Dedication.  Hard work. Vision.  Networking.  All words often associated with success in business, but they equally apply to the way that Jim Boukas has built up a Chicagoland jamband empire of sorts over the last seven years.  By constantly tweaking the formula, breaking new ground, trying his hand at new things and fostering relationships with [...]

Here’s a taste of what to expect at the “First Thursday” residency from Jim Boukas and Eric Lambert. These shows run from 6-8 on the first thursday of every month and the cover is only $5 (you can also grab a coupon to catch a set of Phish tunes for free at Lilly’s later that [...]

The debut of an as-yet-unnamed Bluegrass Jamband, which should probaby gig a half a dozen times per year. The lineup features Eric Lambert (formerly of Sexfist, Wavy Dave (Cornmeal), Thad Landis (Dog Patch Ramblers) and Jim Boukas (Paradise Waits, Vasoconstrictors). Download entire show (mp3 .zip)

Months ago, I was pumped about the announcement of two night Umphrey’s McGee run in Chicago over Thanksgiving weekend.  Little did I know at the time, but by the time this extended weekend would arrive, that party would start in Chicago well before UM takes the stage, and continue all the way through to Thanksgiving [...]

There are certain musical truths in this world.  One of them (as this Venn Diagram explains) is that everybody loves Pink Floyd.  Their fans are rabid and diverse and they’ve  inspired musicians across a large swath of genres and backgrounds.  And so, when I set out to put together another Barn Presents Mix Tape featuring [...]

1. One of my favorite local blogs, The Are The Imitators, is featuring a sweet photo set from the Dawes / Blitzen Trapper show at the Metro last Thursday 2. Chicagoist Drinkifies several Chicago Bands.  For fun here’s the link to some of our jambands, Chicago based and otherwise:  Umphrey’s McGee (cold Bud Light), Cornmeal [...]

I’m trying a bunch of new things on the blog lately.  So in that spirit, I’m moving away from the traditional weekly link roundup and towards a more anyday / anytime format.  So goodbye Friday Linkafication, and hello to 5 Great Links – a combination of web destinations and videos that I think are worthy [...]

This all worked out like a game of musical chairs where in the end everybody is rolling on the floor and giggling. First, rumors swirled about Umphrey’s McGee abandoning their traditional Chicago New Year’s Eve gig for a Year closing Run in St Louis. Then, as the fall tour dropped, Chicagoans realized a two-nighter at [...]

Man, I love the Onion.  Many Linkafications have included videos. When I first realized they were filling off weeks this summer with a summer music edition, a rehash of music related articles fro the past, I figured I’d link up one or two of the best stories.  It turns out that the hits just kept [...]

It took a little while, but I’m ready comment on my experience at Summer Camp Music Festival this year.  I’ll withhold detailed comment on the weather or conditions, but there is enough to say about the music, even with my Sunday only pass, to get on the page.  So, in keeping with The Barn’s sub-theme [...]