Melanie Martinez: More than a Pop Star

Melanie Martinez by Sarah Hess - Best New Bands

Chicago – Last Thursday, fans began lining up outside the Vic Theatre, in the Lakeview neighborhood, starting at six in the morning, to see rising pop star Melanie Martinez. By six that evening, the line stretched far down Sheffield Avenue, filled with kids, teenagers, and twenty-somethings, most of whom were dressed to the nines. Pigtails were

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The Virginmarys’ Ally Dickaty Talks ‘Divides’

The Virginmarys by Alex Wright - Best New Bands

Chicago – U.K. trio The Virginmarys will soon be releasing sophomore album Divides. In preparation, the English punk rockers have been touring relentlessly, including supporting Shinedown on a North American tour and playing South By South West in Austin, Texas. The Virginmarys first formed in 2007, as a project between friends Ally Dickaty (vocals/guitar) and

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Night Moves Return With Magical ‘Pennied Days’

Night Moves - Best New Bands

Los Angeles – The Minneapolis based group Night Moves triumphantly return, after nearly four years, with sophomore LP Pennied Days (Domino Recording Co.). The band’s first record, 2012′s Colored Emotions, was a collection of poppy, 70s vibrancy. It was nostalgic yet distinctive. It heavily wore its influence on its sleeves. On this latest effort, principal members John Pelant (vocals, guitar) and

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Daughter Dazzled in Chicago

Daughter by Sarah Hess - Best New Bands

Chicago – London based band Daughter brought its indie folk rock to the Metro in Chicago last week, giving fans an emotional and magical evening. On album, Daughter is fantastic! Simply brilliant! However, the trio brings it ten fold live. Audience members at the sold-out show calmly and respectfully packed in. This crowd was the

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