Nov 21, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Paul Wertico Trio at SPACE - Evanston, IL $15.00 - $28.00

A world-class, all-around drummer, it is ultimately in the context of his own renegade groups that Paul has revealed the most about his musicality and philosophy of drumming while also pushing the envelope on risk-taking. On the subject of the Paul Wertico Trio, Wertico says, "In the past, some people have said that my band's music made them think of the Tony Williams Lifetime, while other people have said it reminded them of King Crimson, Mahavishnu Orchestra and Jimi Hendrix...all artists that I really love. However, over the years we've really expanded and refined our sound so that we now not only roar, but whisper as well. The band has many more sides, emotions, grooves and textures than we did and it's all very exciting and fulfilling for both us and our audience!" Genre: Jazz

Nov 22, 2009 at 3:00 PM CST A Sonata Sampler Program From Bach to Barber at SPACE - Evanston, IL $8.00 - $12.00

Join cellist Karen Schulz-Harmon and pianist Rick Ferguson for a concert of selected movements from masterpieces of the cello/piano repertory.

Nov 22, 2009 at 7:00 PM CST Tony DoRosario and Mike Allemana Organ Trio at SPACE - Evanston, IL $10.00 - $20.00

The best musicians tend to display at least a bit of their roots in everything they do, and jazz guitarist Tony Do Rosario is no exception. While himself a product of the Atlantic City area of southern New Jersey, Tony's appreciation for music came at an early age growing up as a first-generation American amid a family whose native Brazilian culture was a regular part of the household. It was on family trips to Brazil that he recalls finding his love for life and music. After graduating from Northern Illinois University in 1991 Mike Allemana spent two years playing in Cincinnati, Ohio, where he spent many nights listening to and absorbing the playing of legendary guitarists Cal Collins and Kenny Poole. In 1994, Mike decided to move back to Chicago where he has become one of the most in-demand guitarists on the jazz scene. Genre: Jazz

Nov 24, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Kate Havnevik with Levi Weaver at SPACE - Evanston, IL $8.00 - $18.00

?Washed in a sultriness that could launch a dozen Bond films, Kate's luxurious voice floats over Icelandic jazz symphonies lit by lavish strings and subtle trip-hop beats. Slowly roasting dance-floor torch songs, Melankton whips existential speculation into alluring propositions for a sensual banquet whose angelic delivery is graced with devilish metaphysics? ? MAXIMUM INK ?Kate Havnevik has a unique voice, which explores both the very deep and high reaches of her extraordinary vocal range. Her music is melodic, occasionally dramatic, but always very cool. With a touch of programming mixed with conventionally recorded instruments she creates the perfect soundscape to dress her songs and voice.? ? SF STATION Genre: Alternative/Pop

Nov 25, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Anna Fermin's Trigger Gospel at SPACE - Evanston, IL $12.00 - $22.00

Named after an old Western novel, Anna Fermin's Trigger Gospel reflects a spirited sound that intertwines hometown country and rock & roll with ?a strong melodic-pop appeal.? (Holly Rushakoff, The Octopus) In the six years this Chicago-based band has been together, they?ve shared the stage with an impressive roster of musicians including Johnny Cash, Steve Earle, Joe Ely, Robbie Fulks, Delbert McClinton, Paula Cole, The Jayhawks and many more. The Trigger Gospel has garnered the attention and respect of critics and music fans alike, hooking audiences with their eclectic songs and rousing live shows. Their debut disc, Things To Come - produced by Texas pedal-steel player extraordinaire Lloyd Maines - sold over six thousand copies (and still counting), leaving listeners clamoring for more. Now, the long-waited follow-up is here. Released on Undertow Records and produced by Jay Bennett, Oh, The Stories We Hold includes nine new original songs that gracefully and effortlessly combine country with elements of pop and rock, and also includes two stellar covers including the Steve Earle penned "Down The Road" and "Perhaps, Perhaps, Perhaps," a song made famous by the legendary Doris Day. Genre: Folk/Rock

Nov 27, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST The Ramova Brothers at SPACE - Evanston, IL $20.00 - $32.00

The Ramova Brothers are a gathering of some of the finest performers in Chicago today making the Ramova Brothers a one-of-a-kind, (and rare) treat. Born from the soft hearts and twisted minds of the Chicago Tribune and WGN Radio 720's Rick Kogan and lifelong Chicagoan Mark Doyle, the Ramova Brothers perform an eclectic and sometimes raucous blend of traditional acoustic folk and plugged in country and bluegrass. Old time standards are combined with original songs to make up an evening of music even your mother would approve of.

Nov 27, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Mississippi Flanagan & Gilmary Doyle-Andrews at SPACE - Evanston, IL $15.00 - $25.00

Four excellent singers, two acoustic guitarists combining powerful rhythm on 12 strings and lead guitar riffs on 6 strings with plenty of Chicago music history thrown in too with the current addition of accordion and harmonica. Having survived the folk scene of the 70?s they now replay the songs they played and loved back then and continue the enthusiasm that made the music scene of a bygone time so appealing. Adding to this, the quartet continues to explore their own original material and have created wonderful new arrangements of traditional and popular songs. Midge Brzozowski sings with a unique, agelessly clear alto, Mike McDougal brings an palpable energy to every song, Patti McDougal adds her harmonies and her accordion and harmonica and Al Day provides tasty guitar playing on both acoustic and electric, another fine voice and a subtle wit. To say they interact with the audience is an understatement. Their combined skill and warmth make for a very comfortable, wonderful evening of song and laughter. Today, Midge, Al, Patti and Mike continue to pursue their musical passion. Individually they bring new elements to a powerful format. Al's songwriting is an ongoing and engaging asset, and his guitar solos will make your hair stand up! On stage, Mike is committed to the unexpected. Drawing from a considerable repertoire, his voice and rhythm guitar are better than ever. Midge is still the franchise of Mississippi Flanagan. Midge will make you feel like you are hearing even familiar songs for the first time. A skilled songwriter, Midge has a voice that is totally hers, always expanding her musical interests. From traditional folk to sultry torch songs, from Chicagoese to French and Portuguese, you'll be on the edge of your seat waiting for the next surprise. Gilmary plays Coffeehouse Folk for adults with a sense of humor. A lyricist who?s straightforward imagery draws on life from the other side of 40; sometimes melancholy, sometimes ridiculous.

Nov 28, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Antje Duvekot, Anne Heaton, Meg Hutchinson, & Natalia Zukerman at SPACE - Evanston, IL $15.00 - $25.00

Dec 1, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Crosby, Crosby, & Nash Crosby Loggins, Jay Nash, & Caitlin Crosby at SPACE - Evanston, IL $10.00 - $20.00

For Crosby Loggins, what?s past is prologue. With Time To Move, his debut Jive Records release, Loggins draws on a unique personal and musical history to forge a statement that places his intimate voice front and center. As surely as Loggins? songs draw strength from their structural simplicity, their open sonic spaces allow his emotionally honest lyrics to resonate within them. "Jay Nash's new album 'The Things You Think You Need' is a must have. Soul soothing music that will calm your inner beast even in bumper to bumper traffic. Jay's music congers up similarities somewhere between John Mayer, Johnny Cash, Dave Matthews and Jack Johnson." ? Best Music Live Raised in Hollywood, Caitlin developed a passion for writting songs about the world and human nature that she hopes will challenge and inspire her listeners. She is featured as a songwriter for the worldwide LEVI's jeans add campaign. She has written & recorded with Grammy Award winning Producer Kenny 'BABYFACE' Edmonds, Robin Thicke, Plain White T's, Brian Wilson, William Fitszimmons, Cutis Peoples, Josh Hoge, and Ty Stevens.

Dec 2, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Judith Owen & Harry Shearer's Holiday Sing-A-Long : Please note the date for this event has changed FROM 12/11 TO 12/02 at SPACE - Evanston, IL $30.00 - $52.50

Judith Owen and Harry Shearer?s Holiday Sing-Along began as a private affair?an annual gathering with family and friends in the couple?s Los Angeles home. In 2005, when the guest list had grown too long to hold the event at home, Owen and Shearer moved their Sing-Along to the Walt Disney Concert Hall, where they hosted and performed to acclaim with special guests including Van Dyke Parks, Richard Thompson, Keb? Mo?, Julia Fordham, the Angeles Chorale Chamber Singers and others. The show has gone on to make highly successful premieres in other major cities. Judith Owen and Harry Shearer?s Holiday Sing-A-Long is an evening of music and mirth for Christmas lovers and Scrooges alike, a mix of traditional and non-traditional holiday music that is both reverent and irreverent. Judith Owen is known for her sharp wit as well as her singular artistry as a singer and songwriter. Harry Shearer continues his multiple roles for a 20th season on The Simpsons, which he also reprised for The Simpsons Movie. His weekly radio series Le Show is heard in over 90 markets, and Shearer is a regular contributor to The Huffington Post. Tickets on-sale Saturday, September 12th at 11AM

Dec 3, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Issa (Formerly Jane Siberry) at SPACE - Evanston, IL $20.00 - $32.50

Early in 2006, Siberry closed her Sheeba office, then sold and gave away nearly all of her possessions?including her home and instruments. She presently retains one travelling guitar, but none of the other instruments featured on her albums and in her concerts. Siberry changed her name to Issa. She revealed her new name to the public on June 24, 2006. She has also indicated, however, that her older music will remain available for sale under the name Jane Siberry; only her new material will be released as Issa. Her music is most commonly compared to artists such as Kate Bush, Joni Mitchell and Laurie Anderson. She has cited Van Morrison and Miles Davis as being strong creative influences.

Dec 4, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Hubert Sumlin & The Nighthawks at SPACE - Evanston, IL $24.00 - $38.00

When Hubert Sumlin plays guitar he takes you to his World of Blues Feeling -- from despair to ecstasy, from delicate grace to raw power, from lost to found. Though he?s influenced and inspired many of the most famous guitar players, Hubert owns the magic. His style is original and personal and instantly recognizable. What kind of man can make or break your heart with his guitar? Over the last 30+ years, The Nighthawks have earned a reputation as one of the best and hardest working bands around. They have gotten their widest acclaim for being one of the first and best white boy blues bands of their generation, and for putting on a great live show. But their acclaim and accomplishments go far beyond that. Genre: Blues/Roots Rock

Dec 5, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Susan Werner at SPACE - Evanston, IL $18.00 - $34.50

Over the course of her colorful career, singer songwriter Susan Werner has cultivated a reputation as a daring and innovative songwriter with a killer live show. She boldly endeavors to weave old with new to create altogether new genres of music when existing ones do not suit her muse, and she regularly keeps audiences guessing and laughing simultaneously. Most of her work infuses traditional music styles and methods with her unmistakable contemporary worldview, constantly challenging listeners to experience music from a fresh and unexpected perspective. Susan Werner's new release Classics asks no less of her distinguished audience or herself.

Dec 7, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Rosi Golan, Luke Brindley, and Peter Bradley Adams at SPACE - Evanston, IL $10.00 - $18.00

Rosi Golan is an Israeli born singer songwriter who has made many stops in her travels, including Germany, Paris, and finally ending up in Los Angeles at the age of nine, where she grew up. During her travels, she not only managed to hone her infectiously melodic songwriting, but also learned to speak three languages fluently: French, Hebrew and English. Luke has released four critically acclaimed albums in the last five years, garnering praise from numerous national publications. Equally at home on the stage, The Washington Times says of his live performance ?no song goes untouched by the energy an pure infectious joy of Luke?s performance?a mastery of pop songcraft and stagecraft.? ?I guess in this culture of ever-shortening attention spans, it?s good if a song can lift us out of the madness, even if only for a few minutes.? ? Peter Bradley Adams Peter was first known as co-founder of KCRW / AAA radio darlings and commercially successful duo eastmountainsouth, signed by Robbie Robertson to Dreamworks Records. Now with Sarathan Records, Peter has garnered critical acclaim as a solo artist

Dec 9, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Elizabeth and the Catapult with special guest at SPACE - Evanston, IL $8.00 - $18.00

The title of Elizabeth and the Catapult's Verve Forecast debut album Taller Children reflects the unique blend of pop playfulness and grown-up introspection that defines Ziman's distinctive songwriting. Such memorable originals as "Rainiest Day of Summer," "Apathy," "The Hang Up" and "Hit the Wall" embody a vibrant mix of open-hearted wonder, whimsical humor and forthright emotional insight, merging classic pop melodicism with an array of acoustic textures, jazz twists and orchestral flourishes. Elizabeth's warmly personal songs reflect the diverse influences of her lifelong pursuit of music. She grew up in New York's Greenwich Village, just down the street from the Cafe Wha? and the Fat Black Pussycat, where her future heroes Bob Dylan and Joni Mitchell got their start. Genre:Folk Rock/Indie

Dec 10, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Brian Gephart Group - A Love Supreme at SPACE - Evanston, IL $10.00 - $20.00

Brian Gephart Group Brian Gephart - saxophones Mike Arnopol - bass Eric Montzka - drums Karl Montzka - piano recreating John Coltrane's - A Love Supreme on the 45th anniversary of the original recording on December 9, 1964 Genre:Jazz

Dec 11, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST An Intimate Evening with Leon Russell at SPACE - Evanston, IL $30.00 - $48.00

Leon has played on pop, rock, blues, country, bluegrass, standards, gospel, and surf records. As a session musician, arranger, producer, singer, songwriter, pianist, guitarist, record company owner, bandleader, and touring musician, he has collaborated with hundreds of artists, including Glen Campbell, Joe Cocker, Willie Nelson, Edgar Winter, George Harrison, Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, Ringo Starr, John Lennon, J.J. Cale, David Gates, Bruce Hornsby, Hal Blaine, Tommy Tedesco, Bobby "Boris" Pickett, B.B. King. Leon continues to write songs, record, and thrill audiences on his non-stop tour across the U.S. In November 2005 and May 2008, he also toured Japan. Leon's son Teddy Jack and daughters Sugaree and Tina Rose have all been in his band and toured with him. His bass player, Jack Wessel, has been in his band for 26 years. Leon's musical style is still resonating with his lifelong fans and is inspiring younger listeners. Genre: Rock/Country/Blues

Dec 12, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Garaj Mahal at SPACE - Evanston, IL $15.00 - $26.00

When you hear your first Garaj Mahal note, leading into an innovative fusion of funky jazz with a tasty world music flare, all other thoughts leave your mind as the music takes you on an unforgettable voyage. Fans return to experience the band again and again because they know they will always hear something new and progressive from these four first-class musicians. Garaj Mahal features guitar and sitar virtuoso Fareed Haque, world-renowned bass master and educator Kai Eckhardt, gospel-inspired funky jazz keyboardist Eric Levy, and genetically-funky Sean Rickman. Garaj Mahal combines a century of musical experience to create a sound that's always new, freshly infused with a wide spectrum of musical expression, and always smoking hot. On-sale Saturday October 10th at 11AM Genre: Jam Band/Jazz/ Funk

Dec 13, 2009 at 3:00 PM CST Hanukah Holiday Celebration : Hot Jewish Music on a Cold Winter's Day featuring Kol Sasson and Shakshuka at SPACE - Evanston, IL $10.00 - $20.00

Experience two unique groups performing diverse styles of high energy Jewish music with Shakshuka's contemporary, creative arrangements of Israeli and Sephardic music spiced with jazz, and Kol Sasson's trademark spirit and rich vocal harmonies that make you want to clap your hands, tap your feet and add your joyful voice to theirs. You won't want to miss this very special Hanukah holiday weekend afternoon of ' Hot Jewish Music on a Cold Winter's Day.

Dec 13, 2009 at 7:00 PM CST The Jamie and Anne Christmas Show with The Gift of the Magi Radio Musical, featuring Paul Amandes at SPACE - Evanston, IL $20.00

Stellar Musical Ensemble: Paul Amandes, guitar Peter Swenson, guitar Bob Weber, cello Katrina OReilly-Greene, piano Kelvin Lin violin and Al Ehrich. bass And the Midnight Moxie Band on harmony vocals PLUS: A Holiday Bake Sale of treats from around the world, benefiting the Cambodia Girl Project

Dec 14, 2009 at 7:00 PM CST Club Zumba with Suzanne Crawford and Iida Borges at SPACE - Evanston, IL $10.00

The Zumba® program fuses hypnotic Latin rhythms and easy-to-follow moves to create a one-of-a-kind fitness program that will blow you away. Our goal is simple: We want you to want to work out, to love working out, to get hooked. Zumba® Fanatics achieve long-term benefits while experiencing an absolute blast in one exciting hour of calorie-burning, body-energizing, awe-inspiring movements meant to engage and captivate for life! The routines feature interval training sessions where fast and slow rhythms and resistance training are combined to tone and sculpt your body while burning fat. Add some Latin flavor and international zest into the mix and you've got a Zumba® class! In the past years, the Zumba® program has become nothing short of a revolution, spreading like wildfire, and positioning itself as the single most influential movement in the industry of fitness. Genre: Latin/Fitness

Dec 17, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Amy & The Rhinos at SPACE - Evanston, IL $10.00 - $18.00

Amy Shoemaker?s musical career began with an all-woman band in Florida, the ?Rolling Mothers Revue?. In three years as the band?s main songwriter, Amy?s original material included a blend of folk, rock, country, gospel and blues --a mix that now goes by the name "Americana" or "roots rock." In 1988, she moved to Chicago and in 1991, released her award-winning album, ?The Trap and Bait?. This recording represents her first collaboration with John Williams, one of the finest tradtional Irish players of his generation. Both Ms. Shoemaker and Mr. Williams have had original compositions performed on St. Patrick?s Day at Symphony Center in Chicago. In 2007 she released a new concert CD, ?AMY SHOEMAKER, LIVE AT CHARLIE?S? and finished studio recordings with Producer, Jim Tullio. Live performances take shape in full band settings, duos, and solo spots. Her band, ?Amy Shoemaker and the Mighty Rhinos?, includes guitarist-Jay Whitehouse, bassist-Jeff Bella, drummer-Barret Harvey and sometimes fiddle and mandolin player Joel Batty, pedal steel player TC Furlong from ?Jumping the Saddle?, harpist- Carl Johnson and her long-time collaborator John Williams on accordian. Genre: Folk/Rock

Dec 18, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST (7:30 PM DOORS) Josh Hoge with special guest at SPACE - Evanston, IL $12.00 - $24.00

Much like his hometown Nashville, singer Josh Hoge represents Music City?s competing spirits of tradition and rebellion.A third-generation musician, who loves music, whiskey and rowdy good times, Hoge fits the profile of a typical, lifelong Nashville resident. But the 25-year-old is also part of a growing community of artists who call Nashville home, but do not ascribe to the city?s time-honored twang.

Dec 20, 2009 at 3:00 PM CST Just for Fun presents a new approach to old music from renaissance to jazz, from klezmer to Caribbea at SPACE - Evanston, IL $8.00 - $12.00

Just For Fun interprets old masterworks, traditional melodies and modern compositions. The program includes works by Frescobaldi, Gibbons and Telemann, some fun jazz standards and new originals, and ethnic music from around the world and through the times... Just for Fun: Annette Bjorling , harp, recorders; Kathy Kelly, vibes, recorders; Kurt Bjorling, bassett horn, recorders; Dan DeLorenzo double bass, recorders

Dec 20, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Hugo with Shanta Loecker at SPACE - Evanston, IL $8.00 - $16.00

Hugo's piano-driven sound is influenced by Billy Joel, Elton John, Leon Russell, Ben Folds, Elvis Costello, and Michael Jackson. When I say "piano-driven" I mean piano as in the instrument and not as in the Miami Herald newspaper. Hugo has also been influenced by musical theater, and is finally comfortable admitting that. Hugo calls his music Indie Pop Piano Rock. Piano means an inescapable undying lust of determination and dedication to playing his heart out every single show with unbridled passion and charisma pumping through his blood so he can fully live his life in true expression and artistic rejoice. Hugo is constantly redefining the piano. On-sale Saturday October 10th at 11AM Genre: Piano/Rock

Dec 21, 2009 at 8:00 PM CST Foiled Again: Wish List at SPACE - Evanston, IL $15.00 - $25.00

Formed in 2001 for their first show Holiday Bizarre and named so because all three members at the time were getting their highlights "foiled" at the same salon, Foiled Again has been delighting audiences in the Chicago area with their amazing harmonies and intricate arrangements. 2003 After Dark Award Winners Foiled Again continue their holiday cabaret tradition by bringing their "Wish List" to the table. This super-hip holiday show uses songs from every genre, including composers like Irving Berlin, Cy Coleman, Randy Newman and Joni Mitchell. On-sale Saturday October 10th at 11AM Genre: Holiday/Jazz

Dec 31, 2009 at 6:00 PM CST Jill & Julia Show featuring Jill Sobule & Julia Sweeney at SPACE - Evanston, IL $17.00 - $28.00

Jill Sobule uses both satire and personal experience to sing about a range of issues, including sexuality, depression, war, abandonment, and greed. According to her website bio, a central preoccupation of her work is the classic one: "Love found, love lost, love wished for and love taken away." Many of her songs incorporate humor into their narrative. She often creates detailed character sketches, especially of women. At a Groundlings performance in 1989, Saturday Night Live producer Lorne Michaels discovered Sweeney and offered her a spot as one of SNL's featured players. She joined the regular SNL cast the following year and remained with the show through four seasons, from 1990 to 1994. Sweeney has created and performed three autobiographical monologues, God Said Ha!, In the Family Way, and Letting Go of God. In 2006, Sobule met Julia Sweeney, the actress, writer and comedienne, and started performing the "Jill and Julia Show", a compilation of songs and stories. They performed at the James Randi Educational Foundation meeting in Las Vegas on January 19, 2007, as well as at regular showings for the Groundlings Theater in Los Angeles.

Dec 31, 2009 at 10:00 PM CST BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet SPACE New Years Eve Event! at SPACE - Evanston, IL $45.00 - $75.00

Since forming in 1975, Grammy winners BeauSoleil have claimed their undisputed role as the most esteemed Cajun group in music. BeauSoleil avec Michael Doucet take the rich Cajun traditions of Louisiana and artfully blend elements of zydeco, New Orleans jazz, Tex-Mex, country, blues and more into a satisfying musical recipe. From The Grand Ole Opry to Newport Folk, from concert hall to dance floor, the music of BeauSoleil continues to captivate audiences the world over. Featuring: Michael Doucet - Violin, Guitar, Accordion, Mandolin, Vocals David Doucet - Guitar, Vocals Jimmy Breaux - Accordion Billy Ware - Percussion Tommy Alesi - Drums Mitch Reed - Fiddle, Bass On-sale Saturday October 10th at 11AM Genre: Cajun/Folk

Jan 7, 2010 at 8:00 PM CST Songwriter's Circles with Cathy Richardson, Ingrid Graudins, Korby Lenker, & Liam Davis at SPACE - Evanston, IL $10.00 - $22.00

While she could be best known for her stunning portrayal of Janis Joplin in the Off Broadway musical Love, Janis, Cathy Richardson also sometimes tours and takes lead vocal duties with Janis Joplin's original band, Big Brother and the Holding Co. This year, she steps into the shoes of another one of her musical heroines, the legendary Grace Slick, when she joins Jefferson Starship on a new major label album release and subsequent world tour. Korby?s electrifying live performances swing effortlessly between moments of rocked-out abandon and intimate, aching tension. It all adds up to one of today?s most important new voices, as a growing legion of followers in North America and the U.K. can eagerly attest. One listen to his fifth self-produced work, Lovers and Fools, will leave no doubt. This is an artist with something to say. Genre: Singer/Songwriter

Jan 8, 2010 at 8:00 PM CST Otis Clay & His Band at SPACE - Evanston, IL $15.00 - $28.00

Otis Clay is one of the premier deep soul and gospel singers working today. His raw, fiery vocals drive an energetic and danceable blend of soul, r&b and blues in the tradition of such deep soul singers as Otis Redding, Wilson Pickett and Solomon Burke. Whether bringing audiences around the globe to their feet with his fiery brand of soul and gospel or working tirelessly with community and church leaders to provide better economic and cultural opportunities for West and South Side Chicago residents, Otis Clay has proven himself to be a national treasure Genre: Soul/R&B

Jan 13, 2010 at 8:00 PM CST Dave Specter's Adventures in Guitar with special guest Jeff Parker at SPACE - Evanston, IL $12.00 - $22.00

Dave Specter?s "Adventures in Guitar" will feature Dave and his band performing with a featured guest guitarist from the musical worlds of blues, jazz and rock & roll in a series of six annual performances at SPACE. Guitarist, producer and Delmark Recording Artist Dave Specter straddles the fence between blues and jazz with a hip disregard for arbitrary restrictions. His soulful, reverb drenched sound is featured on dozens of recordings including his latest Delmark CD/DVD "Live in Chicago" which was named to Downbeat magazine's best recordings of 2008. He?s headlined Chicago?s Millennium Park and clubs and festivals worldwide. ?A gifted instrumentalist with a variety of styles at his disposal, Specter is an unsung talent on the Chicago blues scene. Specter is no blues purist, but rather an enthusiast who incorporates elements of bluesmen like T-Bone Walker, Magic Sam, and Otis Rush in his work, along with jazzier influences like Kenny Burrell? ? About.com - best blues recordings of 2008. Specter's featured guest for "Adventures in Guitar" is renowed Chicago guitarist Jeff Parker, perhaps best known for his work with post-rock icons Tortoise. He is regularly associated with other contemporary Chicago-based artists, including Fred Anderson, Lin Halliday and Ken Vandermark. In addition to his activities on the improvised music scene, he also performed and sometimes recorded with rock musicians. Genre: Blues/Jazz

Jan 14, 2010 at 8:00 PM CST Rabbi Joe Black & Friends at SPACE - Evanston, IL $10.00 - $18.00

Joe Black is an award-winning fingerstyle guitarist and singer/songwriter.   An Evanston Native and graduate of Northwestern University, Joe also serves as Rabbi of Congregation Albert in Albuquerque, NM.  Some people may remember him from his role as ?Tiny Tov? on old WBBM TV show, ?The Magic Door.? Joe?s music is thought-provoking and accessible -- a rare and wondrous combination. His infectious musical style teaches while entertaining. A Rabbi Joe Black performance is an engrossing experience--an extraordinary and unique extension of the rabbinate.  You never know what will happen at a Rabbi Joe Black concert.  One minute, you?ll be caught up in a thoughtful meditation on the search for holiness in every-day life.  The next, you?ll be stomping your feet to an old Josh White tune. Joe?s intense commitment to both modern Jewish music and to his home congregation means that he performs only a dozen or so concerts each year, choosing venues where his creative musical approach can counsel, guide, and teach...but most of all, entertain. Genre: Folk

Jan 15, 2010 at 8:00 PM CST (7:30 PM DOORS) An Evening with Megon McDonough at SPACE - Evanston, IL $15.00 - $28.00

Megon McDonough is best known for her work as an inaugural member of The Four Bitchin? Babes which allowed her wit and folk sensibilities to comment on the ups and downs of everyday life. She has performed on stages as varied as The Cellar Door and Carnegie Hall. She is an accomplished comedic actress having appeared in numerous theater productions including, Pump Boys and Dinettes, Beehive and a box office record-breaking starring role in Always? Patsy Cline. For which she was nominated for the Joseph Jefferson Award. She won an ACE Cable TV award for singing the theme song of an HBO Olympic ice-skating special and has recorded for a Danielle Steel Made for TV movie. McDonough has nine solo albums to her credit. With her most recent album, My One and Only Love, McDonough realized a lifelong dream of recording jazz and torch songs. Says the Washington Post of her latest release, ?Here we find McDonough in her true element, sensitively reprising such standards as ?Here?s That Rainy Day,? ?If I had You? and the title track.? She has also performed on five compilation albums and released five albums with the Bitchin? Babes. She has just completed ?4+1? Music Inspired by The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz. Genre: Folk

Jan 16, 2010 at 8:00 PM CST Paul Cebar's Tomorrow Sound at SPACE - Evanston, IL $12.00 - $20.00

PAUL CEBAR has steadfastly pursued a musical concatenation that is one part early R&B, another Pan-African Lilt, Afro-Cuban by way of New Orleans Slither, qualified by Mid-Western Soul and further distinguished by a gargan- tuan regard for spoken English. Paul Cebar has been a primary investigator and promulgator of funky Afro-Carib-inflected Americana since the ?80?s.... Cebar stays vital, putting his good foot forward from Green Bay to Baltimore to the Big Easy.    TOM CHEYNEY | LA WEEKLY, JULY 2003 Genre: Roots Rock

Jan 23, 2010 at 8:00 PM CST Jeff Coffin Mu'tet at SPACE - Evanston, IL $17.00 - $30.00

Jeff Coffin, well-traveled saxophonist/composer, and three-time Grammy Award winning member of Bela Fleck & the Flecktones and the Dave Matthews Band, rejects all labels and categories other than "music" and "musician." Jeff Coffin has played on hundreds of recordings, and has performed around the world including a 2007 performance at the esteemed Carnegie Hall. As a highly in demand educator, Jeff has presented clinics from Farmington, Maine to Perth, Australia and is also an internationally acclaimed Yamaha and Vandoren Performing Artist/Clinician since 2000. Genre: Jazz/Progressive/Experimental

Jan 29, 2010 at 8:00 PM CST American English at SPACE - Evanston, IL $15.00 - $25.00

American English is simply the best Beatle tribute story of our time. At the inception of the band, they were voted ?number one? by thousands of Beatle fans as winners of sound a like contests at Beatlefest® for three consecutive years. They have also won Illinois Entertainer of the Year and have been voted "Best Tribute Band" three of the last four years by their fans in the Chicagoland area. Their demand here and abroad, coupled with their spectacular fan base, has anchored them into a professional setting, and launched them into larger venues and theatres worldwide. The fantasy lives on with these remarkable musicians who take the music to the highest level possible. American English is the closest you will ever get to reliving The Beatles. Whether you grew up with the Fab Four or not, this show will be your window to the past. Witness ?The Complete Beatles Tribute? with American English! Genre: The Beatles

Jan 30, 2010 at 8:00 PM CST Alfonso Ponticelli's Gypsy Jazz Tribute to Django Reinhardt at SPACE - Evanston, IL $12.00 - $24.00

The group plays the 1930s-style music of guitarist Django Reinhardt -- foot-tappin' swing played on acoustic instruments. It's a blend of the jubilant swing of early jazz with the feisty passion of gypsy music, plus a strong dose of guitar pyrotechnics and virtuosic improvisation. Formed in 2001, Swing Gitan features bandleader Alfonso Ponticelli on lead guitar and a world-class lineup of musicians on violin, rhythm guitar and upright bass, with the occasional special guest. Over the years, they've played with many of the great contemporary gypsy-jazz players from around the world, including Bireli Lagrène, Stochelo Rosenberg, Moreno, Angelo DeBarre and the Robin Nolan Trio. Alfonso has studied gypsy-jazz music for more than a decade, having traveled several times to the annual Django Reinhardt festival in France. He introduced gypsy-jazz to Chicago in the 1990s, when he began teaching a weekly Django-style class at the renowned Old Town School of Folk Music, and he is often invited to teach his popular workshops at festivals around the country. A multi-instrumentalist, he won the 1994 U.S. National Mountain Dulcimer Championship and plays both banjo and guitar with the Illinois Philharmonic Orchestra. He's also a gypsy flamenco guitarist, having been to Cordoba, Spain, to study with the great flamenco guitarist Vicente Amigo. At the Iridium in New York, Les Paul invited Alfonso to play as a special guest with his trio. Genre: Jazz/Swing

Feb 4, 2010 at 8:00 PM CST Fifth House Ensemble presents Black Violet : An Unprecedented Experience in Art, Music and Narrativ at SPACE - Evanston, IL $8.00 - $60.00

CONTINUING TO PIONEER the art of narrative chamber music, Fifth House is excited to collaborate with graphic novelist Ezra Claytan Daniels as the ensemble presents its third annual subscription series, titled Black Violet, for the 2009-2010 season. Fifth House?s commitment to groundbreaking connective programming, dramatic interpretation, and creative energy has led to this unprecedented partnership, melding music of the highest caliber, vivid art and imagery, riveting narrative, and compelling characters as graphic novel slides illustrate the story. ACT II: The GREAT EXODUS of the TAMED OUR STORY takes place in the year 1665, amidst one of the most terrifying passages of London's history. The last major outbreak of Plague is decimating the populace. In an act of superstitious desperation, the Lord Mayor declares the city's Black Cats at fault. London's mercilessly hunted Black Cats plan to flee the city in a massive Exodus. When Violet inadvertently uncovers a startling conspiracy, she must join forces with an unlikely ally in a race to save those she loves. Featuring music by Harbison, Shostakovich, and Prokofiev. Genre: Performance art

Feb 9, 2010 at 8:00 PM CST Joe Firstman & Ernie Halter at SPACE - Evanston, IL $10.00 - $18.00

Joe Firstman bought an $18 cross-country Greyhound ticket from his home in North Carolina to Los Angeles, arriving with a beat-up guitar and head full of songs. He quickly found the big stage. It all happened quickly: first came the big Hollywood gigs, then the industry buzz, then the big deal with Atlantic Records and national tours with big rock stars like Sheryl Crow, Jewel, and Willie Nelson. There was ego and excess and beautiful ladies and music, music, music. Firstman wrote it all down and sang his songs like his life depended on it. Singer-songwriter Ernie Halter went through an emotional roller coaster this year. "The new record is called ?Starting Over? for a reason,? says Halter. ?I wanted the title to be direct, simple, and set the tone for the album. In this past year, I experienced the ending of a marriage and the birth of my first son. It was during this year that I wrote the material for the new record and performed over 150 shows.? ?More than ever I think it?s important to be as open and honest as possible, both as a songwriter and as a person,? Halter continues. ?One positive side to the tumultuous year I?ve had is this new-found freedom to say it as it is, to admit who I am and where I?ve been. I feel this is a total crossroads for me.? Genre: Rock/Acousti

Feb 11, 2010 at 8:00 PM CST Girlyman at SPACE - Evanston, IL $16.00 - $28.00

Can the members of Girlyman read each other's minds? Sometimes it seems so. Onstage they often finish one another's sentences or burst into improvised three-part ditties so tight they seem rehearsed. Truth is, the Atlanta-based trio has had years to develop this rapport. Doris Muramatsu and Tylan Greenstein became best friends in second grade. The two met Nate Borofsky in college at a talent show, and since then they've been creating their own unique language of three-part harmony. Informed by 60s vocal groups like Simon & Garfunkel and The Mamas and the Papas, and infused with years of classical and jazz training, Girlyman's songs are a dance of melody and suspensions - an irresistible blend of acoustic, Americana, and rock The Village Voice calls "really good, really unexpected, and really different." Genre: Folk Rock/Indie