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

Prepare for an upcoming sonic journey as Porno for Pyros, the alternative rock powerhouse, gears up for an electrifying live performance at the Salt Shed in Chicago on Monday, February 26th for their Horns, Thorns, en Halos Farewell Tour. Fronted by Perry Farrell, the charismatic voice behind Jane’s Addiction, the band promises an immersive experience filled with their signature blend of psychedelic rock and avant-garde elements. With a reputation for captivating stage presence and a diverse musical repertoire, Porno for Pyros is set to deliver a setlist that spans their influential discography. Expect a fusion of infectious rhythms, Farrell’s distinctive vocals, and a visually stunning stage production. As anticipation builds, fans can anticipate a night that transcends the ordinary, as Porno for Pyros prepares to ignite the stage with their unique and unapologetically bold musical style.

Stay tuned for full coverage from non-other than UnRated Magazine.

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

There are only two words that can describe the “Take Back Your Life Tour,” specifically the band, Disturbed‘s live performance in Peoria, Illinois, on January 19th: SONIC INFERNO.

However, while the anticipation was mounting for the headlining act, the stage was set for an unexpected gem that would unfold in the form of the opening band, Falling in Reverse. Breaking free from the shadows of relative obscurity, this band seized the spotlight with an electrifying performance that defied expectations. Their energetic set served as a prelude to the musical journey awaiting the audience, leaving an undeniable buzz of excitement lingering in the air. The tone was definitely set for Disturbed to take the stage, without a doubt. It should also be noted that the first band on the bill, Plush, an amazing all-female rock band, also did their part to captivate the audience with their ethereal soundscapes and dynamic stage presence and they should not go unnoticed.

Walls of fire leapt from the stage, synchronized with the band’s ferocious tempo, creating a visually stunning spectacle. The combination of the band’s relentless sonic assault and the fiery theatrics left the audience exhilarated, drenched in sweat, and with an indelible memory of a metal concert that was as intense as it was incendiary.

The band consists of vocalist David Draiman, guitarist Dan Donegan, bassist John Moyer, and drummer Mike Wengren. Known for their distinctive sound and Draiman’s powerful and unique vocals, Disturbed has gained a significant fanbase over the years and their performance in Peoria, Illinois did not disappoint.

As the final notes echoed into the night, the scorched stage and the echoes of roaring applause testified to more than just a concert; it was a metal spectacle that fused musical prowess with the elemental power of fire, delivering an unforgettable experience for all who dared to be engulfed by the flames of metal. Also in closing, it should be noted that singer David Draiman officially declared his devoted admiration for Taylor Swift and her understanding of what it’s like to play music live. In his final words Draiman said, “Don’t forget, Taylor Swift still kicks ass.” And, although the audience seemed to jeer a bit, he continued, “I will stand up and applaud any pop artist that gets up on stage and sings live and plays guitar live in front of whole group of thousands of girls, guys, and young fans.” adding, “Don’t talk shit about Taylor Swift.” In that, it was cool to witness artists supporting other artists, which seems to have been lacking throughout the years, especially from a metal band to a pop star. #Legit

Set List:

1. Hey You
2. Stupify
3. Ten Thousand Fists
4. Prayer
5. Are You Ready
6. Bad Man
7. A Reason to Fight
8. Guitar Solo
9. Land of Confusion (Genesis) cover)
10. The Vengeful One
11. Drum Solo
12. The Game
13. The Sound of Silence (Simon & Garfunkel cover)
14. Bass Solo
15. Indestructible
16. Don’t Tell Me (with Moriah Formica) (live debut)
17. The Light
18. Stricken
    
    Encore:
19. Unstoppable
20. Down With the Sickness
21. Inside the Fire

Disturbed: Official Website
Falling in Reverse: Official Website
Plush: Official Website

In a pyrotechnic-laden explosion of sound and spectacle, the legendary rock icons KISS took the Allstate Arena in Rosemont, IL, by storm, proving once again why they are hailed as one of the greatest live acts in the history of rock ‘n’ roll. The night unfolded as a sonic journey through decades of anthems, complete with iconic makeup, flamboyant costumes, and a stage presence that can only be described as larger than life. It was a truly unforgettable, yet bittersweet experience.

As the arena darkened, the anticipation in the air was palpable. Then, in a burst of flames and blinding lights, KISS descended onto the stage from the rafters, each on their own geometrical podium, each one of them embodying their larger-than-life personas—Gene Simmons as “The Demon,” Paul Stanley as “Starchild,” Tommy Thayer as “Spaceman,” and Eric Singer as “Catman.”

The stage production was nothing short of spectacular. Elaborate pyrotechnics, intricate light displays, and a stage setup that resembled a futuristic rock ‘n’ roll fortress all contributed to the grandiose spectacle. KISS has always been known for their showmanship, and this performance was no exception. They provided a visual and auditory feast that left the audience in awe.

The set list (see below) seamlessly blended fan favorites with deeper cuts, catering to both die-hard KISS Army members and casual fans alike. The energy in the arena was infectious, with concertgoers of all ages reveling in the timeless appeal of KISS’s music.

What truly stood out was KISS’s dedication to delivering a memorable experience for their fans and telling by their playful interaction with one another, the entire evening was proof positive that everyone in the building was feeling a sense of bittersweet nostalgia. During every single song, it was obvious how much the band honestly cared about how this would be the last time their fans in Chicago would see them live, even though they have said that in the past (a few times). They wanted to make certain it was a performance their fans would never forget. The band’s interaction with the audience, from Simmons breathing fire and spitting blood to Stanley soaring above the crowd on a zip-line, showcased their commitment to making every moment of the performance 100%, completely unforgettable.

In the end, as the final chords reverberate through the arenas, and the echoes of pyrotechnics fade into the night, KISS bids a heartfelt farewell to the stage. Their journey, spanning decades of music, theatrics, and unparalleled showmanship, has left an indelible mark on the annals of rock ‘n’ roll history. As the curtain falls on the End of the Road Tour, the KISS Army stands united in gratitude for a band that defied conventions, inspired generations, and created a sonic legacy that will endure. The makeup may come off, and the costumes may find their place in rock relics, but the spirit of KISS, the flame they ignited, will forever burn brightly in the hearts of fans around the world. Thank you, KISS, for an unforgettable ride. The stage may be empty, but the echoes of your music will resonate for eternity.

*Final two dates: December 1 & 2 – Madison Square Garden (New York).

Chicago (Rosemont) Set List:

1. Rock and Roll (Led Zeppelin)
2. Detroit Rock City
3. Shout It Out Loud
4. Deuce
5. War Machine
6. Heaven’s on Fire
7. I Love It Loud
8. Say Yeah
9. Cold Gin
10. Guitar Solo
11. Lick It Up
12. Calling Dr. Love
13. Makin’ Love
14. Psycho Circus
15. Drum Solo
16. 100,000 Years
17. Bass Solo
18. God of Thunder
19. Love Gun
20. I Was Made for Lovin’ You
21. Black Diamond
22. Encore:
23. BethPlay Video
24. Do You Love Me
25. Rock and Roll All Nite
26. God Gave Rock and Roll to You

Official KISS Website: Click Here

From the moment of the first note at Chicago’s House of Blues, Skinny Puppy seized control of the atmosphere, plunging the crowd into a world where industrial beats collided with haunting synthscapes. The stage, adorned with dystopian visuals and flickering lights, set the tone for an immersive experience that transcended the typical concert setting.

Cevin Key’s masterful manipulation of synthesizers and samples was nothing short of alchemy, transforming the venue into an industrial cathedral of sound. The layers of electronic textures were meticulously woven together, creating a sonic tapestry that engulfed the audience in a relentless barrage of auditory stimulation.

The visual component of the show was equally integral to the experience. A multimedia onslaught of disturbing and thought-provoking imagery played across screens, complementing the music’s intensity. The synchronization of visuals with the sonic onslaught created a synesthetic experience that was as mentally challenging as it was sonically captivating.

Special guest and opener, Paul Barker’s Lead Into Gold’s live performance was a sonic alchemy—a transformative experience that fused the raw energy of industrial music’s roots with the sophistication of modern electronic production. And, as we say farewell to Skinny Puppy, we can be assured that Paul Barker’s (and Josh Holley) Lead Into Gold will remain a potent force, capable of captivating audiences and pushing the boundaries of sonic exploration for years to come.

In conclusion, Skinny Puppy’s Final Tour live performance at Chicago’s House of Blues was a testament to industrial music as a whole and an enduring influence and ability to push the boundaries of sonic experimentation. For fans of industrial music, it was an unforgettable and sonic end of an era —one that left an indelible mark on the auditory senses and reinforced Skinny Puppy’s status as pioneers in the realm of electronic mayhem.

Setlist:

1. VX Gas Attack
2. I’mmorta
3. Rodent
4. wornin’
5. Tormentor
6. Deep Down Trauma Hounds
7. Human Disease (S.K.U.M.M.)
8. Hardset Head
9. Pedafly
10. Morpheus Laughing
11. The Choke
12. Worlock
13. Inquisition
14. Dig It

Official Websites:

Skinny Puppy
Lead Into Gold

Exclusive for unratedmag.com

COVID-19 had a massive impact on the music industry. One study from PLoS One found that the total monthly consumer spending on music decreased by more than 45% compared to pre-pandemic levels, with live music events and physical sales the most severely affected. Many thought that the damage would be permanent, especially for local live performers. However, now that the pandemic is largely behind us, the music industry has bounced back and is going from strength to strength. Here are five reasons why.

Global Ticket Sales Increasing

COVID-19 shut off nearly all live performances, which in turn has led to a huge demand for live music post-pandemic. The good news is that this demand is helping the industry bounce back, with the latest figures from PricewaterhouseCoopers showing that the value of ticket sales for live music events exceeded $25 billion for the first time in 2023. While most of these ticket sales were for the biggest names, with Ed Sheeran pulling in $432m, this has also had a positive effect on local music scenes. One survey found that 36% of US consumers asked if they planned on attending a concert. This demand for live music at every level has helped the industry bounce back.

YouTube Is Investing Heavily in the Industry

During the pandemic, many musicians turned to YouTube to continue to promote and perform their music. Post-COVID, YouTube is the top platform helping musicians find an audience and earn money, especially as it has become harder to earn from live performances. With over two billion music users, Music Business World reported that YouTube continues to be the biggest platform for the music industry. The company reported that it paid the industry $6 billion in 2022. YouTube’s Global Head of Music, Lyor Cohen, said, “We remain laser-focused on becoming the number one contributor of revenue for the industry while also building a connected music experience across all music formats for fans and artists that allows for discovery, consumption, and participation.”

Party Bands Providing Additional Revenue

With many venues closing down during the pandemic and struggling to reopen, one avenue that many bands have turned to is performing at an event or party. Performing at a wedding continues to be a lucrative contributor to the music industry, with Brides outlining how wedding bands in Palm Beach, Florida, range from $15,000 to $30,000, bands in Chicago range between $8,000 and $10,000, and in California prices range from $10,000 to $20,000 for the most experienced bands. This is a trend that is being seen across the globe, with the UK party band industry also providing a lifeline to musicians. A four-piece party music band in the UK can cost anywhere between £1,652 ($2,057) to £1,832 ($2,282), while a five-piece band ranges in the region of £2,065 ($2,572) to £2,290 ($2,852). This extra income source allows many musicians to have a successful side gig that allows them to continue supporting themselves and the music industry. One reason that party bands continue to be lucrative is the wide range of choices. The party bands for hire on Function Central show how these bands can range from brass bands to rock and roll cover brands, catering to every preference. With the number of weddings and events up post-COVID, musicians are finding revenue streams to help them bounce back and put money back into the music industry.

Employment in the Music Industry is Growing

Despite massive setbacks due to the pandemic, employment in the music industry continues to grow. A report by IBIS World found that there are 71,655 people employed in the Musical Groups & Artists industry in the US as of 2022, and the average business in the industry now employs more workers than it did 5 years ago. As listed in our post on ‘5 Behind-the-Scenes Careers For Music Lovers’, the landscape of the music industry is rapidly changing due to the rise of new developments such as online streaming. This has opened many more avenues for employment, ranging from social media managers to public relations specialists.

Physical Music Sales Growing

A surprising trend that emerged from the pandemic was an increased desire for physical music. Pre-pandemic streaming services had effectively replaced physical music sales, outselling them in 2018 and continuing to grow since. The main driver of this growth has been the number of vinyl sales, which has overtaken CDs for the first time since the 80s. This shows an increased desire for music fans to have a more active engagement with their favorite bands and follows the post-pandemic trend towards retro media items. For the music industry, this has meant more money going to artists, especially indie artists, which is helping them bounce back stronger post-pandemic.

Legendary local and all-around good-time rock band, The Pimps (formerly known as, “The Goodyear Pimps”) have officially announced that after decades of making kick-ass ‘three chord rock ‘n roll,’ out of Rockford, Illinois, they will be calling it quits following their very last live performance on November 10, 2023, in Madison, Wisconsin. It will indeed be the end of an era for the Illinois local music scene that can only be described as, “amazeballs.” But, before you reach for the tissues, please take comfort in the fact that, just because The Pimps will soon be history, there’s still a possibility that its members might venture into new musical endeavors, creating fresh sounds and continuing to contribute to the musical landscape.

I sat down with The Pimps, vocalist, Stuart (“Stu”) Johnson on October 28th, just prior to the band’s very last hometown performance in Rockford, Illinois. We discussed the reasoning behind the official end of The Pimps, an ongoing community music project, as well as the potential for a whole new band to be taking the stage in the near or distant future (yes, that was meant to be vague).

While talking with Stu, he spoke a lot about a successful and ongoing community project that he started in his hometown, Rockford, back in 2013. His face literally lit up as he talked about the beloved, the Rock and Roll Institute. Similar to the School of Rock franchise, the Rock and Roll Institute is a dynamic and innovative kids’ music program that transforms aspiring young musicians into confident, stage-ready performers. But, there is one exception: The Rock and Roll Institute crams an entire educational and hands-on music journey into only five days…not several weeks like its predecessor. Just imagine it: You arrive at the program on a Monday, where you’ll meet some kids your age, likely for the first time. Then, you and said “other kids” break into a group to: form your band, name your band, learn how to play an instrument, learn how to play a song with that instrument with a group of others, then perform that song live with your band on that very next Friday. It is an admirable feat and Stu’s excitement and pride about the program is well deserved. The program is in collaboration with Rockford’s own, Keith Country Day School, a private school in the area that has 99% college success among its diverse student body. More information about the Rock and Roll Institute and the Keith Country Day School are linked below.

Next up, and most importantly, when asked about whether the band was calling it quits (for real this time), Johnson confirmed that it is indeed the final chapter for The Pimps. With a collective nod to the passage of time, the decision stemmed from a desire to gracefully embrace the next chapter of their lives. “There’s no hard feelings everybody’s super cool about it,” Stu added.

Johnson did mention however, yet another new project he has been working on, a new album that he and Pimps bassist (and Stu’s husband, btw), Tony, entitled, No Chalance. Currently, there are a bit more than a dozen tracks set for the album, narrowed down from 384 songs, says Stu with stone-faced seriousness. However, there was a hint of vulnerability in his voice when he confided that the prospect of releasing their latest creations which was accompanied by a wave of uncertainty, leaving the decision to share their intimate creations hanging in the balance. However, if and when it is decided to release the new stuff, you can expect a country’ish/punk’ish/chunky’ish style of music with songs such as, It’s All my Fault Your a Narcissist; I Fell in Love with a Rodeo Clown; and, Bloodshed at the Pizza Ranch, just to name a few. The name of the (potentially) new band, Precious Johnson & The Criddles. Thankfully, the sense of humor and similar music style of this duo is still intact and may carry on into the future. Keep an eye/ear out!

Later in the evening, as The Pimps, known for its entertaining/interactive stage presence and genre-defying sound, took to the stage for their hometown fans one last time, it was definitely bittersweet. The set was full of energy and enthusiasm however, the pauses between songs to give away a few key pieces of band memorabilia to their fans, i.e. their Mission Impossible 2 Platinum Award Plaque, original rehearsal space white board, and a giant piece of fan art, made it all the more apparent that this was indeed the end, forcing a collective sigh to echo through the crowd.

If you would like to catch the very last performance of The Pimps, they will be at the High Noon in Madison, Wisconsin on Friday, November 10th. As far as any last sentiments, the band states on their social media, “It’s time to Swedish Death Clean. We have said all we have to say.”

RIP The Pimps – Three Chord Rock ‘n Roll from Rockford, Illinois. Here’s to wishing all of them (Stu Johnson, Tony Crisman, Dave Deraosso, Michael “Hilly” Hilenburg and Todd Cooper) the very best with their future endeavors, no matter what they may be!

HIT THESE LINKS FOR MORE INFO:

The Pimps – Facebook
Rock and Roll Institute
Keith Country Day School
Rockford Area Arts Council

“Arts in the Dark” is an annual Halloween parade held in Chicago, Illinois, and this year it was held on Saturday, October 21st. The parade is a unique and vibrant event that celebrates art and culture, featuring a diverse range of participants, including artists, cultural organizations, performers, and more. Participants often create elaborate and creative costumes and displays, making it a visually stunning event.

Arts in the Dark typically features a variety of art forms, including visual arts, music, dance, and theater. The parade route runs through downtown Chicago’s iconic State Street, from Lake Street south to Van Buren Street. S pectators gather to watch the colorful procession of artistic displays and performances, making it a festive and entertaining event for all ages.

Please note that specific details and locations of events like Arts in the Dark may change from year to year, so I recommend checking the official website (https://artsinthedark.com/) or local sources for the most up-to-date information on this parade and any related events in Chicago.