It’s practically a modern pop-culture pastime to delight in the train wreck that can result when an actor- or model-turned-musician cuts their first album. The track record for such entertainers is spotty at best, so we were tempted to reserve a little cynicism for Karen Elson— (still probably best-known as the flame-haired, ghost white supermodel of things we can’t afford). To do so would have been a bit unfair to Elson, who isn’t really new to the game at all: she's lent her talent to collaborations with Cat Power and Robert Plant, and sings with the cabaret-styled collective she co-founded, The Citizens Band. more ›

Since its release last October Raising Sand, the critically lauded collaboration of former Led Zeppelin frontman Robert Plant and high priestess of bluegrass Allison Krauss, has become something of a phenomenon. Working in tandem with producer T Bone Burnett, who picked and arranged the songs, Raising Sand is a joy to the ears. Its emphasis on blues, country and old R&B is reminiscent of Bob Dylan's records of the past twenty years, while Burnett's production at times evokes the ethereal moods of Emmylou Harris' Wrecking Ball or Willie Nelson's Teatro. more ›

As if you needed reminding, it's Tax Day, one of the more stressful times of the year, especially with the economy in the toilet. But maybe you're lucky enough to get a half-decent refund from the Federal Government this year and feel like treating yourself to something nice. more ›

The mercury has cracked 50 degrees on consecutive days this week and that's had us thinking about Spring around here. We know, it's supposed to get cold again next week, but we can see the light at the end of the tunnel. It's time to start planning our summer excursions. Sure, Lollapalooza and the Pitchfork Music Fest made big headlines recently, but Ravinia's 2008 schedule was also released this week, meaning we can start incorporating trips to Highland Park into our plans. more ›

Chicagoist is usually against bringing little kids to bars. Not because we’re worried about them being exposed to alcohol but more because they’re usually hogging the jukebox; the hits of Radio Disney should not be the soundtrack to anyone’s alcoholic adventures. While the law in the State of Illinois agrees with us, how are you going to teach your kid proper show etiquette if you can’t bring them with you? Martyr’s may just have the... more ›