Last Minute Plans: Andreas Kapsalis & Goran Ivanovic

By Sarah Cobarrubias in Arts & Entertainment on Feb 23, 2012 3:30PM

Andreas Kapsalis and Goran Ivanovic both specialize in 10-finger guitar, a technique that is neither new nor very unique. But each of these prodigious pluckers adds his own flavor. Kapsalis, born from Greek roots, takes to the steel-string guitar, while Ivanovic takes a more classical approach with his nylon-string guitar and draws heavily from Balkan roots. Combined, they create a fusion of Greek and Balkan folk, classical, world, and jazz—emotive, intense and seemingly-improvised compositions comprised of fluctuating rhythms and complex melodies.

The duo is, not surprisingly, best experienced live. Fortunately, they perform often around Chicago, and their next local show is tonight at the Underground Wonder Bar. If you can’t make it out to tonight’s show, Kapsalis and Ivanovic will return to Chicago March 9 for a show at Reggie’s, where they'll open for jazz-funk instrumentalists Snarky Puppy. Either way, here’s a little taste of the duo to hold you over:

The Andreas Kapsalis and Goran Ivanovic Guitar Duo play tonight, Thursday, February 23 at the Underground Wonder Bar, 710 N Clark, 10 p.m. $8, 21+
And Friday, March 9 at Reggie’s, 2109 S State, 8 p.m., $10 in advance or $15 at the door, 17+