There is something undeniably electric about catching a band right as momentum turns into movement, and that is exactly where Bloodywood stands today. On May 2nd, their performance at House of Blues Chicago felt like more than just a tour stop, it felt like a clear signal that this Indian-metal group is stepping into a much bigger spotlight.

Hailing from New Delhi, Bloodywood has carved out a distinct identity by blending traditional Indian elements with modern metal. Vocalist Jayant Bhadula delivers powerful melodic lines that contrast sharply with the aggressive rap of Raoul Kerr, while guitarist Karan Katiyar drives the band’s sound with tight, heavy riffs. Live, that fusion is truly unreal and hits even harder, shifting between crushing intensity and rhythmic, folk inspired passages that feel both rooted and forward looking.

The energy in the sold-out House of Blues built quickly and never let up. The crowd responded to every shift in tempo and tone, from explosive mosh moments to more unified, chant like sections. With Katiyar anchoring the instrumentation and Bhadula and Kerr feeding off each other’s energy, the performance felt dynamic and intentional. Bloodywood’s stage presence carries both confidence and hunger, a combination that keeps their set engaging from start to finish.

As metal continues to evolve, Bloodywood stands out as part of its next wave. Their rise is not just about novelty, it is about delivering a sound that resonates across cultures while staying true to their roots. By the end of the night in Chicago, it was clear they are not just an up and coming act, they are a band with real staying power.

Bloodywood – OFFICIAL WEBSITE
House of Blues (Chicago) – OFFICIAL WEBSITE

There are nights in Chicago that feel larger than the room they happen in, and Saturday, January 20th at Thalia Hall was undeniably one of them. The Bears were facing the Packers in the first round of the playoffs, a rivalry already baked into the city’s identity, now raised to postseason intensity. Before a single note was played, the energy inside Thalia Hall was electric. Bill Murray and his Blood Brothers made it clear that the game mattered, insisting it be broadcast on the large screen behind the stage, transforming the venue into something between a historic concert hall and the ultimate Chicago watch party.

When the final seconds ran out and the Bears eliminated Green Bay, the room exploded. Cheers echoed, strangers embraced, and the release felt almost overwhelming. Without hesitation, the band took the stage, the timing so perfect it felt intentional. Bill Murray opened the set with the Chicago Bears Fight Song, and the crowd roared in approval. Murray, long a symbol of Chicago’s cultural DNA, did not feel like a celebrity dropping in, he felt like a fellow fan riding the same high as everyone else in the room.

What followed was a blues performance that more than lived up to the moment. The Blood Brothers, built around the powerful guitar pairing of Mike Zito and Albert Castiglia, delivered a soulful, driving set steeped in grit and tradition. They were joined by an expanded lineup that included two drummers, and Jimmy Vivino, the veteran musician and longtime musical director for Conan O’Brien, whose presence added even more depth and fire to the sound. Murray, who has toured with the group for years, blended seamlessly into the band, singing the blues and adding percussion on bongos and maracas, fully engaged in the music rather than positioned as a novelty frontman.

The collaboration itself traces back to a moment of pure spontaneity. Zito and Castiglia’s band had been booked for the Murray Brothers’ Caddyshack Golf Tournament by Bill’s brother, John. During their set, Murray unexpectedly joined them onstage for a song by The Rascals, a moment that sparked an ongoing musical partnership that continues to evolve. That same sense of unplanned magic defined the night at Thalia Hall. It was not just that Bill Murray was performing, or that the Bears beat the Packers in the playoffs, but that both happened together, in Chicago, without pretense. Watching Murray front a soulful blues band in the immediate aftermath of such a massive rivalry win felt like a reward for the city, and a reminder that some nights simply belong to Chicago.

Bill Murray & His Blood Brothers – OFFICIAL WEBSITE
Thalia Hall – OFFICIAL WEBSITE
Chicago Bears – OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Last Sunday night at Chicago’s Thalia Hall, the veteran alt-rock outfit Everclear delivered an energetic set that blended that characteristic ’90s angst with a polished modern punch. The stop was part of their Sparkle and Fade 30th Anniversary Tour, celebrating the record that launched them into the alternative mainstream. Frontman Art Alexakis took command of the stage from the jump, his guitar riffs cutting cleanly through the venue’s historic walls and leaving no doubt this was more than a nostalgia act. The sold-out crowd, stretching from balcony to floor, responded with equal parts reverence and excitement, waving lighters (and in some cases phones) during the big moments.

What stood out most was the balance the band struck between memory and momentum. They didn’t just re-run their early hits for the sake of it; songs pulsated with life, tempo shifts landed with purpose, and Alexakis’s voice remained unexpectedly steady and strong. The lighting design underscored the shift from flashback to live-force, with bursts of red and white illuminating the older tracks while deeper blues and purples rolled in for the newer material. For longtime fans, the experience wasn’t simply a trip down memory lane, it felt like a journey through records that still matter, and a band that still cares.

In a venue as intimate as Thalia Hall, the connection between performer and audience felt personal. Alexakis paused between songs to talk about touring the Midwest, the thrill of being back in Chicago after decades of shows, and how the city’s energy informs the band’s work. That comment resonated given the crowd’s warm reception and the tight interplay among the band members, bassist, drummer, and guitarist all seemed dialed in. Even during the quieter moments, the live sound remained crisp, with no muddiness or drop-off, a sign of both professional production and a venue that knows how to host rock.

If there was a single downside, it might be that the setlist leaned heavily on the familiar territory, offering few surprises for hardcore fans chasing B-sides or deep cuts. But that would be a small complaint in the context of a show that absolutely delivered on energy, craftsmanship, and charm. Everclear reminded Chicago that while decades may pass, a great rock show, and the emotional threads that fuel it, can still hit hard and feel fresh. They’re still at it so make sure to check out their website below to see if you can see/hear for yourself!

Everclear –> OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Thalia Hall–> OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Stepping into the Salt Shed that night felt like I was walking into something special from the start, the weather couldn’t have cooperated more, warm in that perfect post‑summer way with a breeze that carried enough chill so it wasn’t overwhelming but warm enough that you wanted to stay out all night. It was my first time seeing Beach Bunny live and right away I was struck by how natural Lili Trifilio’s voice is in person, clear and full of presence, and how the stage setup at the Salt Shed outdoors gave their songs space to breathe, which felt crucial for a band whose music ping‑pongs between tender introspection and high‑energy hooks. The full moon overhead was this unexpected bonus, casting a glow that made the scene feel cinematic, like the music and the night were conspiring together.

The setlist was generous, pulling in favorites from different parts of their catalog while leaning into newer songs too, giving folks a little something old, something fresh. Moments like “Cloud 9” and “Prom Queen” hit with the kind of crowd sing‑along energy you hope for, and their newer material felt confident, like they know who they are and where they’re headed. The transitions between songs flowed, the band seemed loose but tight in the way that matters, able to slow things down and build back up without losing momentum. As someone experiencing them for the first time I appreciated being able to hear deeper cuts and the hits alike, so you got to see different facets of their sound rather than just the radio‑popular stuff.

The crowd, the vibe, the venue itself all played a part. The Salt Shed outdoors (the Fairgrounds area) has this cool blend of industrial edge and openness that makes it feel both intimate and big at once, and in that weather the outdoor elements only added to the show instead of working against it. People around me were singing along, dancing, laughing at little moments in between songs, there was warmth in more ways than one. Even though shows outdoors carry risks (bugs, sound bleed, temperature swings) none of that really mattered because the production held up, the sound was solid, and the ambiance (moon, lights, crowd energy) elevated what could have been just another set to something memorable.

Lastly, it should be noted that Beach Bunny’s newest album, Year of the Optimist is out now!

Beach Bunny OFFICIAL WEBSITE
Salt Shed OFFICIAL WEBSITE

Chevelle’s return to the Aragon Ballroom on August 15th was nothing short of a masterclass in heavy, emotionally driven rock. As a longtime fan who has seen them evolve from local legends to national staples, I knew this show carried extra weight with the live debut of Bright as Blasphemy. The set opened with “Family System,” a reminder of the band’s staying power and refusal to soften with time. Pete’s vocals cut through with urgency, Sam’s drumming was relentless, and the venue’s acoustics only amplified their tightly honed dynamic.

They moved through the setlist with precision and raw energy, blending tracks from the new album like “Self Destructor” and “Rabbit Hole (Cowards, Pt. 1)” alongside crowd favorites such as “Vitamin R,” “Face to the Floor,” and “The Red.” The newer songs landed hard, sounding even more intense live than they do in the studio. What struck me most was how natural it all felt. These songs weren’t just inserted into the set, they belonged. Chevelle didn’t just play their discography, they curated a sonic journey that reflected their evolution without losing touch with their roots.

The emotional peak hit during “The Clincher” and “Send the Pain Below,” when the entire crowd sang with the kind of unified release that only comes from years of connection. “The Red” of course brought the house down, still hitting with the same power it did when it first became a staple. Moments like “Comfortable Liar” and “Mars Simula” reminded me how Chevelle manages to make even their most punishing tracks feel melodic and alive. This was a band in complete control of their craft, unfiltered and uncompromising.

Chevelle closed the night with the same intensity they opened with, making it clear they’re not just riding momentum, they’re still building it. There was no gimmickry, no excess. Just three musicians delivering something honest and forceful to a room full of people who knew every word. As someone who has covered many live acts in this city, I can say this wasn’t just another night at the Aragon. It was Chevelle at full power and proof that their best days are still unfolding on stage.

Chevelle – OFFICIAL WEBSITE
Byline Bank Aragon Ballroom – OFFICIAL SITE

Attending Kat Von D’s live performance at new music venue, The Offset, in Chicago was an unexpected delight that I didn’t know I needed. As someone who had only seen her through the lens of her makeup artistry and television persona, I walked in with a mix of curiosity and skepticism. Would she be just another celebrity trying to dabble in music, or could she genuinely captivate an audience?

From the moment she stepped on stage, any doubts melted away. The energy in the venue was electric, and Kat commanded it effortlessly. Her presence was magnetic, and it was clear she wasn’t just performing; she was sharing a piece of her soul with the audience. The first few chords of her opening song sent a wave of excitement through the crowd, and I found myself swept up in the moment.

Her voice—rich and emotive—was a pleasant surprise. It carried an authenticity that felt refreshingly raw, far removed from the polished studio versions I had heard before. Each note resonated with depth, and her lyrical storytelling drew me in, painting vivid images that lingered long after the last song faded. The setlist was a perfect blend of haunting melodies and powerful anthems, showcasing her versatility as an artist. See/hear for yourself with the video/photo gallery below!

What struck me most was her genuine connection with the audience. Between songs, she shared anecdotes and insights that revealed her passion for music and the stories behind her craft. It felt personal, as if she was inviting us into her world. The crowd, in turn, was supportive and enthusiastic, creating a palpable sense of community that made the experience even more special.

As the night unfolded, I found myself completely immersed. The visuals were stunning, enhancing each performance with captivating artistry that echoed her background in tattooing and design. It was more than just a concert; it was a full sensory experience.

Walking out of the venue, I couldn’t help but smile, feeling uplifted and inspired. Sometimes, the best surprises come from the most unexpected places, and this performance was a beautiful reminder of that truth.

Click HERE for Kat Von D’s OFFICIAL WEBSITE

The Kills’ live performance was an electrifying testament to the raw, unbridled energy that defines their unique sound. Alison Mosshart and Jamie Hince, the dynamic duo at the heart of the band, commanded the stage with magnetic charisma. On this Valentine’s Day, 2024, at The Vic Theatre in Chicago, Mosshart’s vocals, a perfect balance of sultry and gritty, intertwined seamlessly with Hince’s masterful guitar work.

The setlist was a journey through their discography, from the edgy garage rock of “No Wow” to the haunting allure of “Black Balloon.” The Kills’ stage presence was minimalist yet potent, creating an intimate connection with the audience. The chemistry between Mosshart and Hince was palpable, translating into a performance that felt both raw and refined. The night was a sonic exploration, leaving the crowd immersed in the enigmatic allure of The Kills’ rock and roll mystique. #MindBlown

Their new album, God Games is out now!

The Kills —> Official Website

Extreme’s Thicker than Blood Tour was a force of musical prowess and infectious energy on this night at the Four Winds Casino, in New Buffalo, Michigan. Gary Cherone’s charismatic stage presence, coupled with Nuno Bettencourt’s virtuoso guitar skills, set the tone for an unforgettable evening. The band effortlessly blended their diverse musical influences, seamlessly moving between hard rock anthems and melodic ballads. Pat Badger’s solid bass lines and Kevin Figueiredo’s precise drumming provided a powerful backbone to the performance. The chemistry between the band members was evident, creating a tight-knit musical unit that engaged the audience from start to finish. Extreme’s setlist featured a mix of their classic hits and newer material, catering to both longtime fans and those new to their sound. However, it should be noted that their newest album, Leave Me Blue, was also featured within their set and should be at the top of your album buying to-do list! Either way, the concert was a celebration of Extreme’s enduring talent,their ability to deliver a high-energy, memorable live experience, and prove that there is no end in sight for this powerhouse band.

Taking the stage first, in order to warm up the audience proper was none other than Living Colour. From the moment they stepped on stage, the energy was palpable, thus accomplishing their goal of warming up the audience…and then some!

Check out the photos below and see for yourself…a night that will not soon be forgotten! Also, please check out the bands’ websites below, respectively, to see whether you’ll have a chance to catch them soon in a city near you!

Official Websites:

Extreme

Living Colour

Four Winds Casino – New Buffalo, MI

If you have not yet heard of Chicago’s infamous Riot Fest, you (clearly) must be living under a rock. However, under-rock-living or not, you’re in luck because with the information below, you will have all you need to know about this enormous and iconic Chicago music festival, so you’ll be prepared to rock…next year. Also below is our own photo gallery with what we considered to be our favorite headliners and up and comers to watch for in the very near future.

Riot Fest is an annual music festival that features a diverse lineup of punk rock, alternative rock, and various other music genres. The festival is known for its focus on punk and punk-related genres, as well as its commitment to showcasing both well-established and emerging artists. Here are some key points about Riot Fest:

1. History: Riot Fest was founded by Michael Petryshyn and Sean McKeough in Chicago, Illinois, in 2005. It originally started as a multi-venue festival with a primary focus on punk and punk-rock acts.
2. Expanding to Other Cities: While Riot Fest’s roots are in Chicago, it has expanded to other cities, including Denver and Toronto. Each city’s edition of the festival typically takes place over a weekend, featuring a mix of local and international artists.
3. Lineup Diversity: Riot Fest is known for its diverse lineup, which includes punk rock, alternative rock, metal, hip-hop, and other genres. The festival often features both iconic bands from the past and contemporary acts.
4. Notable Performers: Over the years, Riot Fest has hosted performances by a wide range of artists, including The Misfits, The Cure, Nine Inch Nails, Blink-182, Weezer, Public Enemy, and many others.
5. Carnival Atmosphere: Riot Fest often incorporates a carnival-like atmosphere into its festival experience, with attractions like carnival rides, games, food vendors, and sideshow acts. This adds to the festival’s unique character and appeal.
6. Community and DIY Spirit: The festival maintains a strong connection to the punk and DIY (Do It Yourself) ethos, celebrating independent and underground music scenes. It often includes local and independent artists, and small labels in its lineup and activities.
7. Focus on Chicago: The Chicago edition of Riot Fest has a special place in the festival’s history. It has taken place in various venues around the city, including Humboldt Park and Douglass Park. Riot Fest has also contributed to the local community by supporting local charities and causes.
8. Genre Inclusivity: While Riot Fest has its roots in punk rock, it has expanded to include a wide variety of genres, making it appealing to a broader audience.
9. Special Events: Riot Fest sometimes hosts special events or reunions of legendary bands that have been disbanded for many years, creating excitement among fans.
10. Art and Visuals: The festival often incorporates visual art installations and street art, adding an artistic element to the overall experience.

Riot Fest has become a significant event for music enthusiasts who appreciate a diverse range of musical styles and a sense of community. It continues to evolve and adapt to the changing music landscape while staying true to its punk and DIY roots.

With that being said, check out our photo gallery of Riot Fest 2023 below:

Out of more than 90 artists playing the Riot Fest stages and local Chicago venues alike, here are a few of our favorites from Riot Fest 2023:

The Cure –  (Crawley, West Sussex. England)

The Breeders – (Dayton, Ohio)

The Dresden Dolls – (Boston, Massachusetts) 

AFI – (abbreviation for A Fire Inside) – (Ukiah, California)

Corey Feldman – (Los Angeles, California)

Head Automatica – (Brooklyn, New York)

L.S. Dunes – (Chicago, Illinois)

Flogging Molly – (Los Angeles, California)

Nothing Nowhere – (Burlington, Vermont)

Snapcase – (Buffalo, New York)

Viagra Boys – (Stockholm, Sweden)

T.S.O.L. – (Long Beach, California)

Enola Gay – (Belfast, United Kingdom)

The Used – (Orem, Utah)

Pool Kids – (Tallahassee, Florida)

Total Chaos – (Pomona, California)

Lastly, it should also be noted that another Riot Fest favorite is that of, “Riot Pop,” a (beyond) delicious infusion of low-carbonation seltzers that come in several flavors, containing electrolytes, CBD, and alcohol. It should also be noted that there are non-alcohol varieties as well. Visit https://drinkriotpop.com/ for more information on this delectable beverage! YUM!

See you next year, Riot Fest!

by Cathy Alianna Moore

Exclusive for unratedmag.com

The landscape of the music industry is rapidly changing. In just six years, the total global revenue of this field increased by 54%, thanks in part to the rise of new developments such as online streaming. This has made it a thriving landscape for any professional looking to break into music. Many people think that having musical talent as an artist is what they need to work in music, but this is not true. Music lovers can find lucrative opportunities in music without having to be a musician themselves. If you’re interested in a music career, there are plenty of ways to participate in this industry.

Below are some behind-the-scene careers music lovers can consider:

1. Public relations specialist

Public relations specialists are the people who make sure that your favorite artists and their music get the attention they deserve. They create, manage, and maintain relationships with members of the media and industry professionals, to ensure that the artist’s work is getting noticed by those who can launch them to success.

PR specialists typically need a bachelor’s degree in communications, journalism, or business. They need to display excellent communication and persuasion skills. With this role, you can earn an average of $68,000 annually.

2. Recording engineer

Recording engineers work closely with artists and producers to ensure that the final product meets everyone’s expectations. The job requires an ear for detail and knowledge of various recording equipment and software. With their expertise, they are typically found in all kinds of settings: from tiny studios to big concert halls.

Because recording engineers need to understand the technical aspects of music, they usually have degrees in audio engineering or related fields. This can be an excellent way for music lovers to get deeply involved in song production while earning as much as $91,000 a year.

3. Social media manager

Social media has become a critical part of the success of artists and musicians in recent years. This is why social media managers are so-sought after. They are responsible for building up an artist’s online presence by posting content on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and Twitter to name a few platforms. They set up ads, run contests, and interact with fans to drive up engagement for the artists they’re handling.

To get started in this career, you need to have a degree in communications or a specialization in emerging media. If you’re passionate about music and want to support artists via online platforms, this career can help you earn as much as $72,000 annually.

4. Songwriter

The work of writing music is not always left to the hands of singers. Often, professional songwriters are behind the chart-hitting music we listen to on the radio. They craft lyrics, melodies, and chord progressions with arrangers and mixers. The process of writing songs is a reward in itself, and some celebrated songwriters regularly attend writers’ sessions to brainstorm with other professionals in the field.

This job does not necessarily require a degree—all you need is an ear for music and some inspiration from life experience. With this job, you can earn as much as $83,500 and make a name for yourself in the music industry.

5. Music producer

Music producers are among the most integral aspects of the music industry. They are responsible for the creative aspects of a recording, which can include everything from songwriting to instrumentation. They need a broad range of knowledge about music production techniques to produce the best quality music.

Since music producers are often not limited to working with one artist, many producers are responsible for making collaborations happen. Music production is a fulfilling career that can help you launch top-performing hits in the Billboard charts while earning more than $150,000 a year.

Music is a powerful force in many people’s lives, and you can find work that lets you be part of that. Whether you want to work on the stage or behind the scenes, there are plenty of opportunities music lovers can pursue.

Written