WED. MAR. 10TH - 8PM - $8

kickstand productions present

w/ Pattern of Movement, Ghastly Menace, Corey Wills

Two years after the release of their critically-acclaimed album Say Something, Brooklyn’s indie pop quartet VIA AUDIO releases their sophomore opus, Animalore, a melting pot collection of eccentric sounds- songs infused with fairy tales, folklore, science fiction, romance, seduction, and adventure.

VIA AUDIO was formed in 2003 in between classes at the infamous Berklee College of Music in Boston. After releasing a self-titled EP on the small independent Kill Normal Records in 2004, the band first garnered attention when Death Cab for Cutie’s guitarist Chris Walla dubbed them his “new favorite band,” in his column for Under the Radar Magazine.

They soon after caught the attention of Spoon drummer Jim Eno, who would become their longtime producer, collaborator and comrade. With Eno’s help behind the board, VIA AUDIO released their first full-length, Say Something, in 2007 on California-based indie label Sidecho Records. Pitchfork Media described Say Something as having “such a beautiful gloss over everything that it sticks, hurts, and feels delicious" and the album received accolades from Spin, Nylon, Under the Radar, Alternative Press, theTripwire, and Stereogum, among others. VIA AUDIO has since toured the U.S. and Japan alongside the bands Spoon, White Rabbits, Someone Still Loves You Boris Yeltsin, Ha Ha Tonka, and Modern Skirts, making appearances at the South By Southwest, Monolith, and CMJ festivals.

Shutting themselves up again in Eno’s Austin, Texas home studio in 2009, the group tackled their latest songbook- the lo-fi electronics of “Digital,” the soul-infused funk of “Goldrush,” the ethereal surf-lament of “Wanted,” the glittery R&B pop of “Babies”- as Eno carefully and artfully crafted different sonic palettes for each unique song on Animalore. The result is an indie rock album that serves as a pop-up book for adults, bursting with vivid colors and secret corridors at the turn of every page.

THURS. MAR. 11TH - 10PM - $7

kickstand productions present

w/ Robert Sarazin Blake/ Torque Padroni

We all know that "long-awaited" is overused in band bios, but ask any hardcore Heligoats or Troubled Hubble fans and they will tell you that they've worn out the edges of their seats waiting for the newest release from Chris Otepka, the man behind The Heligoats.

The Heligoats was Otepka's first songwriting outlet. He wrote his first pieces in 1998 before eventually forming Chicago-based Troubled Hubble, a successful touring band that took up much of his musical energy from 1999-2005. During lulls in Troubled Hubble's career, Otepka would still write songs for The Heligoats, some of which ended up as TH songs, but most of which can be found on his various Heligoats recordings: Heated Arguments, Mountains, Sapling Sessions, etc. After Troubled Hubble played their last show, Otepka began working on The End of All-Purpose.

Being the perfectionist that he is, Otepka took a few years to record, listen, re-mix, and finish up these six songs, all the while touring and writing a full-length (due out in early 2009). This is only the beginning of The Heligoats' path.

THURS. MAR. 11TH - 5:30PM - $10 / $12

kickstand productions present

w/ Wavorly/ Turbovamps

A Celtic punk band from the working class south side of Chicago, this band of brothers and a bagpipe player is stirring things into a circle pit frenzy. Comprised of brothers Tobin, Justin and Kyle Bawinkel (respectively frontman, drummer and bassist) along with tartan-toting multi-instrumentalist Josh Robieson, Flatfoot 56 attacks dark subject matter—avarice, faithlessness, cowardice—with a gravity that belies their barely legal ages. That said, in the tradition of their street-punk forefathers, they’re just as adept at dialing up bone-crunching good times. Most of the Flatfoot live show is improvised, and it’s all contingent on Robieson and crew making swift transitions between guitar, mandolin, bagpipes and whatever other eclectic instruments they bring to the party.

"The Call of Nature", "Echos of Nature" and "Pretentiously Pompous"

w/ on display through march 17th

Artist Statement: "The Call of Nature" is a collection of nature landscapes that were taken over the last couple years that show little to no evidence of human interaction. To go out and see some of these pristine places is amazing and just impossible to capture. I've always drawn to nature and enjoy every second I'm out hiking around in it. That being said, no matter how hard I try to capture nature in my lens, it is never as striking as when you're standing there. Then to realize that "civilization" is just off camera, it wont be long before getting these shots will be impossible. Enjoy them while you can.

FRI. MAR. 12TH - 8PM - $6

kickstand productions present

w/ Idris Goodwin/ Guante + Big Cats!/ Seemore Perspective

One DJ, one engineer, two producers, and one emcee. Two lives orchestrated by, through, and with Hip Hop. We just try to make good music without taking ourselves too seriously. Growth and education is the focus and key.

FRI. MARCH 12th-11:30pm-$5

w/ DJ DANCE PARTY

Come See Mr. Gorgeous & iFM Rock out some Jackin', Funky, Deep, and maybe even Electro...House Music Baby!!! We will be following hiphop extrordinare: DIAGRAM OF TRUTH @ 9pm ish... then, its us: Mr. Gorgeous & iFM @ 11pm ish... Come get your Dance Party On!!! all ages show!!! beer and wine served to those 21+ only $5 at The House Cafe in Dekalb, IL

SAT. MARCH 13th-8pm-$tba

w/ THE LINDEN METHOD,A JOURNEY TO FALL, A MONUMENT FOR A MEMORY

Another Hero Dies was formed in the summer of 2008 and has been working hard ever since. Sharing the stage with national acts such as Sky Eats Airplane (Equal Vision), Haste The Day (Solid State), and Eyes Set To Kill (Break Silence), Another Hero Dies has no intentions of slowing down in this next year to come. With the forthcoming release of there new Self Titled EP, and playing shows non stop Another Hero Dies will no doubt accomplish more in 2009 than they ever have before. Stop out at a show near you and see what the buzz is all about for yourself!

SUN. MARCH 14th-7pm-$8 ($5 Presale!)

w/ Mr Willy Hosts, Art of the Flesh, Dies Mali, Innerot & MegaNyra

GET DISCOUNTED TICKETS FOR THE UPCOMING "REPUTABLE CARNAGE" SHOW HOSTED BY MR WILLY, FEATURING MUSIC BY DIES MALI, INNEROT, MEGANYRA AND ART OF THE FLESH RETURNING TO DEKALB FOR THE FIRST TIME IN NEARLY A YEAR!!! SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR DARK ARTS AND INDEPENDENT MUSIC BY ATTENDING THIS AWESOME EVENT!!! Click on the "BUY TICKETS NOW" button below for Discounted Tickets!

SUN. MARCH 14th-NOON-$Donation

Join us for a fun afternoon of celebrating everything Mariel loves! ART Mariel loves making things herself and has always had a love for art. Artists from all over the area have graciously donated a variety of artworks and hand-made goods that will be available for purchase throughout the day. We'll have prints, paintings, ceramics, jewelry, and so much more! 100% of the sales will be donated to her fund. SUPPORTING LOCAL BUSINESS Mariel always shops at local stores and loves to support the communities small business scene. Area businesses have come together to show their support for her by providing awesome raffle prizes. All prizes have been donated so that 100% of the ticket prices will be donated to her fund! Chances are $3 each or 2 for $5 CYCLING Mariel cycles virtually everywhere and gets down on some rockstar bike polo. North Central cyclery has donated 3 wheel sets with a total value of over $1,000! Details on how to win these wheel sets will be announced. But however we decide to do it, 100% of that will be donated to her fund as well! FOOD Mariel loves good food and served up some awesome munchies when she worked at the House Cafe. The sunshine wrap..... that's her permanent menu creation! For this event, some of Mariel's family members are baking up a storm and the yummies will be sold with 100% of the cash-moneys also going to her fund. Not sure if you've ever had Aunt Michelle's baked goodness, so now's you're chance.... get it while you can! MUSIC Mariel has an ear for quality local vibrations! Local musicians are donating their time and talent to celebrate Mariel and her love for the scene! Come enjoy some mellow melodies and dance with us! FAMILY and FRIENDS Mariel is an amazing friend to everyone who knows her and loves her family so much! On March 14th, we invite you, your friends and your family to come celebrate all these wonderful things. Whether you knew Mariel or not, you're sure to have a great time! Some extras.... Thai Pavilion is donating some free food for snacking, be sure to take a menu and visit them some time. Raffle prizes include a gift basket from Cracker Jax, a floral arrangement from Glidden Campus Florist, Chocolates from the DeKalb Confectionery, Music lessons from Poc's School of music, gift certtificates to local eateries and downtown shopping, and so much more. When you buy your tickets you will be able to enter the raffle for the prizes you want to win! Place all your chances on one prize or try to win them all! Special Thank you to... (in no particular order, they all get BIG props) The House Cafe for hosting the event free of charge! Copy Service for printing all the flyers and hand-bills! North Central Cyclery for donating such huge prizes! Everyone who donated their art and hand-crafted goods! Everyone who has been talking about it! http://www.kvue.com/news/Ccyclist-severly-injured-in-hit-and-run-crash-81049702.html http://supportmarielmentink.com/ http://www.facebook.com/event.php?eid=205881875909&ref=ts

WED. March 17th-9pm-$

Come on Lads and Lassies!Riotvan and SQUIFFY are invading the highlands known as the house cafe on Saint Pattys day! Bring yourself, your Grandmum and $5! Remember Doors Open At 8:30!

Thurs. MARCH 18th-6:30pm-$1

w/ dj Special K and DJ Armour

A night of art and music at The House Cafe. Exhibit - 6:30 - 8:30 pm Music - 8:30 - 12 pm Another night of art and music, featuring twenty one NIU Undergrad art majors at the House Cafe. Prints and silkscreen shirts available for $5, 2 for $8. Free to get in til 8, then $1 after for DJ Special K and DJ Armour. Artists - Dan Heskamp Zack Shereck Pat Hennessy Lori Sabina Piecyk Jena Simone Jacob Gaziano Missy Eymann Sarah Loar Brandon Kirkman Kimberly Fredricks Ian Johnson Mike Ballek Sam Gremp Maureen Hamann Libby Fansler Andy Kenney Matt Reyna Cher Ladford Ken Lindsay Randi Stella Jake "Marshall" Betterton.

FRI. March 19th-10:30pm-$tba

Los Osos Voladores - Jesus Correa is the heart of this project from Rockford, IL. His lone-wolf, solo-funk vocals and cryptic keys are set to a backdrop of groovy beat boxes and bubbly breaks. New Mutations - Scott Potter, his guitar, and his various electronic assistants are making DeKalb a better place with synth-rock. Experience this new audio/visual experiement live. CMKT 4 - Zach Adams, Austin Cliffe, and Jeff Cox combine synthesizers and circuit bending with guitars, bass, and drums to create rock music fused with foreign textures. Watch them defy reality with imposible sounds. Genre: Re-Rock Hometown: DeKalb

FRI. MARCH 19th-7:30pm-$5

There are few songwriters who have the ability to captivate an audience quite the way Kim DiVine is known to. Her songs embody all that is human, putting her heart unabashedly on her sleeve with her percipient insights and unique song form. The combination of these qualities has endeared her music to audiences of all ages worldwide. Originally from a small town in Massachusetts, Kim has been a substantial presence in Southern California’s music scene since 2004. Before her move to Los Angeles she dedicated her time performing in the San Diego’s music scene where she was named “Best Singer/Songwriter” and “Best Female Vocalist” in the 2006 San Diego H.A.T. Awards (Honoring Acoustic Talent). She has performed live on San Diego’s popular 91X FM Morning Show with Cantore, FM 94/9’s “Local Pyle”, and was a featured artist on KPRI 102.1 FM. Kim recently starred in “Kim & Seana”, a music infused Internet webisode series sponsored by Ford Motors and was also awarded “Best Acoustic Artist” for Indie In-Tune’s 2007 Publisher Awards. DiVine has received recognition on an International level as well. Songs “Home (Stickin’ Around)” and “What’s It Gonna Be?” made it to the second round of judging in the 2006 International Songwriting Competition (ISC) Her song "Trouble" placed in the top 20 for the "11th Annual Unisong International Songwriting Contest and also received an honorable mention for being placed in the top 500 entries in the 2007 “Billboard World Song Contest”. DiVine was chosen as a semi-finalist in the 2007 Discmakers International music World Series, west division and her video blog, “Bedroom Sessions”, was featured on the front page of YouTube in late 2007 and has received over 1.5 million views.

FRI. MARCH 19th-9pm-$5

What began as the soulful, piano-driven ballads of singer/songwriter, Jennifer Lucrezio, has now been transformed into an intense expression of robust passion, cultivated from the creativity that erupts when these humble creations are turned into the hands of a full band. Beginning her journey onto the road as an independent musician, Jennifer first brought her aspirations as a musician onto the Chicago music scene in the fall of 2006. Though not knowing a soul in the city of Chicago, she somehow found herself connecting with a few individuals willing to take what she had created on her piano, and bring to it the intensity of the guitar, played by Jordan Bumgarner, the depth of the bass, played by Peter Cisneros, and the drive of the drums, played by Dave Fowler. Having only begun combining each one's talents in the summer of 2007, the formation of these four into LUCREZIO has already found itself playing at Chicago venues such as The Elbo Room, Uncommon Ground, Beat Kitchen, and numerous events throughout Chicagoland.

SAT. MAR. 20TH - 8PM - $10

kickstand productions present

w/ Toad King

Family Groove Company is a four piece band from Chicago that is turning heads and catching ears with a sound that is uncannily fresh, and live performances that simply envelop audiences in the fun, excitement and passion that the band radiates from the stage. Growing audiences everywhere FGC plays attest to the impact the band is beginning to make, as they bring the excitement of their live performances to ever growing venues, in more and more cities across the country. Appearances at most of the Midwest's major music festivals (Summer Camp, 10,000 Lakes, Summerfest) have helped along the way, headlining appearances at other festivals (Farmapalooza, Feel Good) point to the great things to come, and the over 25,000 live CDs that have been distributed all over the country speak for themselves. Family Groove Company is a band that music fans should not miss.

THURS. MARCH 25th - 7PM - $8

kickstand productions present

w/ Victory in Numbers/ Oh So Secret/ Dead Holiday/ The Moves

Most bands go through their number of hardships; this is nothing new to the members of DRIVER SIDE IMPACT. Over their four years of being together they have endured some pretty bad luck including van break-ins, stolen equipment, and working through a number of line up changes. Holding strong, they've come out on top of things and are ready to start the New Year off right with the release of their EP, Double Vision, on January 12th.

The band formed in 2004, and it didn't take long before they were a popular fixture in the Cleveland area. Thy band put out their own EP, We Will Disappear, was co-headlining 800 to 1,000-seat arenas, and with their buzz continuing to grow it was only a matter of time before they received interest from Victory Records in May 2007. Soon after, DRIVER SIDE IMPACT released their first full-length Victory debut entitled, The Very Air We Breathe, taking them on a journey of adamant touring next to the likes of Bayside, Four Letter Lie and Mayday Parade. In 2008, DRIVER SIDE IMPACT teamed up with their previous producer, Don DeBiase, to release their second album, Lion.

In an effort to continue reinventing themselves as a band and with the urge to take their sound in a different direction, Chris Reck was brought into the mix as the bands new vocalist. "Once we found Chris, we knew he would bring it," says guitarist, Mark Woodridge. With the addition of Andrew Riccatelli (drums) and Jeheil Winters (bass), DRIVER SIDE IMPACT made their way to New Brunkswick, NJ to start building and developing their new sound. The result was a musical substance directly from the heart and soul of the band, Double Vision. "Since we recorded the record on our own, using what we had to work with, it was awesome to lay down tracks and not feel rushed in any way. We spent months working on this EP, we really did exactly what we wanted to do," comments founding guitarist, Jack McGinty. The band now takes a new approach on both their live performances and writing processes. "We decided to stick to a musical formula that explored our rock roots," explains Woodridge.

In the New Year, the bands main priority is relentless touring. "The music is so much fun to play live; I think that was a huge factor in how we wrote the songs. When we feel the crowd on our side, it only makes us push even harder, this next year is going to be insane for us," states Reck. Double Vision is a true representation of the direction DRIVER SIDE IMPACT is headed. "We worked a lot on lyrics and what we wanted to express. The music truly speaks for itself; Double Vision speaks from the heart."

FRI. MAR. 26TH - 7PM - $10adv/ $12dos

kickstand productions present

w/ Sass Dragons, Danger Boy, The Takeouts

Sixteen years in “band years” is basically forever. Or at least, that’s how long it seems like Michigan-based Mustard Plug has been in existence. But like a fine wine, aged cheese or a vintage ride, the pioneering ska-punk sextet has fully matured into a limitless musical machine — all the while maintaining the respect and admiration from its peers and fans that have long supported them.

Mustard Plug’s vocalist Dave Kirchgessner has been there, done that and just about seen it all — most particularly the changing of the guard in music scenes, trends and fads. And throughout these shifts, Mustard Plug has always stood tall, clinging to its signature sound without pandering to the next wave of “what’s big.” So it comes as no surprise that the band is set to release their sixth full-length, In Black And White, with the same passion and commitment to its art, just as they did as a fresh-faced basement band cutting demo tapes, playing parties and slotting themselves open mic night gigs.

Kirchgessner says the new album is a return to form of sorts, as Mustard Plug recently headed back to the famed Blasting Room recording studio in Fort Collins, Colo. to work with veteran punk producer Bill Stevenson (Descendents/ALL, NOFX) — the same studio location and producer of the band’s wildly successful 1997 full-length Evildoers Beware.

While In Black And White’s title may nod to technology of the past, take one spin of the new album, and you’ll instantly notice a record that’s as colorful and current as ever, crammed full of ear-grasping melodies, thanks in large part to the band’s strong songwriting capabilities. In fact, it was the strength of these songs that was the main reason why Stevenson opted to work with the group once again.

Launching with the band’s time honored guitar-propelled ska-punk twist of “Who Benefits?,” In Black And White makes good on delivering an aural assault by bar chords, bass lines and brass ensembles. “Time To Wake Up” is one of the album’s most explosive cuts sporting bold shout choruses, instantly juxtaposed by the syrupy pop-punk melodies of “Something New.” And though “You Can’t Go Back” clocks in at a mere 48 seconds, it offers a poignant musical viewpoint, all the while without sacrificing the integrity of what’s become standard fare Mustard Plug.

But what exactly is standard fare Mustard Plug? For that answer, one has to dig through the band’s broad catalog, starting with the decidedly ska-heavy October 1992 demo tape, Skapocalypse Now!, originally released on Kirchgessner's own Dashiki Clout label, which was later re-issued for mass consumption by Hopeless. Several years later, the band’s Hopeless debut (and first collaboration with producers Stevenson and Stephen Egerton) Evildoers Beware offered a better balancing act of traditional ska with strong punk overtones. The release hit store shelves in March 1997 (a critical time for the genre during the height of its popularity), eventually finding over 90,000 homes, and was quickly followed-up by 1999’s Pray For Mojo.

In 2002, the band opted to do things their own way, self-producing its fifth album, Yellow #5, and three years later, Mustard Plug released a greatest hits collection, titled Masterpieces: 1991-2002.

With an impressively loyal fanbase that consistently asks for more, a touring resume that comprises of hundreds of thousands of miles and countless venues both domestically and internationally, not to mention the bands Mustard Plug has shared bills with (from Fall Out Boy to Rancid to Helmet and even Weird Al Yankovic!), In Black And White offers a band whose exhaustive history practically guarantees excellence. And that’s a hard offer to deny.

SAT. MARCH 27th-11pm-$

w/ FROM THE MORNING , PICTURE PERFECT DISASTER

Kill The Less Likely is a project that has been in the works for sometime. It started in a garage several years ago wth R.J. Salisbury (Short Bus Mafia) playing guitar and Nick Jaime (The Riverbilly Cousin Touchers/My Mexican Friend) playing drums. After several line-up changes Kill The Less Likely has found Matt Viland to fill the low end sound that they needed and are ready to bring their unique brand of Stomp Rock to the table. Also on the bill.... From the morning: http://www.myspace.com/iamfromthemorning Picture Perfect Disaster http://www.myspace.com/pictureperfectdisaster

SAT. MAR. 27TH - 7PM - $8 adv / $10 dos

kickstand productions present

w/ State & Madison/ Kirkland/Without A Face

Playing tuneful pop/rock with a dash of punk-influenced energy, Treaty of Paris were formed in Chicago, IL, in late 2004. Launched by former members of popular local acts Saraphine and Empyrean, the group originally consisted of Mike Chorvat on lead vocals and guitar, Dan Wade and Phil Kosch on guitars, Brandon Capetillo on bass, and Scott Hoeft on drums. Before the bandmembers had settled on a name, they were asked to join the bill for a "secret" show, and came up with Treaty of Paris as a gag handle to use for the evening. However, the band went over well enough that the name stuck, and Treaty of Paris began aggressively promoting themselves with the new moniker. After extensive local gigging and touring along the East Coast, Hoeft left the group and Treaty of Paris welcomed new drummer Chris Insidioso. The new lineup released an EP, Behind Our Calm Demeanors, in the fall of 2005, and began receiving airplay on commercial radio in Chicago, including Q101 and 94.7 The Zone. After strong regional sales for the EP, Treaty of Paris were signed to Airport Tapes and Records, a new independent label launched by Andrew McMahon of Something Corporate.

Sunday MArch 28th-6pm-$

w/ Red Reserve, The Kevin Trudo + Meathawk, and Set Free.

Have you ever heard something that made you move, despite all of your power? Have you ever had a religious experience with your headphones on? Take these aspects and add good rock and roll, psych-rock jams, and passionate blues with the caliber to make a grown man weep yet beg for more of it. You have just made a figment of your imagination called Sitticus. The irony of this situation is that this band exists, and they're more than what you imagine. This will be an evening nothing short of epic. Sitticus will be releasing their full-length, self-titled album, "Sitticus." To complement selling hard copies at the event ($7 a piece), the album will also be available on iTunes and Amazon mp3 that day as well. Recorded/produced by Justin LeBreck of Waysound Records in Fox River Grove, IL www.waysound.com Some new tracks include, "Barenaked Love," by Vince Pacione, and the ripping blues original, "Haven't Done A Thing To You." Clear your schedules! ALL AGES! $6 dollar cover at the door to cover the sound man who no matter who it is, always does an awesome job. EVERYONE IS INVITED SO INVITE ALLLL OF YOUR FRIENDS! OTHER ENTERTAINMENT THAT NIGHT INCLUDES: Set Free - Latin/Pop Red Reserve - Rock/Blues - (Myspace Page) www.myspace.com/theredreserve3 The Kevin Trudo + Meathawk - Rock/Alternative - (Facebook Page) http://www.facebook.com/meathawk?ref=ts One's perspective on music can change on a daily basis. This perspective is of what is good, what is not so good. It is of what can move you, and what cannot. Let Sitticus change your perspective once again; they are here for good, and they will move you.

TUES. MAR. 30TH - 8PM - $7

kickstand productions present

This is Koji's 2nd appearance at the House Cafe!

Wed. March 31rst-7:30pm-$5

Truman's Ridge is a traditional bluegrass band. The band has been together since early 2008 The band features Steve Sarver on 6-string guitar and lead vocals; Mark Fowler on mandolin and harmony vocals; Bruce Wallace on 5-string banjo and harmony vocals; and Doris Clayton on upright bass You will enjoy the band's fast-paced blend of traditional bluegrass, tradition-based original, and old-time gospel songs. We sing two and three part harmonies in the prairiegrass style. Record Label PaSaKa Productions

on display now...

w/ kevinlustrup.com

Powell's art presents a distinctive visual reality that blends different styles such as Fauvism, Art Nouveau, Surrealism, and Abstract Expressionism with elements of Classic POP and Arte Povera. The work is painterly, organic, and features bright color, with all-over spaced compositions. One example of this synthesis is a work titled "The Dangerous Limit" created in the summer of 2001. He usually paints at night, when the energy feels right under artificial light or with candles. In 2006, Danny co-founded the Chicago based artist collective known as the Infidel Group with the poet and artist Jono Tosch (creator of the Idiot Hero). The goal of the group is uniting Chicago's artists and public through laid-back exhibitions in comfortable alternative spaces. The group members work collaboratively to put on unique events that feature artwork and live music (A Light Sleeper) in a welcoming and positive atmosphere. Infidel Group strives for rooted community based events, partnering with both local businesses, and community focused international organizations, to share the benefit of exposure. Modeled in the vein of art groups of the early 1900s such as Die Brucke, Infidel Group members share an enthusiasm for engagement, professionalism and balance amongst contemporary artists. Since the summer of 2008, Danny has been collaborating with Kevin Lustrup and exploring new techniques. Kevin's influence includes the use of oil paint, stencils and spray paint, as well as larger formats, and a new interest in tattoos and graffiti culture. Frequent trips to the Art Institute of Chicago in 2009 have stimulated research into Asian art, specifically painting and sculpture from India and the Himalayan region.

Thurs. APRIL 1rst-8pm-$5

The Boomers are a collection of musicians with long "rap sheets" of bands and performance. Lead by Teddy's mastery of the "lick'n stick" AKA the harmonica, he provides a rock steady springboard for band's blues sound. Ted bends his way through the blues playing through his collection of antique amplifiers that compliment his wailing phrasing. Ken’s guitar playing style is as varied and beautiful as his guitar collection. His talents help provide the harmonic backdrop that the band's songs are painted upon. The bass lines laid down by Phil provide the non-stop punch that drives their music home. Slow ballads come to life with his silky smooth fretless bass work. He is equally adept at providing screaming fast licks that punctuate the band’s signature hard driving style. Growing up on the Chicago south side provided Jimmy with an unequalled platform to base his musical style upon. The big man behind the drums also provides vocals for the band. What happens when you combine a butcher, a printer, an electrician, a day care administrator and a roof truss designer? You get Johnny and the Boomers; the working man’s blues band!

FRI APR 2ND - 5:30PM - $15 / $17

kickstand productions present

The pride of Colleyville, TX, Bryce Avary recorded and released two initial EPs before taking the Rocket Summer to stages worldwide. Avary signed with The Militia Group in 2002 and released the Calendar Days LP a short time after; a gifted songwriter and musician, he played every instrument heard on the album, debuting a lush, layered, and exuberant sound that blended alt-rock and emo influences with references to his faith. The Tim O\'Heir-produced Hello, Good Friend followed in 2005. By that time the Rocket Summer had gained a reputation not only for Avary\'s multi-threat talent in the studio, but for he and his band\'s energetic live shows. Miltia reissued his first self-titled EP in November 2006, retitled The Early Years EP, whose original 1,000 copies had been sold out since Avary had recorded and released it at age 16 (circa 1999/2000). The iTunes EP was released in early 2007 and, following a move to Island/Def Jam Records, Avary released his third full-length, Do You Feel. In 2009 Avary released the four song EP, You Gotta Believe, which featured material that would appear on Of Men and Angels, released the following year

SAT. APR. 3RD - 8PM - $12

kickstand productions present

[of the Pedro The Lion]

w/ Headlights

Essentially, Pedro the Lion is David Bazan (although the name, Pedro the Lion, originally came from a character Dave thought up while working on a children's book). Granted, PtL has had many band members over the years, but only one has been there through it all. Bazan is the one who is responsible for the incredible music and brilliant lyrics that make Pedro the Lion so great. Without David, there would be no Pedro the Lion. However, PtL has had pretty consistent membership lately, and Mr. Bazan is currently joined by the wonderfully talented TW Walsh and Ken Maiuri.

SAT, April 10th,- 8pm-$

w/ DEAD LARRY, ASTRAL GUARD, BLUSHING GUN, BLACKJACK SASS

After two full length albums and hundreds of show performed, Merlin is still expanding their sound through various influences. With elements of rock, psychedelic, reggae, punk, funk, folk, and metal (maybe even in one song) you never know what type of mood you'll leave a show in. Dead Larry has often been called one of the most ambitious bands to come out of the musically fertile Iowa City music scene. Their songs range from heavily funk inspired pop songs to the dark, driving to songs that are reminiscent of Irish ballads. Astral Guard is a psychedelic experience visually and sonically. With ever-changing audio and raw emotion, this band will leave you on the edge of your seat, while maintaing a comfort found within their melodies. With their second currently untitled EP in the works, The Blushing Gun isn’t being too shy. From finger picking to falsettos, hip shaking to head banging, this entire band will keep you interested on every level.

TUES. APR. 13TH - 7:15PM - $12 adv / $14 dos

kickstand productions present

w/ Through the Eyes of the Dead/ Arsonists Get All the Girls/ Tony Danza Tap Dance Extravaganza/ Chelsea Grin

Grind core devotees Impending Doom present a compelling offering in the form of their new album The Serpent Servant. A formidable adversary in the death metal ring, the revelation in Servant is the obvious refinement that adds a somber light to the darkness Impending Doom inflict with their follow up to 2007’s Nailed. Dead. Risen. Their ubiquitous brand of instrumental prowess is apparent and the vocals come alive with retribution on this their second Facedown release.

WED. April 14th-7pm-$

[of the Dankity Salsafried Groovalicious Rasta-Jam Rock]

Not just a jam band, not a reggae band, or a jazz ensamble, or a rock band, but all fused together to form the original sound of SLM. Every song has a uniquness to it. You will hear bluesy flowing guitar solos to shredding headbanging licks from song to song. We were sick of hearing the same songs over and over on the radio. It's to the point where every band sounds the same. With an appreciation for all styles of music, we're trying to create something for everybody. Our main goal, make you dance, party, and enjoy all aspects of life and music!

SAT. APR. 17TH - 10PM - $8

kickstand productions present

w/ PI/3 in Counting

WED. APRIL 21rst-6:00pm-free

[of the niu school of music]

get ready for some of the areas finest jazz musicians...8 combo groups get together to play three songs each in a evening that will keep you on the edge of your seat...the jazz is jumping and the crowd is swinging..come be part of this event as we celebrate the finest in jazz performances..

Thur. APRIL 22nd -8pm.-$ .

[of the acoustic , country, punk]

w/ CRICKET , THE RIVERBILLY COUSIN TOUCHERS , WIENERSLAV

"Punk makes nice with Country" -Rochester, NY, Democrat & Chronicle. "Potentially offensive hillbilly band" -Indianapolis, IN, NUVO. "Satanic Johnny & June" -Manhattan, NY, Lush Life Bar Notes (by Mark Wheeler) "Imagine the Nickel Creek kids growing up smoking crack.. traumatized in Appalachia..and there you go." -Mobile, AL, Weekly Jangle. "Polly Punkneck residing somewhere between Dolly Parton and Gwen Stefani" -Rochester, NY, Democrat & Chronicle. "Jason and the Punknecks brought the Trash and Twang" -Rochester, NY, City Paper. “Heavily tattooed, L.A. based, punk-country band, who mixes Social Distortion with a little bit of hillbilly hollerin’ and a hint of Hank Williams” -Nashville, TN, RAGE Magazine. "Imagine if the HBO television show “Carnival” had a house punk-rock band and you’d have Jason and the Punknecks." -Los Angeles, CA, Rarwriter (by Rick Alan Rice) "Country Punk Mayhem" -Freetime Magazine, New York "An Acoustic sound somewhere between hillbilly-rock and Americana" -Vindy.com/news, Youngstown, Ohio

jason and the punknecks, Cricket, The RiverBilly Cousin Touchers,

w/ wienerslav

Cricket The group formed in Chicago’s Schizophonic Studio in 2008 as a 3-piece with Damen on drums and vocalist God-Damn Pam joining to showcase singer/songwriter/guitarist Jimi Cricket’s deeply personal words and music, covering the topics of love and hate, life and death, freedom and restrictions, and sobriety and addictions. Their live performances have left audience members surprised at such a big sound coming from such a small group, as the songs and stories are bigger than all of us and cannot be contained. Expect a whiskey and sweat soaked performance you will not soon forget!

FRI. APR. 23RD - 8PM - $8

kickstand productions present

w/ Secret Colours & More TBA

It takes a keen eye to recognize any opportunity. It takes a strong hand to go forth and make something of it, be it forming a dream into reality, recognizing the talent of those around you or, in this case, building Empires.

Empires began in fall 2006 when long time friends Sean Van Vleet (vocals) and Tom Conrad (guitar) realized their musical chemistry together and, wanting to form a full band, aimed to complete the equation. They moved to Chicago in early 2007. The blessing of talented friends continued, when Max Steger (guitar) and Ryan Luciani (drums) joined in the months that followed. Though the search for a bass player was long, it was well worth it when Alfred Smith officially joined the band towards the end of the year. Their individual skills had been proven on stage and in the studio before, but there was unity and solidity together in this new band of old friends.

Throughout the whole of 2007, the as-yet-unnamed band wrote and created songs, playing and replaying and perfecting. The care and time with which the songs were formed allowed for an organic type of growth between the five members, every note and lyric being carefully placed on top of Luciani's hypnotic drums. Their name came in natural time as well, when Conrad and Van Vleet separately had the word Empires come their minds; it worked. With Steger at the helm producing and engineering, the recording process began in October.

Four months later, and done entirely by the band themselves, Howl was complete. Fifteen songs vigilantly written and recorded, an effort Empires are proud to release. Though some have been able to preview the tracks at their recent (and sold out) Chicago area shows, the complete album will be made available digitally, and for free, this spring. Howl is an eclectic rock record, with a timeless sound preceding the age of it's twenty-something writers. Empires will be bringing their completed work to stages across the rest of the country later on in 2008 but, in the mean time, enjoy its sound at myspace.com/empires. The anticipation of hearing this act over a year in the making may be hard to withstand, however, it's important to remember that Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither were Empires.

SAT. APR. 24TH - 6PM- $7

kickstand productions present

w/ The Sleepyheads/ Turbo Vamps

Originally from Indianapolis, they released "...Show You How to Rock 'n' Roll" in 2006. Their second album, "Make it Cry, Boys", was recorded in January of 2008 and is now available on iTunes. They now reside in San Francisco. Their music infuses '77 punk, rock'n'roll and country.

SAT. APR. 24TH - 10PM- $8

kickstand productions present

w/ Mahara/Sioum

The Andreas Kapsalis & Goran Ivanovic Guitar Duo are Chicago's finest acoustic instrumental guitarists. Now for the first time, steel string ten finger tapping guitar prodigy Andreas Kapsalis, and nylon string Balkan folk guitarist Goran Ivanovic are fusing their Serbian and Greek folk music roots with modern, classical, world, jazz and beyond in this experimental duo.

SAT. MAY. 8TH - 6:30PM - $10 adv/$12 dos

kickstand productions present

w/ Stray from the Path/Dorians Decay/Till Death/Another Hero Dies

Sometimes a sweeping change within an entity is all that is needed for all the cards to fall into place. In the case of metal-hardcore outfit The Word Alive, by gaining a dynamic new vocalist, it was just the catalyst the group needed to take their next steps forward in their burgeoning career. Feeling a bit stagnant in their progression beforehand, the addition of vocalist Tyler Smith (ex- Greeley Estates, In Fear and Faith) catapulted the band’s ambitions to the forefront. With this initiation, their goals and aspirations were much more a reality, and they set to work on what would become their forthcoming debut EP, Empire. “Once I joined we all felt we had a chance to do something special and we've worked hard to make that happen ever since,” Smith said. “We are all positive that we have something different, and that helps motivate us to work harder.” Recorded with producer Andrew Wade in Ocala, FL, and to be released July 21st on Fearless Records, Empire is an intimately personal album for Smith, whose impassioned lyrical subjects range from dissolving relationships to the struggles he was battling privately. Enhanced by furious guitar wizardry courtesy of shredders Tony Pizzuti and Zack Hansen, as well as rapid-fire drumming brought to life by Tony Aguilera, the EP is a non-stop sonic assault that is at once powerful and unpredictable. “We all feed off of each other really well,” Smith said. We take a little bit of everything we like and put it together to try and give the listener at least something to grasp onto when they hear a song for the first time. We consider ourselves a metal band who enjoys singing a lot. As much as we love being brutal, we love being referred to as ‘epic’ and ‘beautiful’. It works for us.” Since joining the Fearless family with the objective of “taking our band to a whole other level,” The Word Alive are intending to achieve that design with the upcoming release of Empire, as well as anticipatory stretches of roads and shows. Smith said the touring experience has been a priceless endeavor, a test that will show their compatibility on stage, as well as their staying power. Despite several trials and tribulations while traversing the country (blowing tires, striking wildlife), their premiere trek has shown the quick rise and admiration of the band. Beginning with a sold-out night for their first out-of-state show on their first-ever tour, the Phoenix natives are reaching fans nationwide with their incendiary stage presence and bombastic music. We hope to just keep touring, touring, touring... we couldn't be happier or more appreciative to be on tour right now,” Smith said. “I think despite having some of the worst luck in the early beginnings of being a touring band yet never missing a show, we always have a positive attitude and that will make us a stronger band, For a band with the chance to begin cutting its teeth in the touring world, and with an explosive new EP on the near horizon, change has never looked so good as on The Word Alive.

SUN. MAY. 9TH - 7PM - $12

kickstand productions present

w/ Bobby Long

Matt Pond isn't looking for trouble, but he won't back down from a good fight – the most recent being his latest album, Last Light. If this were an action flick, we'd open on a vigilant Pond, wresting the steering wheel from anyone who wishes to drive him off a cliff. See, this is the first time he's accepted a lead role – that of Producer – and it may just be his best yet. It goes something like this: We flashback to 2004: After the release of Emblems, Pond's body is found, in song, behind a hotel. Now, three years later with Last Light, he's kicked the coffin wide open. As incongruous as a eulogy at a baptism, Last Light is the absurdity that blankets our grandest efforts, along with the undeniable instinct that is survival – a field of paranoia and a flood of self-medication that, somehow, remains fertile. Musically, it displays Pond's newly formed reverence for those who are English (Pulp, Blur, Idle Race) as well as a lasting dedication to those who are timeless (Elliott Smith, The Kinks and Neil Young) – thus revealing the connected distances between soaring strings, feedback and a solo acoustic guitar.

It all begins with the title track – a grinding, rollicking preamble to the journey before us, and the fear that comes with it. Riding a lively swell of chaos – sounding not unlike Spiritualized getting, well, spiritual in Appalachia – "People Have a Way" follows as a pulsing denouncement of apathy. Mirror-house regard meets familiar themes of nature and changing seasons in the sweetly-strummed, piano-littered "Locate the Pieces," while the gliding force of "Honestly" takes a swing at disbelief as a forceful string arrangement chops unremitting at the space around it. Close on its tail is the redolent "Taught to Look Away" – a waltz-like duet (co-starring Neko Case) that questions the opposing act of belief. Elsewhere, warm feelings of despair thread throughout the jaunty handclaps of "Sunlight," driving guitars of "Basement Parties" and ephemeral reflection of "Until the East Coast Ends." "The Crush" and "Giving It All Away" explore the cathartic release of frustration while angular guitars jab under precisely delivered lyrics. Finally, the trip concludes with the sparing desire of "It's Not So Bad At All"– a gentle, self-reassuring mantra of simple hope.

Last Light dragged Matt Pond back and forth across the country – from Brooklyn to Bearsville to Los Angeles to Tucson to Manhattan (There remain rubber tracks on the Sunset Strip where he beat himself and everyone else at the standing stoplights. "The trick is to time the green with the walk signal…"). Along the way he was introduced to an amazing cast of supporting characters, including Neko Case, Kelly Hogan, Isobel Sollenberger (Bardo Pond), Rob Schnapf (Elliott Smith, Beck), Taylor Locke (Rooney), Lance Konnerth, Jane Scarpantoni, Mike Stroud (Ratatat) and Thom Monahan (Pernice Brothers, Lily's).

The prequel: Matt Pond PA is Pond's attempt to create an egalitarian event despite knowing better (see: Easy Rider, or just review the band's history). Over the years, Pond slowly weaved his way from Pennsylvania to New York, releasing a string of albums that sought to redefine leaves and leaving. The critical success of Emblems (2004) and Several Arrows Later (2005) scored mpPA a place on Conan O'Brien's stage and in every O.C. fan's iPod, not to mention excellent tours with Ted Leo and the Pharmacists, Keane, Liz Phair and Guster. And, despite the tragedy that is stolen gear, mpPA has also managed many successful headlining tours. All of this as band members and producers periodically fell from the late season trees. It is impossible to know who slipped or who was pushed, but Pond currently holds on alongside his friends "slash" greatest contributors: Dan Crowell (drums/keys/guitar) and Steven Jewett (guitar/bass).

The story isn't over. But the fight, for now, has been won. And though Matt Pond is a vegetarian and an ex-smoker, he'd still like to light up and eat a steak in the final scene. After all, we should all be able to choose our last suppers.

FRI. MAY. 14TH - 7:15PM - $8

kickstand productions present

w/ Oh So Secret

Hail Archer blends qualities of unbridled attitude and aggressiveness with blistering and beautiful atmospherics to create a sonic landscape of raw feeling and energy. Since their inception in early 2008 the band has already heralded accolades such as; being named one of the Top 8 Unsigned Bands by Alternative Press Magazine, being voted in as one of the Hometown Heroes in Alternative Press Magazine, being featured as one of the bands to be "Big in 2009" by Crescendo Magazine, winning the Emerging Artists Series at the world's largest music festival, Summerfest 2008, by winning spots on Warped Tour and Taste of Chaos, and being featured on countless internet/broadcast radio stations. The band has been touring and playing shows relentlessly and have no intentions of slowing down.

Thur. May 27th-7pm-$5

[of the Indie/Pop/Folkrock/Rockford, Illinois]

w/ Ian Olvera & The Sleepwalkers

"A well established and traveled original roots and indie rock band, Ian Olvera & The Sleepwalkers regularly features Nikolas Davidson on drum kit, Connor Lamue on bass guitar and vocals, Ian Olvera on guitars and vocals, and sometimes Matthew O'Grady on guitars and vocals. Building on the success of the group's 2007 debut e.p. "Some Of Us Dream," the band anticipates a full length record in 2010." And for TVP: "The Viking Portables is an original folk-power-pop foursome consisting of singer-songwriter Matt Flamm on vocals and rhythm, Dan Schrom on lead guitar, Noel Rennerfeldt on bass, and Philip Soosloff on drums. The band has a distinct sound and ranges across territories of folk, pop, rock, punk, and indie."

SAT. MAY. 29TH - 8PM - $7

kickstand productions present

w/ Joe Di Zillo

The Saps are a Chicago Pop/Punk band.

SAT. June 12th-8pm-$8

w/ tba

WIRED returns to the House Café for one night to deliver to their audience a style of Rock that keeps audiences wanting more. Formed in 2007 as “Hands Held High”, with the three original members, (Matthew, Hayden, and Dalton ), it started out as most “garage” bands did. But it was quickly apparent that this band had to come “out of the basement”. With the addition of Dan, Gary, and Aaron, WIRED was born. WIRED has taken the stage many times at festivals and events around Northern Illinois . This is your chance to catch them locally during their 2010 schedule. With their high energy and contagious enthusiasm, it’s easy to understand why this band is one you will be hearing a lot of in the years to come. WIRED is: Dalton Bates-bass , Matthew Birtell-drums, Gary Flowers-vocals, Dan Kedzie-guitar, Hayden Perkins-guitar, Aaron Zepeda-vocals and keyboards. Joining WIRED will be special guests TBA.

WED. JUN. 16TH - 6:30PM - $13 ADV/$15 DOS

kickstand productions present

w/ I Set My Friends on Fire/Tides of Man/Abandon All Ships

Give a band a second album and they’ll build you a city.

For their sophomore effort, and their first with new label Fearless Records, post-hardcore outfit A Skylit Drive have crafted a sweeping, innovative narrative with Adelphia. Born from the mind of guitarist Joey Wilson, this fictional, frozen metropolis was created to push the notions of what the band could achieve, and to reach a new level with their storytelling.

“We wanted Adelphia to represent and display the band’s growth and love for writing the best music we can,” said lead vocalist Michael “Jag” Jagmin of the multiple accounts within the album, out June 9th. “The songs are a collaboration of stories telling of the happenings within the boundaries of Adelphia. It's all different ways of explaining how wrong the city and its ways are, and how these two people are doing everything in their power to escape. All the songs are rooted back to what it would be like to defy everything and get away from it all.”

For these experimentalists from Lodi, California, Adelphia is a step in a challenging and dramatic direction. “It will tell everyone that we aren’t afraid to push any boundary,” Jagmin said. “We are willing to try anything no matter how out of the box it may be.”

A Skylit Drive’s first effort, Wires and The Concept of Breathing, landed them at a #9 debut on the Heatseekers chart, and has sold over 30,000 copies. The group is no stranger to online success as well, garnering over 18 million plays and staying in the MySpace Top 100 charts for over a year. Not a band to ever be satisfied or slow down, they also unleashed a live DVD in December 2008 titled Let Go Of The Wires, which featured five previously unreleased music videos, interviews and was a chance to display their incendiary stage antics.

The loaded concept of Adelphia made its construction even more concentrated, requiring all members to stretch their ideas and talents in directions unexplored. Recorded over a month in Seattle with producer Casey Bates (Chiodos, Portugal. The Man), the band’s comfort with Bates heightened the free-thinking disposition of the album.

Wilson and fellow guitarist Nick Miller provided much of the groundwork for the record, bringing in frenetic riffs that the band would grow upon and fashion into the intricate sonic explosions riddled through Adelphia. Jagmin’s high-octave vocals and exploratory lyrics, along with Cory La Quay and Brian White’s intermittent and propulsive howls, complete the feel of the disparate environment the band envisioned, as well as the extreme lengths to which they wanted to take it. “Everything was gone over with a fine-tooth comb,” Jagmin said. “If a part is going to be poppy and catchy we will make it so poppy it hurts when you try to get it out of your head. If a part is going to be heavy and brutal we're going to melt faces off.”

As a band that will be highly visible on the scene throughout the summer, it’s only fitting that A Skylit Drive was touted as one of the “100 Bands You Need To Know In 2009” in Alternative Press’ annual issue. Bolstered by a second straight co-headlining spot on the Artery Foundation spring tour (which has been consistently selling out nearly every date since opening night), the band will delve into the long, sticky days that encapsulate the juggernaut that is Warped Tour on the heels of Adelphia’s release. After sharing stages with musical contemporaries Chiodos, Silverstein, August Burns Red, Escape The Fate and Alesana in the past, these forthcoming jaunts will aid A Skylit Drive in broadening their audiences and roads traveled.

“We want to play as many shows to as many kids as possible in ‘09. This album is ‘the one’ for us, and we're willing to work to the bone to make sure the world hears it,” the band enthused collectively. “We put all of ourselves into this band, and the record will say A Skylit Drive is here to leave a mark that will never heal.”