Milwaukee from last spring.

To complete the Chicago trifecta, there's The Claudettes who should have a new album out soon. Or soonish, anyway. They'll be at the North Street Cabaret on 1 March.

 

 

From a bit farther afield, Tuva, comes the Alash Ensemble. And yes they do that funky Tuvan throat singing. They'll be at The Bur Oak on 29 March.

 

Valerie June has a new album out or coming out soon called Owls, Omens, and Oracles (Look at that serial comma!) and she'll be here in Madison on 30 May which means my Frau and I won't have to go to Iowa to see her.

 

Just listen to her new tune "Joy! Joy!"!

 

Last weekend some friends and I went to see the Faroese superstar Eivør. We weren't particularly familiar with her work but we're suckers for Nordic music and just anything that sounds interesting. It was a great show! I really loved "Enn" which, if I recall correctly means still or yet. The drumming was very powerful live.

 

Opening for Eivør was Sylvaine, a.k.a. a solo project of Kathrine Shepard. For the opening slot it was Shepard alone. Very ethereal music with guitar, lots of triggered sounds, and her wonderful, powerful vocals. Both she and Eivør have amazing sets of pipes.

 

 

 

Also coming to town soon are North Mississippi Allstars on 9 March and Southern Culture on the Skids on 24 May, both shows at the High Noon Saloon.

 

Don't forget to listen to my friend Eric the Driftless Cowboy host Classic Country Corner on 98.7 WMVO on Saturday mornings at 8.

 

And listen to his pal DJ Shotski host Polka Time on that same spot on the radio dial every Saturday and Sunday at 7 P.M.