Everyone's favorite Liverpudlian art punks, Clinic, are back on the scene with a brand new album and a full North American tour that will have them criss crossing the continent almost non-stop starting tomorrow through the end of the month. Similar to the band Elbow who we profiled last week, Clinic first broke through in the States around the turn of the millenium with a critically acclaimed debut album that hinted at massive commercial successful for years to come...however, years later they continue to be relegated to the realm of cult favorites and critical darlings. They've still got a strong fan base here in Chicago though, as they were able to add a second headlining show next Monday night at The Empty Bottle (check the status of your tix if you ordered early, you'll probably be defaulted to the early show). RFC recently caught up with Clinic lead singer Ade Blackburn via email to check out what the band has been up to lately and how they feel about continuing to have a "cult band" status.
Bad news readers...due to rising oil prices, we've been forced to make some budget cut-backs at RFC and the "Friday 8-track" has been downsized. With gas over $4, we just couldn't justify keeping the Radio Free Mobile Unit, our beloved 1974 Gremlin with the sweet in-dash Pioneer 8-track tape deck. So, there's no reason to make any more 8-track tapes since we don't have anything to play it in. Fortunately, a six'er of cheap canned beer at the corner liquor store is still under 4 bucks, so in honor of that we bring you the new RFC Friday freature... "The Friday 6-pack."
Inspired by the good times had by all at the recent Record Store Day, I went back into RFC's vinyl vault and picked out some of my favorite b-sides and vinyl-only bonus tracks. I probably could've cheated and found digital versions of most of these on-line, but as usual, I decided to kick it old school and ripped the MP3 files directly from the actual records. Yes, you may hear a click or pop here and there, but personally I think it's worth it to get as close to the real vinyl experience as possible.
///Avant-Chicago reports that the (re)opening of The Bottom Lounge will be delayed...again. As usual, city code issues are to blame. The scheduled Saturday night show with Haywood Yards has been moved to The Note, no word on any plan B for the Urge Overkill show on Friday.
///And speaking of The Note, tonight Tankboy is presenting a farewell concert for the venue as it will soon be closing its doors as a part-time rock venue. The speculation is that the 4am spot will reemerge as another preppy club catering to the gentrified crowd...which is lame, but did anyone genuinely like that place as a music venue? I'm guessing the phrase, "sweet, their show is at The Note!!" was rarely, if ever, heard around these parts. Perhaps it's for the best...
///Also earlier on tonight in Logan Square, there's a silent auction benefit at the Finch Gallery featuring items from local artists and merchants, music by DJ Justin Rathell and free beer. Support the cause and get even more warm fuzzy feelings from the free booze.
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