Article and Photos by Katia Jackson (Katia Sentry Photography)
The Chicago music scene is known for its intimate venues, one of the most well-known is the Beat Kitchen. Saturday, November 16th saw a sold-out show at the venue as East Coast outfits Keep Flying and Ballyhoo! stopped through on their winter tour. Chicago-based Robot Heart Throb opened the night with playful and honest energy. The crowd came ready to party as the mood was joyful throughout the evening. Robot Heart Throb are self-described as “made-up genre-fluid music,” mixing elements of folk and hip-hop into improvisational riffs. Jared Hochberg is the creative master behind Robot Heart Throb; a jazz background that informs his style in flute and saxophone playing in combination with crowd interaction makes for a unique show experience. Their newest single “Midwest Breakup” is a pleasant melancholic treat that embodies all things Midwest emo. Robot Heart Throb definitely created a lively atmosphere to begin the evening.
New Yorkers Keep Flying followed with a positive, uplifting spirit that reminded us to keep our heads up in these trying times. Daylight is their latest release which they are on tour supporting. Saxophone and trombone-infused melodies add to the themes of remaining hopeful throughout life’s highs and lows found in their music. Keep Flying embodies the high energy of their name itself with songs like “Transparency’ and “198 Broadway” featuring punchy lyrics and sax riffs that can carry us into daylight in our darkest moments.
Lastly, Maryland beach rockers Ballyhoo! took to the stage heating up Chicago’s brisk November air. The Beat Kitchen turned into a beach party with the sounds of reggae and ska reminiscent of Summertime Chi and simpler times. “Clip My Wings” and “Shellshock” from their latest release, Shellshock are standout tracks to get your body moving. Ballyhoo! made sure that there was no one standing still, the crowd became one with their melodies and funky riffs. A perfect way to close out the good vibe night.
Check out the Photo Galleries for the show Below!
