These Cats Are All That
Acclaimed Musicians (SuperGroup!), Local Talent (Magicians!) Blend at CAU's Art and Music Showcase this Saturday

By Hannah Frank, March 4, 2010

Gypsy jazz guitarist Alfonso Ponticelli and Saxophonist Mars Williams are solid enough talents to warrant their own weekend headlining slots. But by sharing the stage as part of the singer-songwriter Ellis Clark’s “SuperGroup” at the Viaduct Theater this  Saturday night, music fans might ask themselves, “Did I hear that right?” Especially after you add another half-dozen or more outsized talents to the band. Not to mention, all the extras poured into the evening.

Ellis Clark is a long-time friend of Chicago Acoustic Underground, which is hosting its third event. The past two Viaduct shows saw upwards of 200 people pack the Roscoe Village venue.

Clark said it was a “great personal pleasure” to bring the group together – in fact, he could hardly sleep after an early practice. The line-up includes Jon Brant (one of Chicago's best bassists), Brad Elvis (Drummer of The Handcuffs and The Romantics), Jim Hines (Percussion for Brian Wilson's Grammy-winning “SMiLE” album), Geoff Benge (The Webstirs, Epicycle, and Liz Phair), Carlyn Engelmann (keyboardist of The Chamber Strings), Chloe Orwell and Phil Angotti (vocals) and Mike Bezin (trumpeter and leader of The West End Jazz Band). Also of note with his Rock ‘n Roll pedigree: Mars Williams (sax) has worked with Billy Idol and The Psychedelic Furs and is widely known for his improvisation skills.

More than a list of names, Chicago Acoustic Underground is trying to nurture local bands as well, and up close with CAU, you can see first hand the real commitment it has to original music.

Enter Dawn Xiana Moon, a woman for whom “singer-songwriter” is just a phrase. This multi-instrumentalist is at times breathless and other times quietly fierce as she blends Sarah McLaughlin and bits of Jewel into her own intelligent folk-pop. I am particularly eager to see Moon, who is a classically-trained pianist,with a full band as they support their recent album effort.

Speaking of new albums, GoodbyeHome will be showing off tracks from their soon-to-be-released record. Imagine the organic nature of Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon intercepted by folk musicians with a lot on their mind and a lot of instruments on hand. The group is what I would call “AA” or “Atmospheric Americana.” Firmly rooted in Americana, yet without any hint of rawness, their sound is polished and enveloping. Frontman Gregg Combs is staking ground as an accomplished singer-songwriter. The full band includes a new violinist and rumors of a guest tuba player are circulating.

The recipe is almost done. While you are enjoying some appetizers provided by J&L Catering, take a look on the walls at artwork by Lance Brown, including paintings of blues players. Also, enjoy the magic of A.J. Sacco.

I don't know what will happen with all these fine musicians under one roof – but I'm going to be there to find out!

More Details on March 6 Event at Viaduct Theater

Cover: $10 (free parking lot across the street at the southwest corner of Belmont and Western)
Where: The Viaduct Theater, 3111 N. Western Ave, Chicago
When: Saturday, March 6, 2010. Doors 8:00 p.m. (artwork, magic and appetizers). Music 9:00 p.m. to 12:00 a.m.
Featured Performers: GoodbyeHome; Ellis Clark’s “SuperGroup” including Jon Brant,  Alfonso Ponticelli, and Mars Williams; Dawn Xiana Moon
Featured Visual Artist: Lance Brown
Featured Magician: A.J. Sacco
Munchies by: J&L Catering
Great Music Vibe: Free